Places to Camp near Grand Rapids, MI

Camping near Grand Rapids, Michigan

Camping near Grand Rapids, Michigan offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground with plenty of activities or a quiet spot to relax and enjoy nature, you'll find it here. With options ranging from established campgrounds with full amenities to more rustic sites, there's something for everyone.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Grand Rapids, what you can do while camping, what campers like and dislike, and tips for families and RVers. We'll also include quotes from real campers to give you a better idea of what to expect.

What to do

Grand Rapids is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that offer plenty of activities for campers. From hiking and biking trails to lakes and rivers for fishing and boating, there's no shortage of outdoor fun.

At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, you can enjoy clean bathrooms and hot showers, as well as activities for kids. Dan W. mentioned, "Grounds were nice with some fun for kids." Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area offers spacious sites and is dog-friendly. Russell J. shared, "Found a good spot that has lots of room. Dog friendly!"

For those who love water activities, Wabasis Lake County Park is a great choice. Nathan M. said, "Whether we’re in the area for the mtn bike trails, or for an event in Grand Rapids, this is the place we always try to stay at if they have an opening."

What campers like

Campers appreciate the variety of activities and amenities available at campgrounds near Grand Rapids. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly activities, clean facilities, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Greg B. loves Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA for its friendly staff and activities for all ages. He said, "The staff is very friendly and helpful. There are activities for young and old and everyone in between." Gina K. enjoys the family-friendly atmosphere at Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area, noting, "Kids have plenty of room on the beach and shaded grass area."

Campers also appreciate the peaceful and quiet environment at Wabasis Lake County Park. Jared mentioned, "Really small and quiet."

What you should know

While there are many positives to camping near Grand Rapids, there are also some things to be aware of. Some campers have had negative experiences with staff or found certain campgrounds to be too crowded.

Erika F. had a negative experience with a staff member at Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA. She said, "We have never been treated so poorly or made to feel like criminals trespassing at a campground." Jacob K. found Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area to be too crowded for his taste, stating, "A little too crowded for my tastes."

At Wabasis Lake County Park, Nicole C. warned about swimmers itch and raccoons. She shared, "Unfortunately this summer swimmers itch got us! Lots and lots of raccoons, that aren’t shy at all!"

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you choose a campground with plenty of activities and amenities for kids.

At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, there are activities for kids and clean facilities. Dan W. mentioned, "Grounds were nice with some fun for kids." Stacia L. found Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area to be great for kids, saying, "Great kid’s activities and trails."

For a quieter experience, consider Wabasis Lake County Park. Jared noted, "Really small and quiet," which can be ideal for families looking to relax.

Tips from RVers

RVers will find plenty of options for camping near Grand Rapids, with many campgrounds offering amenities like electric hookups, sanitary dumps, and spacious sites.

Greg B. loves Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA for its friendly staff and activities. He said, "The staff is very friendly and helpful. There are activities for young and old and everyone in between." Russell J. recommends Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area for its spacious sites, sharing, "Found a good spot that has lots of room."

Nathan M. enjoys staying at Wabasis Lake County Park when visiting Grand Rapids. He said, "Whether we’re in the area for the mtn bike trails, or for an event in Grand Rapids, this is the place we always try to stay at if they have an opening."

Map showing campgrounds near Grand Rapids, Michigan

Best Camping Sites Near Grand Rapids, MI (147)

