Lodging and Meals

Lodging & Accommodations

The meals and lodging package includes two nights’ accommodations (Friday and Saturday).

Beginning in 2027 TUFFs will be held at Barothy Lodge – an exclusive resort encompassing 300 wilderness acres in the heart of the Manistee National Forest.  The Wild and Scenic Pere Marquette River winds 7 river-miles from Barothy’s upriver boundary to its downriver boundary.  

Lodging at Barothy is similar to staying at a bed & breakfast where bedrooms and bathrooms are separate. Bathroom facilities are shared with other rooms with an approximate ratio of one bathroom to every two bedrooms. Rooms may have one, two, or three beds. Bed arrangements vary and may include King, Queen or Twin beds. Students will be assigned a lodge building and room based on your registration information and our school’s student mix. Each lodge has a kitchenette, laundry facilities, fireplace, and a hot tub available for use. Rooms do not include televisions, phones, or air conditioning, but do have ceiling or box fans available.

Pets at Barothy Lodge: Barothy lodge has a strict no pets policy.

WIFI service at Barothy Lodge: WiFi is available at some spots at Barothy Lodge, but due to being located in a heavily forested area of northern Michigan the coverage may be unreliable. There is good 4G phone service available if you have your own wireless hot spot.

Off-site Lodging – Camping off-site can be a lower cost option for attending TUFFS. There is also a wide selection of nearby hotels and motels. If you choose to stay off-site you are responsible for booking your own reservations. For either of these lodging choices you will want to select the “Meals Only” plan at registration.

KOA Campground – Ludington East / Pere Marquette River Holiday KOA Campground – is located a short drive from Barothy Lodge. All campsites have water and electric hookups, a picnic table, and fire ring, and can accommodate tents, popups, trailers or RVs. The campground is pet friendly with an added fee.

State Forest Campgrounds – There are several state campgrounds within 30 minutes of Barothy Lodge – Gleason’s Landing, Bowman’s Bridge, etc. Most sites in these campgrounds are considered rustic.

Hotel and Motel Options – Ludington is approximately a 25 minute drive from Barothy Lodge. TUFFS can provide a hotel recommendation if desired. There are also several motels located in Baldwin, a 20 minute drive from the lodge.

Barothy Lodge Examples (not all Lodges are shown)

Barothy Lodge Main Hall / Gathering Area

Meals & Food

The school includes seven full meals with beverages (Friday lunch and dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sunday breakfast and lunch). Each meal is accompanied by several non-alcohol beverages such as water, coffee, tea, juice, and lemonade. Students are welcome to bring their own beverages of choice.

At registration you will be given the chance to provide any dietary restrictions. Meals have been designed with common dietary restrictions in mind (vegetarian, gluten free, etc.)

All meals will be catered and will be provided by Lasting Memories by Kate, LLC.

Buffet Tables