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EXPLORE RIVER COUNTRY

• Dine with the Amish
• Ski Swiss Valley
Enjoy shopping in Sturgis and Three Rivers 
Explore local spiritual centers
Canoe, kayak, rent boats and fish on our many lakes and rivers
Experience the Three Rivers
Ask about our exciting bus tours.

Click box again for larger screen. Enjoy the five minute video

River Country in Southwestern Michigan offers skiing,bicycling, canoeing, photography and a variety of sights and activities for all.  Southwestern Michigan's River Country features six distinct rivers for your adventurous spirit.  We're the place to go for a relaxing weekend of history, wine tasting, shopping and dining. St. Joseph County in Southwestern Michigan has beautiful parks, peaceful bed and breakfast inns and offers some of the best golf in the state with hotel packages.  Make your plans now to visit and experience the hidden treasures that can only be found in River Country of Southwestern Michigan!


THE 2010 RIVER COUNTRY VISITOR'S GUIDE

The 2010 Visitor's Guide, available at hundreds of locations throughout Michigan and Ohio. Locations include:

• AAA Michigan Offices
• 80/90 Toll Road
• Coldwater and all Michigan Welcome Centers
• Local River Country Libraries
• River Country City and Municipal Offices
• River Country Lodging Facilities

 For the full list, please click here.

This is your comprehensive guide to River Country, with all the up-to-date information on attractions, events, restaurants, campgrounds, canoeing shopping and more!

 

 

 

events calendar

CONSTANTINE FARMER’S MARKET

August 4, 11, 18, 25

Local produce available from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

LOCATION: Constantine 269-435-2085uly 31

ABBOTT'S 73RD MAGIC GET-TOGETHER

August 4-7

Stage shows and lectures during the Colon Magic Festival.

LOCATION: Abbott's Magic Company Colon 269-432-3235

MAGIC WEEK

August 4-7

Stage shows and lectures during the Colon Magic Festival. Call for more information.

LOCATION: FAB Magic, Colon 269-432-4017

FUN FRIDAYS

August 6, 13, 20, 27

LOCATION: Free Church Park, Sturgis 269-651-1907

GLOW PARADE AND CAMPFIRE

August 6

Call for more information.

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514

 

 

ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR AND USED BOOK SALE

August 6-7

Sponsored by the Friends of the Colon Township Library.

LOCATION: Colon Township Library 269-432-3958

 

THREE RIVERS FARMER’S MARKET AND PETTING ZOO

August 7, 14, 21, 28

Opens at 9:00 am.

LOCATION: Scidmore Park Three Rivers 269-273-1845

 

 

25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

August 6-8

Celebrate our 25th anniversary. Call for more information.

LOCATION: The Hermitage Three Rivers 269-244-8696

 

STURGIS FARMER’S MARKET

August 7, 14, 21, 28

LOCATION: Downtown Sturgis 269-651-1907 6-8


 

MAGIC SHOW

Aug 7, 14, 21, 28

Enjoy a magic show for everyone at 1:00 pm.

LOCATION: Abbott's Magic Company Colon 269-432-3235


   

HAYRIDE/DRIVE IN MOVIE

August 7

Hayride starts at 7:00 pm and the drive in movie starts at 9:00 pm. Call for more information

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


   

KID'S CARNIVAL

August 7

Call for more information.

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


   

ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLE MARKET

August 8

Free parking, great food, indoor and outdoor exhibitors. $4.00 per person. Rain or shine.

LOCATION: St. Joseph County Fairgrounds Centreville 269-467-8935

 

   

HAYRIDE/DRIVE IN MOVIE

August 7

Hayride starts at 7:00 pm and the drive in movie starts at 9:00 pm. Call for more information

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


     

KID'S CARNIVAL

August 7

Call for more information.

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


     

ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLE MARKET

August 8

Free parking, great food, indoor and outdoor exhibitors. $4.00 per person. Rain or shine.

LOCATION: St. Joseph County Fairgrounds Centreville 269-467-8935


     

US-12 HERITAGE GARAGE SALE

August 13-15

Everyone loves a good garage sale, and residents of Southwest Michigan will have a golden opportunity when all of US-12 from New Buffalo to Detroit is one massive garage sale. Everyone joins in on the fun. Call for more details.

LOCATION: US-12 Heritage Trail New Buffalo - Detroit 269-925-1137


   

APPRECIATION DINNER

August 14

Call for more information.

