Best Campgrounds near Rutland, MI

Camping near Rutland, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Fort Custer Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, "We took full advantage of the mountain bike trails which are very easily accessed from the campground."
• Fishing and Kayaking: Head to Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground for some fishing or kayaking. A camper shared, "The dog beach was small and full of algae," but it’s still a great spot for water activities.
• Disc Golf: Enjoy a round of disc golf at Newaygo State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "Ample activities in the area (hiking, disc golf, biking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, tubing and stargazing)."

What campers like:

• Secluded Sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Bishop Lake Campground. A visitor said, "The sites were spaced and wooded for shade and privacy."
• Friendly Atmosphere: Many enjoy the welcoming vibe at Walnut Hills Family Campground. One camper mentioned, "These are legitimately nice folks who enjoy interacting with campers."
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers often praise the cleanliness of the facilities at Pinckney State Recreation Area. A review stated, "The campground was decent. The sites were spaced and wooded for shade and privacy."

What you should know:

• Bug Spray is Essential: Be prepared for bugs at Fort Custer Recreation Area. One camper warned, "It was EXTREMELY buggy. If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit."
• Limited Showers: Some campgrounds, like Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, have limited shower facilities. A visitor noted, "I found myself waiting in a line every time I wanted a shower."
• Noise Levels: Expect some noise, especially during busy weekends. A camper at Newaygo State Park Campground mentioned, "Two nights of brain damaging laughter and frivolity by campsite 21 ruined the whole experience."

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. At Walnut Hills Family Campground, one parent said, "The bounce thingy on the pond" was a hit with the kids.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Choose campgrounds that enforce quiet hours. A camper at Bruin Lake Campground appreciated that "the staff kept noise and other stupidity tamped down."
• Pack Games and Outdoor Gear: Bring along games and outdoor equipment. One family at Bishop Lake Campground enjoyed their time fishing and playing together.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites at Newaygo State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Most sites are large and separated from the next."
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Bishop Lake Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The sites are electric (30a and/or 50a) only."
• Plan for Limited Cell Service: Be aware that some areas may have poor cell service. A camper at Pinckney State Recreation Area said, "With T-Mobile, Internet service was practically non-existent."

Camping near Portland, MI, and Rutland offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. Just remember to pack your bug spray and enjoy the great outdoors!