Camping near Newaygo, Michigan centers around the area's diverse waterways including the Muskegon River, Hardy Pond, and smaller lakes scattered throughout the region's mixed hardwood forests. The region sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with camping season typically running from mid-April through October, though some rustic sites remain open year-round. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day with nighttime lows reaching 45-55°F, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: The 18-hole course at Newaygo State Park Campground draws enthusiasts throughout the season. "I stayed here for a couple nights while I was on a business trip up that way, because camping is way cooler than staying at hotels. It's all rustic sites, but the campground is nice. There's good hiking, an awesome disc golf course, and the lake right there with boat launches for fishing," notes Ryan L T.
Hiking the North Country Trail: Twinwood Lake Campground serves as an access point to extensive trail systems. "Hiked north about 5 miles out of Croton, starting from the campground. The hike is easy, with a few very short steep elevation changes. The trail oscilates between being very 'green tunnel' and wide expansive views of pines and older trees without much ground cover," reports Jennifer O.
River tubing: Chinook Camping provides direct access to river recreation with on-site tube rentals. "This is a great campground for tubing down the river. They rent the tubes right at the campground, take you up river, and then you get out of the river back at the campground," explains Clint, who appreciated the convenient river exit at the campsite.
What campers like
Rustic camping options: Twinwood Lake Campground offers a more secluded experience with just five sites. "Five secluded camping spots with large sites and plenty of room for tents and vehicles. First come, first serve for site reservations. The weekend we were there four spots were full. We arrived before noon on a Friday," shares Twila B.
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at Newaygo State Park. "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," according to Elise R.
Clean facilities: Sandy Beach County Park maintains their amenities well. "Bathrooms are kept up well, individual shower rooms are nice. They do have a washer and dry for longer stays but only one unit so you may have to wait awhile," notes Brenton Y., highlighting features that matter for extended stays.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Nights can get chilly even in summer. "We came mid-May and it was very cold at night," reports Melissa B. about her stay at Hoffmaster State Park, highlighting the need for proper sleeping gear year-round.
Site selection matters: Camping comfort varies widely between locations and specific sites. "The sites are deep but many are close together. Ours had a little extra room but was next to the vault toilet," explains R.B. about Newaygo State Park, suggesting careful research when booking.
Shower conditions vary: Little Switzerland Resort and Campground received mixed reviews about their facilities. "They were clean, let me put that out there, what they lacked was hot water in the showers or sinks. Added to that they have very old school 5-second pop back up knobs to engage the water," cautions Doreen B.
Tips for camping with families
Camp-based activities: Chinook Camping offers numerous family entertainment options. "This place has it all. Camping, river trips, pool, disc golf course, arcade and so much more. The playground area is so nice & everything is very well kept," reports Melissa F.
Beach access considerations: Access to swimming areas can involve significant walking. "The walk down & back to the beach is pretty strenuous if you are not used to the dunes & a hill. If you are elderly or not in shape you might go to the beach at an easier access point," advises Whitney A. about Hoffmaster State Park Campground.
Outdoor recreation for children: Several campgrounds cater specifically to younger visitors. "I bring the kids to this park every 4th of July weekend, we absolutely love it. I always reserve my site on the Poplar side, due to it having closer access to the lake to swim. Outhouses and water and pump are a bonus. The drive is paved so we always bring bikes for the kiddos!" shares Destiny K. about Newaygo State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have infrastructure limitations. "They have very narrow roads that were very difficult to maneuver a large trailer. Lots were smaller and hard to back into," warns Clint about Chinook Camping, important information for larger rigs.
Seasonal site differences: Brower Park Campground offers various camping sections with different characteristics. "Brower Park is a quiet campground with three separate areas with sites. They accommodate large RVs as well as smaller trailers and tents. Each site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Electricity and water hookup is included at each site," notes Heather Q.
Dump station timing: Holiday weekends create congestion. "I did notice the backup of campers at the two campground dump stations Sunday before 1pm checkout," observes Shelly B. about Hoffmaster State Park, suggesting RVers plan accordingly.
