Alexis B.
Scout
ScoutLake Interstate State Game Area- Dispersed Camping
Not bad for an overnight spot
No camping spots just a dirt parking lot.
Camping near Stanton, MI
126 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Central Michigan's Stanton area features a variety of camping options within a 30-mile radius, from family-friendly developed campgrounds to more rustic experiences. Lakeview Family Campground, located about 20 miles north of Stanton, offers wooded sites with lake access and traditional amenities. Nearby, Three Seasons Campground in Greenville provides well-maintained facilities for both tent and RV campers from April through September. The region includes several state recreation areas and county parks with waterfront sites, particularly around the numerous small lakes that dot the landscape. Most established campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, while some like Snow Lake Kampground and Scalley Lake Park also offer cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.
Camping permits and reservations are essential during the peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with many campgrounds operating only from May through October due to Michigan's seasonal climate. As one camper noted about Lakeview Family Campground, "It's set in the woods with mature trees on the lake. It feels like it's been here forever, and that's the charm this campground offers." Road access varies considerably, with some state forest campgrounds requiring navigation on narrow, unmarked roads that may challenge larger RVs. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, though occasional heat waves can strain electrical systems at older campgrounds. Insect repellent is necessary, particularly for mosquitoes that emerge in the evenings around lake areas.
Water recreation stands out as the primary attraction at most campgrounds in the Stanton region. Fishing opportunities abound in the numerous lakes and streams, with many sites offering direct water access or boat launches. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere of the wooded sites, though proximity to highways can create noise issues at some locations. Reviewers consistently praise the spacious sites at county and state parks, noting the privacy afforded by mature trees. Families appreciate the planned activities at private campgrounds, with one visitor highlighting "weekend barrel train rides and hay rides" at a nearby resort. The Stanton area campgrounds provide excellent access to outdoor recreation while offering diverse camping experiences for visitors seeking both developed and more natural campsites. Bathroom facilities vary widely, from well-maintained shower buildings at developed campgrounds to basic vault toilets at more rustic locations.
Best Campgrounds near Stanton (126)
2. Nature's Chain of Lakes Campground
3. Three Seasons Campground
"It is close to Greenville, if there are any shopping or dining needs. Fun campground and my family had a good time relaxing and the kids loved the pool. "
from $35 - $38 / night
Check Availability4. Wabasis Lake County Park
"There are a few downsides:
- Because it's so close to Grand Rapids and some other cities, it typically is full on the weekends. Booking a site can be troublesome."
"However, we were able to get a hold of the staff the next day, we were refunded for our first night, and had a great second night at Wabasis Lake staying in the camper cabins."
5. Lakeview Family Campground
"We came to this campground originally because it's close to home. I expectations were not very high but I was pleasantly surprised."
from $36 / night
Check Availability6. Family Campground
from $25 - $29 / night
Check Availability7. Ionia State Recreation Area
"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."
from $20 - $160 / night
Check Availability8. Lincoln Pines Resort
9. Newaygo State Park Campground
"This was such a beautiful location!! And definitely a nice find!"
"I love the campsites at this state park, they're decently big and each site is surrounded by trees. The sites are a little close together but all in all we really enjoyed our stay."
from $20 / night
Check Availability10. Leisure Lake Family Campground
Drive Time
- 51 min from Grand Rapids, MI
- 1 hr from Lansing, MI
- 1 hr 10 min from Midland, MI
- 1 hr 16 min from Saginaw, MI
Recent Camping Photos near Stanton, MI
116 Photos of 126 Stanton Campgrounds
Jessica C.
Lincoln Pines Resort
Nathan M.
Wabasis Lake County Park
David F.
Maple River Campground
David F.
Deerfield Nature Park
Coral C.
Bertha Brock County Park
Russell S.
School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground
Joshua E.
Ionia State Recreation Area
Michael W.
Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground
Amanda L.
Brower Park Campground
michelle A.
Croton Township Campground
Diana
Oxbow Park Big Prairie Township
Recent Reviews near Stanton, MI
370 Reviews of 126 Stanton Campgrounds
- BBrendan G.Scout
Sandy Beach County Park
Over all good/ family friendly.
We have camped here many times over the years and have always enjoyed our visits. The campground has made some great investments and improvements, which are appreciated. However, the overall maintenance has unfortunately declined. It is noticeable in the condition of the shower houses, tree trimming, staining, painting, and other general upkeep. A little more attention to these details would make a big difference, especially in the restroom facilities. This is a great campground for children and families, with plenty to enjoy. One area that could use improvement is consistency in how campground rules are enforced. During our stay, we observed several occasions where some seasonal campers—and even some weekend campers—were allowed to get away with things that others were not. We personally did not have any issues, but it did seem as though certain campers were singled out while others were overlooked, even when there was no obvious reason. Overall, this is still a good place to camp, and we will likely return. With a stronger focus on maintenance and more consistent rule enforcement, it could easily become an excellent campground.
