Best Campgrounds near Dimondale, MI

Campgrounds near Dimondale, Michigan range from established facilities to rustic sites, with several options within a 30-minute drive. The Lansing Cottonwood Campground offers both tent and RV camping with full hookups, while Eaton County Fairgrounds provides seasonal camping from May through October. Lake Interstate State Game Area offers limited dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. Most campgrounds in the region are concentrated around the recreational areas that surround the small community, including state parks and county-managed facilities.

Access to camping areas varies significantly by season, with many campgrounds operating only from May through October. The Eaton County Fairgrounds campground typically closes after October 1st, while Lansing Cottonwood operates from May 1st to October 29th. Several campgrounds in the region offer year-round access, including Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground and Wheel Inn Campground. Permits are required for camping at Lake Interstate State Game Area, and reservations are recommended for most established campgrounds, especially during summer weekends. A visitor noted that "Sleepy Hollow State Park is easily accessible and close to Lansing with shopping centers nearby," making it convenient for campers needing supplies.

Campers consistently mention the water features as highlights of the region's camping experience. Sleepy Hollow State Park receives positive reviews for its lake access, though some visitors note limitations. One camper wrote, "Very large lake offers many species of fish for catching. There are fishing docks, but one is not very accessible to non-ambulatory persons." Most established campgrounds provide amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water, while rustic sites offer more seclusion but fewer facilities. The region's campgrounds vary in noise levels, with some reviewers noting that certain parks strictly enforce quiet hours. Proximity to trails is another common highlight, with several campgrounds offering connections to hiking and biking paths throughout the recreation areas.

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Best Camping Sites Near Dimondale, Michigan (117)

    1. Lansing Cottonwood Campground

    11 Reviews
    Holt, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 393-3200

    $38 - $48 / night

    "There are a lot of wildlife noises, owls, frogs, crickets, etc. and you can hear some of the highway traffic but the nature sounds kind of drown it out."

    "Beautiful location, great owners, very clean and well kept. Nice Pool and great view. Kayakers and Paddle Boats. Uneven sloped site so come prepared. We love it!"

    2. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Ovid, MI
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 447-2757

    $25 - $101 / night

    "Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name!"

    "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."

    3. Eaton County Fairgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Charlotte, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 543-4510

    "Confidently located a mile outside of Charlotte, with all the conviences of restraunts, walmart, Meijer etc."

    5. Fort Custer Recreation Area

    43 Reviews
    Augusta, MI
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 731-4200

    "Fort Custer is a hidden gem in Michigan. Nobody thinks to go camping near Battle Creek, but they really should reconsider!"

    "Another great camping experience, site 210 has an amazing trail that leads directly to the showers at one end and at the other path went directly to running water, plus only a couple of yards from a great"

    6. Wheel Inn Campground

    1 Review
    Pleasant Lake, MI
    20 miles
    +1 (517) 589-8097

    7. Moon Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Haslett, MI
    20 miles
    +1 (517) 675-7212

    8. Travel Trailer Club of The Midwest

    3 Reviews
    Bellevue, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 338-6124

    $12 - $30 / night

    "Close to small towns that have cars shows, parades, yardsales, and roadside vegetable stands. Rustic but full of nature. Monthly events at the park. Fun for all. Come visit us"

    "This is a secluded campground near Bellevue. Not a lot of trees or space between campsites. There is electric and water hookup available."

    9. Ionia State Recreation Area — Ionia Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Ionia, MI
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (616) 527-3750

    $24 / night

    "There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing.   "

    "First let me say the rustic area is walk-in only. I was unaware of this until we arrived."

    10. Rockeys Campground

    1 Review
    Albion, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 857-2200

    "Rockey’s is on a chain of 5 lakes and has some of the best fishing! Rob and Vicki do so much for the kid campers too! We go every year for Memorial Day and they remember us every time."

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Recent Reviews near Dimondale, MI

491 Reviews of 117 Dimondale Campgrounds


  • Chris R.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Tyler Creek

    Absolutely garbage

    Had a reservation for 6 months and the day we were to arrive, we were told we could not have the site we prepared for because someone else wanted to stay longer.  Management has the right to alter your reservation without your consent or the courtesy of a phone call.  When questioned, the owner treated us like garbage and was rude as hell.  Would never recommend this place to anyone, stay away!!!

  • Bob B.
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    A return to my childhood

    I camped here countless times throughout my childhood. It was nice returning. I brought back great memories and it struck a balance of staying up with the times but still leaving most to nature.

    Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long.

    Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT.

