Located within Barry County in southwestern Michigan, Dowling sits amid a region characterized by inland lakes and deciduous forests at approximately 880 feet elevation. The area receives significant seasonal variation, with warm summer temperatures reaching highs in the mid-80s and winter lows dropping into the teens. Campgrounds around Dowling offer varied terrain with both heavily wooded sites and open field camping options connected by local trail systems.
What to do
Fishing access: Deep Lake Rustic Campground provides a fishing dock that's a short walk from most campsites. "The long fishing dock is nice so you can speard out, and easy walking trails as well," mentions one camper at Deep Lake Rustic Campground. Another visitor notes, "The park itself has lots of hiking trails, boating. Water & vault toilets, some sites wooded, ok size."
Water sports: Michawana Campground offers free boat and kayak rentals when lifeguards are on duty. A visitor shares: "The lake nearby is clean and they have a swimming spot for kids and adults. Boats and kayaks are free to use if the lifeguard is on duty. There is also fishing rods to use for free," according to a review of Michawana Campground.
Biking trails: The area connects to regional trail networks. "Yankee Springs and Gun Lake with the huge beach, plus you are basically right on the NCT and have access to miles of hiking and biking trails," explains a camper about the recreation opportunities near Deep Lake Rustic Campground. Another visitor recommends the area "would be perfect if you're into mountain biking as has great trails."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Tyler Creek campground offers more room than typical rv campgrounds near Dowling, Michigan. A visitor mentions, "Our site was nice with electric and water hookups. My personal wifi off of my phone connected well. Very quiet. Some small places to explore for some quick walks," according to one camper's experience at Tyler Creek.
Kid-friendly activities: Michawana Campground provides numerous recreational options for children. "This campsite is perfect for children! They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall," explains one enthusiastic visitor.
Privacy options: Some campers prefer the more secluded camping near Dowling. "If you want seclusion away from the parking lot atmosphere down the road at Yankee Springs this is your place. There is much more space at each campsite and lots of old growth trees," notes a reviewer of Deep Lake Rustic Campground. The sites overlooking the lake are particularly sought after.
What you should know
Facility conditions vary: Restroom facilities differ widely between rv campgrounds in the Dowling, Michigan area. At Woodchip Campground, "The bathrooms are clean, the pool is great, and they always have fun activities for the kids!" However, another campground received this observation: "The bathrooms and showers are HORRID. At least the men's bathrooms are, smells so strongly of urine and they do not clean it regularly."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Woodchip Campground "heats pool till end of October" and "does trick or treating" in the fall, showing extended seasonal operations compared to some others. Conversely, Tyler Creek operates from "Apr 15 - Oct 15" according to their season information.
Reservation policies: Campgrounds have varying cancellation policies. One camper warned about rigid policies: "The other parks I was scheduled for understood and gave 100% of my money back. This park is about the black-and-white contract with zero human touch or empathy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Woodchip Campground layouts accommodate families with children. "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play," explains a reviewer at Camp Turkeyville RV Resort. "Very laid back. Family oriented. Plenty of things for the kids to do," confirms another visitor.
Summer activities: Scheduled events enhance family camping experiences. "This is a nice private campground with a lot of activities for kids and families. There is a pool, bounce pillow and basketball court," notes one Woodchip Campground visitor. Another mentioned, "Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride."
Budget considerations: Some activities carry extra fees. "There is a pool, splash pad, arcade, bounce pad, playground, outdoor sports area, hayrides, crafts, store, pond for fishing, golf cart rental," lists one camper about their experience. Golf cart rentals are popular, with one campground offering "Weekend golf cart rentals for 90 bucks which is a steal!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Tyler Creek has been making improvements to address terrain issues. A reviewer noted, "Lots of lot improvement so it's not so bumpy and off level. Neighbors had a problem with there electric box the owner was there in 5 minutes to fix it."
Electrical service: Hidden Ridge RV Resort offers higher amperage options than many area campgrounds. "We had a great time camping at Hidden Ridge. Amenities were great, everything well kept and clean. This park is very big," shares one camper. Another observed, "Seems to have a lot of seasonal campers there but still spots for the vacationers too."
Site spacing: RV parks in the area have different site arrangements. "Spacing was generous between locations. We had a drive-in(forward) location(#10) overlooking the small lake," mentions one visitor to Hidden Ridge RV Resort. However, at other locations: "Spots are tight. Great trees surrounding the property," indicating the importance of researching specific site dimensions before booking.
