About

Established in Michigan, Recreation Ventures has grown into a leading provider of recreation and hospitality services. Our team, composed of professionals passionate about adventure and hospitality, is dedicated to delivering services that surpass expectations. Trustworthy and dynamic, we strive to continually evolve, offering innovative and exciting services to our clients.

Executive Leadership

Jack VanGessel

Managing Partner
Park Operations and Finances

Matt Clouse

Partner
Investor Relations

Dave Casey

Partner
Investor Relations

John Madura

Partner
Capital Projects 

Park Management & Operations

DJ Lambert

Director of Campground Operations

Chase Mapes

Operations Associate
River Ridge Family Campground

Rebecca Bauer

Park Manager
River Ridge Family Campground

Kathy Earnest

Park Manager
River Rock Campground

Bob Thompson

Park Maintenance
our mission

To provide high-quality, sustainable recreation experiences that bring people together.

Innovation

We embrace forward-thinking solutions to enhance outdoor hospitality, introducing new ways to elevate guest experiences and streamline operations.

Sustainability

Our commitment to responsible development ensures that our properties balance recreation with environmental stewardship, preserving nature for future generations.

Community Engagement

We create vibrant campground experiences by hosting events, activities, and partnerships that bring guests and local communities together.

Testimonials

Executive Leadership

Jack VanGessel

Managing Partner

Dave Casey

Matt Clouse

John Madura

DJ Lambert

Jack VanGessel

Managing Partner
Park Operations and Finances

Jack VanGessel is a real estate agent, developer, business owner, and operator based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As the Managing Partner and President of Recreation Ventures LLC, he oversees a portfolio of three RV park and campground properties comprising over 300 sites, multiple residential units, and full-service campground stores—generating close to $1 million in annual revenue. Jack leads day-to-day operations, hires and manages staff, directs capital improvements, and consistently delivers strong returns for investors.

In addition to running Recreation Ventures LLC, Jack serves in a commercial real estate advisory role at Northstar Commercial. Over the course of his career, he has underwritten and analyzed more than $500 million in development opportunities and facilitated over $100 million in sales and leasing transactions. Recognized with honors such as CARWM Rookie of the Year and the 2022 NEXT GEN Project of the Year, he is known for developing creative, value-driven solutions that enhance communities and produce robust investor returns. Jack is also active in community service initiatives—most notably through Kids’ Food Basket—and remains committed to fostering relationships and opportunities that positively impact the regions where he operates.

Matt Clouse

Partner
Investor Relations

Matt Clouse is a seasoned real estate professional with over 19 years of experience in the industry. Since beginning his career in 2006, he has successfully flipped more than 80 houses, demonstrating his keen eye for value and market trends. Matt currently manages a diverse portfolio consisting of over 220 residential and commercial units. His expertise extends beyond traditional real estate practices, specializing in creative financing solutions that enable innovative and profitable transactions.

At 43, Matt brings not only professional experience but also a deep commitment to his personal life. He is married and a proud father of four children, balancing his career with family life alongside their two dogs. His ability to think outside the box has set him apart in the real estate industry, making him a valuable partner in any venture that requires strategic and forward-thinking solutions.

Dave Casey

Partner
Investor Relations
Educational Background:

David A. Casey graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan in 1989 and subsequently earned a Master of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University in 1992.

David A. Casey has extensive experience in finance, both in banking and business consulting. His diverse professional background encompasses critical aspects of financial management, from credit analysis and lending to real estate investment.

In addition to his professional achievements, Casey’s active participation in community and economic development initiatives underscores a strong commitment to civic engagement and regional growth. His involvement in various boards and volunteer activities reflects leadership qualities and a dedication to enhancing his local community.

Educational Background:

David A. Casey’s professional experience is characterized by a broad and deep engagement in finance and business:

  • Banking Experience:
    • Commercial Credit Analysis
    • Private Lending
    • Small Business Lending
  • Business Experience:
    • Dealer Business Consultant for Herman Miller, Inc.
  • Current Business Activities:
    • Managing Real Estate Investments in West Michigan: His current focus on real estate investments showcases expertise in property management, investment strategies, and local real estate market dynamics.
Community Involvement:

David A. Casey is actively engaged in various community and organizational roles:

  • Newaygo Nationals Association – Board Member
  • Newaygo Economic Development Organization (NEDO) – Board Member: regional economic planning and development, contributing to local business growth and economic vitality.
  • Heritage Museum of Newaygo County – Volunteer

John Madura

Partner
Capital Projects
John formed Tru Building Concepts in 2016 after working for one of Michigan’s largest, reputable construction firms. With over 20 years of construction experience, he was ready for a new challenge that allowed him to work more closely with both his employees and his clients. John is responsible for the overall operations of Tru Building Concepts. From preconstruction and project management to quality assurance and safety, John interacts daily with his team to ensure a positive, professional construction project.

Chase Mapes

Operations Associate
River Ridge Family Campground

My name is Chase Mapes. I am 20 years old, and I grew up with a love for the great outdoors. Right now, I’m in college, learning the ropes of life and trying to better understand what path I want to take for my career. It’s not always easy, but I’m excited to see where this journey leads me as a business student.

My first job was working as a groundskeeper for River Ridge at 16, and I have worked there for the last four years now. The campground industry holds a special place in my heart because it represents more than just outdoor spaces and recreation, rather it’s about creating memorable experiences and building a sense of community. I’m truly excited to see what the future holds and hope that it allows me to combine my passion for the outdoors with my growing interest in the business world. Nothing makes me happier than contributing to and providing the groundwork necessary for everyone to create memorable experiences.

Jordan Hayes

Founder and Chief Strategist

Jordan Hayes, the Founder and Chief Strategist of Lakeshore Legacy Advisors, brings over 20 years of top-tier consulting experience to the helm of the company. An alumnus of the University of Michigan with an MBA and a background in economics, Jordan’s expertise lies in transforming complex business challenges into strategic opportunities. At Lakeshore, he has built a reputation for crafting bespoke growth strategies that not only drive businesses forward but also contribute to building their enduring legacies.

His career, prior to Lakeshore, was marked by significant tenures at leading consulting firms, equipping him with a profound understanding of market dynamics across diverse industries. Jordan is also deeply invested in leadership development, often sharing his thought leadership as a speaker and mentor. His dedication to strategic excellence and innovation has established Lakeshore Legacy Advisors as a trusted partner for businesses aiming for lasting impact.