Camping areas near Ashley, Michigan stretch across the rural Gratiot County landscape, with most options located within a 20-30 minute drive of town. The region features mostly flat terrain punctuated by small lakes and the Maple River watershed, creating opportunities for water recreation during Michigan's warm season. Most campgrounds in the region have graveled sites with varying degrees of tree cover, and campers should be prepared for typical Midwest seasonal conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Maple River Campground, riverfront sites provide direct water access. According to one camper, "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils," making it popular for anglers seeking local catches.
Recreational trails: Hiking opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground. A reviewer notes, "Best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital" and mentions the availability of "fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, geocaching."
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature small lakes with rentals and swimming areas. At Walnut Hills Family Campground by GatherGrounds, you'll find "swimming, some fishing, camp store, & activities for the kids" along with "boat/canoe rentals" according to visitors.
What campers like
Beach access: While several campgrounds offer swimming, Lake of Dreams Campground stands out for its water features. One camper highlights: "The high lights are the large blow up toys in the lake! The kids love them! Be sure you bring extra money, there is a charge and it's not cheap!"
Quiet atmosphere: Many campsites near Ashley, Michigan provide a peaceful setting. A visitor to Maple River Campground described their experience: "Loved this place! Had a beautiful riverfront spot where we were able to put our camper parallel to the water instead of backed in! It was beautiful."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and grounds are frequently mentioned in reviews. At Walnut Hills, campers appreciate the "mature park, friendly staff, things to do for all ages" and note it's a "very clean atmosphere with friendly people."
What you should know
Hookup accessibility issues: Electric connections can be problematic at some locations. At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned: "This may be an older camp or the DNR was trying to save money when it was built. 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."
Beach distance: At some campgrounds, water access requires a walk. A Sleepy Hollow camper noted: "We finally got set up with an extension cord from the camp office and decided to walk to the beach. Our site was adjacent to the path leading to the beach so we figured we could use a little walk. The path led to another path that led to a parking lot for the beach."
Seasonal operation: Most camping facilities in the Ashley area operate from spring through fall, typically May through October, with limited winter options. Water quality can vary, as one camper at Campgrounds R Us observed: "We drew water from the spigot and it was very discolored and one jug we put it in had red flakes in it. Make sure you use your water filter."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Just-In-Time Campground offers numerous family options. One camper shared: "This place is great for the family, lots of events on the weekend including fireworks or movies on their big screen. Nice private beach and they even have floating trampoline to play on."
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds host special weekends throughout summer. A former camper at Sleepy Hollow mentioned: "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."
Playground access: Most family-oriented campgrounds include play areas. At Walnut Hills, parents appreciate that there are "tons of things for kids to do! Kayaking, swimming, playground. Ice cream at the camp store."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Preparation for uneven ground is recommended at some locations. A camper at Walnut Hills noted: "It's hilly and quiet. The sites are not marked well, if at all, so don't come when it's dark."
Extension cords: Bring extra electrical cords for many campgrounds in the region. One Sleepy Hollow visitor recommended: "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."
Weather preparation: Seasonal temperature fluctuations affect camping comfort. A camper at Sleepy Hollow explained: "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right. Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan."
