Camping options around St. Johns, Michigan span several state recreation areas and privately owned campgrounds within a 30-40 mile radius. The region features primarily flat to gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 750-850 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds are situated on or near lakes and rivers, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F, making water activities particularly popular from June through August.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Pinckney Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks for hikers. "Best hiking trails within 1hour drive of the state capital. Fun backpacking trails... fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available," notes Jacob B. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several waterways provide paddling opportunities. "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," shares David F. about Maple River Campground.
Fishing access: Local lakes and rivers offer good fishing. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," mentions Michael P. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Mountain biking: Designated trails cater to cycling enthusiasts. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" says Maria G. about Bruin Lake Campground.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded spots right on the water. "We were on site 6, and there was plenty of space! We were able to park the camper with the door facing the river. It was great for fishing, and our dogs had a great time too," shares Alexandra M. about Maple River Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms matter to campers. "Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites," notes Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Accessibility to nature: Many sites provide easy access to outdoor activities. "Hiked in here after work on a Monday, 7 mile minimum if you start at silver lake and take the shortcut. Not very secluded, but a nice spot on the lake still," explains Tee Jay M. about Blind Lake Rustic Campground.
Quiet environment: Campers appreciate peaceful settings. "Loved this place! Quiet, beautiful nature trails and lake," comments Laikyn C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
What you should know
Site preparation: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas," advises Nathan V. from Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Distance to amenities: Beaches and other facilities might not be adjacent to campsites. "The beach was nice but you have to walk a short distance to get there," mentions Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Weather considerations: Hot weather can impact your experience. "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. Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac," shares Amy D. about Sleepy Hollow.
Service fees: Some campgrounds charge for additional services. "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station," notes Alexandra M. about Maple River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Ionia State Recreation Area offers family-friendly water activities. "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," shares Heather H.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "Campground is small but got to know owners just recently purchased last year and are on the uphill of making this a great little place. Great customer service and friendly faces. Other families we met at the pool were super friendly and inviting like we had been coming here for years," explains Melissa L. about Tyler Creek.
Kid-friendly water options: Safer swimming areas for children are available. "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," notes Joshua E. about Ionia State Recreation Area.
Off-peak visits: For quieter family experiences, consider weekday stays. "This is a 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," recommends Nick B. about Ionia State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Electric system limitations: For glamping close to St. Johns, Michigan, know the power capacity. "The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment," notes Amy D. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "To say the sites are uneven is putting it mildly. For 15 sites, you seriously can't level them?" mentions Michael S. about Ionia State Recreation Area.
Site access considerations: Know what to expect regarding site access. "The campground has a lot of motorhomes, families, and larger groups around us but it was still very quiet and peaceful. The rangers were really nice and you could buy ice and firewood at the campground," shares Jenna M. about Ionia State Recreation Area.
Seasonal variations: Some glamping options near St. Johns close seasonally. "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," advises Joshua E. about Ionia Recreation Area.
