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Steamboat Park Campground accommodates pet owners with spacious sites and riverfront views. The campground allows pets at all sites with full hookups and provides ample green areas for dog walking. Sites are level and well-maintained with sufficient space between neighbors for comfortable pet exercise. Multiple walking paths along the river offer pleasant places to walk dogs. The pool area, while not pet-accessible, provides a recreational option for human family members. Staff maintains rigorously cleaned restrooms and shower facilities. Most pet owners appreciate the large grassy areas throughout the property, with one visitor noting this was among the best campgrounds they had experienced during two years of full-time RVing specifically because of the abundant greenery for dog walking.
Chapel in the Pines Campground offers a quiet, family-friendly environment where pets are welcome. The campground features spacious sites with 30-amp hookups suitable for both tents and RVs. Dogs particularly enjoy the pond/lake area, though they must remain leashed when not swimming in designated areas. Woodchip Campground, another nearby option, accommodates pets while providing numerous activities for families. For RV campers, Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA includes two fenced dog runs and trails for pet exercise. These campgrounds maintain clean facilities with easy access to water and waste disposal areas. All require pets to be leashed when not in designated exercise areas, and owners must clean up after their animals. The rural setting of these campgrounds provides natural surroundings ideal for pet walks without city noise that might trigger barking.
"Nice and secluded yet close to town and easy access to the highway"
"Lots of greenery to walk my dog. As a bonus, they have river cruises that leave directly from the office."
from $45 - $85 / night
Check Availability"Pets are welcome here with two fenced dog runs and trails to keep the owners exercised. I love this place and have made it a regular stop."
"Lots of the activities within the park, they have a small petting zoo, sky pad, playground. Several cottages in the park as well. Well be back."
"We love this as an easy getaway close to home. I wouldn’t call it a beautiful campground... but it is clean, and has a ton to do for kids!"
"Great trees surrounding the property. Tons of kids - great activities for them! Campground is clean, and staff friendly."
"What we liked: We loved that fact that this campground was so close to water and the nice paved path for walking and hiking trails in the main part of the campground. "
"The Lake Macatawa campground is across the street from a small beach on the Macatawa Lake. This is a wooded campground. The sites are pretty tight as is usual for a Michigan State Park."
"Unfortunately, a red flag was flying on our visit, so we only waded at the water's edge- but - still cool to lay out on the sugar-like sand and walk its 3 mile length!"
"Site 31 and any along that path back up to a little creek and trail which was just perfect for the kids to play in."
from $38 - $42 / night
Check Availability"Campsites are easy to get into with plenty of room to get situated. Close to town and fairly short drive to Lake Michigan."
"Searching for a 1 night space on the michigan lake we had to look more around and find this wonderful campground. Just 10 minutes away to downtown Holland and only 20 minutes away of the beach."
from $48 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Cute little campground in a small town in Dorr, Michigan. Lots of activities, swimming, wagon rides, jump pad, and more. Facilities were fairly clean and easily accessible."
"Multiple playgrounds, toddler pool and regular pool, jump pad, and lots of room to run around."
"We were right on the canal side and only 300ft away from Lake Michigan. Grand Haven State Parks has upgraded facilities so bathrooms and showering is actually pleasant."
"We are here for Lake Michigan. The sunrises and sunsets, the water, the beach and the waves. Nothing like waking up and walking to the beach, easy back and forth for lunch/dinner and snacks."
"The sites are decent size and it’s close to restaurants and shops."
from $50 / night
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TravelerDefinitely the best camp ground in West Michigan! Clean sites, friendly staff, and many amenities. Camp store, laundry, showers and bathrooms, huge pool, hot tub, pickle ball courts, kids play ground, bikes, scooters, and kayaks for rent (with a kayak launch) and boat slips on the water. They have access to a dog park as well. Home away from home!
ScoutVery nice campground, Clean and well maintained and friendly office staff. Nice wooded trail (about 3/4 mile loop around the pond) for walking the pooches. There is a nice sized fenced dog park with potable water right there. Great little playground and bounce house for the kiddos.
