Campers seeking glamping close to Big Rapids, Michigan can find sites within Mecosta County's densely forested landscape where elevations range from 800 to 1,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F, making May through September the prime camping season. Winter conditions often bring heavy lake-effect snow, restricting access to seasonal campgrounds.
What to do
Water activities on Hardy Pond: At Brower Park Campground, visitors have extensive water recreation options. "Great campground with amazing views and tons of activities to do. With a beautiful beach that we saw park staff racking every day to make sure it was clean of seaweed or trash and two boat ramps as well as many places to moor your boat for your stay," notes Joshua E.
Disc golf: Newaygo State Park Campground offers an excellent disc golf course for glamping enthusiasts. "If you're not into fishing or disc golf, you might be happier elsewhere, but I love those two things, so I want to go back and visit again," explains Ryan L T.
Hiking trails: The region features connector trails to larger systems. At Highbank Lake Campground, "Nearby NCT connector is great for dogs and walking/running in general. The road back to the campground is dirt and also nice for walking," notes R.B.
What campers like
Rustic camping options: Shelley Lake Campground provides basic sites for those seeking less developed experiences. "If you're overlanding and just need a quiet crash the night spot. It's with ok sized sites. But for $10..... how can you not give this 5 stars," shares Brian N.
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Campers appreciate the roominess at many glamping locations. "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," reports Heather Q.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's low light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "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," shares Elise R. about Newaygo State Park.
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Site layouts and proximity vary significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are deep but many are close together. Ours had a little extra room but was next to the vault toilet," notes R.B. about Newaygo State Park.
Seasonal access limitations: Most glamping facilities near Big Rapids operate seasonally. Sandy Beach County Park runs from "May 15 to September 15," while others like Brower Park operate from "April 15 to October 31."
Additional fees: Expect various charges beyond basic site fees. At Brower Park, "Be prepared for extra fees for your cars and boats, the sites are still so fairly priced its really not that bad," advises Joshua E.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground offers safe water areas for children. "Small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean (but slightly dated) facilities led to fun times with grandkids," shares Russell S.
Weekend activities: Many glamping sites near Big Rapids organize special events. "Very nice camp with an awesome lake and great swimming area! Kids love this park! Sometimes it gets busy. The shop has snacks and ice cream," reports Arron P. about School Section Lake.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several parks feature safe cycling environments. "Out family is new to the RV life, and we really enjoyed staying here after the Fourth of July. The kids got to ride their bikes in a safe and friendly environment," notes Greg N. about Sandy Beach County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: RV glamping requires careful site selection. "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs," cautions Jordyn W. about School Section Lake.
Access road challenges: Some glamping locations have difficult approach roads. "First we didn't find a sign- just a gravel circle next to the road. At the back of the gravel we found a small sign pointing down a narrow road. We drove down it but it's a narrow fit with few turn-outs- picture a classic, small 2-track trail. I would hesitate to take a larger camper here," advises Art S. about Shelley Lake.
Full hookup availability: Several glamping sites offer complete services. "Spacious, friendly staff," notes Sara G. about Brower Park, which provides water and electric hookups at all sites.
