Camping opportunities around Fremont, Michigan center on the Muskegon River watershed, which features a series of interconnected lakes and forests across relatively flat terrain at approximately 800 feet elevation. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August and cold winters with regular snowfall. Most campsites in this area are situated on sandy soils that drain quickly after rainfall.
What to do
River tubing and kayaking: At Mystery Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy direct river access for water activities. "Great rustic sites right along the Muskegon River. Clean bathrooms. Friendly staff. Firewood and ice available on site," notes Carrie in her review. The campground provides floatation devices and transportation for river trips.
Disc golf: Newaygo State Park Campground offers an excellent disc golf course that draws enthusiasts. Ryan L T. 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."
Winter sports: The region offers cold-weather activities at several locations. "Across the road is the Winter complex, sledding, skating, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and luge course. Our kids had a blast here, they have tons of bonfire pits as well," writes Melissa M. about her winter experience at Muskegon State Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the area provide larger-than-average sites. "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," notes Elise R. about Newaygo State Park.
Clean facilities: Campers regularly comment on maintenance standards. "The campground was full on my visit, but that did not affect the atmosphere. It was quiet and sites are large and well spaced out. The staff did a great job keeping things clean and well stocked," reports Holly S. about Lake Michigan Campground.
Lakefront access: Blue Lake offers quieter glamping options near Fremont, Michigan. According to Dakota R., "Very pretty small campground right on blue lake. Lots of wildlife. We stayed at site 1 best views of the whole site. A little tricky to make work bet definitely best site. Beautiful sunset. Clean showers and bathrooms. Clean swimming beach."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities range widely across campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms, camp sites, and friendly staff. Easy access to the Muskegon River and close to downtown Newago," reports Mark K. about Ed H. Henning Park. However, some locations receive less positive reviews about their facilities.
Seasonal operations: Most glamping accommodations near Fremont, Michigan close during colder months. "We camped for memorial weekend 2019. The staff was great. The showers and bathrooms were clean. They could use a little bit more playground equipment but there where enough trails and the river to keep the kids busy," notes Korrie H.
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge beyond the base rate. "Was $85 for a rustic, no electric, tent only site. Granted it WAS labor day weekend so ya know. Holiday rates. But even so. That was the cheapest method. Then there's a parking fee per day on top of your site fee that was also $6/day at the time," warns Aaron Y.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: White River RV Park & Campground provides kid-friendly water features. "Amenities include basketball court, playground, horseshoe pits, walking trails, heated pool, etc. Plus, you can 'float' in tubes, kayaks, or canoes from a launch site two miles away! We loved just hanging out in the local creek with friends!" writes Shelly B.
Activity variety: Campgrounds offering multiple recreation options 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.
Kid-friendly biking: Look for campgrounds with paved roads. "I bring the kids to this park every 4th of July weekend, we absolutely love it. I always reserve my site on the Poplar side, due to it having closer access to the lake to swim. The drive is paved so we always bring bikes for the kiddos!" recommends Destiny K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When glamping near Fremont, Michigan in an RV, choose sites carefully. "Sites are bigger than the other side and more private with more trees. Rez was easy online. Not many campers this weekend," advises Michelle P. about her stay at Newaygo State Park.
Winter camping options: Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park supports cold-weather stays. "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," explains Melissa M. Many other glamping sites close during winter months.
Family reunion planning: Group camping options exist for larger gatherings. "We found this campground online looking for a place to hold our annual family camp out. Staff was very helpful in making reservations and holding sites for our group. Nice large level sites very helpful staff. Very pleasant long weekend," reports Ricky M.
