Camping sites near Remus, Michigan offer forest and lakefront camping options with opportunities for water recreation and family activities in the central Michigan region. Located in Mecosta County at approximately 1,060 feet elevation, the area features several inland lakes with sandy bottoms suitable for swimming. Campgrounds typically receive 33 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush wooded settings around the numerous waterways.
What to do
Disc golf and fishing: The Newaygo State Park Campground offers excellent disc golf and fishing opportunities. "There's good hiking, an awesome disc golf course, and the lake right there with boat launches for fishing. If you're not into fishing or disc golf, you might be happier elsewhere, but I love those two things," reports Ryan L T.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide hiking opportunities through wooded areas. At Newaygo State Park, "there are a few trails in the park that are pleasant and the views of the lake are nice." The campground features "a trail along the perimeter of the campground with amazing views. Great stargazing as well," according to Elise R.
Swimming in shallow waters: Many of the local lakes feature gradual entry points ideal for families. "Swim area is great... You can go 200 ft. out before it gets deep," notes Dave B. about Brower Park Campground. The sand-bottom lakes make for comfortable wading and swimming during summer months.
What campers like
Large, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious camping spots in the region. At Brower Park, "most of the sites are pretty large and all 3 areas of the campground are nice and a little different in their own way." Sites often feature mature trees providing shade during hot summer days.
Clean facilities: Weidman KOA receives high marks for maintenance. "The facilities were spotless and the staff were very helpful and friendly. Rather than clearing all the trees the sites were developed around many mature trees which makes for a much more attractive setting. The bathrooms/showers were immaculate," reports Gerard.
Lake access: Water access ranks high on camper preferences. "Small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean (but slightly dated) facilities led to fun times with grandkids," writes Russell S. about School Section Lake. The various lakes provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Site sizing considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger camping setups. "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs," notes Jordyn W. about School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground. Check site dimensions before booking.
Seasonal camping schedule: Most campgrounds operate from April/May through October, with limited winter options. Mecosta Pines Campground has a longer season than most, open "Mar 1 to Nov 15," allowing for early spring and late fall camping opportunities.
Rustic camping options: For those seeking fewer amenities, the region offers several more primitive sites. Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground provides a unique experience: "Tubbs island was gorgeous! There is Tubbs mainland and Tubbs island and both you're welcome to but I recommend staying on the island. It's more of a peninsula then an island but it's wonderfully cut off," shares Michael W.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: At Mecosta Pines Campground, one family noted, "We initially booked a site by the river, but once we saw the sites next to the playground, we knew we had to switch for our sanity and so our toddler could play. They were very accommodating with us and so friendly. There was so much for our 2 year old and 10 year old to do."
Weekend activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events for children. "Super nice and relatively cheap campground with so many things to do! Love the back woods with trails for bike riding or a quick walk," shares Sarah G. about Brower Park. During summer weekends, many campgrounds offer additional structured activities.
Pet policies vary: Some campgrounds have strict rules about pets. Lakeview Family Campground allows pets, while School Section Lake has limitations: "No dogs allowed so make sure you plan accordingly," advises Edmund P. Always check pet policies before booking, especially if traveling with animals.
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Be prepared for natural ground conditions. At Brower Park, one camper noted, "My only complaint the whole time was Monday morning the area we were in, the 'honey wagon' was going around and pumping the seasonal campers black tanks. It made a pretty un-appetizing smell while we were trying to eat breakfast."
Hookup availability: Water and electric hookups are common, but full-service sites are limited. "We had plenty of space, very good water, and full hook up. I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy," mentions Russell S. about camping at School Section Lake.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points for larger rigs. "The sites are deep but many are close together," notes one camper about Newaygo State Park Campground, indicating the importance of checking site dimensions and access road width before attempting to navigate with large RVs.
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