If you're searching for a place to camp with pets near Ionia, look no further. Find the best sites near Ionia where you bring your dog and enjoy a scenic view. You're sure to find the perfect pet-friendly campsite for your Michigan camping excursion.
Rolling hills, babbling brooks, open meadows, forested ridges, a lake nestled in the hills and a river winding its way through woods and fields -- that's Ionia Recreation Area. The 4,500 acres of flat to rolling terrain is a mixture of open field, mature hardwood forest and pine plantations. Four miles of Grand River floodplain follow the river course on the north border of the park. Dammed waterfowl floodings and other wetlands dot the park. Birding is excellent, with more than 199 species identified by the Audubon Society, and wildflowers abound.
$24 / night
Located just 20 minutes north of Lansing, Sleepy Hollow State Park is an idyllic getaway for anyone needing some time away from the city. The 2,600 acre park is situation on Price Road off US-27 making it easily accessible to people passing through. That being the case, the park still maintains its charm and accommodates campers and visitors every day without issue. The Little Maple river can be found winding in and out of the forested geography, with Lake Ovid situated right in the heart, thanks to the clever placement of a dam. Visitors come from all over to enjoy the scenic landscapes, birdwatching opportunities, and Winter Snowshoeing.
During the Spring, camp rangers host the weekly Sleepy Hollow State Park Nature program, which educates campers about local wildlife and the history of the surrounding regions. This is a great opportunity for families to spend some time together, especially after a long day of hiking and camping.
Surprisingly, it’s during the winter that this park is most frequently attended. In fact, Sleepy Hollow is most recognized for the miles of snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails that run through the land. The trails are well-traveled, however there’s no shortage of privacy to get out and find peace and quiet within the confines of a forest muted by snow.
Camping here is easily accessible. Michigan Residents can utilize their State Park Recreation Passport to get in for free. Otherwise, entrance rates are $11 for residents, and $16 for non-residents. If camping, full-service campsites start at $25/night, while walk-in rustic sites are only $17/night. Furthermore, if camping in a tent doesn’t sound like your thing there are onsite cabins available for rent at $68 per night. If you want electricity and a full-service cabin, Deluxe Cabins can be rented for $101 a night.
$25 - $101 / night
Due to park enhancements (to update electrical, road, fishing pier and sewer), the beach house, picnic shelters and Gun Lake campground will close in 2024. The day-use area and boating access site will remain open except when construction work prohibits safe access, A proposed $5.5 million in federal relief funding from Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan made these renovations possible.
78 sites at Deep Lake Rustic Campground are now site-standard reservable.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Bertha Brock Park was founded in 1931 to be a public gathering place. With a host of facilities from rustic to refined, the park is a popular location for meetings, recreational events, weddings and receptions, family photos, and banquets.
A healthy trout stream runs through nearly 200 acres of beautiful rolling hills. Trails wind their way through the woods, rustic campsites are scattered along paved paths, and many playground and picnic areas can accommodate a quiet family outing or a major organized event.
$15 / night
Fort Custer Campground at Fort Custer State Recreation Area is a 3,033-acre park located between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. The park features three lakes, the Kalamazoo River, a campground, a swimming beach, boat rentals, more than 25 miles of multi-use trails, paddling and fishing opportunities, second growth forests and remnant areas of prairie. The trail system is popular with mountain bikers, equestrians, hikers and dog sledders. Originally farmland, the area was acquired by the federal government to establish Camp Custer, an induction and military training center for the U.S. Army during WWII. The land was deeded to the State of Michigan under President Nixon's Legacy of Parks in 1971. No alcoholic beverages allowed in park April 1 through Labor Day.
$28 - $50 / night
$35 - $45 / night
Scout
I lay here, in my hammock listening to the sounds of the evening putting me to sleep as I write this. What a wonderful little campground. Beautiful lake to fish, kayak or canoe. Spacious and shaded site to return to. What more could a dad ask for out of a weekend with their boy.
Scout
ThisThis was the first time we've we had some guests come in for a couple hours and they were charging them $5 per person to get in and I had my aunt come in and she was handicap she parked close up to my camper it was on the grass a little bit and they yelled at her for it these people are rude and they watch you like a hawk every little thing you do they know what you're doing they kept charging my husband's credit card $5 per person I feel if you pay for your campsite you shouldn't have to pay for your guest they should check in at the office but they shouldn't have to pay I would never go back there again
Ranger
Nice and cozy little campground in the middle of beautiful rolling farmlands. First time passing through and found it conveniently located within 40 mins of Holland and Saugatuck without needing to get on the highway. The woman at check in was extremely courteous and helpful. We stayed 2 nights over the weekend. Most people here are seasonal, occupying almost all the lakefront sites. We may have seen one lakefront available for renters. Everyone was polite, friendly and quiet after quiet hours. The sites are very small, not much privacy, but well kept. There are more spacious sites available on the upper grassy loop. Well kept grounds throughout with beautiful flowers. The bathrooms were wonderful with great hot water and water pressure. Pretty lake with swimming beach and playground lovely for day use. We would stay again. We stayed with 34’ camper inner lakefront. I did share a picture of waterfront sites, the one vacant spot is the only site available to rent right now. The rest are seasonal.
