Campsites near Lowell, Michigan offer varied terrain with elevation changes across the Thornapple River Valley watershed. The region features a mix of dense wooded areas and open lakefront camping options with most sites situated between 800-900 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from April through October with average summer temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during peak months.
What to do
Disc golf course access: At Ionia State Recreation Area, visitors can play on a well-maintained course suitable for various skill levels. "Ionia has so many great outdoor activities for almost anyone. There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing," notes Joshua E.
Kayaking on calm waters: The no-wake lakes at several parks provide ideal conditions for paddling without dealing with boat traffic. "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 follow along," says Jo H. about Ionia Recreation Area.
Horseback riding opportunities: Some campgrounds offer equestrian-friendly facilities. "Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses," suggests Jami M. about Ionia State Recreation Area. Trail rides are also available at Double RR Ranch RV Resort, where "We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Tyler Creek offers secluded spots at some of their camping areas. "Campground is small but got to know owners just recently purchased last year and are on the uphill of making this a great little place. Great customer service and friendly faces," explains Melissa L.
Lake access for fishing: Many campers appreciate the fishing opportunities at local campgrounds. At Wabasis Lake County Park, "Large sites; nice amenities" are available according to Bill R., who notes: "The lake is effectively a plate, so don't expect to do much fishing from shore. The water is incredibly shallow. (But that makes for a very nice beach!)"
Historical features: Some parks incorporate unique historical elements. "To enter the park you cross a historic bridge. There is dispersed camping. Out house bathrooms," explains Lydia T. about Bertha Brock County Park, which also features "beautiful stone bridges" according to Justyna E.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing layouts or reservation systems. At Ionia Recreation Area, one camper warned: "Pretty much the worst signage I've seen in Michigan State Recreation Area... NO WHERE on DNR website for reservations does it say this. As is if this isn't bad enough, once you park and find trail the sign then reads 'East or west' for sites."
Bathroom facility variations: Facility quality varies widely between campgrounds. At Deep Lake Rustic Campground, "Don't expect any glamorous showers or bathhouses. There are pairs of outhouses and the smell comes with. Try to avoid setting up next to these if possible," advises Joshua M.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Local campgrounds experience varying levels of crowding. "Because it's so close to Grand Rapids and some other cities, it typically is full on the weekends. Booking a site can be troublesome. Our friends booked the site from Tuesday through Monday and it was totally full on Friday and Saturday night," notes Bill R. about Wabasis Lake County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children, choose sites near play areas. At Wabasis Lake County Park, one camper shared: "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."
Indoor pool options: For unpredictable weather, consider Indian Valley Campground & Canoe Livery which offers year-round swimming. "The indoor pool was great for the preseason camping! Being there in early May, when it was rainy we were happy to have that amenity," explains Nicole C.
Beach safety considerations: Some lakes are better suited for young swimmers than others. Joshua E. notes about Ionia Recreation Area: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. At Deep Lake, "Some of the sites are a little uneven (the camper needed wood blocks underneath it so that the wheels weren't off the ground after leveling)," according to a camper.
Electric hookup availability: Local campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At Tyler Creek, Miles D. shares: "Our site was nice with electric and water hookups. My personal wifi off of my phone connected well. Very quiet."
Seasonal site improvements: Campground conditions may change throughout the season. At Welcome Woods Family Campground, one camper observed significant changes year-to-year: "We camped there last summer and it was new or owners and you could tell that they need to work on a few things... Drove through there for a spot this year and it's completely tore up all the trees that were shaded on the spots are cut down making them full sun spots."