1.
Hoffmaster State Park Campground
51 Reviews
338 Photos
368 Saves
Norton Shores, Michigan
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Hoffmaster State Park is 1,200 acres of wooded sand dunes and 3 miles of sandy beach. The park is named for P.J. Hoffmaster, considered to be the founder of Michigan’s state parks system. Located just a few miles south of Muskegon, and 40 miles west of Grand Rapids, this park offers an outdoor reprieve where you can swing in your hammock under shady pine and hardwood forest, and enjoy pleasant lakeside strolls while peeping for migrating sparrows and hawks. One of the park’s must-do activities is climbing the winding wooden stairway to the Dunes Overlook for great views over the lake, and the fascinating dunes that have developed along the lakeshore.
Open from April to October, the campground at Hoffmaster State Park offers nearly 300 wooded tent and RV campsites on either side of Little Black Creek. Sites are equipped with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits; restrooms and water faucets are located throughout the campground area. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 50 feet; a dump station is available near the campground entrance. A kids’ playground is located near the creek, between the two camp areas, and there are two trailheads for accessing the beach. There are also several picnic areas and a concession stand inside the park. Dogs are permitted in the campground area and on the trails, but must remain leashed; they are not permitted on the swim beaches. Campsite rates range from $25–$37/night.
If you need a break from sunning and swimming on the beaches at Hoffmaster, you can visit the Gillette Visitor Center. You can learn about the park’s sand dune ecosystem, see exhibits about the park’s flora and fauna, or attend a nature program about native birds, bugs or beasts. The center also offers guided, interpretive bird walks, dune hikes and night prowls. If you’re ready to strike out on your own, pick up a trail map and start roaming the park’s 5 miles of hiking trails. On the 1-mile Dune Overlook Trail you can climb 100 stairs into the park’s “quiet area” for a panoramic view over the dunes and Lake Michigan. Bring your birding guide with you, as the park is known for a wide variety of residential and migrant songbirds and raptors.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2.
Beach Campground — Holland State Park
37 Reviews
85 Photos
194 Saves
Macatawa, Michigan
Holland State Park is best known for sugar-sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, and views of the iconic “Big Red” lighthouse. The park is home to two large campgrounds, an accessible playground, opportunities for paddling and fishing, and connections to nonmotorized trails. The state park consists of separate Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan units on the northern side of the channel connecting Lake Macatawa with Lake Michigan. A boat launch with a fish cleaning station is located 1 mile east of the park.
The park now offers two EV charging stations at no cost.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
3.
Deep Lake Rustic Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED IN 2024
24 Reviews
44 Photos
79 Saves
Cloverdale, Michigan
Due to park enhancements (to update electrical, road, fishing pier and sewer), the beach house, picnic shelters and Gun Lake campground will close in 2024. The day-use area and boating access site will remain open except when construction work prohibits safe access, A proposed $5.5 million in federal relief funding from Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan made these renovations possible.
78 sites at Deep Lake Rustic Campground are now site-standard reservable.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
4.
Grand Haven State Park Campground
28 Reviews
129 Photos
167 Saves
Grand Haven, Michigan
Nestled on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven State Park showcases scenic views of Grand Haven Pier and lighthouse in front of vibrant sunsets that paint the open sky beyond. It’s not just the slow tide of Lake Michigan that draws people over, nor the perfectly groomed sand beaches. Aside from scenic beauty, Grand Haven State park also offers a host of amenities for campers, and then some. Moreover, the Grand Haven area is home to a number of offbeat attractions nearby which provide entertainment and laughs for the entire family.
One of these notable attractions was built over 60 years ago, known as the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. At one point its claim to fame was its feat as the largest fountain in the world. However, in 1998 Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas stole that record after unveiling The Fountains of Bellagio. All things considered, those who don’t want to make a trip to Vegas will find Grand Haven’s fountain the superior (and less crowded) option. Besides that, the Musical Fountain is still the largest of its kind. Many here would argue that authenticity is more important than size.
Aside from a charming fountain, the area also offers a local boardwalk with live music. It doesn’t stop there though. Outdoor enthusiast will enjoy the many hiking trails that span the park’s 48 acres. Fisherman will love the world-class fishing Lake Michigan is known for. And everyone can enjoy the local shops, eats, and oddities found throughout the city. It goes without saying, finding something to do here is never a problem.
Camping in the Grand Haven State Park is readily accessible, with online reservations available year round. The parks’ acreage rest’s along the western shores of Lake Michigan, and offers a host of lodging options as well. Aside from full service campsites, there are also cabins available for rental throughout. Moreover, there’s also beach sites open for reservation if you’d prefer your own beach getaway during the day. Campsites range from $21-$37/night, while cabins start at $126/night. Be sure to reserve cabins well in advance, as they are an extremely popular amenity for the campground.
