Best Campgrounds near Hastings, MI

Campgrounds near Hastings, Michigan feature a mix of developed facilities and rustic experiences within the region's recreational areas. Popular options include Yankee Springs Recreation Area with multiple campgrounds like Deep Lake Rustic Campground and Gun Lake Campground, along with the nearby Fort Custer Recreation Area which offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. Welcome Woods Family Campground in Hastings provides tent and RV camping with electrical hookups, while Whispering Waters Campground offers boat-in access and waterfront sites. Camp Michawana and Camp Thornapple provide additional options with varying amenities and access to local lakes.

Camping in the Hastings area is primarily seasonal, with most campgrounds operating from April or May through October. Full hookup sites require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends. A camper noted, "Deep Lake Rustic Campground has a great location and lots of mountain bike and hiking trails. Firewood is not available on site but is at a local convenience store." Water access is a significant feature at many campgrounds, with boat launches available at several locations including Deep Lake. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, making most campgrounds accessible for standard vehicles without high-clearance requirements. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though coverage may vary at more remote sites.

Waterfront camping represents a major draw for visitors to the Hastings area. Gun Lake Campground in Yankee Springs Recreation Area provides direct lake access, while several other campgrounds are situated on smaller lakes and ponds. One visitor mentioned that "boat launch is available at Deep Lake just down the path in the campground." Family-friendly amenities are common, with many campgrounds offering playgrounds, swimming areas, and organized activities. Shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with some like Sharp Park offering modern facilities while others maintain more rustic accommodations. The proximity to hiking and biking trails, particularly at Yankee Springs, enhances the outdoor experience, allowing campers to explore the natural features of Barry County beyond their campsites.

Best Camping Sites Near Hastings, Michigan (115)

    1. Deep Lake Rustic Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED IN 2024

    25 Reviews
    Cloverdale, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 795-9081

    "First time in central Michigan and it was absolutely beautiful. The campground has a great location and lots of mountain bike and hiking trails."

    "This is a campground in Yankee Spring Recreational Area in Mid-Michigan. This is a nice rustic campground near the NCT(North Country Trail)."

    2. Sharp Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Middleville, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 795-3856

    $34 - $115 / night

    "Stayed at 113 on the small lake. Narrow spot but behind is a fire pit and small dock to drop in a canoe/kayak. Bathrooms and shower was spotless."

    "property, recently renovated. ( one still finishing renovations as of 4/16/22)

    Beach area for swimming

    Two playgrounds

    Field for play, basketball net, volleyball court, and state park trailers near by"

    3. Fort Custer Recreation Area

    44 Reviews
    Augusta, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 731-4200

    "Fort Custer is a hidden gem in Michigan. Nobody thinks to go camping near Battle Creek, but they really should reconsider!"

    "Another great camping experience, site 210 has an amazing trail that leads directly to the showers at one end and at the other path went directly to running water, plus only a couple of yards from a great"

    4. Gun Lake Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Middleville, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 795-9081

    "This is also a short drive away from tons of beautiful walking paths."

    "You can walk the trail to the state park beach and store. Bathrooms are clean."

    5. Welcome Woods Family Campground

    6 Reviews
    Hastings, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 945-2803

    $35 - $45 / night

    "Close to home but feels “up north”. They offer both rustic and water and electric sites. This is a family campground and my kids loved the playground!"

    "Campsites are right next to each other."

    6. Michawana Campground

    6 Reviews
    Cloverdale, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 623-3035

    $32 - $80 / night

    "We put our tent up on the hill tucked back up in the woods. Shade from the start!"

    "The lake nearby is clean and they have a swimming spot for kids and adults. Boats and kayaks are free to use if the lifeguard is on duty. There is also fishing rods to use for free."

    7. Tyler Creek

    8 Reviews
    Freeport, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (616) 868-6751

    $28 - $50 / night

    "Recently, I inherited a pop up camper and chose this place to be my first location to try it out. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Our site was nice with electric and water hookups."

    8. Barry's Resort & Mobile Home Park

    7 Reviews
    Hastings, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 945-4762

    $1600 / night

    9. Whispering Waters Campground

    2 Reviews
    Hastings, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 945-5166

    10. Camp Thornapple

    3 Reviews
    Hastings, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 852-9645

    "It has mostly seasonal campers and is right on the lake with boat docks."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 115 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Hastings, MI

473 Reviews of 115 Hastings Campgrounds


  • v
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Markin Glen County Park

    Clean and near bike trails

    Great park. Well maintained. Very clean. Lots of bike trails, a beach area. Helpful staff!

  • Joel K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    MTB camp and bike (again)

    We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer.  We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite. 

    We loved our site (so don't book this one) as it's close to the trails for riding.  The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites.

    All in all this was a great trip, and we even visited Belle's brewery on our way home.

  • James V.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Steamboat Park Campground

    Wonderful, well thought through campground.

    I have had a very enjoyable stay. The river location is quite nice and the grounds are very well cared for. The site(and all sites, as far as I can see) are quite level. The bathrooms are not just clean and well maintained, but the shower rooms also have a dedicated sink and toilet, which I much appreciate. The washer and dryers in the bathhouse are brand new and take credit cards. While it is near a regional airport, there is close to no air traffic and no commercial traffic I noticed. Overall, probably one of the top 5 campgrounds I have encountered, if the list was for being up to date, well thought out and well provisioned. Everything was top notch.

  • Linda C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Brookside City Park

    More expensive now

    Tents sites are now $20 and RV hookups (water and 20/30 amp) are $30. When I got to the police station they were closed for the week but a phone # was provided to call dispatcher and an officer responded promptly to help me get registered. Cash or check only.

