Sleepy Hollow State Park offers standard camping facilities with electric hookups for RVs and tent sites across its 7,835-acre property. Most campsites require a 100-foot extension cord to reach electrical outlets, which can be borrowed from the office when supplies last. Located near Laingsburg, the park surrounds Lake Ovid and features multiple camping loops with varying levels of shade and privacy. Water access requires walking or driving from the main camping areas.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Pinckney Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks with options ranging from short day hikes to overnight adventures. "Best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital," notes Jacob B., adding that visitors can enjoy "fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, geocaching available."
Mountain biking: The Pinckney Recreation Area trail system attracts cyclists looking for technical terrain. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" shared Maria G. The trails accommodate various skill levels, with some sections challenging even experienced riders.
Kayaking and canoeing: Maple River Campground provides direct river access for paddlers. "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," reports David F., who appreciated the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers value secluded sites available at Holly State Recreation Area. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," notes David S. Another camper, Ashley F., adds: "I love this place and so do my 3 dogs. We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous - tucked into the woods and was easy to back into."
Swimming options: Warm weather camping means water activities for many visitors. "The beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," Ethan R. mentions about Holly State Recreation Area. For families with younger children, alternatives to Lake Ovid exist nearby. At Camp Dearborn, "they have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line," according to Teresa B.
Seasonal events: Fall camping brings special attractions to area campgrounds. According to Stephanie C., "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." Several regional campgrounds host similar themed weekends requiring advance planning.
What you should know
Electrical access issues: Multiple campgrounds in the region have electrical limitations. Nick W. cautions 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."
Water access distances: While nearby lakes are a selling point, reaching them often requires additional travel. "The path led to another path that led to a parking lot for the beach. After crossing the parking lot we still had to cross a large yard/park that finally opened onto the beach on this small lake," explains one visitor about the walk from campground to swimming areas.
Reservation requirements: Bishop Lake Campground requires advance planning, especially during summer months. "It was our first time camping dry but super easy to learn. Nice place pretty full. Nice bathrooms. Great Lake," shares Beth G. Most area campgrounds fill quickly during peak season weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity campgrounds: Groveland Oaks County Park specializes in family amenities. "Great campground with lots of trails and activities. We would think that different times of year provide different experiences," notes Carol W. Another visitor elaborates: "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing."
Alternative glamping options: For families wanting upscale camping near Ovid, Michigan without traditional tent setups, platform tents provide a middle ground. At Camp Dearborn, "Options for camping range from tent sites to luxury cabins. We usually get a platform tent, which sleeps six people and comes with a kitchen cabana," explains Teresa B.
Budget-friendly entertainment: Multiple area parks offer free or low-cost activities. "The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach," advises Nathan V. about Sleepy Hollow. Playgrounds, hiking trails, and beach areas typically don't require additional fees beyond park entrance costs.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: RVers recommend driving through campgrounds before selecting sites when possible. "We had called ahead but the site they had reserved for us would not have worked. Luckily, the people in our site had not left yet and we found a very good site for our stay," explains Carol W. about her experience with a 42-foot motorhome at Groveland Oaks.
Hookup considerations: Ionia Recreation Area requires planning for limited utilities. Joshua E. notes: "The campground itself is very nice, but you may find the activities are a short drive away from your site to get there. The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight."
Temperature planning: Summer camping requires preparation for heat. Amy D. shares about Sleepy Hollow: "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."
