Deer Camp Coffee Roasting & Outfitters posted on Facebook about a new location coming to Harrison Township, slated to open in April 2024. The upcoming Deer Camp is operated by local resident Lauren McDowell, founder of McDowell Coffee LLC. The new cafe and retail spot is located at 31463 North River Road.
Mcdowell Coffee executed a licensing agreement with Buck Baits, LLC of Sterling Heights. According to a press release, McDowell “will use the trademarks in business operations that include ice cream and a coffee cafe, micro coffee roasting, and retail store with carry out of foods and beverages. The business will operate under the name DEER CAMP® Harrison Township.”
Located on the north side of North River Road, the upcoming coffee shop is east of Selfridge Air National Guard military base in the Starlight retail complex. The space was previously occupied by Winfield Tackle Company. According to McDowell, the new Deer Camp will have a food menu and some bar stools for people who want to sit, eat, and hang out, but will mainly be a “grab and go” spot. The menu will be the same as what’s offered at the Sterling Heights location. However, the Harrison Township location will also sell ice creams, which Sterling Heights does not.
“I am currently a long-time resident of Harrison Township. Our family is vested here with our kids being part of the school district and giving back to the community when we can. Here in Harrison Township, we are considered Boat Town USA, there are over 10 marinas in our township with four surrounding DEER Camp. There are no other coffee shops in our township and there is a huge need for something like this in our community.” McDowell told What Now Detroit in an email.
Additionally, the Sterling Heights location, operated by Julie Majewski, owner of Buck Baits, LLC, received commission approval in January to add a small dine-in area with a few tables and seats and are currently in the progress of updating the space.
“We are excited to offer some made-in-Michigan food items like all beef and venison hot dogs, Jalapeno Sausages, and our own Polish Venison Sausage plus a pulled pork sandwich. These are our own recipes manufactured with USDA processor Uncle Henry Gourmet Meats in Troy Michigan. We are updating the store with new displays, counter, and additional seating.” Majewski told What Now Detroit.