LegendHolland State Park is popular for its expansive sandy beach along Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa where swimming, sun bathing, fishing, and boating are popular activities. Holland SP has two campgrounds – the Lake Macatawa Unit and the Beach Campground (which is where we stayed and the focus of this review). The Beach Campground is essentially a parking lot as the sites, patios and roads are paved with little grass among them. It is nestled between dunes which adds to the scenic value and blocks the strong winds coming off of Lake Michigan. The Lake Unit campground is much larger (211 campsites) than the Beach Campground and has more of a state park feel with trees, grass, and fire pits.
Site description:
The Beach Campground has 98 RV sites of which 31 are 50 amp full hook-up and two camper cabins. Some sites towards the northern section of the park have great views of Lake Michigan but be warned that strong winds can come off the lake and really shake your RV. When we were there in early May the winds were very strong with blowing sand which made us really glad we were not near the water.
Campsites are plenty wide to fit your RV with slide outs and car next to it without feeling cramped. Utilities are at the very back of the site so you may need an extension for your sewer hose. All sites were level. Every site has a picnic table. There are no fire pits at individual sites but community ones are located near the beach and you are permitted to use your own fire pit if you have one.
We were able to get nearly two dozen television stations with our antenna and had no problem locking into a satellite with our roof-mounted dish. Verizon phone and hotspot worked well.
So is this park big rig-friendly? In general, yes. Our site was certainly long (and wide) enough to fit our RV and the tow car next to it. However, we did have the back five feet overhanging the sand at the back of the site. This was no problem for us because our stabilizing jacks are in between our back tires. We were also there at a time when the park was fairly empty so backing in and pulling out was no problem. The sites are all set at an angle to the main road which makes backing easier.
Campground amenities:
By far the beach is the biggest draw to the campground. The wide beach lures sunbathers out in warm weather and is popular for a walk at sunset. There is a playground, picnic area, community fire pits, dump station, boat launch and concession stand. There is one restroom/shower house that was very clean but no laundry facilities.
What we liked:
We loved that fact that this campground was so close to water and the nice paved path for walking and hiking trails in the main part of the campground. Within 50 yards from our site we could be walking along Lake Macatawa or along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. The beach is wide and expansive and is the place to be for awesome sunsets. When we were there the beach was not crowded because it was cold and windy but it would be a great place to enjoy a good book under an umbrella. Definitely liked the fact that this was a full hook-up state park with level sites.
What we didn’t like:
The park is essentially a parking lot with little grass and trees. What really surprised us was how many cars drove through the campground that were not staying there. There apparently are no restrictions on who drives through the park so many day-use visitors came by just for a look resulting in unnecessary traffic.
Be advised there is a “no alcohol” policy in the park and campground and you have to sign a piece of paper saying you will abide by that rule. The rule states that “Possessing or consuming alcohol is prohibited in all areas of the park throughout the entire year” even inside your RV.
In order to enter the state park you must have a Michigan Recreation Passport which costs $32 for an annual non-resident OR you have to pay $11/day to enter the park even if you are camped there.
Pet:
There are plenty of places to walk dogs here and access points to water if your dog likes to swim. Unfortunately, they are not allowed on the beach but there is a long walking path and within the main part of the park are miles of hiking trails and a nice overlook. This park does not have an unleashed dog park; however, there is one within five miles at the fairgrounds.
ScoutClean and nice little park with a cool "trading post" with nice merchandise, snacks and food. They have a dog park and trails on the property with a longer bike trail that runs alongside the campground. They had a band one night and an ice cream truck come through the next. Would recommend!
GuideI grew up coming here and they had expanded a lot on it in the last few years. You will never be bored and it is a true resort feeling, you will forget your camping! They have themed weekends filled with activities for both adults and children and have a pool, pizza and ice cream, jumping pillow, clubhouse, fishing, playground, dog park, and so much more!
ScoutThe staff is very friendly and helpful. There are activities for young and old and everyone in between. The showers are clean and spacious. They have campsites to meet everyone's desires. Pets are welcome here with two fenced dog runs and trails to keep the owners exercised. I love this place and have made it a regular stop.
