Winter camping is available at several campgrounds near Montague, Michigan, with Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park offering plowed sites and winter activities. This coastal region experiences temperature fluctuations throughout camping season, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and spring/fall temperatures ranging from 45-65°F. Camping options include tent sites with lake views, cabin accommodations, and dispersed sites in the national forest.
What to do
Winter recreation: Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park offers year-round access with winter-specific activities. "Across the road is the Winter complex, sledding, skating, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and luge course. Our kids had a blast here, they have tons of bonfire pits as well," notes a visitor at Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park.
Trails and dunes: Hoffmaster State Park provides extensive trail networks beyond typical beach activities. A reviewer explains: "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."
Water activities: Multiple water recreation options exist at Lake Sch-Nepp-A-Ho Family Campground, where visitors can enjoy swimming and boating. "The lake was extremely clean and the beach was fantastic. Clear water, clean sand and a floating jumping trampoline for the kids," reports one camper. The campground includes kayaks, row boats, and paddle boats available for rent.
Fishing opportunities: Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy multiple catch options at Lake Sch-Nepp-A-Ho Family Campground. A reviewer noted, "They had great fishing. We caught a lot of bass, bluegill, crappie and even a catfish. All catch and release. Lake is privately owned so no need for a fishing license."
What campers like
Beach access: Hoffmaster State Park Campground offers exceptional Lake Michigan access. One camper shares, "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." Beach access varies by campground, with some requiring short walks over dunes.
Campsite variety: Pioneer County Park offers diverse camping experiences within one property. "There are two campgrounds in the park - The Channel Campground & the Lake Michigan campground. We stayed at the Channel Campground right on the channel from Muskegon Lake to Lake Michigan, so you have walking access to both lakes," explains a visitor.
Sunset views: Pioneer Park Campground provides exceptional sunset viewing opportunities along Lake Michigan. "Very nice campground the walk to the beach was great and was able to view some beautiful sunsets," notes a camper, highlighting the natural spectacle available directly from the camping area.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance levels at White River RV Park & Campground. "Management does a fine job of cleanliness, neatness and extreme attention to detail. Two facts summarize our satisfaction with this operation: cleaning people are seen making the rounds of each and every restroom and shower house TWICE daily."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. A camper at South Channel Campground notes: "The campsites were VERY close together. It was actually the first thing we noticed as soon as we pulled through the gate. Campsites have a paved parking pad, fire ring, electrical hookup, and picnic table."
Alcohol regulations: Alcohol policies differ between parks. Silver Lake State Park allows alcohol, while several state parks prohibit it during peak season. A visitor at Pioneer Park Campground reminds campers: "Big thing to remember for Michigan state parks is no alcohol even in the campground."
Reservation timing: Booking windows open months in advance for popular sites. A ranger at Hoffmaster State Park advised, "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."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking undeveloped sites, Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping offers free dispersed camping. A visitor shares: "Free rustic camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Muskegon KOA provides lake swimming with family-friendly access. "They have lots of activities, a lake, trails, everything," notes one visitor. Parents should be aware that some lake access points require supervision due to depth or current conditions.
Special events: Seasonal activities enhance family camping experiences at various campgrounds. A ranger at Hoffmaster State Park mentioned, "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."
Kid-friendly amenities: Pioneer County Park offers facilities specifically designed for children. One camper reports: "Great play area for kids" and "Large grassy field for kids," highlighting spaces where younger visitors can safely play away from water.
Educational opportunities: The Gillette Visitor Center at Hoffmaster State Park provides learning activities. "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," shares a camper.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Avoid Sunday congestion at state park dump stations. A visitor at Hoffmaster State Park observed, "I did notice the backup of campers at the two campground dump stations Sunday before 1pm checkout."
Electrical hookup locations: Positioning can create challenges at some campgrounds. A camper at Silver Lake State Park warns: "Most of the sites are electric only. Our electric box for our site was in the front passenger side of the lot. Aren't most RV plugs in the rear driver side? Ended up having to buy a $75 extension cord so we could stay here."
Extension cord needs: RVers should pack extra-long electrical cords for certain campgrounds. Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park offers electric hookups, but placement varies by site, sometimes requiring additional connection equipment.
Weather considerations: RVers camping in early or late season should prepare for temperature swings. A March visitor to Lake Michigan Campground noted: "We went in March so the weather was cold but doable. 20 degrees at night but with electricity hookups we put a space heater in our tent."
