Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Haslett, MI

Sleepy Hollow State Park offers pet friendly camping near Haslett, Michigan with clean hiking trails and modern facilities. The 2,678-acre park features a 410-acre lake created by damming the Little Maple River. Primitive to modern campsites accommodate tents, RVs, and cabins with electric hookups available at many sites.

What to Do

Fishing opportunities: Lake Ovid at Sleepy Hollow State Park provides good fishing for largemouth bass and bluegills. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," notes Michael P. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.

Paddle sports: Kayaking on Bruin Lake offers a peaceful water experience for those seeking dog-friendly camping activities. "We did go for a short paddle on Ovid Lake, but again, no shade and HOT," shares Amy D. about her summer experience at Sleepy Hollow.

Hiking with pets: The 35-mile trail system at Pinckney Recreation Area offers extensive pet-friendly hiking options. "The campground is simple. Vault toilet, water pump, and a fire ring, nothing too crazy. It is however very quiet and relaxing due to the fact it is not easily accessible," explains Kate K. about the Blind Lake Rustic Campground.

Basketball and playgrounds: Bishop Lake Campground provides recreational facilities for active campers and their dogs. "Nice lakes for swimming and can take your pet as well! Big playground and nice bathrooms," reports Mary O.

What Campers Like

Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate having space from neighbors when traveling with pets. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," explains Amy D. about her experience at Sleepy Hollow.

Beach access: Bishop Lake Campground offers swimming areas where some pets are permitted. "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," shares Debra B.

Primitive camping options: Cottonwood Campground provides rustic sites with natural features. "Cottonwood Campground is right in the capital of Lansing, Mi but you feel as though you are in the middle of the country. The primitive sites are set off in the back with plenty of shade and peace and quiet," writes Melanie P.

Modern restroom facilities: Clean facilities matter when camping with pets. "Rangers working the area are very friendly. Many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging. Bathrooms are well spaced between the campsites, and have showers along with some vending machines outside of them," notes Nathan V.

What You Should Know

Electrical limitations: Some campgrounds have power challenges. "The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment," reports Amy D. about Sleepy Hollow during hot weather.

Distance to amenities: Walnut Hills Family Campground offers water activities but requires planning. "The sites are not marked well, if at all, so don't come when it's dark. It's hilly and quiet," advises Wendy K.

Extension cord requirements: Plan ahead for electrical needs at Sleepy Hollow. "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," explains Nick W.

Seasonal popularity: Halloween events at Sleepy Hollow require advance planning. "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site," recommends Stephanie C.

Tips for Camping with Families

Splash pads for kids: Taylor's Beach Campground offers water features beyond swimming. "Great beach and swimming area, great splash pad for little kids, awesome playground, bathrooms are nice," shares Jeff O.

Beach and playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer recreational areas for children. "We took a chance coming out here to kick off the summer as a family and couldn't be more please with the staff and the grounds! So much for the family to do!" writes Samantha S. about Taylor's Beach.

Water activities: Some campgrounds offer rentals for water recreation. "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," advises Stephanie C. about Sleepy Hollow.

Off-leash options: While all parks require leashed pets, some offer more space for exercise. "We were only one of two campers there and it was quiet at night. During the day you do hear the hikers and bikers going by on the trail so it isn't completely isolated," notes Mike B. about Blind Lake.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for shade: Lansing Cottonwood Campground offers varying levels of tree cover. "A nice little campground. Great location if staying in the Lansing Area. Has full hook ups, and electric water, also tent sites with nothing," explains Mary T.

Leveling needs: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Our daughters have softball tournaments right at the campground. Beautiful location, great owners, very clean and well kept. Nice Pool and great view. Kayakers and Paddle Boats. Uneven sloped site so come prepared," advises Beth G.

Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary in size and proximity. "Very crowded. Amenities are ok. There is rustic camping, but still very congested. Great fireworks display for the 4th of July," notes James P. about Cottonwood.

Seasonal site availability: For pet-friendly RV camping near Haslett, plan ahead during peak times. "Not a bad place to go camping without having to leave the city. Good for a close and convenient camping trip with friends and/or family," advises Martin W. about Cottonwood Campground.