Traveler
Stayed here to get off the road on the cheap after a long drive. It was Friday but it was quiet nothing out of the ordinary. The girls at the registration helped me find a quiet spot.
Traveler
Spaces were too tight , even with a small camper. Work People were parked half in the road , leaving us with no way to pull in or out of campsite
Scout
Enjoyed our stay!
Outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet were unexpected amenities.
Not to mention the chickens keeping us company!
Will definitely stay there again when we’re in the area!
TravelerI’ve read lots of reviews that were lukewarm about Newaygo, but we enjoyed our 3 day getaway. Ample activities in the area (hiking, disc golf, biking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, tubing and stargazing). And shopping and nice brewery in Newaygo. Most sites are large and separated from the next. The noise levels really dropped off in the evening. Will be back!!
Traveler
We just camped at the park this weekend, which was the opening weekend after the rebuild of the bath houses and some other improvements. First, we loved how wooded and beautiful the campground was. The spots were nice and secluded, and the whole place was very beautiful. There were a few things that we didn't enjoy. First, it was EXTREMELY buggy. If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit. Second, I don't feel that there were enough showers. There were 5 showers in each bathhouse, making 10 showers total for the entire campground. I found myself waiting in a line every time I wanted a shower. Lastly, I wish there was a walking trail that was more accessible from the campground itself.
Traveler
We just got done with a 3 night stay at Sleepy Hallow. The campsite itself was great, nice a roomy while also being wooded. The bugs were pretty intense, but bug spray helped. They are working on the natural gas pipeline nearby, so there was lots of construction noise. Verizon service was basically non existent other than at the beach. The dog beach was small and full of algae.
Scout
We initially booked a site by the river, but once we saw the sites next to the playground, we knew we had to switch for our sanity and so our toddler could play. They were very accommodating with us and so friendly. There was so much for our 2 year old and 10 year old to do. We will definitely be back!
Guide
Certainly! Here’s an enhanced review for the Allendale KOA:
I recently stayed at the Allendale KOA and had an exceptional experience. The campground is spacious, with large sites that provided plenty of room for our setup. The clean restrooms and full-service showers were a highlight, offering a comfortable and convenient experience after a long day of outdoor activities.
The staff at Allendale KOA were incredibly friendly and welcoming, ensuring that we felt right at home from the moment we arrived. The well-stocked camp store was a great convenience, providing everything we needed without having to leave the campground. We were particularly impressed by the massive bundles of wood available for just six bucks, making our evening campfires both affordable and enjoyable.
Families will especially appreciate the large field and play area, which offered ample space for our kids to run around and enjoy themselves. It was wonderful to have such a safe and enjoyable environment for them to play in.
Overall, our stay at the Allendale KOA was fantastic. The combination of excellent facilities, friendly staff, and family-friendly amenities made it a perfect choice for our trip. We will definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great camping experience!
Guide
First let me say the rustic area is walk-in only. I was unaware of this until we arrived. Luckily our site was in the front and not a terrible walk. 3 sites in the middle, grouped together, would be nice for a group to book together. Rustic side is right next to the boat ramp. Inside of the state park is a nice beach for swimming, with concessions. A lot of fishing spots, even if you are bank fishing. Check in window is in the back of the park. Wood and ice available.
Guide
Bertha Brock is a great place for families. Brining our kids here from Grand Rapids is quick and easy. It is generally quiet, especially on non holiday weekends. Occasionally there is chopped firewood up front, you get a goof amount for your money. Relatively close to town if you need to purchase food or other gear. Bugs (mosquitoes) can get pretty bad, bring lots of bug spray! Near ionia state park with a nice beach for swimming or boating (no wake). Campground manager is very nice and helpful if needed.
Traveler
I really enjoyed my stay at croton campground. A friend and I stayed from Friday to Sunday. It was my first time camping in over 10 years and it did rain pretty much the entire time Saturday but I plan on going again soon.
TravelerWe 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. There were beautiful walking trails all around, and the lake was very pretty.
I had read other reviews saying that the bathrooms were terrible. I did not find them to be all that bad. They were certainly dated, but I found the bathrooms and showers to be kept as clean as they could be. I have also read that the bathrooms will be completely replaced at the end of this year.
The one downside I did find was the beach. I thought that the infrastructure at the beach needed work, particularly the rinse off station and the benches. We only went over to the beach for ice cream, so this didn't bother me personally.
We loved it and plan to come back!
