Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers year-round primitive camping options across 2,600 acres northeast of Okemos, Michigan. The park features sites spaced around Lake Ovid, a 410-acre human-made reservoir with fishing opportunities for largemouth bass and bluegill. Terrain consists primarily of rolling meadows and mixed hardwood forest at an elevation of approximately 870 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Ovid: Lake Ovid at Sleepy Hollow State Park provides productive fishing opportunities for specific species. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," notes Michael P. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Hiking and backpacking: Pinckney Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems connecting multiple camping areas. "Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital. Fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available," reports Jacob B. The Potawatomi Trail extends through Blind Lake Rustic Campground which requires a 7-mile hike to access. One camper mentioned, "Took a hike in to check it out" before camping.
Disc golf: Beyond traditional outdoor activities, several parks feature disc golf courses. "Nice mix of camping & Disc golf. The course is mowed down and easy to navigate," according to Valerie D. about disc golf at Waterloo Recreation Area, approximately 40 miles from Okemos.
What campers like
Lake swimming options: Several parks offer swimming beaches with additional water features. At Taylor's Beach Campground, visitors appreciate the "great beach and swimming area" and "awesome splash pad for little kids." Another camper noted that the "bathrooms are nice."
Varied accommodations: Bishop Lake Campground provides multiple lodging options beyond standard tent sites. "Many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging," reports Nathan V. The campground also features "30 amp service. Kayaking, fishing and kid friendly" amenities according to Mary J.
Fall camping events: Some parks organize seasonal activities. Stephanie C. remembers, "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site." She adds that "the bathrooms are newer and the grounds are well kept."
What you should know
Electrical hookup distances: At Sleepy Hollow State Park, electrical posts aren't always conveniently located. "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," reports Nick W. He adds that you may need to "get set up with an extension cord from the camp office."
Beach distances from campsites: Many campgrounds require significant walks to reach beaches. "The path led to another path that led to a parking lot for the beach. After crossing the parking lot we still had to cross a large yard/park that finally opened onto the beach on this small lake," explains a camper about the trek from Sleepy Hollow sites to the beach.
Limited facilities at rustic sites: Primitive camping areas provide minimal amenities. Waterloo Portage Lake offers "primitive tent sites available" with just "picnic tables, fire ring" according to reviews. At Lake Interstate State Game Area, campers should note there are "no campsites here, but there is a large parking area, a nice lake, and some trails around the area."
Tips for camping with families
Book early for weekends: Popular family-friendly campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. One visitor to Sleepy Hollow advises, "Be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site." The park offers numerous family activities and well-maintained facilities.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. Walnut Hills Family Campground has a "playground for kids under 10" according to John S., while another camper noted they have "big sites, nice bathrooms, and a great pond to swim in. They had a little arcade and store that sold icees for the kiddos."
Beach alternatives: Campground swimming areas vary in quality and can get crowded. One camper reports that at Portage Lake, "the beach area is very mucky and dirty. Seaweed just flats around and gets tangled around your legs and arms all the time." Consider bringing water toys or planning alternative activities if water conditions aren't ideal.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: During hot summer months, lack of tree cover can impact comfort. Amy D. reports about Lansing Cottonwood Campground, "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right. Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan."
Extension cord requirements: Many electric sites require long extension cords to reach power sources. Nathan V. advises, "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas."
RV site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. Beth G. mentioned that at Taylor's Beach Campground there are "uneven sloped site so come prepared," while praising its "beautiful location, great owners, very clean and well kept."
