The Grand River flows through Jenison, Michigan, providing a backdrop for riverside camping experiences throughout the area. Jenison sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October with only a few offering year-round camping options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Crooked Lake Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "There are lots of great hiking/biking trails and Silver Lake is nearby with swimming, volleyball, concessions, bathrooms and an outdoor shower," notes one camper about recreational options near the grounds.
Water recreation: At White River RV Park & Campground, guests can enjoy river activities. "We brought our kayaks and just brought one vehicle up the river to the start point to put in and got out right at the campground," shares a visitor who appreciated the convenient water access.
Family entertainment: Activities abound at Hidden Ridge RV Resort for families seeking structured recreation. "The amenities are really nice. The place was kept clean, and the clientele was friendly. There is a pond for cat and release fishing, and a great slip and slide for the kids on a hot day," reports one camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Steamboat Park Campground in Jenison earns high marks for maintenance. "The bathrooms are not just clean and well maintained, but the shower rooms also have a dedicated sink and toilet, which I much appreciate. The washer and dryers in the bathhouse are brand new and take credit cards," notes a recent visitor.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the layout at many rv sites near Jenison, Michigan. "All sites include a concrete pad, fire ring and full hook-up," reports a visitor to Hidden Ridge RV Resort, while another mentions "cement pads, no trees, neighbors are closer but not bad."
Themed activities: Seasonal events keep campers engaged at Woodchip Campground. "We came here for a fall camping weekend. Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride. Root beer floats Saturday night were great!" shares a family who visited during autumn.
What you should know
Site variations: While many Jenison area campgrounds offer level sites, the quality varies. "This is a nice private campground with a lot of activities for kids and families. There is a pool, bounce pillow and basketball court. There are seasonal sites and other full hook-up sites," explains a Woodchip Campground visitor.
Seasonal operations: Most camping options near Jenison operate on limited schedules. Woodchip Campground runs from May 1 to October 1, while White River RV Park operates May 1 to October 15. Steamboat Park is one of the few year-round options.
Proximity to highways: Some campgrounds have road noise issues. At Cedar Springs RV Resort, a camper notes, "The highways a littler closer then it looks, so you do get a lot of road noise. Especially when trucks hit the chatter bumps on the side. Not the worse thing in the world, but worth noting."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites that provide easy supervision of children at play. At Woodchip Campground, "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! There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play."
Activity planning: Check campground schedules for planned events. "Kid friendly! This park always finds away to having something fun for the kids to do. Pool, splash pad, arcade, bounce pad, playground, outdoor sports area, hayrides, crafts, store, pond for fishing, golf cart rental," shares a seasonal camper at Hidden Ridge.
Swimming options: Eastpointe RV Resort provides maintained water facilities. "This is my 4th year at this campground. The staff is very friendly and helpful. They pick up your trash right from the front of your sight and deliver fire wood right to the fire pit. The pool and hot tub are always very clean," reports a returning visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campsites near Jenison, Michigan often have specific advantages based on location. At Steamboat Park Campground, "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!"
Laundry facilities: For longer stays, on-site amenities matter. A full-timer at Steamboat Park shares, "Full hook up sites that are quite spacious and level. Rigorously cleaned restrooms and showers - the best I've seen. Card operated laundry."
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for special needs. "The playground structure is not very friendly for kids with special needs or very young children. It's wooden with a ladder to access the upper levels. Only a portion of the roads were paved as well and the rest was gravel," notes a parent at Steamboat Park.
