Wabasis Lake County Park accommodates pets throughout its lakeside campsites and cabins, providing dedicated areas for dog walking along the shoreline. Campers with pets have access to spacious sites that easily fit large campers plus vehicles, making it convenient for those traveling with animal companions. The campground features modern restrooms with showers, a beach area, and playground equipment. Tyler Creek and Indian Valley Campground also welcome pets, though Tyler Creek has received mixed reviews regarding staff interactions. The indoor pool at Indian Valley offers a nice amenity for campers when the weather turns cool or rainy. Seasonal campers at some locations may create a busy atmosphere during peak times, particularly at Wabasis Lake where weekend crowds are common.
Hiking trails surrounding these campgrounds provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs. Raccoons are abundant at Wabasis Lake and aren't shy around campers or their pets, requiring careful food storage and pet supervision. Most campgrounds in the area enforce standard leash policies, though specific pet rules vary by location. The Thornapple River at Indian Valley Campground offers water access where dogs can cool off during summer months. Shallow water at Wabasis Lake makes for safe wading for pets but limits fishing opportunities from shore. Boulder Ridge Zoo near Tyler Creek provides a nearby attraction, though pets aren't permitted inside the zoo grounds. Firewood is readily available at most campgrounds, with Wabasis Lake offering particularly affordable bundles—eight large pieces for $6.
"There are a few downsides:
- Because it's so close to Grand Rapids and some other cities, it typically is full on the weekends. Booking a site can be troublesome."
"However, we were able to get a hold of the staff the next day, we were refunded for our first night, and had a great second night at Wabasis Lake staying in the camper cabins."
"We love this as an easy getaway close to home. I wouldn’t call it a beautiful campground... but it is clean, and has a ton to do for kids!"
"Great trees surrounding the property. Tons of kids - great activities for them! Campground is clean, and staff friendly."
$24 / night
"There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. "
"First let me say the rustic area is walk-in only. I was unaware of this until we arrived."
$45 - $85 / night
"Lots of greenery to walk my dog. As a bonus, they have river cruises that leave directly from the office."
"Year round parks are so hard to find in Michigan. This one is awesome. Great spots in the trees and also back in spots right on the river."
$28 - $50 / night
"Lots of kids and dogs. You can rent golf carts by the day to play with in the campground. Bathrooms were newly redone. Looking allot better then previous years."
"Recently, I inherited a pop up camper and chose this place to be my first location to try it out. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Our site was nice with electric and water hookups."
"First time in central Michigan and it was absolutely beautiful. The campground has a great location and lots of mountain bike and hiking trails."
"This is a campground in Yankee Spring Recreational Area in Mid-Michigan. This is a nice rustic campground near the NCT(North Country Trail)."
"A small onsite store, but not to far of a drive if you need a grocery store or other amenities. They are also very affordable for canoe and kayak rental. Great place to go!"
"I had a great spot overlooking the lake and next to the boat launch. Campsites are spacious, there are two vault toilets and a water pump."
"It is close to a town to get take out food if it rains. There are some larger vacation lodges to rent that ars nestled away in the woods, and a bunkhouse with rentals."
TravelerDefinitely the best camp ground in West Michigan! Clean sites, friendly staff, and many amenities. Camp store, laundry, showers and bathrooms, huge pool, hot tub, pickle ball courts, kids play ground, bikes, scooters, and kayaks for rent (with a kayak launch) and boat slips on the water. They have access to a dog park as well. Home away from home!
TravelerWas a decent place to camp- lots are very close though! Luckily in the fall it wasn’t very busy. Nice little lake on property. Fire pits in odd spot near the road. No pets allowed-not even a cat that stays inside in your camper! Also- there is a $7 a day fee for out of the county. Even when you arrive late at night.
