Lansing's camping options extend along waterways and forests within a 30-mile radius of the Michigan Capitol building. Temperatures range from winter lows near 15°F to summer highs around 83°F, with July and August bringing occasional thunderstorms. Michigan State Park campgrounds charge $17-25 per night for modern campsites plus the required Recreation Passport for vehicle entry.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pinckney Recreation Area offers over 35 miles of connected trails. "The 7.5 mile loop and stayed one night. The best part is that there are no campgrounds so no loud groups of people/signs of humans everywhere. Just nature! Watch out for the bikers though," notes a camper at Pinckney State Recreation Area.
Mountain biking: The Potawatomi Trail provides options for varied skill levels. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" shares a rider who visited Pinckney. Trail loops range from the shortest Silver Lake Trail at 1.9 miles to the full Potawatomi at 17.5 miles.
Paddling and fishing: Many area lakes offer boating opportunities. "The campground has picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets. Limited cell service," reports a visitor to Blind Lake Rustic Campground, which can be accessed by paddling 2.5 miles from the Halfmoon boat launch. Anglers report catching largemouth bass and bluegill at nearby waterways.
What campers like
Primitive camping options: For those seeking seclusion, primitive sites provide quieter experiences. "We camped in hammocks and had a pretty large site with great trees that could accommodate at least three to four hammocks. There are a lot of wildlife noises, owls, frogs, crickets, etc.," describes a camper at Cottonwood Campground.
Swim areas: Lakes and ponds throughout the region offer swimming options. One camper at Walnut Hills Family Campground enjoyed "the area was grassy and not all dirt. The campground had big sites, nice bathrooms, and a great pond to swim in. They had a little arcade and store that sold icees for the kiddos."
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies widely at Lansing area campgrounds. At Blind Lake Rustic Campground, a visitor found "campsite 3, which is right on the lake. Sites 4, 5, 6 and 7 are right along the trail. Avoid 1 and 2 which are narrow, gravelly and at the top of the hill." Campers seeking more privacy often prefer backwoods sites away from main paths.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Michigan's camping season peaks from late May through September. A visitor to Sleepy Hollow State Park notes, "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right." Spring camping may encounter soggy conditions with standing water at some sites.
Electrical access issues: Several campgrounds have limited or poorly placed electrical hookups. At Sleepy Hollow, one camper observed, "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension." Always bring 100-foot extension cords.
Reservation timelines: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Blind Lake Rustic Campground, "Reservations can be made ahead for 1 of the 10 sites at Blind Lake. Campsite fee is $17 if done at the Ranger Headquarters. Advance reservations have an additional $8 fee."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. At Walnut Hills Family Campground, there is "swimming, some fishing, camp store, & activities for the kids! It is a very clean atmosphere with friendly people!" The campground includes a playground suitable for children under 10.
Beach access: When choosing a site with children, consider the walk to swimming areas. At Pinckney State Recreation Area, a visitor found "nice clean modern Campground with a few rustic sites. Lake is very clean on a small chain." However, at some parks, reaching the beach requires significant walking.
Site selection for families: Choosing appropriate sites matters for family comfort. "The lower section is the best. We were backed up to the pond with ducks always coming around. Very peaceful and beautiful," notes a camper at Walnut Hills Family Campground, where sites vary significantly in proximity to amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: RV campers should research site leveling before arrival. At Eaton County Fairgrounds, "This is a fairgrounds RV and tent park. Very peaceful when there are no ongoing events. Large bath house with Showers. No office in park, so find a space and park. The manager will stop by to collect your $20."
Hookup details: Water and electric services vary across the region. At Cottonwood Campground, a visitor mentioned it "has full hook ups, and electric water, also tent sites with nothing. Great pool area. Softball diamond that has tournaments on weekends a little early start for the full hook up sites."
Urban convenience: Some RV sites offer proximity to services. The Eaton County Fairgrounds campground is "confidently located a mile outside of Charlotte, with all the conviences of restraunts, walmart, Meijer etc." This makes it practical for campers needing to restock supplies during longer stays.
