Pet-friendly camping options near Alma, Michigan stretch across Gratiot and Isabella counties where average summer temperatures range from 75-90°F with humidity typically over 60%. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 700-800 feet, with maple-oak forests dominating the landscape and the Pine River watershed providing fishing opportunities throughout the area.
What to do
River kayaking access: Maple River Campground offers shoreline sites where campers can launch directly from their campsite. "September 9th 2017 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," reports one visitor to Maple River Campground.
Water park activities: Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park provides camping with water park benefits nearby. "It's super close to the casino, you get discounts at the water park! 4th of July fireworks the best and so close!" notes a camper at Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park.
Lake inflatables: Several area lakes feature water toys for family entertainment. "The high lights are the large blow up toys in the lake! The kids love them! Be sure you bring extra money, there is a charge and it's not cheap!" shares a visitor at Lake of Dreams Campground.
What campers like
Full hookup convenience: The region offers numerous sites with complete utility connections. "The park is very nice! The roads were paved and it was very well kept. The sites are all full hook-up," writes a camper about Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park.
Riverfront parking orientation: Some campgrounds allow parallel parking along water features. "Had a beautiful riverfront spot where we were able to put our camper parallel to the water instead of backed in! It was beautiful," reports a visitor at Maple River Campground.
Beach access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas. "This is a great family campground. There are sites right on the river, kayak rentals, pool and hot tub, and a separate swimming hole with sandy beach and inflatable toys!" shares a reviewer at River Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal insect patterns: Flies can be problematic in agricultural areas during certain periods. "This campground is out in farm country so if the occasional smell of manure and a lot of flies bother you then maybe this isn't the campground for you," notes a camper at Leisure Lake Family Campground.
Extension cord requirements: Some electrical hookups require additional equipment. "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," explains a visitor at Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Additional service fees: Some campgrounds charge for standard amenities. "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station. They do have ice and firewood for sale there, but there isn't a little store so you have to leave the campground and drive a few miles for that," reports a camper at Maple River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple swimming venues accommodate different preferences. "We did not use the soaring eagle water park, but were told that the use of the water park is included in your stay at the RV park," mentions a visitor at Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park.
Recreational rental equipment: Various campgrounds offer equipment for daily use. "They also rent row boats, paddle boats, kayaks, tubes, three wheeled bikes and golf carts," reports a camper at Leisure Lake Family Campground.
Children's activities: Just-In-Time Campground offers weekend entertainment. "This place is great for the family, lots of events on the weekend including fireworks or movies on there big screen. Nice private beach and they even have floating trampoline to play on," notes a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: Several parks accommodate larger RVs with specific site configurations. "Pretty basic campground with paved sites and a nice lake. Not much space, trees or privacy," shares a camper about Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park.
Pet facilities: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems. "Rangers working the area are very friendly. Many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging. The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach."
Electrical capacity issues: Hot weather can strain campground systems. "Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan. We were in the midst of a heat-wave though and it was much appreciated. The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment."
Traveler
