Best Campgrounds near Ionia, MI

Camping near Ionia, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to enjoy outdoor adventures, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great spot. Friend rented out two plots in the rustic campsites," highlighting the area's natural beauty and trails.
• Fishing: Head to Newaygo State Park Campground for fishing opportunities. A camper shared, "We had a great time fishing, walking the trails, playing at the playground," making it a great spot for anglers.
• Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing at Walnut Hills Family Campground. One family noted, "We also brought our kayaks and spent a couple days on the river," emphasizing the fun water activities available.

What campers like:

• Seclusion: Campers appreciate the privacy at Sherman City Acres. A happy camper said, "If you enjoy camping without the crowd, this is an ideal location."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities at Walnut Hills Family Campground. One reviewer exclaimed, "The bounce thingy on the pond" was a hit with the kids.
• Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the facilities at Fort Custer Recreation Area. A visitor remarked, "The showers and bathrooms are fine," which is always a plus when camping.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A camper at Newaygo State Park Campground noted, "Two nights of brain damaging laughter and frivolity by campsite 21 ruined the whole experience."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Lake Michigan Campground has no showers or firewood available, as one camper pointed out, "No fire rings at the beach sites."
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Grand Haven State Park Campground advised, "This place is always booked pretty quick," so it's wise to reserve your spot early.

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. At Walnut Hills Family Campground, families can enjoy swimming, volleyball, and paddle boat rentals. One parent shared, "Very family friendly and great atmosphere."
• Choose Secluded Sites: For a quieter experience, opt for campgrounds like Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, where one camper found, "Walk-in site F was literally the perfect campsite. Fully secluded."
• Pack for All Weather: Michigan weather can be unpredictable. A visitor at Newaygo State Park Campground mentioned, "It is quite loud early morning and sometimes late into the night," so be prepared for varying conditions.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at Fort Custer Recreation Area noted, "Some of the campsites are very close together," which can be a concern for larger RVs.
• Bring Your Own Fire Pit: Many campgrounds, like Lake Michigan Campground, do not provide fire rings. A camper advised, "Bring a portable if you want a fire."
• Plan for Limited Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty in some areas. A visitor at Hoffmaster State Park Campground mentioned, "Verizon and T-Mobile service sucks here," so download maps and information ahead of time.

Camping near Ionia, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.