Camping opportunities near Comstock Park, Michigan extend beyond traditional state parks, with year-round options available at facilities throughout Kent County and surrounding areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level with numerous inland lakes complementing Lake Michigan destinations. Winter camping is available at select locations like Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, where temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Horseback riding experiences: At Duke Creek Campground, campers can enjoy on-site horseback riding trails. "The best part about it was the on site horseback rides!" notes cheyanne P., who appreciated this unique activity option not commonly found at other area campgrounds.
River cruising: Steamboat Park Campground offers river cruises directly from the office. "They have river cruises that leave directly from the office. These two hours cruises offer drinks and feature live music from local bands for only $16 per person," shares Kara W., providing an affordable activity option without leaving the campground.
Disc golf: Several campgrounds advertise disc golf, though reviews indicate varying quality. One reviewer at Wabasis Lake noted, "They advertise disc golf but there are only 2 baskets on the playground within a few feet of each other. Not an actual disc golf course."
What campers like
Heated pools: Woodchip Campground maintains a clean, heated pool that receives consistent positive reviews. "The bathrooms are clean, the pool is great, and they always have fun activities for the kids!" notes Andrea B., highlighting the well-maintained swimming facilities.
Private fishing areas: Scalley Lake Park Campground provides access to a motor-free lake. "Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" explains Nolyn S., emphasizing the tranquil fishing conditions.
River views: Multiple reviews praise the riverside sites at Steamboat Park Campground. "Beautiful to drink your morning coffee by the water!" shares Allison H., noting the appeal of waterfront sites despite the river's brownish water that may not be suitable for swimming.
What you should know
Weekend availability challenges: Most campgrounds near Comstock Park fill quickly on weekends. "This is a tough park to get into in the warm months. The back up to get in is crazy," reports Cynthia K. about Holland State Park, noting traffic can back up a mile during peak periods.
Alcohol policies vary: Unlike many Michigan state parks that prohibit alcohol, most private campgrounds permit it. "Big thing to remember for Michigan state parks is no alcohol even in the campground," notes Ray R. about Hoffmaster State Park, highlighting a rule that applies to both public areas and inside RVs.
Early arrival fees: Some campgrounds charge for early check-in. "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee," warns Dan K. about Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, adding that those who don't pay must wait in overflow parking.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly sites: Wabasis Lake County Park offers cabin accommodations with specialized layouts for families. "Each cabin had a living room, two bedrooms, kitchen work counter, dining table, microwave, and a small fridge. One of the rooms contains a queen size bed, and the other bedroom contains two sets of bunk beds," describes ERolf P., detailing the practical family layout.
Playground accessibility: Woodchip Campground arranges sites strategically around their playground. "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play," explains Andrea B., noting the convenient supervision setup.
Special weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer structured weekend events. "We came here for a fall camping weekend. Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride," shares Cassondra P. about special seasonal activities at Woodchip Campground.
Tips from RVers
Cell service considerations: Working remotely requires careful site selection. "Only downside is I don't have great service from my particular spot which is nestled in the very back of the campground. I work full time so this is a little frustrating, but you can get better service near the front of the park," advises Kara W., suggesting RVers who need connectivity request specific locations at Steamboat Park Campground.
Full hookup availability: Grand Haven State Park Campground offers paved sites without individual fire pits. "Sites are not very large but the trade off is so worth it," explains Sallie M., highlighting the compromise between space and location at this popular waterfront destination.
Campsite leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at certain campgrounds. "Some of the sites are a little uneven (the camper needed wood blocks underneath it so that the wheels weren't off the ground after leveling," reports Bill R. about Wabasis Lake County Park, suggesting visitors bring leveling blocks.
