By Tom Gilchrist
For The Advertiser
VASSAR TWP. — Laura Schroll has vacationed here for years at the Wesleyan Woods Family Campground, and she’s organized a June 28 event showcasing the area.
The first “Run For The Woods” races start at 8:30 a.m. in the campground and finish there, taking joggers and walkers onto rural Vassar Township roads. Others, however, may try the zip lines, water slide, ropes course or other activities at Wesleyan Woods, 4320 Caine Rd.
“This is a great place to hang out with your family,” said Schroll of St. Clair County’s Fort Gratiot Township, about the campground.
Township leaders have sought to add recreational opportunities, and Supervisor Bob Forbes figures the 10-kilometer, 5-kilometer and 1-mile runs will accomplish that.
“The township is just excited about having the race and they’re allowing us to run the race on the roads, and that makes this a whole lot easier,” Schroll said.
Township officials have worked with Tuscola County Sheriff’s Department officers to help oversee runners and walkers in the races.
Runners may park for free at the campground. Anyone buying a $5 activity bracelet can try the campground’s wet and dry zip lines, a ropes course, rope wall, water slide, swimming, archery and other activities. Visitors also may buy food concessions at the campground.
Registration for the 10-K and 5-K races costs $25 for adults, and $20 for those age 12 or younger. Entrants in the 1-Mile Fun Run pay a $15 registration.
“You don’t have to camp to run in the race,” Schroll said. “We just come up for a long weekend and camp and have fun. It’s a great campground and a great area, close enough to Frankenmuth and there are some shops in Vassar that are cool.”
Prospective runners or campers may visit the campground website at www.wesleyanwoods.org. Runners may register online at www.goracego.com.
Visitors may call the campground at 989-823-8840.