LegendHolland State Park is popular for its expansive sandy beach along Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa where swimming, sun bathing, fishing, and boating are popular activities. Holland SP has two campgrounds – the Lake Macatawa Unit and the Beach Campground (which is where we stayed and the focus of this review). The Beach Campground is essentially a parking lot as the sites, patios and roads are paved with little grass among them. It is nestled between dunes which adds to the scenic value and blocks the strong winds coming off of Lake Michigan. The Lake Unit campground is much larger (211 campsites) than the Beach Campground and has more of a state park feel with trees, grass, and fire pits.
Site description:
The Beach Campground has 98 RV sites of which 31 are 50 amp full hook-up and two camper cabins. Some sites towards the northern section of the park have great views of Lake Michigan but be warned that strong winds can come off the lake and really shake your RV. When we were there in early May the winds were very strong with blowing sand which made us really glad we were not near the water.
Campsites are plenty wide to fit your RV with slide outs and car next to it without feeling cramped. Utilities are at the very back of the site so you may need an extension for your sewer hose. All sites were level. Every site has a picnic table. There are no fire pits at individual sites but community ones are located near the beach and you are permitted to use your own fire pit if you have one.
We were able to get nearly two dozen television stations with our antenna and had no problem locking into a satellite with our roof-mounted dish. Verizon phone and hotspot worked well.
So is this park big rig-friendly? In general, yes. Our site was certainly long (and wide) enough to fit our RV and the tow car next to it. However, we did have the back five feet overhanging the sand at the back of the site. This was no problem for us because our stabilizing jacks are in between our back tires. We were also there at a time when the park was fairly empty so backing in and pulling out was no problem. The sites are all set at an angle to the main road which makes backing easier.
Campground amenities:
By far the beach is the biggest draw to the campground. The wide beach lures sunbathers out in warm weather and is popular for a walk at sunset. There is a playground, picnic area, community fire pits, dump station, boat launch and concession stand. There is one restroom/shower house that was very clean but no laundry facilities.
What we liked:
We loved that fact that this campground was so close to water and the nice paved path for walking and hiking trails in the main part of the campground. Within 50 yards from our site we could be walking along Lake Macatawa or along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. The beach is wide and expansive and is the place to be for awesome sunsets. When we were there the beach was not crowded because it was cold and windy but it would be a great place to enjoy a good book under an umbrella. Definitely liked the fact that this was a full hook-up state park with level sites.
What we didn’t like:
The park is essentially a parking lot with little grass and trees. What really surprised us was how many cars drove through the campground that were not staying there. There apparently are no restrictions on who drives through the park so many day-use visitors came by just for a look resulting in unnecessary traffic.
Be advised there is a “no alcohol” policy in the park and campground and you have to sign a piece of paper saying you will abide by that rule. The rule states that “Possessing or consuming alcohol is prohibited in all areas of the park throughout the entire year” even inside your RV.
In order to enter the state park you must have a Michigan Recreation Passport which costs $32 for an annual non-resident OR you have to pay $11/day to enter the park even if you are camped there.
Pet:
There are plenty of places to walk dogs here and access points to water if your dog likes to swim. Unfortunately, they are not allowed on the beach but there is a long walking path and within the main part of the park are miles of hiking trails and a nice overlook. This park does not have an unleashed dog park; however, there is one within five miles at the fairgrounds.
GuideI grew up coming here and they had expanded a lot on it in the last few years. You will never be bored and it is a true resort feeling, you will forget your camping! They have themed weekends filled with activities for both adults and children and have a pool, pizza and ice cream, jumping pillow, clubhouse, fishing, playground, dog park, and so much more!
ScoutThe staff is very friendly and helpful. There are activities for young and old and everyone in between. The showers are clean and spacious. They have campsites to meet everyone's desires. Pets are welcome here with two fenced dog runs and trails to keep the owners exercised. I love this place and have made it a regular stop.
GuideGreat family campground - Paired with the area offers many options!
With mostly modern sites situated in hardwoods, pines, or a mixture, we stayed in the hardwoods area; however, my kids would have enjoyed the pines better for it appeared to have hammock hanging at almost every site. Well-maintained and clean restrooms had soda vending machines.
