Hastings, Michigan camping areas feature numerous water recreation opportunities with many sites situated on or near lakes and rivers. The terrain includes rolling hills with elevations ranging between 800-900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with overnight lows in the 60s, making the region comfortable for extended camping stays between May and September.
What to do
Water activities: swim, fish, kayak: Michawana Campground offers a lake with swimming beach and free equipment use. "They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake," reports Bailey C., who also notes the campground has "a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall."
Golf outings: play affordable rounds: Tyler Creek combines camping with on-site golfing opportunities. "Offers golf. Wish they didn't sell out half of the 18 hole course," notes camper Jami M. Weekend stays include access to golf cart rentals at reasonable rates, with one reviewer mentioning "Weekend golf cart rentals for 90 bucks which is a steal!"
Local attractions: visit nearby towns: The region between Hastings and surrounding communities offers several day trip opportunities. Boulder Ridge Zoo is accessible from Tyler Creek, while one camper at Crooked Lake Campground mentioned, "If you want to grab a beer/food you can go to Hell....the town nearby. Hell Saloon is a cool spot and they have music and events."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site spacing at certain parks in the area. A Crooked Lake visitor commented, "Our campsite was huge and mostly private." Similarly, at Double RR Ranch RV Resort, campers frequently request riverfront sites, with one noting, "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing."
Themed weekends and scheduled activities: Hidden Ridge RV Resort receives high marks for its event programming. "They have themed weekends filled with activities for both adults and children," explains one camper. Another mentions, "We had a great time at Hidden Ridge RV Resort... Some of the things they have to do are swimming pool, playground, basketball courts, fishing, kayaking, jump pad, and lots of paved roads for bike riding."
Clean facilities and amenities: Many rv parks near Hastings maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. At Michawana, one visitor noted, "The bath houses are huge and well taken care of." Another camper appreciated that "The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite."
What you should know
Limited cell service in some locations: Cell reception varies significantly throughout the Hastings area camping region. Some campgrounds maintain reliable service while others have dead zones, particularly those in more wooded settings or located in valleys.
Distance to supplies and services: Several campgrounds near Hastings are located in rural areas with limited nearby services. One Hidden Ridge camper pointed out, "There isn't much close to the campground at all. Like the closest gas station is 15 miles. Not really any fast food restaurants either."
Site types and layouts: Campgrounds in the region offer varying site configurations. At Camp Turkeyville RV Resort, campers appreciate the "Spacious sites. Concrete patio at each site. Daily trash pickup at campsite." However, other parks have more compact arrangements, with a Woodchip Campground visitor noting "Sites are small. Sites are tight."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: request sites nearby: Families with children should consider requesting sites with playground visibility. One Woodchip Campground reviewer mentioned, "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play."
Swimming options: check for lifeguards: Most rv parks in Hastings, Michigan feature swimming areas, but supervision varies. At Michawana, "Boats and kayaks are free to use if the lifeguard is on duty. There is also fishing rods to use for free."
Kid-friendly activities: plan for variety: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "Kid friendly! This park always finds away to having something fun for the kids to do," notes one Hidden Ridge camper. Another mentions, "This campground is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces and pad types: RV sites vary considerably across Hastings area campgrounds. Hidden Ridge offers "All sites include a concrete pad, fire ring and full hook-up. 120/150 amp," while other parks feature gravel or grass parking areas.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Hidden Ridge is available "Apr 1 - Oct 30," while Michawana Campground runs "April 21 to October 16." Year-round options are limited, with Camp Turkeyville being one of few that remains open all year.
Hookup considerations: Available hookups vary between parks and often between sites within the same park. A Hidden Ridge visitor noted the consistency of "All sites are good size sites with a cement pad and very green grass," while those needing specific hookups should verify availability when booking.
