Inland central Michigan offers visitors a variety of camping options around Alma. Located in Gratiot County at an elevation of 735 feet, this region features a mix of small lakes, river access, and woodlands with generally flat terrain. Camping season typically runs May through October with some sites remaining open year-round, though winter temperatures often drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails: Sleepy Hollow State Park provides some of the best hiking within an hour's drive of Michigan's state capital. The park features 2,600 acres with trails connecting directly to camping areas. According to Jacob B., there's "fun backpacking trails... fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, geocaching available."
Kayaking: Maple River Campground offers riverside sites with excellent paddling access. David F. shared his experience: "September 9th 2017 I hosted a Kayak/Canoe trip and we used this location for our landing and camping. It was a great little location that even had some river side cabins you could rent. The amount of nature was overwhelming. Lots of turtles and ducks to be seen."
Fishing: Multiple campgrounds feature fishing opportunities, but Ionia State Recreation Area stands out with options at Sessions Lake. Jo H. notes, "Nice camping. Great lake for fishing, swimming, kyaking or small boating. Scenic views on trails around the lake. Not too far so the kids can fallow along."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites and privacy at Newaygo State Park. One reviewer, Elise R., commented: "Very wooded and spread out among the campsites! Close to the water, and there's a trail along the perimeter of the campground with amazing views. Great stargazing as well."
Clean facilities: Bay City State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. Jennifer H. reports: "The restrooms and showers were very clean, smelled of bleach. The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets blue heron, sand pipers and their babies."
Water access: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas, including School Section Lake Veteran's Park where cabins and yurts provide lakefront accommodations. Russell S. wrote: "Small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean (but slightly dated) facilities led to fun times with grandkids. My site was a back in with not a lot of maneuvering room but even though some may feel these sites are small, we had plenty of space."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for yurt camping near Alma, Michigan. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, Halloween weekend books up immediately upon opening. Stephanie C. advises: "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site."
Extension cords needed: Some electric sites have power posts positioned far from camping pads. According to Nathan V. at Sleepy Hollow: "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas."
Additional fees: Brower Park Campground and others may have entrance fees beyond camping costs. Joshua E. explains: "Be prepared for extra fees for your cars and boats, the sites are still so fairly priced its really not that bad. You will need to pay either a $7 daily or $30 annual fee for your boat but kayaks and canoes are free."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Family-friendly amenities vary widely between campgrounds. Brower Park offers extensive recreation options. Bethany S. shares: "This campground is on the beautiful muskegon river, it has a large swimming area, nice sandy beach along the swimming area, play grounds, everything is clean and well kept, there is a trail head with a gorgeous trail along a smaller stream and an art barn with activities for kids to create each day."
Beach selection: Choose locations with appropriate swimming areas for children. Ionia State Recreation Area provides a calm lake environment. Joshua E. recommends: "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."
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds have paved roads suitable for children learning to ride. Stephanie C. says about Sleepy Hollow: "I grew up camping at this campground and would recommend it. There is a beach and playground, but it is quite the walk from the campground. Plan to drive or bike ride if you have trouble walking long distances."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Several campgrounds have specific limitations for larger RVs. At Scalley Lake Park, where canvas yurt camping near Alma, Michigan is popular, spaces can be tight for larger units. Similar constraints exist at School Section Lake, where Bobbi Jo K. notes: "Was a decent place to camp- lots are very close though! Luckily in the fall it wasn't very busy."
Hookup placement: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts. Nick W. reported about Sleepy Hollow: "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Seasonal differences: Camping during off-peak times offers more space and quiet. Alexandra M. shared about Maple River Campground: "We were on site 6, and there was plenty of space! We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river. It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too. There isn't a pool or designated swimming area, but having a spot on the river is great."
