Campers visiting Greenville, Michigan can access numerous camping options within a 30-mile radius of the city. The region features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 800-900 feet and a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area remain open seasonally from May through October, with limited year-round facilities available during Michigan's snowy winters.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Maple River Campground, campers can access riverfront fishing spots directly from their sites. "We were on site 6, and there was plenty of space! We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river. It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too," notes Alexandra M.
Disc golf courses: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers multiple outdoor recreation options beyond just camping. "There is a beach and playground, but it is quite the walk from the campground. Plan to drive or bike ride if you have trouble walking long distances," explains Stephanie C. The park also features disc golf courses, geocaching, and extensive trail networks.
Horseback riding: For equestrian experiences near Ionia State Recreation Area, campers can explore dedicated trails. "Clean, family friendly, beautiful. Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses," suggests Jami M. The recreation area also offers hiking options with "scenic views on trails around the lake. Not too far so the kids can follow along," according to Jo H.
What campers like
Motorless lake environments: For luxury outdoor accommodations near Greenville, Michigan, Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins provides a peaceful setting. "I liked it," confirms Schmidty simply, while Nicole B. elaborates: "Great campground! Cabins, electric and bath houses!"
Beach access: Many campgrounds in the region offer water access points. Brower Park Campground features "a fairly large swimming area. The showers are actually nice and clean! The restrooms were surprisingly clean and modern as well," according to Amanda L. Another visitor noted the "large swimming area, nice sandy beach along the swimming area, playgrounds, everything is clean and well kept."
Quiet environments: For a more secluded glamping experience close to Greenville, Michigan, Newaygo State Park Campground provides a rustic setting with spacious 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," reports Elise R.
What you should know
Electrical limitations: Some campgrounds have outdated electrical systems. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension," warns Nick W.
Extra fees: Budget for additional expenses beyond the base camping rate. At Maple River Campground, "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station," according to Alexandra M. Similarly, many county parks charge entrance fees separate from camping fees.
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping accommodations close to Greenville, Michigan operate from May through October only. School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground runs from "May 1 to Oct 1," while Snow Lake Kampground maintains a similar schedule. Winter camping options are significantly limited in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Craft activities: Brower Park Campground offers scheduled activities for children. "There is a trail head with a gorgeous trail along a smaller stream and an art barn with activities for kids to create each day," notes Bethany S. The campground also provides "hayrides and movies on the weekend," according to Dave B.
Kid-friendly water features: Look for shallow swimming areas when traveling with young children. At Ionia State Recreation Area, "The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan or lakes with lots of boats and waves to deal with. Nice and sandy and a nice store and ice cream shop at the beach," advises Joshua E.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds offer paved or established paths for children to explore safely. "Kids are riding their bikes all over, fishing, playing at playgrounds, the beach, everywhere," explains Amanda L. about the family-friendly environment at Brower Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven camping pads at some locations. At School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground, "My site was a back in with not a lot of maneuvering room but even though some may feel these sites are small, we had plenty of space, very good water, and full hook up. I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy," notes Russell S.
Extension cord requirements: Many electric sites require additional equipment. Sleepy Hollow State Park visitors should "bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas," recommends Nathan V.
Space limitations: Some campgrounds have tight spacing between sites. Jordyn W. cautions that at School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground, "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs."