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


   

FISHING DERBY

August 14

Fishing derby is from 7:00 am – 1:00 pm. Call for more information.

LOCATION: Klines Resort Three Rivers 269-649 -2514


   

MENDON RIVERFEST 2010

August 19-21

On the banks of the St. Joseph River in downtown Mendon. Enjoy contests, canoe races, parades, and fireworks. Arts & Crafts and children's activities through the event.

LOCATION: Reed Riverside Park Mendon 269-496-7557


SUMMER SONGs

August 27

Live music and refreshments in various businesses from 5:30-8:30 pm.

LOCATION: Downtown Sturgis 269-651-1907


THE BIG PINK OPEN (Susan G. Komen)

August 29

Rally For The Cure. 9:00 am registration.10:00 am Shot Gun, Scramble Registration includes: 18 Holes w/ cart Steak Dinner to follow Prizes, raffles, games, 50/50, and more… $55/golfer $220/Team. Each golfer receives gift bag, Event requires pre-registration and payment

LOCATION: Pine View Golf Club Three Rivers 269-279-51317


 

 

 

 

For the complete River Country events calendar, please visit our calendar section.

 

Watch our site for weekly updates.

Call 1-800-447-2821 for more information.


"...the Chippewas, Ottawas and Pottawattamies, kindred tribes, we believe, had still a footing in Michigan proper, and were to be found in considerable numbers in what was called the St. Joseph's country, or along the banks of the stream of that name; a region that almost merits the lofty appellation of the garden of America."

From The Works of Indians James Fenimore Cooper


VISITOR TESTIMONIALS

Riviera Theater Testimonial

When I was little my aunt, uncle, and cousins lived on Lovers Lane for as long as I can remember. During the summer and winter breaks from school I would get to stay for a few days at a time. I can remember one day in particular that my cousin April took me to see E.T. at The Riviera. How fun that the theater is opening again (no matter what as) because now I also live here... and plan to frequent the location as often as possible

- Jenny

"Thank you for arranging the one tank trip that we won through The River 100.3 radio station in Grand Rapids. 

Although I believe we chose the three hottest days of the year to visit Southwestern Michigan, we enjoyed our time.  Larry and Carol Higgins were very kind hosts at Arrowhead Cove Bed and Breakfast.

We enjoyed our golf immensely at Angel's Crossing and Pineview.  Everyone was most accommodating with our gift certificates.  It was very interesting to visit all of the surrounding towns. 

Thank you once again."

Janet and Delmar Fast, Rockford MI

"It was a pleasure to talk to you while we were in Michigan.  Between you, Carol, Larry and the Visitor's Guide to River Country, we had an awesome time in Michigan!

We had a glorious time at Arrowhead Cove B&B with Carol and Larry.  Our room was warm and spacious.  From our Joy & Inspiration Room we had beautiful sunrise views over the spacious farm and glorious sunsets overlooking Portage Lake.  Breakfasts were fresh and yummy with many ingredients coming from Carol's garden.  Their outstanding hospitality made us feel a part of the family.

Where did we go and what did we eat?

We ate at Fisher Lake Inn where the food and service were very good.  Sit outside or by the window and enjoy seafood and Fisher Lake.  River Lake Inn Restaurant Gardens & Tours was our Favorite!  What a beautiful place to eat, excellent service, great food and a personalized tour of beautiful gardens and wildlife.  Marv takes great pride in his gardens and Anita makes outstanding rum cakes!  On our last morning, after we picked up all the kids from camp, we stopped by the Oasis Restaurant.  Our children loved the Belgian strawberry waffles with ice cream and were happy they weren't eating "camp food"!

Diamond D Ranch is a fun place to ride. Trails are through the woods, along a stream and open fields.: 269.651.4300

Shopping... Amish Country is great.  Chupp's Herbs, Spring Creek General Store, Michiana Log Furniture (outstanding craftsmanship).

I almost forgot the beautiful lakes... Portage, Corey, Fisher, Diamond and many more.  It's interesting how everyone gives directions via the lakes. 

Again, we had a glorious time staying at Arrowhead Cove B&B, traveling through River Country and Shipshewana, Indiana and we look forward to returning next year."