Melissa S.ScoutChinook Camping
Great family Campground!
Great family campground! Lots of activities: sport courts, foam parties, train rides and a heated pool. Nice Playgrounds and the River trip services were a huge highlight of our trip. We had so much fun and the river was beautiful! Our site was spacious and located right across from the arcade. We found the bathrooms to be outdated but they were overall clean. The park itself is very well maintained with freindly staff. Will definitely recommend and return.
Mariana G.ScoutChinook Camping
Word of caution!
We have enjoyed tubing and camping here for many years, which makes this experience even more disappointing. Our group of approximately 75 people arrived for a scheduled tubing trip, checked in, and paid in full. While we were waiting for the shuttle, one member of our group picked up a life jacket from the same area where we as guests have always been able to get them during our previous visits. There were no signs indicating that only staff were permitted to hand out life jackets. Without asking what happened or giving anyone an opportunity to explain, the male owner, Nick, began yelling at members of our group, including me, accusing us of theft. He ordered us off the property and announced that he had called the police. The police never arrived. The female owner, Melissa, appeared slightly embarrassed but perhaps just inconvenienced by the situation and attempted to calm him down, but was unsuccessful. She then processed refunds for our entire group on one of the busiest days of the year, which ultimately hurt their own business as much as it disrupted our plans. What was most upsetting was not the misunderstanding—it was how it was handled. A simple conversation could have resolved everything in seconds. Instead, we were publicly yelled at, falsely accused, and humiliated in front of our families, friends, other customers, and staff. A camper who was not affiliated with our group approached us afterward to say he was shocked and disgusted by what he and his small children had to witness. He felt the treatment was so inappropriate. We are not posting this out of spite. We are posting it because no paying customer deserves to be treated this way, especially loyal customers who have supported this business for years, with receipts to prove it. We sincerely hope the owners, Melissa and Nick, acknowledge what happened, accept responsibility, and issue a genuine apology. Everyone can have a bad day, but business owners should treat customers with respect and professionalism. I am open and ready to have a respectful conversation. Until that happens, I cannot recommend this business. UPDATE: Shout out to Wisner Canoes for not only saving the day but delivering top notch customer service! I paid$57 for my family’s tubes at Wisner compared to$75 at Chinook so we actually ended up saving money. BONUS: You get to actually, physically grab and try on life jackets yourself at Wisner with NO false accusations of theft! Wisner Canoes 25 E Water St, Newaygo, MI 49337 231-652-6743
- RRicky Z.Scout
Lake Interstate State Game Area- Dispersed Camping
Lake Interstate
Wasn’t really anywhere to park when it’s been raining all day so I parked on the side where the trail is but left enough room for whoever wants to go to the lake. My son was tired and cranky so I had to just park and set up the camper for my kids. Just a parking lot with a trial that leads to the lake. You can park anywhere there’s no sign saying you can’t park next to the trail so just thought I’d add that lol but it’s beautiful at night besides the traffic from the highway
Jeremy T.ScoutCalhoun City Campground
Nice campground bit dates
Nice campground pretty quiet very well shaded lots. Some lots would be a bit difficult to get a camper in due to the amount of trees but nice for tent camping. Bathrooms are a bit dated is only downfall. Could use some maintance and upgrades
- TTim Z.
GuideMecosta Pines Campground
Resort like at a budget price.
The only difference between this campground and a resort is the space between sites. The pool is enormous and sparkling, free mini-golf, illegal court and tons of kids activities. Great place and we were 1 of 2 day campers for 20 spots.
Curtis G.ScoutRivergate Family Campground
Amazing
The owner asked if I would like a water front spot cause I needed to be moved for an upcoming event. I’m so happy I took the spot. And all the seasonal campers were great people. Not many amenities but who needs em. This place is quiet and relaxing.
- AAshley C.
TravelerRiver Ridge Campground
🌲 River Ridge Family Campground 🌲
Woohoo! What a campground! I’m currently camping here attempting to stay long term. It’s a bit packed of long term-ers but there are a few openings. As far as the daily hookup sites/regular tent sites are absolutely darling. Plenty of space for whatever you need plus a vehicle! There’s a huge pond in the center of the campground with an inflatable slide that the kids absolutely love. The pond gets fairly deep which makes it perfect for all ages. Including the little beach front it has making it perfect for the lounging parents or the toddlers to play in puddles of water. I brought my own electric scooters to ride around site but the campground is walkable! The store up front has almost everything you’d need in an emergency or an “oops I forgot XYZ” situation. There is a small cafe as well on site which is awesome for a quick bite! Laundry on site has 2 washers and 2 dryers.. which I think is fair! The bathrooms/showers are clean and plentiful. Staff is fairly friendly as well. I do feel the employees need proper training based on the campground itself (like the price of propane or the ability to book sites without management assistance) which are all an easy fix for such an awesome place.