    Don’t miss out on the great finishing and hiking. A great plus is still seeing kids rise actual bikes!

  • H
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    Beautiful Woodsy Campground

    We’ve stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet! We love it here already with only being here twice!

  • Shelly The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    Had a good time, a little crowded

    We stayed for the weekend tent camping, getting to the site was a little crowded (alot of kids on bikes) our site was pavement but had some space to set the tent on the grass. I seen alot of sites with trees for shade. The vista walkway was across from us, it led right to the beach concessions. The beach walkway is handicap accessible. The fishing pier is new, has two benches and tables for your stuff. It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach. The park workers walk around and tell you about the activities they have that day. We enjoyed our stay there is alot to do

  • linda F.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Snow Lake Kampground

    There are to many rules to keep up with.

    This campground used to be great. I don't know what happened I believe they have so many seasonal that they have become the bread and butter. Don't seem to care bout weekender. Every time you turn around there's another rule and/ or fee. It has gotten to the point we no longer enjoy the place. We will never come back! I understand having rules but this is ridiculous. They advertise all these amenities but ya got to pay for it all as well as the site rental. They have gone downhill in customer service. The office staff is very rude as well as the campground seasonal that patrol and watch your every move.

  • AmcPhotography
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Chesaning Showboat Camping

    Camping

    it's a alright campground,quit,few things it could use,like another playground ,water hookups,and WiFi other than that it's good.

  • Toni B.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Green Lake Rustic Campground — Waterloo Recreation Area

    Booking was horrible

    So when I booked this camp site, I was originally looking at the Rustic camping on the app The Dyrt. The app brought me to the state park site, campsites looked beautiful and absolutely gorgeous for the rustic, it’s showed a picture of the bath house etc. Booked the site for the weekend because I’m catching up with a friend after awhile. Upon arrival, it leads us to this absolutely packed campground with sites directly ontop of each other, kids in the road the entire way through, parents not paying attention, absolute nightmare. It was in fact, it was the RV park. Not what I booked. We ended up talking to the office attendant, and booked at Green Lake Campground for the weekend, having to switch between 2 campsites over the weekend due to bookings. Overall just a very frustrating thing to deal with trying to get away for the weekend. Not the attendants fault, partially my fault, but also the state website as it is VERY unclear of the difference in camp grounds. Recommend the Rustic, stay away from the RV campsite that looked like an absolute hell scape if I’ve ever seen on.


Guide to Dimondale

Camping near Dimondale, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to wooded trails, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at what you can do, what campers love, and some handy tips for your next adventure.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Fort Custer Recreation Area. Campers enjoy easy access to mountain bike trails. One reviewer mentioned, “We took full advantage of the mountain bike trails which are very easily accessed from the campground.”

  • Fishing and Swimming: Head to Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground for a day by the water. A visitor shared, “The lake was very warm and the swimming area had a nice depth gradient to satisfy good and not-so-good swimmers.”

  • Disc Golf: If you’re into disc golf, check out Proud Lake Recreation Area. One camper noted, “Had a great time. Clean campground, and activities to do.”

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Fort Custer Recreation Area. One camper warned, “It was EXTREMELY buggy. If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit.”
  • Limited Showers: Some campgrounds, like Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, have limited shower facilities. A visitor noted, “I found myself waiting in a line every time I wanted a shower.”
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect larger crowds on weekends at popular spots like Bishop Lake Campground. One camper mentioned, “Our neighbors across from us had 30 kids using one fire pit.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Haas Lake Park RV Campground. A reviewer said, “Great space and wonderful people. Price was competitive and the park was very clean.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out family-friendly activities at places like Groveland Oaks County Park. One family shared, “We go every year, 6 families in total... lots for kids to do.”
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the bug situation, it’s wise to bring bug spray. A camper at Fort Custer Recreation Area emphasized, “If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites can be sloped, so check the terrain before booking. A camper at Holly Recreation Area mentioned, “I wouldn't pick site 93 however as the pavement is sloped.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campers at Haas Lake Park RV Campground recommend bringing extra supplies, as some sites may not have water or sewer hookups. One visitor noted, “There are golf carts for rent, for 50/60 dollars per day.”
  • Stay Connected: If you need internet, check your service provider. A camper at Bruin Lake Campground said, “With T-Mobile, Internet service was practically non-existent.”

Camping near Dimondale, Michigan, has its perks and quirks. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat, there’s a campground that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dimondale, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dimondale, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 117 campgrounds and RV parks near Dimondale, MI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Dimondale, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dimondale, MI is Lansing Cottonwood Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dimondale, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Dimondale, MI.