Children's play area with equipment and activity field, where several kites were hoisted high into the air, were great. Gillette Visitor Center in the State Park area about 1/4 mile away offers Explorer and interpretive programs Tuesday through Saturday, with topics ranging from nature history/preservation to information on wildlife. We enjoyed the spider and bear presentations most, but maybe that is because I have all boys! The campground beach, only a 5 - 10 minute walk from any site, was awesome! While there wasn't a lifeguard, I appreciated the "flag system" advising how safe the water is each day. Unfortunately, a red flag was flying on our visit, so we only waded at the water's edge- but - still cool to lay out on the sugar-like sand and walk its 3 mile length! I do regret not making it back to the beach for sunset as our camping neighbors RAVED about it the following morning!
My favorite part of this campground was the trails. In addition to several trails within the campground (the one along the creek was especially loved!), many more can be accessed in the state park, which contains over ten miles of trails in its 1,200 acres. Trails to dunes, beach, and other parks as well as dune preserve: all well-marked and vary in difficulty, weaving through pine and hardwood forests nestled among dunes. Plus, the adjoining North Ottawa Dune Preserve offers an additional ten miles of trails! OMG - what a phenomenal place for a walk in the woods or trail running! One of our walks was up a 5-story staircase near the nature center, leading to an observation platform with expansive views of majestic dunes and Lake Michigan. I was impressed that a portion was barrier-free.
Some family ventured into nearby towns of Muskegon, Spring Lake, and Grand Haven to experience what they had to offer: shops, museums, World War II boats, piers to walk, and several craft breweries - all 15 minutes away! Our dogs enjoyed the visit to the unleashed dog park at Coast Guard Park that is a ten-minute drive or a five-mile walk through the trails.
Logistics to note: Campground sells ice - $2/7# bag and wood/$5.50 a bundle. We quickly realized that residences outside the park sold it at $5 for larger bundles. Area grocery stores include a Meijer superstore and Leppinks grocery. We preferred Leppinks for the quick trip and Meijer for items beyond groceries, such as that forgotten bathing suit or a propane tank for the grill. While we don't have a big rig, I did notice the backup of campers at the two campground dump stations Sunday before 1pm checkout. Being a state park, Hoffmaster requires vehicles have a recreation passport to enter ($11/year -residents and $32/year -non-residents or a daily rate of $9). No alcoholic beverages between April 15 and Labor Day.
I talked to a ranger about coming back later this year, and he told me it is best to book months ahead for weekends because they fill up at the beginning of summer; however, cancellations are not uncommon, so watch the DNR site for openings. Weekdays usually have availability, especially the first half of the summer. He added that a great time to visit would be the weekend before Halloween as they encourage people to decorate their sites, wear costumes, and participate in trick or treating on Saturday night.
Guide29 campsites pretty close together with old growth trees interspersed around the campground. Fishing pier and boating, playground area, and beach. No longer has primitive camping. Some hiking trails...short. is next to a busy road, so traffic all night. Staff was great! Showers and bathrooms cleaned multiple times a day. Pet friendly. Would stay here again!
ScoutThis is always my go to campground! All natural camping with plenty of nice people! One word of advise is to bring your own tp though lol they seem to always run out on Sunday mornings lol but are back up and running by mid afternoon. No showers and just outhouses but that's REAL camping right!!!? No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails. Walking trails around the lake that offer nature at it's purest! I have been coming to this lake to camp for over 40 years and I hope I have 40 more years left!!!
ScoutPretty nice sites. Pool and game room as well as a store. There are trails that lead to the river and also to an area where bald eagles have a nest. Pets are allowed . Nice little playground for the kiddos.
Camping options near Ada, Michigan include several state recreation areas, county parks, and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Most campgrounds in this area are situated along rivers or lakes with elevation ranging from 600 to 800 feet above sea level. Thunderstorms frequently roll through during summer months, particularly in July and August when humidity levels peak.
