Carlson Farms

For Michiganders looking for a truly distinctive outdoor experience that goes beyond the typical campground, Carlson Farms in Cedar Springs offers a fascinating alternative. While not a conventional public campground in the traditional sense, Carlson Farms is a working farm that provides a unique blend of agricultural engagement and potential for a different kind of rural escape. This family-owned operation is renowned for its commitment to raising all-natural, antibiotic-free, hormone-free, free-range, and humanely-raised beef, pork, chicken, and lamb, along with fresh eggs. If you appreciate knowing where your food comes from and enjoy a connection to the land, Carlson Farms offers a compelling reason to visit and perhaps even stay.

This isn't your standard RV park with rows of concrete pads; instead, Carlson Farms presents an opportunity to experience life on a genuine Michigan farm. While specific details about public camping accommodations on the main farm property might be evolving or limited, the spirit of hospitality and connection to nature shines through. Past feedback highlights a positive interaction with staff, indicating a welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer praised a "customer service representative Marcus was great to work with. Very knowledgeable and extremely friendly. Although he resembled a former war lord dictator his charm made us feel welcome." This anecdote, while unusual, points to the engaging personalities and warmth you might encounter. It's a place that emphasizes fresh, local products and aims to offer a wholesome, family-centric environment, providing a different perspective on "getting away" in Michigan.

Carlson Farms is located at 14811 Pine Lake Ave NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, USA. This location places it in the scenic West Michigan region, just a short drive north of the bustling city of Grand Rapids. For Michiganders residing in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, or anywhere across the Lower Peninsula, the farm is conveniently accessible via major highways, making it an easy destination for a day trip or an extended visit. The journey to Cedar Springs is typically smooth, leading you into a charming, more rural landscape that immediately sets a relaxing tone for your visit.

The farm's setting offers a peaceful escape from urban environments while still being close enough to local amenities in Cedar Springs and the wider Grand Rapids area. This means you can enjoy the tranquility of farm life, potentially engage with farm animals and learn about sustainable agriculture, and then easily venture out to explore nearby shops, restaurants, or other attractions if desired. The balance of rural charm and practical accessibility makes Carlson Farms an interesting and convenient destination for Michigan locals looking for a unique agricultural experience or a quiet retreat that feels miles away, but is actually quite close to home.

Services Offered (Based on available public information, which focuses on the farm's primary operations):

• All-Natural Meat and Egg Sales: Carlson Farms is primarily a working farm known for selling its "all-natural, antibiotic-free, hormone-free, free-range, and humanely-raised beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and eggs." This offers locals direct access to high-quality, sustainably produced food.
• On-site Market/Farm Store: The farm reportedly features an on-site Copper Ridge Market (also referred to as Karen Sue's Bakery and Café in some listings) where their farm products, homemade baked goods, and other items can be purchased.
• Agritourism Potential: While not explicitly a "campground" for public reservations like a state park, the farm has explored agro-events and possibly farm stays, such as the "Copper Ridge Inn" guesthouse mentioned in some contexts, suggesting opportunities for guests to stay on the property.
• Educational Opportunities: Visiting a working farm like Carlson Farms provides an inherent educational experience about animal husbandry, sustainable farming practices, and the source of local food.

Features / Highlights:

• Working Farm Environment: A key highlight is the authentic experience of visiting a working farm, complete with cattle, chickens, hogs, and sheep, offering a direct connection to agricultural life.
• High-Quality Local Products: The farm prides itself on "Naturally Norm's" line of all-natural, antibiotic-free, hormone-free, free-range, and humanely-raised meats and eggs, appealing to consumers interested in ethical and sustainable food sources.
• Family-Owned and Operated: The farm is "owned and run by family," fostering a sense of pride and personal commitment to quality in their operations.
• Potential for Farm Stays/Events: While not a traditional public campground, the existence of facilities like Copper Ridge Inn (a private guest house) and the hosting of agro-events like weddings suggest unique, intimate accommodation and gathering opportunities that differ from typical camping.
• Friendly Customer Service: Positive mentions of staff like "Marcus" indicate a welcoming and knowledgeable presence at the farm, contributing to a pleasant visitor experience.
• Focus on Animal Welfare: The emphasis on "humanely-raised" animals and practices like keeping pigs in woods and hens in wide open fields highlights a strong commitment to animal well-being.

Contact Information:

Address: 14811 Pine Lake Ave NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, USA

Phone: (616) 636-7758

Mobile Phone: +1 616-636-7758

For Michiganders, Carlson Farms offers a truly distinctive local experience that extends beyond conventional camping. It provides a valuable opportunity to connect with the origins of your food, engage with a working farm, and perhaps even enjoy a unique rural stay. While the primary focus is on their outstanding agricultural products – "Naturally Norm's" all-natural meats and eggs – the farm's welcoming atmosphere and potential for agritourism make it an appealing destination for those seeking something different.

The accessibility of Carlson Farms in Cedar Springs, just north of Grand Rapids, makes it an easy day trip or a convenient destination for a weekend escape. It offers a chance to teach children about farm life, stock up on high-quality local produce, and simply enjoy the peaceful, open spaces of rural Michigan. While some past reviews, particularly an unusual one about "crabs" (which appears to be a highly isolated and potentially misleading or misattributed comment, given the farm's primary operation as a meat and egg producer and not a general public campground with cabins for transient stays), should be considered with a broad perspective of the business's main offerings and well-regarded product quality. The strong positive feedback about customer service and the quality of their farm products suggests that Carlson Farms is a valuable asset to the local community, providing a unique blend of agriculture and authentic rural charm for Michiganders looking to support local and experience farm life firsthand.

Carlson Farms

14811 Pine Lake Ave NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, USA