Camping sites near Gowen, Michigan typically operate from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Located within Kent County's rolling countryside, the area features numerous small lakes and rivers, with elevations ranging between 850-950 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor recreation at nearby campgrounds.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: At Newaygo State Park Campground, campers can enjoy an excellent disc golf course that's become a favorite activity. "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 a visitor who enjoyed the recreational facilities.
Lake activities: Many camping areas provide lake access for swimming and fishing without motorized watercraft restrictions. "There's a large beach with playground equipment, kayak and boat rentals," reports a camper who stayed at Wabasis Lake County Park, noting that water recreation options suit families particularly well.
Hiking trails: Wooded paths offer exercise opportunities throughout the region. "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," shares a regular visitor who appreciates the multiple outdoor activities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some Ionia State Recreation Area sites offer seclusion that many campers prefer. "I did some research ahead of time to find a more private camping spot, and ours did not disappoint. After looking around the campground, there were numerous spots that were very secluded and private," notes a satisfied camper who valued the separation from neighbors.
Weekend activities: Organized events keep younger campers engaged at several campgrounds. At Duke Creek Campground, families appreciate the structured recreation: "The campground was great, and clean. The park was nice and so were all the kid activities! The pool is very nice and the store is stocked nicely."
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews highlight well-maintained restrooms and shower buildings. "The facilities were spotless, there is a store, gated entrance, nice shady lots, friendly staff, everything was perfect, we can't wait to go back!" reports a family who enjoyed their stay at Duke Creek Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: While some campgrounds offer spacious sites, others place units close together. At Snow Lake Kampground, a camper noted: "It's a really fun place for kids with lots going on over the weekend. There's a decent pool, with a TON of rules. Free putt putt. Nice place for them to ride bikes. But, there are also a lot of seasonal campers... it was fun for a weekend, but you're right on top of your neighbors."
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at most facilities, requiring advance planning. Many campgrounds allow online reservations 6 months in advance, with holiday weekends booking within minutes of availability.
Alcohol policies: Rules regarding alcohol consumption differ between facilities. Snow Lake Kampground maintains specific restrictions: "This is a Christian campground so they are very strict on alcohol consumption. On your site only, but not allowed anywhere else in the park."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Mecosta Pines Campground offers multiple ways for children to enjoy water activities. "The pool is a wonderful perk, and so is the river running through that has a nice Sandy and shallow bottom to set a chair in and relax!" shares a camper who appreciated the water access options.
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas if traveling with small children. "We initially booked a site by the river, but once we saw the sites next to the playground, we knew we had to switch for our sanity and so our toddler could play. They were very accommodating with us and so friendly," explains a parent who visited Mecosta Pines.
Wildlife viewing: Some campgrounds offer nature observation opportunities beyond typical recreation. Mecosta Pines features "trails that lead to the river and also to an area where bald eagles have a nest," providing educational opportunities for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near major roads, affecting site selection preferences. At Cedar Springs RV Resort, a visitor noted: "Overall this place was nice. Nice fishing pond, the cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground and nice walking path... The highway's a little closer then it looks, so you do get a lot of road noise. Especially when trucks hit the chatter bumps on the side."
Hookup availability: Most RV sites in the Gowen area offer water and electric connections, with many providing full hookups. Cedar Springs RV Resort maintains facilities that earned this review: "Restrooms are always immaculately clean. Close to Cedar Springs downtown. Plenty of dining option and great proximity to F. Meijer bike path."
Seasonal considerations: Many local RV parks offer seasonal sites for longer stays. These arrangements typically require contracts from April through October, with rates significantly lower than paying weekly through the season.
