159 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds surrounding Gowen, Michigan include several family-friendly options with mixed accommodations for tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Lincoln Pines Resort in Gowen provides cabin accommodations from April to October, while nearby options like Duke Creek Campground in Cedar Springs and Wabasis Lake County Park in Greenville feature more developed facilities. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals as alternatives for those seeking more shelter.
The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closed during winter months. One camper shared, "Nice family campground with owners and staff who are very friendly. Lots of planned activities for kids with weekend barrel train rides and hay rides." Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with several reviews noting good connectivity at various campgrounds. Water access is common at campgrounds in the region, with lakes like Wabasis and Snow Lake offering swimming and boating opportunities to campers.
Developed campgrounds with full hookups represent the majority of camping options near Gowen. Cedar Springs RV Resort, Duke Creek Campground, and Snow Lake Kampground all provide electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities. Families particularly appreciate the recreational amenities, with several campgrounds featuring playgrounds, swimming areas, and organized activities. A review of Cedar Springs RV Resort mentioned it has a "playground and nice sandy swimming area" though noted the "downfall is the proximity to the highway and lack of woodsy camping feeling." For those seeking more rustic experiences, Newaygo State Park Campground offers a less developed alternative with tent and RV sites but fewer amenities. Most campgrounds in the area maintain clean facilities, with multiple reviews specifically praising the cleanliness of restrooms and shower buildings.
"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."
"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."
"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 Availability"Right across the road from Michigan's Adventure amusement park"
"Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day! We should have reserved an entire week!"
"Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
"The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here"
"Only downfall is the proximity to the highway and lack of woodsy camping feeling. Restrooms are always immaculately clean. Close to Cedar Springs downtown."
"Nice fishing pond, the cleanest bathrooms I’ve ever seen at a campground and nice walking path."
"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 $24 / night
Check Availability"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."
"There are trails that lead to the river and also to an area where bald eagles have a nest. Pets are allowed . Nice little playground for the kiddos."
ScoutThese sites are fine. Good for the price and offer a fire ring and picnic tables. They are first come first serve and there’s a pit-style toilet.
There’s a long, winding road with sites along the way and 2 sites at the end next to the water. If you stay up by the road, it’s a bit loud as cars go by.
LegendHad a nice and peaceful 1-night stay while traveling through the area. 8 sites total, some sites with direct lake access, the others in the woods with space in-between. Only one other camper on a Sunday night stay. A dumpster near the entrance. Two clean pit toilets. Mosquitos like crazy right now. Good cell service.
TravelerA hidden gem with a lot of history. A paddle wheel boat on the Grand river?! Nice and secluded yet close to town and easy access to the highway
ScoutWolf Lake Campground & Resort is a family-owned, family-run place where the owners take the time to get to know their guests. The restrooms are recently updated and well maintained. There is a small visitor fee for extra guests, but otherwise it’s a peaceful, quiet spot to relax.
ScoutThis spot is not for your typical RVs. Probably not even your typical car. Mostly seeing trucks and Jeeps. It is possible to park out and then walk in. That being said, it's really pretty and my mini skooly could make it in.
Scout@1000 games: This place is legit stunning– lots of variety in sites, from open wooded areas to spots right by the lake/river with that peaceful vibe. We found a perfect primitive site with a solid fire pit, plenty of space, and total privacy. Felt like we had the whole area to ourselves most of the time. Great for backcountry feel without being too far from civilization. But real talk: the access is no joke. Sand Road lives up to its name– deep sand in places, ruts, and loose stuff that will swallow a regular car. We have AWD with decent clearance and still had to air down tires+ go slow in 4-low a few times. If you don't have 4x4/AWD+ good ground clearance, seriously reconsider or plan to hike in from a safer parking spot. Also, the coordinates dropped us kinda off– led to a blocked/private area first, then we had to backtrack and find the right turnoff off Sand Road/Russell Road. Took extra 20-30 mins driving around. Wildlife is active here too. Heard coyotes howling at night(not super close to us, but definitely around). We kept food secured, fire going, and didn't have issues, but if you're with small kids or tiny pets, maybe think twice– they get bold after dark. Overall, if you're geared for it, this is one of the better free primitive spots around. Worth the hassle for the scenery and solitude. Just come prepared!
GuideBeautiful grounds with wonderful staff and lots of great activities for everyone. Free fishing poles, free bikes, lots of beach toys and floaties so no need to pack them. Want to rent Kayaks and canoes, they have you covered!!!
ScoutKayak/canoe, tubing, horseback riding, golf. They have plenty do do here but they just seem to float along. This is not a camp ground that uplifts there game to make it better and be a rising star. No full hook up site other than seasonal. Campstore is very limited, but good for the kids. Alway enjoy staying here but just think they could be more. They do put on a good fireworks on July 4th
GuideNice concrete pads and patios— FHU. Right on the Grand River. Close to Millennium Park and easy to get downtown. Best bathrooms—- clean, individual, large. Bathrooms cleaned 2x daily.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Gowen campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Gowen offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Eastpointe RV Resort provides exceptional facilities including a camp store, laundry, clean showers and bathrooms, a large pool, hot tub, pickle ball courts, playground, and equipment rentals including bikes and kayaks. Cedar Springs RV Resort features family-friendly amenities such as weekend barrel train rides, hayrides, playgrounds, and a sandy swimming area with immaculately maintained restrooms. Many local campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, while rustic options typically provide basic facilities like pit toilets and water pumps.
Where can I find camping in Gowen, Michigan?
Gowen and the surrounding area offer several excellent camping options. Dutch Treat Camping & Recreation is a family-run campground near Gowen with full hookups and rustic camping options. The sites are spacious and easy to access. For those looking for something nearby, Lincoln Pines Resort in Gowen provides drive-in camping opportunities. Within a short drive, you'll also find options like Cedar Springs RV Resort and Wabasis Lake County Park, making Gowen an excellent base for exploring Michigan's outdoor recreation areas.
When is the best time of year to camp in Gowen?
The prime camping season in Gowen runs from late May through early October. Summer (June-August) offers warm days perfect for swimming and water activities at places like Mud Lake State Forest Campground, where several sites have lake views and water access. For fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, consider early fall (September) when Lake Sch-Nepp-A-Ho Family Campground and other nearby options are still open but less busy. Spring camping (May) can be beautiful but prepare for cooler nights. Most campgrounds in the region close for winter due to Michigan's heavy snow and cold temperatures.
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