GuideGreat family campground - Paired with the area offers many options!
With mostly modern sites situated in hardwoods, pines, or a mixture, we stayed in the hardwoods area; however, my kids would have enjoyed the pines better for it appeared to have hammock hanging at almost every site. Well-maintained and clean restrooms had soda vending machines.
Children's play area with equipment and activity field, where several kites were hoisted high into the air, were great. Gillette Visitor Center in the State Park area about 1/4 mile away offers Explorer and interpretive programs Tuesday through Saturday, with topics ranging from nature history/preservation to information on wildlife. We enjoyed the spider and bear presentations most, but maybe that is because I have all boys! The campground beach, only a 5 - 10 minute walk from any site, was awesome! While there wasn't a lifeguard, I appreciated the "flag system" advising how safe the water is each day. Unfortunately, a red flag was flying on our visit, so we only waded at the water's edge- but - still cool to lay out on the sugar-like sand and walk its 3 mile length! I do regret not making it back to the beach for sunset as our camping neighbors RAVED about it the following morning!
My favorite part of this campground was the trails. In addition to several trails within the campground (the one along the creek was especially loved!), many more can be accessed in the state park, which contains over ten miles of trails in its 1,200 acres. Trails to dunes, beach, and other parks as well as dune preserve: all well-marked and vary in difficulty, weaving through pine and hardwood forests nestled among dunes. Plus, the adjoining North Ottawa Dune Preserve offers an additional ten miles of trails! OMG - what a phenomenal place for a walk in the woods or trail running! One of our walks was up a 5-story staircase near the nature center, leading to an observation platform with expansive views of majestic dunes and Lake Michigan. I was impressed that a portion was barrier-free.
Some family ventured into nearby towns of Muskegon, Spring Lake, and Grand Haven to experience what they had to offer: shops, museums, World War II boats, piers to walk, and several craft breweries - all 15 minutes away! Our dogs enjoyed the visit to the unleashed dog park at Coast Guard Park that is a ten-minute drive or a five-mile walk through the trails.
Logistics to note: Campground sells ice - $2/7# bag and wood/$5.50 a bundle. We quickly realized that residences outside the park sold it at $5 for larger bundles. Area grocery stores include a Meijer superstore and Leppinks grocery. We preferred Leppinks for the quick trip and Meijer for items beyond groceries, such as that forgotten bathing suit or a propane tank for the grill. While we don't have a big rig, I did notice the backup of campers at the two campground dump stations Sunday before 1pm checkout. Being a state park, Hoffmaster requires vehicles have a recreation passport to enter ($11/year -residents and $32/year -non-residents or a daily rate of $9). No alcoholic beverages between April 15 and Labor Day.
I talked to a ranger about coming back later this year, and he told me it is best to book months ahead for weekends because they fill up at the beginning of summer; however, cancellations are not uncommon, so watch the DNR site for openings. Weekdays usually have availability, especially the first half of the summer. He added that a great time to visit would be the weekend before Halloween as they encourage people to decorate their sites, wear costumes, and participate in trick or treating on Saturday night.
ScoutThis is always my go to campground! All natural camping with plenty of nice people! One word of advise is to bring your own tp though lol they seem to always run out on Sunday mornings lol but are back up and running by mid afternoon. No showers and just outhouses but that's REAL camping right!!!? No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails. Walking trails around the lake that offer nature at it's purest! I have been coming to this lake to camp for over 40 years and I hope I have 40 more years left!!!
ScoutPretty nice sites. Pool and game room as well as a store. There are trails that lead to the river and also to an area where bald eagles have a nest. Pets are allowed . Nice little playground for the kiddos.
Jenison, Michigan sits amid the fertile Grand River Valley at approximately 640 feet above sea level. The area experiences classic Midwestern seasonal variation with warm, humid summers averaging 82°F and cold winters dropping below 20°F. Many campgrounds remain open April through October, though select locations offer year-round camping opportunities with heated facilities.
