Spring Lake's camping options extend beyond the luxury glamping scene to include diverse sites across Muskegon County's varied terrain. The area experiences Lake Michigan's coastal climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Campgrounds near Spring Lake often feature sandy soil conditions due to the region's glacial history, creating well-draining campsites but sometimes challenging tent staking.
What to do
Kayak the White River: White River RV Park & Campground offers convenient kayaking access with put-in points upstream. "We brought our kayaks and just brought one vehicle up the river to the start point to put in and got out right at the campground," notes Cassondra P., highlighting the convenient water access.
Winter sports complex access: During colder months, the winter sports complex across from Lake Michigan Campground provides multiple snow activities. "Across the road is the Winter complex, sledding, skating, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and luge course. Our kids had a blast here, they have tons of bonfire pits as well," shares Melissa M.
Fishing opportunities: Blue Lake County Park provides less crowded fishing spots than lakefront locations. "Not too many people know about this area, so it's never as busy as some of the Lake Michigan spots. But, the fishing and scenery can't be beat!" according to Stephanie P.
Beach activities: Grand Haven State Park Campground offers beach activities beyond swimming. "The whole area is well kept and there's tons to do on the beach (grills, volleyball, game) etc. Very busy spot during the day in the nice weather months," mentions Kelsey G.
What campers like
Waterfront access: South Channel Campground provides excellent boat-watching opportunities. "Great boat watching. Can watch boats go through channel from campsite, loved watching the lake express," notes Sara G., highlighting this unique feature.
Clean, modern facilities: Pioneer County Park maintains well-kept bathhouses. "Clean bathrooms and showers. Warm water for the showers unlike some I have been to," reports Zach M., emphasizing comfort features that matter to campers.
Winter accommodation options: Lake Michigan Campground offers winter cabin options. "Stayed in Mini Cabin #16 over New Years. Hoped to try Luge at the adventure park but no snow and temps too warm prior to our trip. Cabin sleeps 4 in 2 bunk beds. Mini frig, microwave and table with chairs. Electricity and heat. Great choice for winter camping," explains Kathie M.
Urban proximity: The location of Fisherman's Landing & Campground allows for easy city access. "My hubby went fishing with a buddy... and I went shopping with my friend, had lunch and drinks in downtown Muskegon, which is about a half mile away (by the bike path)," shares Shelly B.
What you should know
Site size limitations: Grand Haven State Park has tight spacing for RVs. "Lakefront access makes this a super cool camping spot for your rig. But the RV area is a concrete parking lot where you're feet from your neighbors," warns Kelsey G.
Reservation requirements: Lake Macatawa Campground at Holland State Park requires advance planning. "It is hard to get into this campground so make your reservations early. The sites are $33 each or $37 for a 50 amp," advises Lydia T.
Alcohol restrictions: Some state parks have strict policies. "Alcohol is NOT allowed and is posted," notes Kathie M. about Muskegon State Park's Channel Campground.
Peak season crowds: Grand Haven State Park Campground becomes extremely busy during summer holidays. "This campground is EXTREMELY hard to get into on the weekends. If you are planning a trip to Grand Haven State Park, be sure to log onto the State Reservation site six months to the date that you want to camp," advises Stephanie C.
Tips for camping with families
Play areas and activities: Chinook Camping offers multiple entertainment options. "This place has it all. Camping, river trips, pool, disc golf course, arcade and so much more. The playground area is so nice & everything is very well kept," reports Melissa F.
Beach proximity: Sites near beach access simplify family outings. "We had one of the sites closest to the beach access which was very nice for us, but since we were there Labor Day weekend(my mistake lol) we had a lot of traffic come through our campsite," shares Julia A. about Pioneer County Park.
Site selection for privacy: Consider site location for larger groups. "If you can get site 127, it will be worth it, corner and facing the pier and the lighthouse. It is very busy and mostly full of RV's and trailers. If you are in a tent, just know that you aren't going to have any privacy," suggests Kristen B. about Grand Haven State Park.
Group camping options: Some locations accommodate larger family gatherings. "Every year we go here with our whole family! We love the group camping area. Multiple bathrooms. Right on Lake Michigan. Great place to spend time with the family," mentions Jamie M. regarding Pioneer County Park.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations critical: At Lake Macatawa Campground — Holland State Park, booking well in advance is necessary. "Bigish shaded sites around site 98. Near relatively new bathhouse. 98 is near the road but it's not too noticeable except when the same loud obnoxious vehicles goes by every early evening," notes Renee G.
Site leveling considerations: Blue Lake County Park sites may require adjustments. "15amp outlet was tricky and popped everytime we plugged anything into it. 30amp plug worked fine," reports Dakota R.
Limited full hookup options: Many area campgrounds lack complete services. "And no full hook up sites. We also found the bathrooms to be very disgusting. Very dirty and not kept up," warns Clint about Chinook Camping.
Winter camping preparation: For cold weather RVing, Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park offers cleared sites. "Campground was nice in the winter our spot was plowed out and had a reserved cone at it, the bathrooms are closed and water is off but the outhouse is open," explains Melissa M.
