Rustic camping options near Paris, Michigan range from secluded forest settings to lakefront properties across Mecosta and Newaygo counties. The region's sandy soil and abundant inland lakes create ideal conditions for both primitive tent camping and upscale glamping experiences. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55°F at night to 82°F during daytime.
What to do
Water activities at Highbank Lake: The small, quiet lake offers excellent fishing and swimming opportunities with a sandy beach area. "The campground is small and quiet, has a vault toilet and drinking water. The beach is sandy, lots of frogs and some sites right on the lake," notes one Highbank Lake Campground visitor.
Disc golf adventures: Newaygo State Park offers an exceptional disc golf course that draws enthusiasts from across the region. "I stayed here for a couple nights while I was on a business trip up that way, because camping is way cooler than staying at hotels. There's good hiking, an awesome disc golf course, and the lake right there with boat launches for fishing," explains a Newaygo State Park Campground camper.
Hiking trails exploration: The Dragon Trail near Brower Park offers a 47-mile loop around Hardy Pond with spectacular views. "The park is right next to the Dragon Trail, a hiking and mountain biking trail that runs 47 miles round Hardy Pond. There is a short loop called the Brower Park Loop that has some amazing views and is great to hike," shares a visitor to Brower Park.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer generously sized sites that provide a sense of seclusion. "Spacious, friendly staff," notes a camper at Newaygo State Park, while another adds, "Very wooded and spread out among the campsites! Close to the water, and there's a trail along the perimeter of the campground with amazing views."
Rustic camping experiences: For those seeking a more primitive experience, several campgrounds maintain a truly rustic atmosphere. "I love camping here to get away from the city living. No electric and pit toilets which are pretty clean!" shares a visitor to Newaygo State Park.
Family-friendly activities: Sandy Beach County Park offers numerous options for families. "Out family is new to the RV life, and we really enjoyed staying here after the Fourth of July. The kids got to ride their bikes in a safe and friendly environment. All of our neighbors were friendly. It was clearly a popular place for families who liked to play on and near the water."
What you should know
Rustic facilities at some locations: Many sites offer only basic amenities. At Shelley Lake Campground, "The bathrooms are not vaults they are true outhouses with fencing for walls and no roof. Bring your own toilet paper and water."
Additional fees: Be prepared for extra costs beyond the base camping rate. At Brower Park, "Be prepared for extra fees for your cars and boats, the sites are still so fairly priced its really not that bad."
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping near Paris, Michigan operates seasonally. School Section Lake Veteran's Park operates from May 1 to October 1, while Highbank Lake is available from mid-May to late September. Sandy Beach County Park runs from May 15 to September 15.
Limited signage: Some campgrounds can be difficult to locate. "First we didn't find a sign- just a gravel circle next to the road. At the back of the gravel we found a small sign pointing down a narrow road (it didn't say any names)," reports a Shelley Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is something for everyone here. Tent, camper, or RV and fun for all ages with everything from 3 playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and tennis courts, to a boat launch, fishing pier, and fish cleaning station," notes a camper at Brower Park Campground.
Kid-friendly swimming: Look for locations with shallow swimming areas. "Swim area is great... You can go 200 ft. out before it gets deep... Hayrides and movies on the weekend..." shares a visitor to Brower Park.
Activity stations for children: Some luxury glamping sites near Paris offer specialized children's activities. At Pine Meadows, "There is a spot among the pine trees with a large fairy display and little hide-aways for kids. Honesty, I can't wait to bring my grandchildren to this!"
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds have paved or well-maintained roads. "I bring the kids to this park every 4th of July weekend, we absolutely love it. I always reserve my site on the Poplar side, due to it having closer access to the lake to swim. Outhouses and water and pump are a bonus. The drive is paved so we always bring bikes for the kiddos!"
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. At School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground, "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs."
Surface conditions: Be prepared for potential mud after rain. One RVer noted, "My site was a back in with not a lot of maneuvering room but even though some may feel these sites are small, we had plenty of space, very good water, and full hook up. I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy."
Dumping stations: Many campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations, though some more rustic locations do not. Check availability before arrival, particularly for longer stays in luxury glamping accommodations near Paris, Michigan.
