Glamping near Rutland, Michigan offers diverse lakeside and forest accommodations with convenient access to both natural attractions and nearby towns. The area sits at the junction of several watersheds including the Grand River and Flat River drainage systems, creating numerous recreational water opportunities. Most locations experience warm summers with average July temperatures around 82°F and cold winters, making May through October the primary camping season.
What to Do
Hiking around Sessions Lake: The trail system at Ionia State Recreation Area encircles Sessions Lake with scenic views. "There is a great 3.5 mile hike around the lake with really beautiful lake views and a great beach for swimming," notes visitor Jenna M. The interconnected paths accommodate different skill levels.
Kayaking on no-wake lakes: Several area lakes prohibit motorized boats, creating peaceful paddling environments. "Great lake for fishing, swimming, kyaking or small boating. Scenic views on trails around the lake," says Jo H. about Ionia's lakes. Non-motorized boats can be launched from designated areas at most parks.
Winter mushroom hunting: Fall and spring offer unique foraging opportunities in the area's mixed hardwood forests. "Hunting for mushrooms, fishing, swimming in the lake, building forts, riding bikes. Big sites! This place was the perfect get away," explains Heather H. about activities at Ionia State Recreation Area.
Disc golf course access: Multiple courses exist within campground properties. At Tyler Creek, campers mention the well-maintained course: "It's on a golf course which is something new and exciting!" says Angela J. Many courses are free for campers to use.
What Campers Like
Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with substantial natural buffers. At Fort Custer Recreation Area, "We found a campsite that was large with vegetation separating us from neighbors," reports Art S. Site 51 is described as "extremely secluded" by Hannah, who adds "we had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!"
Clean, sandy beaches: The inland lakes feature well-maintained swimming areas. Joshua E. notes that at Ionia Recreation Area, "The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan or lakes with lots of boats and waves to deal with. Nice and sandy and a nice store and ice cream shop at the beach."
Family-friendly organized activities: Scheduled events occur regularly at most glamping sites. At Welcome Woods Family Campground, "They offer both rustic and water and electric sites. This is a family campground and my kids loved the playground!" reports Joie V., adding "They also have a dock you can rent space and keep your boat in the lake."
Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution allows for stargazing. "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," says Janet N. about Fort Custer Recreation Area. Some campgrounds host meteor shower viewing events during summer months.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, especially for specialized accommodations. "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'," mentions Joie V. about Welcome Woods. Reservations typically open 6 months in advance.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality and cleanliness of restrooms differs between locations. Rachel P. notes about Ionia State Recreation Area: "I had read other reviews saying that the bathrooms were terrible. I did not find them to be all that bad. They were certainly dated, but I found the bathrooms and showers to be kept as clean as they could be."
Electrical hookup distances: Extension cords may be necessary at some sites. Nick W. reports about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground: "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 limitations: Facilities operate primarily from May through October. "We camped here early in the season all the campers where very friendly," mentions Gina K. about Tyler Creek. Off-season camping may be available at select locations with reduced amenities.
Tips for Camping with Families
Child-friendly lake swimming: Shallow entry points make water activities safer for young children. According to Joshua E., "The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan."
Free water equipment rentals: Some locations offer complimentary water recreation gear. At Camp Michawana, "The lake nearby is clean and they have a swimming spot for kids and adults. Boats and kayaks are free to use if the lifeguard is on duty. There is also fishing rods to use for free," shares Rich.
Themed weekend activities: Special events enhance family camping experiences. Bailey C. explains that Camp Michawana "is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite. They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Nature encounters occur regularly throughout the region. Joanie C. reports from her stay at Double RR Ranch RV Resort: "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing. Seen lots of wildlife."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks or equipment. Michael S. notes about Ionia, "To say the sites are uneven is putting it mildly. For 15 sites, you seriously can't level them?"
Dump station lines: Wait times can be significant during peak checkout periods. Bob B. mentions about Fort Custer Recreation Area: "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long."
Large rig access considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger setups better than others. At Sleepy Hollow, Nick W. reports: "We tried several lots and couldn't reach any of the outlets. We finally met a couple who said they had extensions at the office."
Site depth limitations: Trailer positioning may be restricted at certain locations. Joshua E. advises about Ionia Recreation Area: "The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight. There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites."