  • Chris R.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Tyler Creek

    Absolutely garbage

    Had a reservation for 6 months and the day we were to arrive, we were told we could not have the site we prepared for because someone else wanted to stay longer.  Management has the right to alter your reservation without your consent or the courtesy of a phone call.  When questioned, the owner treated us like garbage and was rude as hell.  Would never recommend this place to anyone, stay away!!!

  • Bob B.
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    A return to my childhood

    I camped here countless times throughout my childhood. It was nice returning. I brought back great memories and it struck a balance of staying up with the times but still leaving most to nature.

    Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long.

    Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT.

    Don’t miss out on the great finishing and hiking. A great plus is still seeing kids rise actual bikes!

  • H
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    Beautiful Woodsy Campground

    We’ve stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet! We love it here already with only being here twice!

  • linda F.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Snow Lake Kampground

    There are to many rules to keep up with.

    This campground used to be great. I don't know what happened I believe they have so many seasonal that they have become the bread and butter. Don't seem to care bout weekender. Every time you turn around there's another rule and/ or fee. It has gotten to the point we no longer enjoy the place. We will never come back! I understand having rules but this is ridiculous. They advertise all these amenities but ya got to pay for it all as well as the site rental. They have gone downhill in customer service. The office staff is very rude as well as the campground seasonal that patrol and watch your every move.


Guide to Hastings

Camping near Hastings, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Hoffmaster State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Miles of trails if you are into hiking," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Beach Campground — Holland State Park. A visitor noted, "Walking distance to Lake Michigan and some cute beach shops and restaurants."
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Head to Van Buren State Park Campground for some fishing. One camper shared, "The campground itself is nice and clean with clean bathrooms and showers."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathhouses. A review for Fort Custer Recreation Area stated, "The showers and bathrooms are fine, and I think they're being upgraded this season."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the amenities. One reviewer at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground mentioned, "Great spot. Friend rented out two plots in the rustic campsites."
  • Secluded Sites: Campers love the privacy at Newaygo State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Nicely designed campground with privacy between sites."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Van Buren State Park Campground noted, "There were lots of tall pine trees so most of the sites had some shade," but also mentioned the noise from nearby highways.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Lake Michigan Campground has no showers and is described as "a parking lot."
  • Reservation Challenges: Some campgrounds can be hard to get into during busy months. A visitor at Grand Haven State Park Campground mentioned, "This place is always booked pretty quick."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One reviewer at Covert Park Beach & Campground said, "Great campground. Better cared for than a State Park and better accommodations, too."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise, especially if you have young kids. A camper at Van Buren State Park Campground noted, "Family oriented campground with 2 playgrounds—thus very noisy during the day with kids."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can help keep everyone happy. A visitor at Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday mentioned, "Campstore had everything incredible ice cream and pizza that could be delivered to your site."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Fort Custer Recreation Area mentioned, "Some of the campsites are very close together."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, check for campgrounds with full hookups. One camper at Newaygo State Park Campground appreciated the "clean drinking water they provide."
  • Be Mindful of Check-In Times: Arrive on time to avoid delays. A visitor at Lake Michigan Campground noted, "3pm check-in was strictly enforced."

Camping around Hastings, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does camping near Hastings, Michigan cost?

Camping costs near Hastings vary based on the type of campground and amenities. At Whispering Waters Campground, you can expect to pay around $30-45 per night for standard sites with water and electric hookups, while full hookup sites typically range from $40-55. State parks like Sleepy Hollow State Park charge approximately $20-33 per night plus a Recreation Passport ($13 annually for Michigan residents or $9 daily for non-residents). Private campgrounds generally range from $25-60 depending on hookups and amenities. Some campgrounds offer weekly or monthly rates at a discount, and many have additional fees for premium waterfront sites, extra vehicles, or guests.

What activities can you do while camping in Hastings, MI?

The Hastings area offers abundant outdoor activities for campers. Ionia State Recreation Area provides excellent fishing, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Camp Thornapple offers boat-in access, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Thornapple River. Mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive trail networks throughout the region. Swimming is available at several locations with designated beach areas. Birdwatching is rewarding with diverse habitats supporting various species. Nearby towns offer shopping, dining, and cultural attractions when you want a break from nature. Seasonal activities include spring wildflower hikes, summer water sports, fall color tours, and winter activities at some year-round facilities.

What are the best campgrounds in Hastings, Michigan?

The Hastings area offers several excellent camping options. Yankee Springs Recreation Area is a standout choice with beautiful natural surroundings, mountain biking trails, and water access at Deep Lake. For families, Welcome Woods Family Campground provides a welcoming atmosphere with various site options. Both offer easy access to Hastings while providing natural settings. Other notable options include Whispering Waters Campground with full hookups and water activities, and Sharp Park Campground near Middleville which features reservable sites and basic amenities. The Hastings region balances accessibility to town conveniences while still providing the natural Michigan camping experience many seek.

What amenities are available at Hastings, MI camping grounds?

Camping grounds around Hastings offer various amenities to enhance your stay. Dutch Treat Camping & Recreation features full hookups, a swimming pool, fishing opportunities, a gagaball pit, and clean bathhouses. Both rustic and modern camping options are available. Michawana Campground provides water access, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with boat-in and drive-in access. Most campgrounds in the area offer fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water. Some locations have shower facilities, electrical hookups, and dump stations. The amenities vary by campground, with some offering more rustic experiences while others provide resort-style facilities with recreational activities for the whole family.