If you’re looking for an idealistic vacation getaway, Grand Haven State Park should be a unique spot you consider. Honeymooners, couples, families, and travelers alike will enjoy everything the region offers. All in all, this park is an unexpected delight sure to keep you wanting more over and over again.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5.
Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA
12 Reviews
17 Photos
47 Saves
Allendale, Michigan
The Allendale/West Grand Rapids KOA is conveniently located between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, nestled deep in the countryside of Western Michigan. Our RV sites are large enough to handle most big rigs and offer serenity and a peaceful place to vacation. If tenting is your passion, we have great secluded sites within walking distance to the bathhouse and restroom facilities. Our deluxe cabins are complete with bathroom facilities and fully-equipped kitchens for that "home away from home feel."
If you're traveling with your family, we have plenty of activities to entertain all ages." Water Wars," hit the bullseye & set off the depth charge to soak your opponent, or perhaps a refreshing swim in our pool. Two playgrounds accommodate our younger campers, while volleyball, basketball, horseshoes & more keep everyone busy. Weekend activities include our famous glow-ride hay-wagon ride.
We have three ponds on the campground that will keep you busy catching & releasing fish all day long. If fishing or relaxing on the water is on your list of things to do, you'll find them all within a short distance of the campground.
In the fall, come camp and enjoy the beautiful colors of the changing trees of Western Michigan.
Whatever your camping needs may be, we have a site for you and look forward to meeting you!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
6.
Woodchip Campground
8 Reviews
9 Photos
43 Saves
Byron Center, Michigan
Woodchip Campground is the perfect place for your family camping in Michigan. Our 122 camping sites are grassy and shaded. Each site has a picnic table and burn barrel. We can accommodate short and long-term guests, including monthly and seasonal camping. Activities for the whole family take place on the weekends, with additional special events on holidays.
Just minutes from Grand Rapids, Michigan!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
7.
Steamboat Park Campground
7 Reviews
10 Photos
28 Saves
Jenison, Michigan
RV campsites and kayak rental on the Grand River in Jenison, Michigan. All sites are full hook-up. Open year round.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$45 - $85 / night
8.
Wabasis Lake County Park
10 Reviews
17 Photos
45 Saves
Cannonsburg, Michigan
Welcome to Wabasis Lake County Park, a gem nestled near Greenville, MI. This campground is a favorite for many, offering a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Open from April 25 to November 2, it’s a great spot for a spring or fall getaway.
One of the standout features here is the large, well-maintained sites. Whether you're in a tent or a big rig, you'll find plenty of space to spread out. The campground is big-rig friendly and offers electric and sewer hookups, making it a convenient choice for RVers. For those who prefer a bit more comfort, the camper cabins are a fantastic option, complete with a living room, bedrooms, and even a small kitchen area.
The lake is a major draw, with a beautiful beach area perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. You can rent kayaks and boats, although some amenities might be seasonally closed. The beach also features a playground, making it a hit with families. If you're into fishing, the lake offers shallow waters, which are great for a relaxing day by the shore.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. And if you’re planning to stay for a while, you’ll appreciate the on-site market and the availability of firewood.
Visitors have praised the campground for its peaceful nights and the friendly community vibe. However, it can get busy during the day, especially around the lake. So, if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, mornings and evenings are your best bet.
Overall, Wabasis Lake County Park offers a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a fantastic choice for your next camping adventure.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
9.
Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park Campground
36 Reviews
136 Photos
214 Saves
North Muskegon, Michigan
Muskegon State Park is home to 3 miles of breathtaking shoreline (2 miles along Lake Michigan and 1 mile on Muskegon Lake), Snug Harbor, forested dunes, two campgrounds, picnic areas, multiple trails, and more. One of the park's popular features is the blockhouse that was originally built by the CCC in the 1930s to provide opportunities for visitors to see in all directions. It sits on the highest point in Muskegon County.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
10.
Ionia State Recreation Area — Ionia Recreation Area
14 Reviews
9 Photos
72 Saves
Ionia, Michigan
Rolling hills, babbling brooks, open meadows, forested ridges, a lake nestled in the hills and a river winding its way through woods and fields -- that's Ionia Recreation Area. The 4,500 acres of flat to rolling terrain is a mixture of open field, mature hardwood forest and pine plantations. Four miles of Grand River floodplain follow the river course on the north border of the park. Dammed waterfowl floodings and other wetlands dot the park. Birding is excellent, with more than 199 species identified by the Audubon Society, and wildflowers abound.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
$24 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 147 campgrounds