Water activities on Thornapple River: Indian Valley Campground provides direct river access where visitors can rent canoes and kayaks. "Indian Valley Campground is right on the thorn apple river! great sites, some with electric, they even have a few cabins for rent. Indoor pool and mini golf for the kids," reports Dixie P.
Disc golf courses: Bertha Brock County Park offers extensive disc golf facilities. "Some of the trials are hard to find, but this disc golf here is one of the best courses I have played," notes David F., who stayed at the park in September.
Paddling between lakes: The waterways connecting multiple lakes create opportunities for extended paddling trips. At Crooked Lake Campground, Melissa B. explains, "This area is great for paddling. You can start at Crooked Lake and follow a little water trail to Pickerel to swim at a small beach."
Hiking through wooded terrain: Ionia State Recreation Area features extensive trail systems with changing elevations. "There are beautiful walking trails all around, and the lake was very pretty," states Rachel P., who visited in 2024.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that accommodate larger setups. At Wabasis Lake County Park, Bill R. noted, "The sites were large enough that it could hold a large camper and two vehicles easily."
Indoor pool access: Several campgrounds provide swimming options regardless of weather. Nicole C. commented about Indian Valley Campground, "The indoor pool was great for the preseason camping! Being there in early May, when it was rainy we were happy to have that amenity."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting attracts various wildlife species. "We've stayed here a few times over the last several years and it's been great every time! 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," shares Nathan M. about Wabasis Lake County Park.
Affordable firewood: Budget-conscious campers appreciate reasonable firewood prices. According to Bill R., "The firewood is cheap! 8 large pieces for $6, a wheelbarrow full of tinder for another $6. Bring a hatchet or axe because the wood pieces are huge!"
Weekend crowds: Proximity to urban areas means some campgrounds fill quickly. Bill R. observed at Wabasis Lake: "Because it's so close to Grand Rapids and some other cities, it typically is full on the weekends. Booking a site can be troublesome."
Seasonal camper concentration: Many campgrounds have long-term seasonal residents. At Woodchip Campground, Stu E. noted: "There are seasonal sites and other full hook-up sites."
Water depth considerations: Lake access doesn't always mean swimming or fishing is optimal. "The lake is effectively a plate, so don't expect to do much fishing from shore. The water is incredibly shallow. (But that makes for a very nice beach!)," explains Bill R.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facility quality ranges from primitive to modern. At Steamboat Park Campground, James V. found, "The bathrooms are not just clean and well maintained, but the shower rooms also have a dedicated sink and toilet, which I much appreciate."
Playground accessibility: Consider site location relative to play areas. Regarding Woodchip Campground, Cassondra P. shares: "Sites were very tight. We enjoyed being right on playground."
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events for children. "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," reports Cassondra P.
Swimming options for different ages: Lakes with gradual entry points work well for younger children. At Ionia State Recreation Area, Joshua E. notes, "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. Nice and sandy and a nice store and ice cream shop at the beach."
Dog-friendly beach areas: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Ada offer water access for pets. Jenna M. found Ionia Recreation Area particularly accommodating: "There was a great 3.5 mile hike around the lake with really beautiful lake views and a great beach for swimming."
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for comfort. At Wabasis Lake, Bill R. mentioned, "Some of the sites are a little uneven (the camper needed wood blocks underneath it so that the wheels weren't off the ground after leveling)."
Full hookup availability: For extended stays, note which campgrounds provide complete utilities. At Tyler Creek, Gina K. observed, "Lots of lot improvement so it's not so bumpy and off level. Neighbors had a problem with there electric box the owner was there in 5 minutes to fix it."
Laundry facilities: Some campgrounds offer on-site laundry options. James V. was impressed by Steamboat Park, noting "The washer and dryers in the bathhouse are brand new and take credit cards."
Off-season camping options: Limited year-round facilities exist in the region. Courtney A. explains about Steamboat Park Campground: "The also really awesome thing about this park is that it is year round. Year round parks are so hard to find in Michigan."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Ada, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Ada, MI is Wabasis Lake County Park with a 4.2-star rating from 10 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 117 dog-friendly camping locations near Ada, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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