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."
