Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers accessible equestrian camping options near Pewamo, Michigan. Located approximately 30 miles from Pewamo in Laingsburg, the park spans 2,600 acres with Lake Ovid at its center. Winter temperatures in this region frequently drop below freezing from November through March, while summer daytime highs typically range from 75-85°F. The park maintains open camping status year-round, though water access points close during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sleepy Hollow State Park provides access to Lake Ovid with specific fishing spots. "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: Trail systems connect throughout the park with varying difficulty levels for day hikes or overnight trips. Jacob B. considers it the "best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital" at Sleepy Hollow, adding that there are "fun backpacking trails" with "fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, geocaching available."
Horseback riding excursions: Double RR Ranch RV Resort offers guided horseback rides suitable for beginners. Joanie C. reports they "enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids" at Double RR Ranch RV Resort.
Swimming and beach activities: Several campgrounds offer lake access with designated swimming areas. "Nice beach but you have to walk a short distance to get there," explains Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground's beach facilities on Lake Ovid.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer secluded sites. Amy D. from Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground notes, "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right."
Modern facilities: Clean bathhouses and showers rank high on camper satisfaction. Nathan V. reports, "Bathrooms are well spaced between the campsites, and have showers along with some vending machines outside of them. Spigots are scattered throughout and are very accessible."
Family-friendly activities: Seasonal events and regular weekend programming keep younger campers engaged. "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," advises Stephanie C.
Waterfront views: Lake access sites are particularly popular at Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins. Nora M. shares that "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here."
What you should know
Electrical access challenges: At some sites, power connections require planning ahead. Nick W. cautions about Sleepy Hollow: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Site conditions can vary greatly by season. Mike W. notes, "We go to sleepy hollow about every other year. Normally we go closer to the fall and it is a great park. This time, however, we could tell that the staff does not keep up on it as much. The firepit was surrounded by water, and our site really only had dry space for one tent."
Distance to amenities: Beach and recreation areas may require transportation from campsites. "The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach," advises Nathan V.
Reservation requirements: Eaton County Fairgrounds camping near Pewamo uses a self-service system. Joann S. explains, "Pull in and pick your own site and the site manager will come by and collect your money for night stayed. In fact, we enjoyed it so much we called to ask for another night, without hesitation."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with structured children's programs. At Duke Creek Campground, Becky P. shares, "Your kids will LOVE this place-we had a blast! Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!"
Space considerations: Reserve larger sites when camping with multiple children. According to Diane O., Duke Creek offers "family owned dog friendly" camping where "kids have activities hay rack rides and train rides heated pool tent and travel trailer."
Cabin options: Consider cabins for easier family camping experiences. Nolyn S. from Scalley Lake Park Campground reports it's an "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!"
Walking distances: Plan for transportation between campsite and beach/playground areas. Stephanie C. advises about Sleepy Hollow: "There is a beach and playground, but it is quite the walk from the campground. Plan to drive or bike ride if you have trouble walking long distances."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Bring long extension cords for electrical hookups. Nathan V. recommends, "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."
Site selection: Choose riverfront sites when available for added recreation options. Joanie C. shares about camping at Double RR Ranch: "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing."
Fairground alternatives: Consider county fairgrounds for affordable full-hookup options. Northstorm T. notes that Eaton County Fairgrounds offers "Only $20 nightly, full hookup, nice wooded sites. Very peaceful when there are no ongoing events. Large bath house with Showers."
Seasonal camping considerations: AC capabilities become important during summer months. Amy D. explains, "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. The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment."