Popular Camping Styles near Grand Rapids

Tents

RVs

Dispersed

Cabins

Pets Allowed

Yurts

Equestrian

Pet-friendly camping near Grand Rapids

Hoffmaster State Park Campground

51 Reviews

338 Photos

368 Saves

Norton Shores, Michigan

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Hoffmaster State Park is 1,200 acres of wooded sand dunes and 3 miles of sandy beach. The park is named for P.J. Hoffmaster, considered to be the founder of Michigan’s state parks system. Located just a few miles south of Muskegon, and 40 miles west of Grand Rapids, this park offers an outdoor reprieve where you can swing in your hammock under shady pine and hardwood forest, and enjoy pleasant lakeside strolls while peeping for migrating sparrows and hawks. One of the park’s must-do activities is climbing the winding wooden stairway to the Dunes Overlook for great views over the lake, and the fascinating dunes that have developed along the lakeshore.

Open from April to October, the campground at Hoffmaster State Park offers nearly 300 wooded tent and RV campsites on either side of Little Black Creek. Sites are equipped with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits; restrooms and water faucets are located throughout the campground area. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 50 feet; a dump station is available near the campground entrance. A kids’ playground is located near the creek, between the two camp areas, and there are two trailheads for accessing the beach. There are also several picnic areas and a concession stand inside the park. Dogs are permitted in the campground area and on the trails, but must remain leashed; they are not permitted on the swim beaches. Campsite rates range from $25–$37/night.

If you need a break from sunning and swimming on the beaches at Hoffmaster, you can visit the Gillette Visitor Center. You can learn about the park’s sand dune ecosystem, see exhibits about the park’s flora and fauna, or attend a nature program about native birds, bugs or beasts. The center also offers guided, interpretive bird walks, dune hikes and night prowls. If you’re ready to strike out on your own, pick up a trail map and start roaming the park’s 5 miles of hiking trails. On the 1-mile Dune Overlook Trail you can climb 100 stairs into the park’s “quiet area” for a panoramic view over the dunes and Lake Michigan. Bring your birding guide with you, as the park is known for a wide variety of residential and migrant songbirds and raptors.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Beach Campground — Holland State Park

Holland State Park is best known for sugar-sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, and views of the iconic “Big Red” lighthouse. The park is home to two large campgrounds, an accessible playground, opportunities for paddling and fishing, and connections to nonmotorized trails. The state park consists of separate Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan units on the northern side of the channel connecting Lake Macatawa with Lake Michigan. A boat launch with a fish cleaning station is located 1 mile east of the park.

The park now offers two EV charging stations at no cost.

Pets
Fires
Phone Service
Reservable

Deep Lake Rustic Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED IN 2024

Due to park enhancements (to update electrical, road, fishing pier and sewer), the beach house, picnic shelters and Gun Lake campground will close in 2024. The day-use area and boating access site will remain open except when construction work prohibits safe access, A proposed $5.5 million in federal relief funding from Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan made these renovations possible.

78 sites at Deep Lake Rustic Campground are now site-standard reservable.

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Grand Haven State Park Campground

28 Reviews

129 Photos

167 Saves

Grand Haven, Michigan

Nestled on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven State Park showcases scenic views of Grand Haven Pier and lighthouse in front of vibrant sunsets that paint the open sky beyond. It’s not just the slow tide of Lake Michigan that draws people over, nor the perfectly groomed sand beaches. Aside from scenic beauty, Grand Haven State park also offers a host of amenities for campers, and then some. Moreover, the Grand Haven area is home to a number of offbeat attractions nearby which provide entertainment and laughs for the entire family.

One of these notable attractions was built over 60 years ago, known as the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. At one point its claim to fame was its feat as the largest fountain in the world. However, in 1998 Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas stole that record after unveiling The Fountains of Bellagio. All things considered, those who don’t want to make a trip to Vegas will find Grand Haven’s fountain the superior (and less crowded) option. Besides that, the Musical Fountain is still the largest of its kind. Many here would argue that authenticity is more important than size.