Ernest & Renee Patrick, Columbia MD


SPECIAL LODGING DEALS & PACKAGES

To make that getaway just a little bit more special, check out the local Hotels, Motels and Bed & Breakfasts.  Many offer special packages for simple romantic touches, discounted activities and special rates!  Many of our lodging facilities also offer golf and ski packages.  Be sure to call and ask for details. 

Check out our Lodging Ledger to learn more about the local haunts, upcoming events and specials offered at our lodging facilities.

HOTELS
America's Best Value Inn Three Rivers 269-273-8100  Pet friendly.  All of the rooms include fridge, microwave and dishwasher and some offer two TVs in a unit!  Also included in your stay is breakfast where you can make your own waffles! 

Hampton Inn-Sturgis, 269-651-4210  Enjoy an indoor pool and spa, hot breakfast, cable and fax.  Be sure to take advantage of our complimentary On The House hot breakfast.  If you are in a hurry or running late don't forget our complimentary Hampton's On the Run Breakfast Bag and a bottle of water.

Three Rivers Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites-Three Rivers 269-278-7766  Indoor pool and spa.  Complimentary continental breakfast with sausage included.

Regency Inn-Sturgis, 269-651-7881 Outdoor pool, wireless internet, banquet facilities, continental breakfast that includes donuts, muffins, two kinds of fruit, two kinds of cereal, coffee and juice.

River Country Super 8-Three Rivers 269-279-8888  Heated indoor pool, cable TV, phone modems and continental breakfast included.  Enjoy dinner with your family on the patio.

MOTELS
American Inn-Sturgis, 269-651-2361

Little Country Inn-White Pigeon, 269-483-7770

Plaza Motel-White Pigeon, 269-483-7285

Spartan Motel-Three Rivers 269-278-1615

Sturgis Express-Sturgis 269-651-8505 "Every Night, Just Right" Outdoor pool.

The Wood Motel-Sturgis 269-651-2391 Kids stay free! Cable TV w/HBO, ESPN and CNN

BED & BREAKFASTS
Arrowhead Cove-Mendon, 866-882-2683  A spirit-filled, lakeside retreat.  new timber frame home on Portage Lake.  Wheelchair accessible.

T & R Inn Between the Lakes-Three Rivers, 269-244-5620  Surrounded by woods and lakes for a quiet getaway. 

T & R SPECIAL: If you are a Senior (AARP age & up), Military (Active, Reserve, Guard or retired) or a Public Servant (Police, Firefighter, Federal, State and City Employee) take advantage of our special just for you! 

Voyager's Inn-Three Rivers, 269-279-9260  Step through our door and back to a time of elegance.


Hidden Pond Campground

Have you been looking for a family friendly park that’s close to home for camping? Well, look no further; Hidden Pond Campground is your destination for fun in the sun this summer!

Hidden Pond Campground is nestled in on the Prairie River. With over 2,000 feet of scenic river frontage, our park is ideal for seasonal sites, canoers, kayakers, and fishing enthusiasts. Visit us for a week, a month, or an entire season.

We have a beautiful 3 acre spring fed pond; stocked with bass, bluegill, perch, and crappie. Our campground offers a variety of activities to keep people of all ages entertained. Here are a few things that we have to offer our campers: sandy beach, water trampoline, paddle boats, basketball court, playground, laundromat, clean, modern facilities, convenience store, and Wi-Fi. We have hammocks and park benches throughout the campground making it perfect for those lazy summer days to read a book or just watch the birds.

Now accepting reservations for the 2010 camping season. For more information please follow the links on our easy to navigate website. You may also contact us via email at hiddenpondcampground@yahoo.com or by calling (269) 467-8684. Visit us at www.hiddenpondcampground.com


FISHER LAKE INN

Fisher Lake Inn offers the best of all worlds.  Dinner on the patio overlooking the lake, inside with an equally beautiful view of the lake (I recommend table 31), or cozy tables near the fire to take the chill off.  Reservations are recommended for that special seating table or for large groups.

Decorations set the mood and you can count on every corner of Fisher Lake Inn to be decked out for those special holidays.

Open for lunch and dinner, Fisher Lake Inn offers a full soup and salad bar that is a meal on it's own and in addition, a delectable selection of steak, seafood, prime rib and much more. 

 

Fisher Lake Inn offers dinner specials Wednesday - Sunday.  Every Sunday offers Bloody Marys and Reuben sandwiches, Tuesday special is always Bluegill and Beef while Friday regularly serves Clam Chowder. 

