Cabin camping near Pewamo, Michigan centers around seasonal options with most sites open from May through October due to the region's snowy winters. Located in Ionia County at approximately 800 feet above sea level, this area features rolling farmland punctuated by several lakes and the Maple River. Temperatures range from summer highs around 80°F to winter lows in the teens, making spring through fall the prime camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing excursions: The Maple River offers good catches for anglers at Maple River Campground, where one visitor described the experience: "We were on site 6, and there was plenty of space! We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river. It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too."
Hiking trails: Explore the walking paths at Bertha Brock County Park where visitors appreciate the well-maintained natural areas. "It was only $2 to enter the park. There was three hiking trails to choose from, we choose the 'turkey trail'. The trail was well marked but got quite confusing about 3/4 in. Tons of fun things to see here, beautiful stone bridges," notes one day visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings are best for spotting local wildlife. "Lots of turtles and ducks to be seen," writes one visitor about Maple River Campground. For birdwatchers, the area's waterways attract seasonal migrations in spring and fall.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several local water bodies accommodate paddlers. "I hosted a Kayak/Canoe trip and we used this location for our landing and camping. It was a great little location that even had some river side cabins you could rent," explains one Maple River Campground visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many cabin rentals offer good separation from neighbors. At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, a camper noted, "Campsites are decent sized, can fit probably 3 four person tents per site, which includes a concrete firepit and picnic table."
Natural settings: Tree coverage varies by location. "In the north campsites there is a lot of tree covering, and there are a lot of walnut trees," mentions one Sleepy Hollow visitor, while another adds, "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right."
Quiet atmosphere: Less crowded options exist for those seeking tranquility. At Bertha Brock County Park, a camper described it as "Peaceful. But off of m21 and located not too far from ionia county correctional facility (jail). Very beautiful but buggy."
Water proximity: Several cabins offer water access. "We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river," explains a Maple River visitor, while at Wabasis Lake County Park, "Sites on the shoreline are great for fishing (although shallow and weedy) or boating in."
What you should know
Electrical access: Extension cords are essential at certain locations. At Sleepy Hollow, "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," advises one camper.
Shower facilities: Policies vary regarding shower access. At Snow Lake Kampground, "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric." However, some parks charge additional fees for shower use.
Seasonal limitations: Weather affects camping experiences. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020... Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan," explains one Sleepy Hollow visitor.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is necessary, particularly in wooded areas. "Bertha Brock is a great place for families... Bugs (mosquitoes) can get pretty bad, bring lots of bug spray!" warns one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Theme weekends: Special events enhance family visits. At Snow Lake Kampground, "Every weekend they have a theme. We stayed when they had the country western weekend. They had all kinds of stuff going on for kids. Pony rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, games and activities."
Playgrounds: Multiple parks offer recreational equipment. At Double RR Ranch RV Resort, "There is a campstore, Firepits, large trees, they do hayrides for kids, too. We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids."
Beach access: Swimming options exist at certain locations. Wabasis Lake County Park features "a large beach with playground equipment, kayak and boat rentals," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "The lake access was very busy," indicating popularity during summer months.
Family-friendly trails: Walking paths accommodate various skill levels. "It is generally quiet, especially on non holiday weekends," reports a Bertha Brock visitor, making it suitable for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for terrain variations. At Wabasis Lake County Park, "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)."
Full hookup considerations: Utility access varies by location. At Snow Lake Kampground, a reviewer states, "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp," providing essential information for RV campers requiring complete services.
Reservation timing: Booking early is crucial. "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," advises a Wabasis Lake visitor.
Campground policies: Rules differ between facilities. Snow Lake Kampground has "so many seasonal that they have become the bread and butter. Don't seem to care bout weekender. Every time you turn around there's another rule and/or fee," according to one critical review, highlighting the importance of researching policies before arriving.