Aside from a charming fountain, the area also offers a local boardwalk with live music. It doesn’t stop there though. Outdoor enthusiast will enjoy the many hiking trails that span the park’s 48 acres. Fisherman will love the world-class fishing Lake Michigan is known for. And everyone can enjoy the local shops, eats, and oddities found throughout the city. It goes without saying, finding something to do here is never a problem.

Camping in the Grand Haven State Park is readily accessible, with online reservations available year round. The parks’ acreage rest’s along the western shores of Lake Michigan, and offers a host of lodging options as well. Aside from full service campsites, there are also cabins available for rental throughout. Moreover, there’s also beach sites open for reservation if you’d prefer your own beach getaway during the day. Campsites range from $21-$37/night, while cabins start at $126/night. Be sure to reserve cabins well in advance, as they are an extremely popular amenity for the campground.

If you’re looking for an idealistic vacation getaway, Grand Haven State Park should be a unique spot you consider. Honeymooners, couples, families, and travelers alike will enjoy everything the region offers. All in all, this park is an unexpected delight sure to keep you wanting more over and over again.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA

The Allendale/West Grand Rapids KOA is conveniently located between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, nestled deep in the countryside of Western Michigan. Our RV sites are large enough to handle most big rigs and offer serenity and a peaceful place to vacation. If tenting is your passion, we have great secluded sites within walking distance to the bathhouse and restroom facilities. Our deluxe cabins are complete with bathroom facilities and fully-equipped kitchens for that "home away from home feel."

If you're traveling with your family, we have plenty of activities to entertain all ages." Water Wars," hit the bullseye & set off the depth charge to soak your opponent, or perhaps a refreshing swim in our pool. Two playgrounds accommodate our younger campers, while volleyball, basketball, horseshoes & more keep everyone busy. Weekend activities include our famous glow-ride hay-wagon ride.

We have three ponds on the campground that will keep you busy catching & releasing fish all day long. If fishing or relaxing on the water is on your list of things to do, you'll find them all within a short distance of the campground.

In the fall, come camp and enjoy the beautiful colors of the changing trees of Western Michigan.

Whatever your camping needs may be, we have a site for you and look forward to meeting you!

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Woodchip Campground

8 Reviews

9 Photos

43 Saves

Byron Center, Michigan

Woodchip Campground is the perfect place for your family camping in Michigan. Our 122 camping sites are grassy and shaded. Each site has a picnic table and burn barrel. We can accommodate short and long-term guests, including monthly and seasonal camping. Activities for the whole family take place on the weekends, with additional special events on holidays.

Just minutes from Grand Rapids, Michigan!

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

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Recent Reviews In Grand Rapids

718 Reviews of 147 Grand Rapids Campgrounds

No Reviews Found

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Grand Rapids, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Grand Rapids, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 147 campgrounds and RV parks near Grand Rapids, MI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Grand Rapids, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grand Rapids, MI is Hoffmaster State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Rapids, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Grand Rapids, MI.

What parks are near Grand Rapids, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Grand Rapids, MI that allow camping, notably Huron-Manistee National Forests and Indiana Dunes National Park.

Places to Camp near Grand Rapids, MI

Camping near Grand Rapids, Michigan

What to do

What campers like

What you should know

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers

Best Camping Sites Near Grand Rapids, MI (147)

1.

Hoffmaster State Park Campground

2.

Beach Campground — Holland State Park

3.

Deep Lake Rustic Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED IN 2024

4.

Grand Haven State Park Campground

5.

Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA

6.

Woodchip Campground

7.

Steamboat Park Campground

8.

Wabasis Lake County Park

9.

Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park Campground

10.

Ionia State Recreation Area — Ionia Recreation Area

Popular Camping Styles near Grand Rapids

Tents

RVs

Dispersed

Cabins

Pets Allowed

Yurts

Equestrian

Pet-friendly camping near Grand Rapids

Hoffmaster State Park Campground

Beach Campground — Holland State Park

Deep Lake Rustic Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED IN 2024

Grand Haven State Park Campground

Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA

Woodchip Campground

Recent Reviews In Grand Rapids

718 Reviews of 147 Grand Rapids Campgrounds

No Reviews Found