Glamping options close to DeWitt, Michigan provide convenient access to outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius. The area features a mix of state recreation areas and private campgrounds surrounding several lakes and rivers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with summer highs reaching the mid-80s, making spring through fall the primary camping season in this region of central Michigan.
What to do
Kayaking accessible waters: Maple River Campground offers direct water 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. The amount of nature was overwhelming. Lots of turtles and ducks to be seen," notes David F.
Hiking through varied terrain: Pinckney Recreation Area features multiple trail systems. "We took advantage of one of the hike in only areas along the waterloo trail. Trails were not very clearly marked and part of the hike was on the road. No facilities at the site," shares Heidi S., highlighting the more remote camping experiences available.
Disc golf courses: Ionia State Recreation Area maintains a disc golf course alongside other activities. "Ionia has so many great outdoor activities for almost anyone. There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing," explains James P.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and rivers provide fishing spots within 30 minutes of DeWitt. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," shares Michael P. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Green Lake Rustic Campground offers spacious sites. "The sites are generously sized, with room to stretch out. There isn't much privacy between sites, with a few exceptions, but this campsite is so quiet and well-behaved that it didn't end up mattering much," reports Alaine S.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "The campground had a lot of motorhomes, families, and larger groups around us but it was still very quiet and peaceful. The rangers were really nice and you could buy ice and firewood at the campground," explains Jenna M. from Ionia Recreation Area.
Lake swimming access: Bishop Lake Campground offers beach swimming. "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," shares Debra B. about the water recreation options.
Hike-in rustic camping: For those seeking glamping alternatives close to DeWitt, Michigan with more seclusion, Blind Lake campground provides a different experience. "Blind Lake rustic campground has a total of 10 sites, all very close to the water. There is a vault toilet and a trash bin. There is a hand pump well in the campground for clean drinking water," describes Mike B.
What you should know
Varying site privacy: Site selection matters at many campgrounds. "The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight. There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites," notes Joshua E. about Ionia Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Many sites fill quickly during peak season. "While you technically don't need a reservation, we made our reservations through the DNR website about a month in advance. The campsite was listed as 'full' when we arrived, so I was glad we took the extra step," advises Alaine S. about Green Lake.
Seasonal amenities: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern operates with seasonal limitations. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. I wanted to visit Potter Park Zoo so we choose to stay at Sleepy Hollow for a few days. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," reports Amy D.
Campground sizes vary: Some campgrounds are more developed than others. "It's a larger state park with full size sites for RVs. There is electric on each site along with fire rings and picnic tables. Some good spots have some shade to stay out of the sun. The beach is pretty good for swimming," explains Mike B. about Bishop Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Theme weekends for kids: Snow Lake Kampground offers organized activities. "Every weekend they have a theme. We stayed when they had the country western weekend. They had all kinds of stuff going on for kids. Pony rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, games and activities," shares Clint.
Kid-friendly biking: Several parks have designated biking trails. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" reports Maria G. about Pinckney Recreation Area, where children can safely ride.
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds maintain play areas. "Nice campground if you like busy. They have a public pool that was not the cleanest. Lots to do," notes Jami M. about Snow Lake Kampground's family-oriented amenities.
Water features: Many campgrounds include swimming areas. "It's. Connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons. You can also just swim at the lake- nice area with shade trees beach and nice lake water," explains Beth G. about Jump Island at Bishop Lake.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground requires planning for power hookups. "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," advises Nathan V.
Site access considerations: Some sites have challenges for larger rigs. "We were on site 6, and there was plenty of space! We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river. It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too," notes Alexandra M. about Maple River Campground's layout.
Electrical capacity limits: During summer heat, power demands increase. "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. The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment," cautions Amy D.
Full-hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete services. "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric. Has a pool, hot tub, mini golf, shuffleboard, and so much more!" explains Gabrielle S. about Snow Lake Kampground's amenities.
