Remember When

Through the Years

Remember when people used to drive cars and buggies on and around the Dune Climb? It’s hard to imagine now, but people used to water ski down the river! The Platte River Bridge was once home to three canoe liveries: The Waterwheel, Millers/Casey’s, and Riverside Canoes.

In those days, we also had a wonderful KOA campground and a Michigan State Park just across the street, drawing visitors from near and far. During the late ’60s and ’70s, thousands traveled to the Platte River each year to fish for the migrating Coho Salmon, creating a lively fishing community along the banks.

Do you remember when houses lined the river, each with its own story? Some may recall the gravel parking lot at the end of the trip, where you could grab a bite at the local restaurant or stop by the tackle shack for supplies. These memories capture the spirit and history of the river, shaping the experience for generations.

We hope to remain here for many years to come, continuing to create and share those wonderful memories and traditions with you. In the spirit of these photos and stories, we warmly welcome any old tales you’d like to share. We’re sure there are many more “Remember when’s” out there waiting to be told.