Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground sits on over 2,600 acres in mid-Michigan, with elevation ranging from 850 to 900 feet above sea level. The park surrounds Lake Ovid, a 410-acre man-made reservoir that offers year-round recreation opportunities. Winter camping is available at select sites, with temperatures typically ranging from 20-30°F during December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sleepy Hollow offers fishing for largemouth bass and bluegill throughout the year. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," notes Michael P. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Disc golf course: The park features an 18-hole disc golf course through wooded terrain. "Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital, fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available," shares Jacob B. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems offer varied terrain for day hikes. At Pinckney Recreation Area, "There are multiple camping opportunities with a variety of camping styles. Yurt rental, to hike-in rustic sites, there's good camping for anyone. A 35 mile hiking trail runs through the entire area with small day trails branching off to points of interest," explains Greg F.
Paddling and boating: Lake access for canoes and kayaks with rental options at some campgrounds. "We did go for a short paddle on Ovid Lake, but again, no shade and HOT. I can't recall why we didn't go swimming??" shares Amy D. from Sleepy Hollow.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Sites with natural separation provide peace and quiet. "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," reports Amy D. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites," notes Ricky C. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Swimming beaches and boat access rank highly among camper reviews. At Walnut Hills Family Campground, "The lower section is the best. We were backed up to the pond with ducks always coming around. Very peaceful and beautiful," says Gary G.
Natural setting: Tree coverage and lake views create an outdoor escape feel. "Loved this place! Quiet, beautiful nature trails and lake," explains Laikyn C. from Sleepy Hollow.
What you should know
Electrical hookups: Extension cords may be required at some sites. At 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," warns Nick W.
Seasonal flooding: Some sites may experience standing water during heavy rain. At Blind Lake Rustic Campground, "We go to sleepy hollow about every other year. Normally we go closer to the fall and it is a great park. This time, however, we could tell that the staff does not keep up on it as much. The firepit was surrounded by water, and our site (142) really only had dry space for one tent," shares Mike W.
Beach access: Some campgrounds require a walk or drive to reach swimming areas. "Nice beach but you have to walk a short distance to get there," explains Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow.
Staff variability: Maintenance and rule enforcement can differ between visits. "The campground is nice with good access to bikes, trails, water, beach. Unfortunately the sites are on top of each other and very loud," reports John K. about Bishop Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Book early for special seasonal activities. "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," advises Stephanie C. from Sleepy Hollow.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water features. At Lansing Cottonwood Campground, "Our daughters have softball tournaments right at the campground. Beautiful location, great owners, very clean and well kept. Nice Pool and great view. Kayakers and Paddle Boats," notes Beth G.
Distance considerations: Plan for transportation between camping and recreation areas. "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," Stephanie C. recommends about Sleepy Hollow.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for nocturnal visitors. "Second night, it had rained pretty much all day. Spiders came out at alarming numbers, mostly daddy long legs and the night before, raccoons had gotten into our food storage bins by undoing the side latches on them," warns Beth S. from Lansing Cottonwood Campground.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: For pet-friendly camping near Bath, Michigan, choose sites with adequate space for dogs to move around. "The sites are not marked well, if at all, so don't come when it's dark. It's hilly and quiet," suggests Wendy K. about Walnut Hills Family Campground.
Water quality: Filter drinking water at some campgrounds. "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," advises Paula W. about Campgrounds R Us.
Site drainage: Check weather forecasts before booking as some areas have poor drainage. "Poured down rained while setting up to the point we couldn't step outta our camper without being up past our knees in water!!" reports Tammy P. about Walnut Hills.
Shade availability: Prepare for limited shade at some sites during summer months. "Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan. We were in the midst of a heat-wave though and it was much appreciated," notes Amy D. about her stay at Sleepy Hollow.