We are thrilled to welcome Sadie Wheaton to our team as our new wedding coordinator!
Sadie, a recent Central Michigan University graduate with a degree in event and recreation management, is ready to put her wedding experience to work for future Camp Deer Trails couples. She and her new fiance are also one of our future wedding couples as they’re getting married at Camp Deer Trails in October 2026!
We sat down with Sadie to hear more about her background and passion for wedding planning, as well as what she loves most about Camp Deer Trails.
Q: Tell us about your new role
I will be in charge of everything weddings. This includes bookings, tours, being there the day of, coordinating the venue-related aspects and making sure everything runs smoothly. My goal will be to ensure the bride and the family don’t have to worry one bit.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your past experiences?
When I transferred to CMU, I got a part-time job with the city of Mount Pleasant, working in recreation and doing community events. I loved the event planning aspect of that job, so after that, I got a summer job at The Venue at 501 in Claire. I worked as their assistant venue director and coordinated weddings. After that, I started an internship at the Back Orchard Barn in Freeland. It was very fast-paced as they do three weddings every weekend, which was a great experience. Now, I am very excited to get started here at Camp Deer Trails!
Q: How would you describe your style of management when you’re working with couples?
My personal management style is usually pretty casual. I am there to be your wedding planning best friend. I’m there for the stress; I’m there for the happy things; I’m there when you have questions; I’m there for all of it.
Q: How do you handle unexpected situations or challenges that arise on the wedding day?
Honestly, my philosophy is to make everything I can handle on my own a secret so that everything from the couple’s perspective runs smoothly. No one wants the extra stress of random issues on their wedding day.
Q: Does being a bride-to-be yourself give you a different perspective that helps you serve your clients now?
Yes, absolutely. Let me just say, I completely understand budget. I completely understand why people stress about the guests, how many people they are going to have, what kind of alcohol they’re gonna serve, all of those things. I’ve seen too many people just take money from clients, and that is not what we’re here for. We’re here to give you everything we can with the budget you have and make it work for you. Weddings are expensive and seeing that firsthand has really helped me realize that budget is so important.
Q: Why would you suggest Camp Deer Trails as a couple’s venue?
You can book a whole weekend, which makes everything so much less stressful. You get to have the rehearsal without stress the day before and you can clean up on Sunday. You don’t have to stay after the wedding on Saturday night and be out by midnight, which you do have to do at many venues. When you book the whole weekend, you also get all the cabins, and it is really cool to have sleeping accommodations for that many people on-site. That is not common at all. The way Camp Deer Trails does it makes everyone want to have more fun.
Q: What are you looking forward to most?
I’m really looking forward to meeting the 2026 couples that I get to work with. I’m excited to make new relationships and help these couples have the best day of their lives.
Sadie and her fiancé, Zach, are getting married at Camp Deer Trails in October 2026.
While you’re visiting Camp Deer Trails this fall, there is no shortage of fall family activities like fishing, kayaking, hiking our trails and enjoying campfires under the stars. But, if you’re looking for a family fun activity within a short drive of the camp, here are some of our favorites:
Pumpkins, apples and fun, oh my!
The Wild Pumpkin in Beaverton is always a good time! With a hay and corn mazes, wagon rides, a sunflower field, animal petting farm and a pumpkin patch, there’s no shortage of activities for the entire family. And don’t leave without trying one of their fresh homemade donuts!
Papa’s Pumpkin Patch — This family-owned farm in Mount Pleasant has a Michigan Maze, sweet treats, mums and an abundance of produce.
The Fruitful Orchard & Cider Mill in Gladwin, just a short 15-minute drive from the camp, features a cider mill, orchard store and bakery, and activities throughout the fall. Also on site is the Merry Hearted Cidery, where you can taste test (and purchase!) their hand crafted hard ciders.
Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch in Midland — about 50 miles to our southeast — offers seasonal family fun activites, a corn maze, donuts and pumpkins!
Take a scenic drive
Fall color tours are a must-do in Michigan! Colors will peak in mid-October for much of the state, so consider a day trip to Mackinac Island or to the M-22 Highway, a 116-mile state highway that runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline, passing through many charming Michigan towns and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Or, just take off on your own path north or just along the rural roads in and around Harrison, the colors will not disappoint!
Catch a game
We’re lucky to have the CMU Chippewas only a short drive away! Catch a home football game at Kelly/Shorts Stadium and take in their homecoming activities on October 25!
Hit the course
Here in mid-Michigan, we’re known for our amazing golf courses! Check out these great courses within 30 minutes of the camp:
Spring is here, so it’s time to shake off the winter dust and get your camping gear in top shape before your next visit to Camp Deer Trails.
According to the National Park Service, proper maintenance of your camping gear ensures a safer, more enjoyable camping experience. So, before you head out for your first trip of the season, take a little time for spring cleaning, camp style —a deep refresh for all your outdoor essentials. Here’s how to get prepped for your next adventure at your favorite Michigan getaway:
Freshen up your tent
Set up your tent outside to air it out. Wipe down the fabric with mild soap and water.
Reapply waterproofing spray to keep you dry in unexpected rain.
Check for holes or broken poles — better to fix them now than in the middle of the woods!
