Camping sites near Cannonsburg, Michigan range from rustic tent camping to modern facilities with diverse recreation options. Located in Kent County at approximately 800 feet above sea level, the area experiences humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October, with several offering extended shoulder season camping opportunities.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Ionia State Recreation Area features a well-maintained disc golf course alongside hiking trails and lake activities. According to one camper, "There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing."
Horseback riding: At Double RR Ranch RV Resort, visitors can enjoy trail rides suitable for beginners. One camper noted, "We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids."
Fishing opportunities: Steamboat Park Campground provides riverside fishing spots. A visitor mentioned, "This is a quirky little campground tucked away along a large river... You can fish there, but it's mostly catfish. Beautiful to drink your morning coffee by the water!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. At Duke Creek Campground, a visitor appreciated that "The campground was great, and clean. The park was nice and so we're all the kid activities! The pool is very nice and the store is stocked nicely."
Quiet water recreation: Campers frequently mention the peaceful water access. One reviewer described Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins as an "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
Seasonal activities: Fall camping options exist at several locations. A visitor at Woodchip Campground shared, "We came here for a fall camping weekend. Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride. Root beer floats Saturday night were great!"
What you should know
Site spacing and privacy: Site size varies significantly across campgrounds. At Bertha Brock County Park, "camp sites were very spread out and most very shaded," while a camper at Woodchip Campground noted, "Spots are tight."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. A Cedar Springs RV Resort visitor mentioned, "The highways a littler closer then it looks, so you do get a lot of road noise. Especially when trucks hit the chatter bumps on the side. Not the worse thing in the world, but worth noting."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for weekends. At Wabasis Lake County Park, one visitor encountered challenges: "There was a big mixup on Friday night that caused us not to be able to check-into our cabins and we had to scramble to find a new place to stay because the office unexpectedly closed at 9:00 pm instead of at 10:30 pm."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused camping: Some campgrounds specialize in child entertainment. A Duke Creek visitor reported, "Your kids will LOVE this place-we had a blast! Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!"
Beach considerations: Swimming areas vary in quality. At Ionia State Recreation Area, "There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites... The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan or lakes with lots of boats and waves to deal with."
Wildlife awareness: Some locations have active wildlife. At Wabasis Lake County Park, one camper warned about "Lots and lots of raccoons, that aren't shy at all!" Another mentioned potential for "swimmers itch" in the lake.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Camp Clear Sky offers tent camping with some unexpected amenities. A visitor noted, "Outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet were unexpected amenities."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are available at Steamboat Park Campground. A long-term camper shared, "Full hook up sites that are quite spacious and level. Rigorously cleaned restrooms and showers - the best I've seen. Card operated laundry."
Seasonal camping options: Several campgrounds near Cannonsburg offer extended season camping. Woodchip Campground remains open with activities into late October, with one visitor noting they "Heat pool till end of October. Does trick or treating."
