RV camping options around St. Johns, Michigan include both state park and private facilities within a 40-mile radius. The area features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 800-900 feet above sea level. Most camping areas remain open from April through October, with limited year-round options due to Michigan's snowy winters.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake activities at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground include fishing for largemouth bass and bluegill. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge bluegills," notes one visitor. The park offers multiple water access points.
Trail exploration: Miles of hiking paths provide recreational opportunities throughout the camping season. "Best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital," mentions a Sleepy Hollow camper. Most trails remain open year-round, though winter access requires proper footwear.
Golf access: Several campgrounds offer golf course access as part of your stay. At Double RR Ranch RV Resort in Belding, "my husband liked the golf course that came with renting spot," reports one camper. Call ahead for tee times and current rates.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. At Crooked Lake Campground and RV Park, "our campsite was huge and mostly private," notes one reviewer. Confirm specific site dimensions when booking.
Water recreation: Many parks feature multiple water activities beyond swimming. One camper at Crooked Lake explains, "This area is great for paddling. You can start at Crooked Lake and follow a little water trail to Pickerel to swim at a small beach."
Weekend activities: Organized events keep younger campers entertained at Three Seasons Campground in Greenville. "Weekend activities for the kids, pool, rent kayaks and paddle boats, new beach, game room with new games, karaoke, hayrides, theme parties or weekends," lists one satisfied visitor.
What you should know
Electrical access challenges: Power post locations can be problematic at some parks. At Sleepy Hollow, "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."
Guest policies vary: Visitor fees and restrictions differ between rv parks near St. Johns, Michigan. At Alice Springs RV Park & Resort, "we had some guests come in for a couple hours and they were charging them $5 per person to get in." Confirm guest policies before inviting visitors.
Seasonal considerations: Heat can be challenging in peak summer. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020... Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Several St. Johns area campgrounds offer water park partnerships. At Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park, "you get discounts at the water park! 4th of July fireworks the best and so close!" Packages may include admission for multiple family members.
Playground assessment: Playground quality varies widely between parks. Pine Ridge RV Campground has "extremely outdated" play equipment according to one review, noting "it's telling that you almost never see kids riding bikes or playing in the park."
Swimming options: Beach access requires planning at certain locations. At Sleepy Hollow, "There is a beach and playground, but it is quite the walk from the campground. Plan to drive or bike ride if you have trouble walking long distances."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Concrete pads eliminate the need for leveling at several St. Johns area rv parks. At Holiday Shores RV Park in Durand, "Our lot had a cement pad which required no leveling. The electrical, water and sewer connections were all easy to access."
Extension cord needs: Electrical post placement may require extra equipment. One Sleepy Hollow camper advises, "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."
Utility placement: Full-hookup sites offer varying levels of convenience. At Holiday Shores, "The electrical, water and sewer connections were all easy to access and each lot had a picnic table and fire ring!" Always check connection locations before selecting a specific site.