Refresh your sleeping gear
Air out your sleeping bags and pads — hang them outside for a few hours.
Wash your sleeping bag per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Check for leaks in your air mattress or sleeping pad and patch them up.
Camp kitchen cleanup
Scrub down your cookware, utensils and camp stove.
Check your fuel levels and restock fire-starting essentials.
Organize your dry food storage — toss anything expired and replenish staples.
Gear check and repairs
Inspect your backpack for wear and tear — check straps, zippers and buckles.
Test all battery-powered devices like lanterns and headlamps (and replace batteries if needed).
Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked and up to date.
Outdoor Apparel Refresh
Waterproof hiking boots and inspect for wear.
Wash and re-waterproof rain gear.
Take inventory of cold-weather layers, just in case those spring or early summer nights get chilly.
Now that your gear is clean, refreshed and ready to go, all that’s left to do is book your next adventure at Camp Deer Trails!
Going camping doesn’t mean you have to compromise on delicious, satisfying meals. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll make your outdoor adventure at Camp Deer Trails even more memorable. Here are some of our favorite camping recipes and meal ideas:
Breakfast
Campfire Pancakes: Start your day with fluffy pancakes cooked over the campfire! Mix your dry ingredients at home and store them in a resealable bag. At camp, just add water and eggs, and you’re ready to cook. Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup (and whipped cream if you’re truly on vacation!).
Breakfast Burritos: Scramble eggs and mix them with cooked sausage, cheese and salsa. Wrap the mixture in tortillas and wrap the tortillas in foil. Heat them over the fire for a warm, hearty breakfast.
Lunch
Campfire Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Butter two slices of bread, place cheese between slices, wrap in foil, and grill over the fire until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.
Trail Mix Wraps: Spread peanut butter or almond butter on a tortilla and sprinkle with granola, dried fruits and nuts. Roll it up for a quick, nutritious lunch that’s easy to eat on a hike or at the beach.
Campfire Pizza: Roll out dough (pre-made or homemade), spread with sauce, sprinkle with cheese and toppings. Wrap in foil or use a pie iron, and cook over the fire until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.
Dinner
Foil Packet Dinners: Customize these versatile dinners with your favorite ingredients. Combine sliced potatoes, carrots, onions, and your choice of protein (chicken, fish, or tofu) in a foil packet. Season with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, then cook over the fire until everything is tender and flavorful.
Campfire Chili: Prepare a hearty chili in a Dutch oven over the campfire. Brown ground beef or turkey, then add diced tomatoes, beans, onions, and spices. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it’s thick and savory. Serve with cornbread cooked in a cast-iron skillet.
Foil Packet Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Slice potatoes thinly, toss with minced garlic, butter, parmesan (or other cheeses of your choice) and parsley. Wrap in foil packets and cook over the fire until potatoes are tender.
Snacks and Sweet Treats
Popcorn: Popcorn over the campfire is a fun and tasty snack. Use a popcorn popper designed for campfires, or make your own with a foil packet and a bit of oil. Season with salt, nutritional yeast, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Fruit Kebabs: Skewer chunks of your favorite fruits, like pineapple, strawberries and grapes. For an extra treat, drizzle with honey or yogurt. It’s like summer on a stick!
Super S’mores: Get creative with this campfire classic! Try different combinations like using peanut butter cups instead of chocolate, or adding banana slices for a twist. You can even try using cookies instead of graham crackers for a different texture.
Campfire Banana Boats: Slice a banana lengthwise but leave the peel on. Stuff the banana with chocolate chips, marshmallows and crushed graham crackers. Wrap in foil and heat over the fire until everything is melted and gooey.
With these recipes and meal ideas, your camping trip is sure to be filled with delicious moments. Enjoy the great outdoors and happy cooking!
Creating a thorough camping packing list ensures you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable outdoor adventure at Camp Deer Trails. Here’s a detailed camping packing list categorized by essentials, gear, clothing and personal items:
Essentials:
Tent with stakes and guylines
Sleeping bags appropriate for the season
Sleeping pads or air mattresses
Camping pillow
Lantern or flashlight with extra batteries
Headlamps or portable camp lights
Multi-tool or camping knife
Firewood, fire starter and/or camp stove with fuel
Gear:
Camping stove and fuel
Cookware (pots, pans, utensils)
Portable coffee maker or kettle (if desired)
Biodegradable soap and sponge for washing dishes
Collapsible water container or water jugs
Water purification tablets or filtration system
Camping chairs or stools
Folding table (if car camping)
Rope or paracord for various uses
Duct tape and repair kit for gear
GPS or compass and map
Binoculars (optional)
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking shirts and pants (long and short-sleeved)
Fleece jacket or sweater
Insulated jacket or down vest (for cold weather)
Rain jacket or poncho
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
Sandals or camp shoes
Socks (wool or synthetic)
Underwear and base layers
Swimsuit (for swimming in our beautiful Long Lake!)
Hat/gloves (depending on the weather)
Personal Items:
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)
Quick-dry towel or pack towel
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent and anti-itch cream
Personal medications and first aid kit
Sunglasses and hat for sun protection
Personal identification and camping permits (if required)
