Camping near Ionia, MI

Camping sites near Ionia, Michigan range from developed recreation areas with full facilities to more basic county parks with tent sites and cabins. Located in central Michigan at elevations of 750 to 850 feet, the area features flat river valleys that can experience heavy humidity during summer camping season. Most Ionia area campgrounds stay open from April through October, with limited winter camping options.

What to do

Disc golf courses: Ionia State Recreation Area offers an 18-hole disc golf course among several recreational activities. "This is great campground for family's it's peaceful and for the most part a quiet campground. A short walk or bike ride to the beach of Sessions Lake or even to the peninsula to fish from dock," notes Nick B.

Kayaking on calm waters: Sessions Lake at Ionia State Recreation Area provides excellent paddling opportunities. "Nice camping. Great lake for fishing, swimming, kyaking or small boating. Scenic views on trails around the lake. Not too far so the kids can fallow along," according to Jo H.

Hiking trails: Bertha Brock County Park offers several marked hiking paths with historic features. "It was only $2 to enter the park. There was three hiking trails to choose from, we choose the 'turkey trail'. The trail was well marked but got quite confusing about 3/4 in. Tons of fun things to see here, beautiful stone bridges," reports Justyna E.

What campers like

Secluded camping spots: Many campgrounds near Ionia feature private sites away from crowds. "We just got back from Ionia State Campground, and we had the most lovely time! First of all, I did some research ahead of time to find a more private camping spot, and ours did not disappoint. After looking around the campground, there were numerous spots that were very secluded and private," shares Rachel P.

Fishing opportunities: Maple River Campground offers riverfront sites ideal for anglers. "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," according to Alexandra M.

Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "We stayed in the camper cabins. Each cabin had a living room, two bedrooms, kitchen work counter, dining table, microwave, and a small fridge. One of the rooms contains a queen size bed, and the other bedroom contains two sets of bunk beds," reports ERolf P. about Wabasis Lake County Park.

What you should know

Walk-in sites requirement: Some camping areas require hiking to reach sites. Michael S. warns about Ionia State Recreation Area's Beechwood Campground: "Once you do figure out that you have to drive to acolyte back end of park to register then turn all the way around and find hidden non marked campground, you'll soon realize they are walk/hike in sites. NO WHERE on DNR website for reservations does it say this."

Limited amenities at some parks: Many camping areas have basic facilities only. "There is dispersed camping. Out house bathrooms," notes Lydia T. about Bertha Brock Park.

Additional fees may apply: Snow Lake Kampground and other private campgrounds charge for extras. "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station. They do have ice and firewood for sale there, but there isn't a little store so you have to leave the campground and drive a few miles for that," advises Alexandra M. about Maple River Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly swimming areas: Sessions Lake provides safe swimming for children. "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," mentions Joshua E.

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "This is a small campground with fairly good size sites. There is a playground in the center which was very handy for our little ones. They could play and we could watch from our site," shares Megan T. about Wabasis Lake County Park.

Budget-friendly activities: Scalley Lake Park Campground provides affordable options for families. "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" says Nolyn S.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many area campgrounds. "To say the sites are uneven is putting it mildly. For 15 sites, you seriously can't level them??" warns Michael S. about Ionia State Recreation Area.

Limited large RV sites: Tyler Creek has improved site conditions. "Lots of lot improvement so it's not so bumpy and off level. Neighbors had a problem with there electric box the owner was there in 5 minutes to fix it," notes Gina K.

Seasonal campground differences: Most campgrounds operate April through October. "Overall this campground was fun. It's on a golf course which is something new and exciting! There was a live band there on the Saturday night we were there, they were AMAZING!" shares Angela J. about Tyler Creek.