 

With your dinner, enjoy adult drinks from a classic Top Shelf Margarita to their own Fisher Lake Inn Coffee with Baileys Irish Cream, topped with whipped cream and finished with a splash of Kahlua. 


SUNDAY BUFFET

Sturges Young Auditorium offers a Sunday Buffet every Sunday.  Breakfast Buffet runs from 9:30 to 1:30 and a Lunch Buffet is added from 11:30 to 1:30.  You can have one or the other or both.  Breakfast is $8.50, Lunch is $10.50 and Brunch is $13.00.  201 N Nottawa, Sturgis 269-651-8541 www.sturgesyoung.com


LOCAL MERCHANT SPECIALS!

Fiesta Mexicana (Sturgis)--Daily Drink Specials! Call for details: 269-659-4747 www.sturgisfiestamexican.com

Colon Bait & Tackle (Colon) July 4th, everything will be 50% off except live bait and ammunition. .

 


RIVER COUNTRY GOLF SPECIALS

To hear all of the golfing opportunities available to you in River Country, click here This audio spot was recorded at WLKM studios.

Pine View Golf Club-Three Rivers, 269-279-5131 Exclusive rates for all River Country Lodgers: $25.00 per round riding, any day of the week.  Just mention that you are a River Country lodger.

Sauganash Golf Club-Three Rivers, 269-278-7825 Exclusive rates for all River Country Lodgers: $20.00 per person - 18 holes riding weekdays and $25.00 per person - 18 holes riding weekends.  Just mention that you are a River Country lodger.

St. Joe Valley Golf Club-Sturgis, 269-467-6275  Monday - Friday Special: Mention "River Country" and receive 18 holes with cart for just $22.00! Offer good Mon-Fri from 7:30 am - 2:00 pm.


SELF-GUIDED DRIVING TOURS

Use one of our suggested self-guided tours below to help plan your visit to River Country.  Each tour is designed to pique your interest and help you discover your favorite parts of this beautiful area!  For more details on the self-guided tours below click here

 Amish Tour  Historic Water Trails
 Art Tour  Historical Tour
 Birdwatching  Little Bit of Everything Tour
 Garden Tour  Peddle Tours of the B&B's
 Girlfriend's Getaway  Shopaholics Tour
 Golf Weekend  Wine Tours
   

 


EXPLORE OUR HIDDEN GEMS

Plan Your All-Season Vacation with us!

  • Ski at Swiss Valley and enjoy a New Year’s Eve Party on the slopes

  • Take in concerts and exhibits at the Carnegie Center for the Arts

  • Scout Amish buggies in Athens or Leonidas

  • Enjoy the River Walk in Mendon

  • Visit quaint shops in Sturgis and Three Rivers

  • Drive through our red covered bridge, the longest in the State

  • Enjoy a spiritual retreat

  • at one of our six retreat centers
  • Handpick your Christmas Tree at Timberly Tree Farm in Sturgis

  • Stock up on one-of-a-kind items at our Amish shops


  • Ice cream treats available from sternwheeler on Corey Lake

    The 'Country Loft Queen' sternwheeler is plying the waters of Corey Lake this summer with Country Loft Ice Cream treats.

    • Residents on Corey Lake get an added treat the rest of this summer as the Country Loft Ice Cream boat roams the lake. The 35-foot sternwheeler is owned and operated by Ken and Janet Griffard.

    • The boat will make daily excursions around the lake selling ice cream treats.

      Ken Griffard said, “We will be parked in front of Happy Landing, too.”

      “All of our ice cream is made on the boat. The ice cream churn is state of the art. It is mounted on the front of the boat.” And, he added, “There is a 93-year-old 1917 motor operating the churn.”

      “Technically, I’ve got the same electric service as in a car,” Griffard said. “It’s all electric. I’ve got electric power to the paddle wheel, electric steering and it’s powered by batteries.”

      The unique craft was built by Three Rivers artisans from a drawing supplied by Griffard.

      Griffard said, “I give credit to Rich McClain for welding the boat, Dayton W. Smith for detail work and Steve Wilke for the signs.”

      A website for the ice cream is www.countrylofticecream.com.

 

 

Updated 08/03/10  
 
© 2004 by River Country Tourism, All Rights Reserved.