Swimming and fishing: Lake Michigan Campground provides easy access to both Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. The campground uses a flag system indicating water safety conditions. "The campground beach, only a 5-10 minute walk from any site, was awesome! While there wasn't a lifeguard, I appreciated the 'flag system' advising how safe the water is each day," notes one visitor.
Dune exploration: Hoffmaster State Park Campground offers extensive dune trails within its 1,200 acres. "Trails to dunes, beach, and other parks as well as dune preserve: all well-marked and vary in difficulty, weaving through pine and hardwood forests nestled among dunes. Plus, the adjoining North Ottawa Dune Preserve offers an additional ten miles of trails!"
Local breweries: Steamboat Park Campground serves as an ideal base for Grand Rapids brewery tours. "We visited in May in order to go to the Tulip festival in nearby Holland, MI. This park is secluded yet only a few miles from shopping and all Grand Rapids has to offer," explains one camper. Another mentions being only "30 minutes from Grand Rapids."
Clean facilities: Dutch Treat Camping & Recreation maintains impeccable restrooms and recreational areas. "Bathroom, showers and pool were clean and looked like brand new. The owners take a lot of pride in the place," reports one visitor. Another adds the sites are "level and easy to park."
Scenic waterways: Many campgrounds feature river or lake access. At Steamboat Park, "half of the sites are directly on a wide fast moving river. Occasionally a paddleboat goes buy with tourists. Beautiful to drink your morning coffee by the water!" The park even offers "river cruises that leave directly from the office. These two hours cruises offer drinks and feature live music from local bands for only $16 per person."
Activities for children: Local campgrounds cater to families with extensive recreation options. Hungry Horse Campground offers "multiple playgrounds, toddler pool and regular pool, jump pad, and lots of room to run around. They also typically offer planned activities throughout the week such as wagon rides, meet and greets, and ice cream socials."
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on your specific needs. At Woodchip Campground, "Sites are small. Great trees surrounding the property." At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, "The sites are well treed and flat! Lots of activities within the park."
Seasonal factors: Several campgrounds operate only during warm months. "The campground is seasonal and is first come, first serve. They close up mid October. During the school season it is relatively easy to get a spot, September then is a great time to go as it tends to still be warm," notes a visitor to Hoffmaster State Park.
State park requirements: Michigan state parks require recreation passes for entry. At Holland State Park, "In order to enter the state park you must have a Michigan Recreation Passport which costs $32 for an annual non-resident OR you have to pay $11/day to enter the park even if you are camped there."
Playgrounds and water features: Woodchip Campground offers activity-focused camping. "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play. The bathrooms are clean, the pool is great, and they always have fun activities for the kids!" Another visitor adds, "Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride."
Pet-friendly options: Most area campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members with designated exercise areas. Chapel in the Pines Campground has a "nice and quiet campground" with a "very clean swimming area, good fishing" where dogs can enjoy water access. One visitor mentions Chapel in the Pines provides "a very strong sense of community among the campground."
Budget-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer included recreation. At Hungry Horse Campground, "They also typically offer planned activities throughout the week such as wagon rides, meet and greets, and ice cream socials." Woodchip Campground visitors appreciate that "all activities are included with stay."
Hookup considerations: Steamboat Park Campground offers various site configurations. "Full hook up sites that are quite spacious and level. Rigorously cleaned restrooms and showers - the best I've seen. Card operated laundry. A salt water pool overlooking the river." However, one visitor notes, "Only downside is I don't have great service from my particular spot which is nestled in the very back of the campground. I work full time so this is a little frustrating, but you can get better service near the front of the park."
Arrival timing: Plan carefully to avoid check-in congestion. At Grand Haven State Park Campground, "If you are planning a trip to Grand Haven State Park, be sure to log onto the State Reservation site six months to the date that you want to camp." At another park, "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee. If you decide not to pay, you'll be directed to overflow parking where you can loiter until 2:00."
Site spacing: RV sites vary widely in terms of privacy. Some report "Very close together" at Grand Haven State Park while others note "This campground is great, it's only 25 minutes from Grand Haven beach. The sites are well treed and flat!" at Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Jenison, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Jenison, MI is Steamboat Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 10 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 123 dog-friendly camping locations near Jenison, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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