Head to Iron Fish Distillery’s Base Camp in Thompsonville for can’t-miss food and drink, heated tent rentals and a nearby snowy adventure. Learn more about this winter adventure below or grab our December issue of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine for this cozy getaway + THREE more.
This article first appeared in Traverse Northern Michigan. Find this story and more when you explore our magazine library. Want Traverse delivered to your door or inbox monthly? View our print subscription and digital subscription options.
Wine & Dine at Base Camp Iron Fish
The Scene at Base Camp
As fall fades into winter, Iron Fish Distillery transforms into Base Camp Iron Fish—a twinkling village of heated canvas tents where visitors can warm up while enjoying the distillery’s spirits, cocktails, wood-fired pizzas and other snacks. Tents are waterproof, breathable and come in three sizes, accommodating groups of 2–4 or 6–8 people. Jesse Den Herder, creative marketing director, recommends dropping in on a Friday or Saturday for live music.
Food & Drink to Try at Iron Fish
Delicious Food Recommendation | Pizza! Try the Blue Fern with barrel-aged honey, Granny Smith apples, bleu cheese and fire-roasted kale
Must-Try Drink | Den Herder’s favorite is the Maple Moon—a seasonal cocktail served in a large coffee mug, made with Iron Fish bourbon maple syrup, bourbon whiskey finished in maple syrup barrels, Higher Grounds coffee and topped with whipped cream and a maple syrup drizzle.
Photo by Dave Weidner
Photo by Dave Weidner
How to Book a Tent at Iron Fish
Four tents are available by reservation for 90-minute timeframes. Iron Fish also has one large heated tent available on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as snug outdoor seating around fire pits. Book your tent on the Iron Fish website.
Photo by Dave Weidner
A Nearby Snowy Excursion
Just three miles away lies Crystal Mountain, your destination for alpine skiing. Choose from 58 downhill trails, all covered in fresh powder thanks to their top-notch snowmaking
capabilities.Â
Photo by Angela Brown
On the Hunt for More Winter Adventures?
Explore THREE more cozy winter getaways featuring heated igloos and tepees, handcrafted food, live performances and outdoor firepits. Grab our December 2022 issue of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine to view all our favorite getaways from Ludington to Petoskey. It’s not too late to find your best winter self!Â
Photo by Dave Weidner