Scout
The owners are super nice and very attentive. The grounds and are very maintained. The showers, bathrooms, and pool are all above expectations for clean. This is an amazing and very kid friendly campground. We will for sure be back! Thank you!
ScoutPer michigan laws;
STATE LAND RULE – GAME AREAS – EXCERPT(S) 926 On state game or wildlife areas it is unlawful to: • Camp between May 15 and September 10, except in areas specifically designated for camping.
I don’t see any camping spots specifically on the official map of this place.
Scout
Campground and pool is nice. Owners are unapologetically rude to guests when there is any issues. Had a minor parking issue with a neighbor when I moved my vehicle onto their parking spot on sunday for 20 minutes because they weren't there all wkend and I was spraying weed killer. The neighbor showed up and complained at the club house. The owner came to my lot and started yelling at me about how i have no right to do that. I apologized while he was yelling at me and he slammed his buggie door and drove off. As soon as I moved my vehicles I went to that neighbor.to apologized and she said no big deal. I gave the owners a bad review on line and now I am being kicked out. How is that right?! I follow the rules and keep my lot clean. I don't deserve to be yelled at and treated in such a rude manner. IF you decide to camp there don't speak to the owners unless you have to... this has happened to other guests too. Many have moved to other places because of the way they talk to people.
ScoutOwner is rude and unapologetic for being so.
Poisonous plants and creatures are usually pretty to look at. So is tyler creek until you speak to the owners for any reason and then they are rude and venomous. If I were you I would spend my hard earned money somewhere else.
ScoutMy husband and I had a wonderful experience the website was well informed; pull in and pick your own site and the site manager will come by and collect your money for night stayed. In fact, we enjoyed it so much we called to ask for another night, without hesitation, and any disruption to our camping they came by later that evening, and collected for an additional night ( just as the website advised), Charlotte is a wonderful town with wonderful events. This fairground camp area very clean and well organized. Well done Eaton county, see you in May 2024. 💯
GuideThis was our second trip to this property (1st was Sept 2021), and it was really nice. We went Aug 25 - 27th (Friday - Sunday). The property has something like 219 campsites, and that weekend every single one of them was full. Noisy during the day with a few large groups and a LOT of kids, but they were quiet at night and it was not a problem. Some of the campsites are very close together and it's hard to determine that from the map or choosing ahead of time. The showers and bathrooms are fine, and I think they're being upgraded this season so I expect them to be quite nice for 2024 and beyond. We took full advantage of the mountain bike trails which are very easily accessed from the campground. We also took a trip into Battle Creek for a quick stop by CVS, so it's close and convenient for lost or forgotten items. No problems with bugs or mosquitos, other than the normal for being a forested property.
On Saturday morning the camp host had coffee and donuts for a $1 donation. And firewood was easily accessible on site.
Would not hesitate to stay here again.
TravelerClean bathroom and hot shower. Grounds were nice with some fun for kids.
Traveler
Host was nice. Check in was easy as was making the reservation. 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. Sites not along the lake did have a bit more room and shade. We Would stay again.
ScoutI took a day hike back about a mile to site “F”. It was pretty private with a day site about 75 feet away so if anyone hiked in to use the day site, you might have to contend with close neighbors. Otherwise, a great spot with water access.
Scout$10 for clean drinking water they provide the the dump hoses. Always clean and well kept
TravelerPretty sweet spot, quiet and clean
ScoutI would not recommend camping here. While the campground was nice, with quite a few nice activities for kids, the area was clean and quiet while we stayed there and our location was nice in a wooded area. There were a few permanent campers or people living at the KOA which didn't take away from our experience. The bathrooms were nice but could use some small updates.
I wouldn't recommend people stay here unless they can avoid one member of staff, who we were informed is the owner's mother. We had an easy check-in and set up, upon arriving back at the campsite late Friday evening we noticed we could not find our parking placard and decided to get a new one once the office opened in the morning. Unfortunately, when my partner took our car to use the bathroom facilities next to the main office before going into the main office. The owner's mother was next to our vehicle began berating and accusing him of "coming off the street to use their bathrooms". He apologized for the placard not being up and repeatedly explained to her that we were staying at the campground until Sunday and were coming in to get a replacement. This woman continued to accuse him of lying and followed him extremely close to the main office and then re-issued our placard. This location is rural and I find it surprising that anyone would go out of their way to use their bathrooms or that this would be such a contentious issue.
We have never been treated so poorly or made to feel like criminals trespassing at a campground. It made the rest of our stay very uncomfortable especially every time this woman would drive by on her golf cart and her home was very close to the tent sites. If we were not leaving the next morning we would have left this campground immediately. After reading other Google reviews this seems to be a reoccurring issue with this individual and I would recommend reading those reviews as well before choosing to stay here. The other staff was kind and professional however this woman seems to be a continual issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Ionia, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Ionia, MI is Ionia State Recreation Area — Ionia Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Ionia, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 88 dog-friendly camping locations near Ionia, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
