Camping sites near Fremont, Michigan feature diverse options ranging from rustic state park grounds to family resorts, all situated within the Muskegon River watershed. The area sits at approximately 825 feet elevation with average summer temperatures between 65-85°F, creating ideal camping conditions from late spring through early fall. Winter camping options remain limited, with only select locations maintaining year-round accessibility.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Newaygo State Park offers an impressive disc golf course that attracts enthusiasts. "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," notes Ryan L.T. from a Newaygo State Park Campground review.
River tubing experiences: The Muskegon River provides excellent tubing opportunities with multiple access points. At Chinook Camping, "This is a great campground for tubing down the river. They rent the tubes right at the campground, take you up river, and then you get out of the river back at the campground," explains Clint in his review.
Lakeside recreation: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access with swimming and fishing opportunities. "The lake was extremely clean and the beach was fantastic. Clear water, clean sand and a floating jumping trampoline for the kids. We were given passes for a free boat pass... They had kayaks, row boats, paddle boats," shares Marc W. about his experience at Lake Sch-Nepp-A-Ho.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at certain campgrounds. At Newaygo State Park Campground, "Very wooded and spread out among the campsites! Close to the water, and there's a trail along the perimeter of the campground with amazing views. Great stargazing as well," writes Elise R.
On-site dining options: Some campgrounds offer food delivery directly to campsites. "They have an on-site restaurant that delivers food & wood to your site," notes Melissa F. about Chinook Camping, adding convenience for campers who don't want to cook every meal.
Swimming amenities: Pools and beaches rank highly among camper preferences. At Lake Sch-Nepp-A-Ho Family Campground, "They had a really nice swimming area with a folding platform for the kids to jump off from," according to Clint, who also mentions the quality fishing available at the lake.
What you should know
Rustic camping challenges: Some campgrounds offer truly primitive experiences. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, "If you do not have AWD and good ground clearance, don't even try to get there," warns Logan P., highlighting the accessibility challenges of more remote locations.
Shower facilities vary widely: Bathroom and shower quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "They were clean, let me put that out there, what they lacked was hot water in the showers or sinks. Added to that they have very old school 5-second pop back up knobs to engage the water," reports Doreen B. about Little Switzerland Resort.
Wildlife awareness needed: Camping in more remote areas requires wildlife precautions. "Please be aware, when camping here you may be in coyote territory, and they don't seem to like it. So, maybe not a great spot for kids, or smaller pets," cautions Joseph C. about Sand Road Primitive Camping after encountering coyotes during his stay.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid zones: Campgrounds with specific child-friendly features provide better family experiences. "The playground area is so nice & everything is very well kept," notes Melissa F. about Chinook Camping, which also offers an arcade and multiple recreational activities.
Consider accessibility to water: Water features provide built-in entertainment for children. At Hoffmaster State Park Campground, "The walk down & back to the beach is pretty strenuous if you are not used to the dunes & a hill. If you are elderly or not in shape you might go to the beach at an easier access point," advises Whitney A.
Multi-day activity options: Parks with diverse recreational choices keep children engaged. "My husband and I have been going to Newaygo State Park for over 20 years... Our kids also love this campground. They get to explore by themselves and there is plenty for them to do and keep busy. There is a playground, hiking trails, swimming area, geocaching, fishing, kayaking," shares Sarah K.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have layout issues for larger rigs. "They have very narrow roads that were very difficult to maneuver a large trailer. Lots were smaller and hard to back into," warns Clint about Muskegon State Park Campground, something to consider when booking with larger vehicles.
Winter camping considerations: Year-round RV campers should check seasonal facilities. "Campground was nice in the winter our spot was plowed out and had a reserved cone at it, the bathrooms are closed and water is off but the outhouse is open," notes Melissa M. about winter conditions at Lake Michigan Campground.
Hookup availability: Many campsites offer electric but not full hookups. "Sites were level and shaded by mature trees. Road is a bit narrow which made backing out travel trailer in a bit tricky, not impossible," reports Kyle K., providing practical insight for RV campers planning their visit to the Lakeshore campground.
