Searching for a campsite that allows pets near Lansing? Find the best sites near Lansing where you bring your dog and enjoy a scenic view. Search nearby campgrounds that allow pets or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Located just 20 minutes north of Lansing, Sleepy Hollow State Park is an idyllic getaway for anyone needing some time away from the city. The 2,600 acre park is situation on Price Road off US-27 making it easily accessible to people passing through. That being the case, the park still maintains its charm and accommodates campers and visitors every day without issue. The Little Maple river can be found winding in and out of the forested geography, with Lake Ovid situated right in the heart, thanks to the clever placement of a dam. Visitors come from all over to enjoy the scenic landscapes, birdwatching opportunities, and Winter Snowshoeing.
During the Spring, camp rangers host the weekly Sleepy Hollow State Park Nature program, which educates campers about local wildlife and the history of the surrounding regions. This is a great opportunity for families to spend some time together, especially after a long day of hiking and camping.
Surprisingly, it’s during the winter that this park is most frequently attended. In fact, Sleepy Hollow is most recognized for the miles of snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails that run through the land. The trails are well-traveled, however there’s no shortage of privacy to get out and find peace and quiet within the confines of a forest muted by snow.
Camping here is easily accessible. Michigan Residents can utilize their State Park Recreation Passport to get in for free. Otherwise, entrance rates are $11 for residents, and $16 for non-residents. If camping, full-service campsites start at $25/night, while walk-in rustic sites are only $17/night. Furthermore, if camping in a tent doesn’t sound like your thing there are onsite cabins available for rent at $68 per night. If you want electricity and a full-service cabin, Deluxe Cabins can be rented for $101 a night.
$25 - $101 / night
Welcome to Lansing Cottonwood Campground, a cozy spot near Lansing, MI, perfect for a family getaway or a quiet retreat. This campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and a sanitary dump. It's open from May 1 to October 29, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors.
One of the standout features here is the large outdoor pool, which is a hit with families. There's also a softball diamond that hosts tournaments on weekends, adding a bit of local flavor to your stay. If you're into fishing, you'll appreciate the couple of ponds scattered around the campground.
For those who prefer a more rustic experience, the primitive sites are a great choice. These spots are spacious and surrounded by trees, making them ideal for hammock camping. You'll likely hear the sounds of owls, frogs, and crickets at night, which adds to the charm. Just be mindful of the local wildlife—raccoons have been known to raid food storage bins, so keep your supplies secure.
The campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. And if you need to stock up on essentials, there's a market on-site with reasonable prices.
Overall, Lansing Cottonwood Campground offers a blend of convenience and natural beauty, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to camp near Lansing. Whether you're here for a softball tournament, a fishing trip, or just to relax by the pool, you'll find plenty to enjoy.
$30 - $40 / night
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/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html
$17 - $90 / night
Pinckney Recreation Area is a paradise for backpackers, mountain bikers, anglers, and other recreation enthusiasts. Pinckney is known for its extensive trail system and chain of excellent fishing lakes. Over forty miles of multi-use trail with remote campsites afford a backcountry experience.
$15 - $70 / night
From the website:
The Blind Lake Rustic Campground is located about halfway along the 17-mile Potawatomi Trail in Pinckney Recreation Area. It's a looped trail so hikers can enjoy miles and miles of scenery (without an out-and-back). There are 10 campsites outfitted with a vault toilet, hand-pump water access and fire rings. Only dead and downed timber are to be used for firewood.
You must check in at the park office on the day of your reservation. Camping is only allowed for one-night stays.
$17 / night
Our Southeast Michigan Campground is A Northern Michigan Camping Experience Without the 6 Hour Drive
Walnut Hills has an onsite canoe livery for Shiawassee River floating, a swimming lake with a beach, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, playgrounds throughout the park, and pavilion rentals available for group events.
$31 / night
Fort Custer Campground at Fort Custer State Recreation Area is a 3,033-acre park located between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. The park features three lakes, the Kalamazoo River, a campground, a swimming beach, boat rentals, more than 25 miles of multi-use trails, paddling and fishing opportunities, second growth forests and remnant areas of prairie. The trail system is popular with mountain bikers, equestrians, hikers and dog sledders.
Originally farmland, the area was acquired by the federal government to establish Camp Custer, an induction and military training center for the U.S. Army during WWII. The land was deeded to the State of Michigan under President Nixon's Legacy of Parks in 1971.
No alcoholic beverages allowed in park April 1 through Labor Day.
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.
$24 / night
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
Waterloo Portage Lake Modern Campground, nestled near Grass Lake, MI, is a solid spot for year-round camping. This place has a bit of everything, from tent sites to RV hookups, and even cabins if you’re looking for a bit more comfort. The campground is part of the larger Waterloo Recreation Area, which means you’ve got plenty of nature to explore right at your doorstep.
One of the standout features here is the lake. Portage Lake is just a short walk down the hill from the campground, and it’s got a nice beach area where you can kick back and relax. Some folks have mentioned that the lake can get a bit mucky, but it’s still a great spot for a swim or a paddle. If you’re into fishing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to cast a line.
The campground itself is pretty well-maintained. You’ll find clean bathrooms and showers scattered around, and most of the sites come with electric hookups. There’s also a sanitary dump station for RVs. If you’re planning to cook up some s’mores, you’ll be happy to know that fires are allowed, and you can buy firewood on-site.
Pets are welcome here, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just make sure to keep them on a leash, as there have been some issues with unleashed dogs in the past.
For those who enjoy a bit of activity, there’s a disc golf course nearby, and the campground itself has a playground that’s a hit with the kids. Whether you’re here for a quiet getaway or a family adventure, Waterloo Portage Lake Modern Campground has got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular pet-friendly campsite near Lansing, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular pet-friendly campground near Lansing, MI is Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find pet-friendly camping near Lansing, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 88 pet-friendly camping locations near Lansing, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
