Rutland area campgrounds offer diverse camping experiences through all four seasons. Waterways define many camping options, with the Maple River providing fishing spots and several small lakes offering swimming opportunities. Sites range from walk-in rustic experiences to full-hookup RV sites with varying levels of privacy depending on the campground's terrain and vegetation.
What to do
Hiking trails: Sessions Lake at Ionia State Recreation Area features multiple trail options for exploring. "There are many hiking trails to choose from, we choose the 'turkey trail'. The trail was well marked but got quite confusing about 3/4 in," notes one visitor who appreciated the stone bridges along the route.
Fishing opportunities: The no-wake lake at Ionia Recreation Area is popular for anglers seeking a quieter experience. A camper mentioned, "Nice camping. Great lake for fishing, swimming, kyaking or small boating. Scenic views on trails around the lake."
Disc golf: Bertha Brock County Park maintains a highly-rated disc golf course accessible to campers. One visitor reported, "The disc golf here is one of the best courses I have played."
Horse watching: Some campgrounds in the area support equestrian activities. A camper suggested, "Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses."
What campers like
Lake views and water activities: Sleepy Hollow State Park on Ovid Lake provides water recreation options. "Rangers working the area are very friendly. Many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging," shared a visitor who appreciated the various accommodation types.
Private sites: Many campers value privacy at their sites. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," noted one camper at Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Firewood availability: Most established campgrounds in the region sell firewood on-site, saving campers from bringing their own. A camper at Maple River Campground mentioned they "had a beautiful riverfront spot where we were able to put our camper parallel to the water instead of backed in!"
Riverfront camping: Several campgrounds offer sites directly on waterways. "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," reported a visitor to Maple River Campground.
What you should know
Site reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Ionia Recreation Area, campers should note that some sites require hiking in: "Once you do figure out that you have to drive to acolyte back end of park to register then turn all the way back around and find hidden non marked campground, you'll soon realize they are walk/hike in sites."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and availability of restrooms differ significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Tyler Creek noted, "The bathrooms are in terrible shape. They need major repairs. I did see the staff cleaning them several times but they are in such awful shape it didn't really make a difference."
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge for services beyond the site rental. A camper at Maple River Campground reported, "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station."
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities close during winter months. While Ionia Recreation Area remains open year-round, most campgrounds operate from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Welcome Woods Family Campground shared, "This is a family campground and my kids loved the playground! They also have a dock you can rent space and keep your boat in the lake."
Swimming options: Multiple locations offer swimming beaches or pools. "With Covid all my camping plans changed but the good part was I ended up finding this place! Close to home but feels 'up north'. They offer both rustic and water and electric sites," noted a camper at Welcome Woods.
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs are available at some parks. A long-time visitor to Ionia Recreation Area mentioned, "Our kids enjoyed this park every year while growing up. Hunting for mushrooms, fishing, swimming in the lake, building forts, riding bikes. Big sites! This place was the perfect get away."
Site selection for families: Look for larger sites when camping with children. "This is great campground for family's it's peaceful and for the most part a quiet campground. A short walk or bike ride to the beach of Sessions Lake or even to the peninsula to fish from dock," shared a camper about Ionia Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Power connectivity: Electrical service varies by campground, with some offering limited amperage. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, RVers should come prepared: "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."
Site leveling: Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. At Bertha Brock Park, an RVer noted, "They say the can only fit 30 foot rvs but I was able to get my 33 foot in 2 sites. about 5 sites I seen can accommodate larger rvs."
Accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds are suitable for larger RVs. Research site dimensions before booking to ensure compatibility with your rig size.