Guide to Stanton
Camping spots near Stanton, Michigan offer access to a network of small lakes and wooded areas within a region characterized by gently rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. The central Michigan landscape transitions between agricultural areas and natural woodlands, with elevation changes between 800-1000 feet above sea level. Water quality in local lakes varies seasonally, with some experiencing periodic algae blooms during late summer heat waves.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: The 18-hole course at Newaygo State Park Campground draws enthusiasts from across the region. As one camper explains, "There's good hiking, an awesome disc golf course, and the lake right there with boat launches for fishing. If you're not into fishing or disc golf, you might be happier elsewhere."
Geocaching expeditions: Several campgrounds in the area maintain geocaching opportunities as family-friendly activities. Wabasis Lake Park has multiple caches hidden throughout its trail system, with one camper noting, "There is a playground in the center which was very handy for our little ones. They could play and we could watch from our site. The area was beautiful."
Themed weekend events: Snow Lake Kampground schedules organized activities around specific themes. A visitor described their experience: "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."
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes support various fish species, with some campgrounds offering direct shoreline access. One visitor to Wabasis Lake mentioned, "Sites on the shoreline are great for fishing (although shallow and weedy) or boating in."
What campers like
Affordable firewood: Many campgrounds sell reasonably priced firewood on site, saving campers the hassle of bringing their own. A camper at Wabasis Lake County Park shared: "The firewood is cheap! 8 large pieces for $6, a wheelbarrow full of tinder for another $6. Bring a hatchet or axe because the wood pieces are huge!"
Well-maintained trails: Hiking paths in the Stanton region range from short nature loops to longer lake circuits. A visitor to Ionia State Recreation Area commented, "There are many things that my family enjoys doing at the Ionia State Rec Area. Some of our favorites are hiking, camping, fishing, and the beach. We try to get here a couple of times each year."
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous site sizes at certain parks. One Newaygo State Park visitor noted, "The thing we love most about this campground is the spacious site and that it is truly rustic with vault toilets and hand pumped water."
Recreational amenities: Three Seasons Campground offers multiple recreation options in a single location. A camper explained, "The campground offers an in ground swimming pool (non-heated), small store, a basic mini-golf course, horseshoe pits, docks, kayak rental, a pavilion, and a small arcade room."
What you should know
Campground busyness: Proximity to larger towns means some parks fill quickly on weekends. A visitor to Wabasis Lake observed, "Because it's so close to Grand Rapids and some other cities, it typically is full on the weekends. Booking a site can be troublesome."
Lake conditions: Many lakes in the area are shallow with weedy bottoms. A camper noted about Wabasis Lake: "The lake is effectively a plate, so don't expect to do much fishing from shore. The water is incredibly shallow."
Rules enforcement: Some campgrounds have numerous regulations that can impact your experience. A Lakeview Family Campground visitor shared: "This campground feels like camping. It's set in the woods with mature trees on the lake. It feels like it's been here forever...and to me, that's the charm this campground offers."
Seasonal population: Many campgrounds host a mix of weekend visitors and seasonal residents. One Three Seasons camper observed: "There is a lot of seasonal people that have trailers there all the time. Everyone was nice including the owners."
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons and other wildlife are common visitors. A camper reported, "Lots and lots of raccoons, that aren't shy at all!"
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront activities: Scalley Lake Park Campground offers water-based recreation without motorboat noise. A visitor commented: "Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature centrally located playgrounds visible from nearby sites. One Wabasis Lake visitor noted, "There is a playground in the center which was very handy for our little ones. They could play and we could watch from our site."
Biking opportunities: Paved roads at some campgrounds make for safe cycling with children. A Newaygo visitor shared: "The drive is paved so we always bring bikes for the kiddos! Another added bonus is the hiking trails."
Weekend activities: Scheduled events provide built-in entertainment for families. A Three Seasons camper explained: "weekend activities for the kids, pool, rent kayaks and paddle boats, new beach, game room with new games, karaoke, hayrides, theme parties or weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. A visitor to Wabasis Lake noted: "The sites were large enough that it could hold a large camper and two vehicles easily. 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)."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October with limited shoulder-season amenities. Ionia Recreation Area is an exception with year-round availability, though winter facilities are limited.
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't universal at all campgrounds. A visitor to Snow Lake Kampground highlighted: "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Stanton, MI?
What camping is available near Stanton, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Stanton, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 126 campgrounds and RV parks near Stanton, MI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Stanton, MI?
Which is the most popular campground near Stanton, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Stanton, MI is Snow Lake Kampground with a 3-star rating from 5 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Stanton, MI?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Stanton, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Stanton, MI.
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