Camping sites within a 30-mile radius of Stanton, Michigan offer diverse outdoor accommodations across Montcalm County. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with predominantly sandy soil and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during camping season, with occasional thunderstorms affecting camping conditions during peak months.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground provides clean shallow beaches and good fishing opportunities. According to Russell S., the park offers "small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean (but slightly dated) facilities led to fun times with grandkids."
Disc golf course: Newaygo State Park Campground features an excellent disc golf course alongside its rustic camping experience. Ryan L T. mentions, "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."
Kayaking on no-wake lakes: The smaller lakes provide peaceful paddling experiences without motorboat traffic. At Maple River Campground, Karen notes, "had a beautiful riverfront spot where we were able to put our camper parallel to the water instead of backed in! It was beautiful."
Exploring hiking trails: Several parks offer walking paths through wooded areas. Nathan V. describes Sleepy Hollow State Park as having "many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging. The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach."
What campers like
Private campsites: Ionia State Recreation Area receives praise for its secluded spots. Rachel P. shares, "After looking around the campground, there were numerous spots that were very secluded and private. There were beautiful walking trails all around, and the lake was very pretty."
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic in some cases, most campgrounds maintain good bathrooms. According to Gabrielle S. at Snow Lake Kampground, "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric. Has a pool, hot tub, mini golf, shuffleboard, and so much more!"
Waterfront access: Direct water access ranks high among camper priorities. Nolyn S. describes Scalley Lake Park Campground as an "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
Weekend activities: Organized events enhance the glamping close to Stanton experience. Clint from Snow Lake Kampground shares, "Every weekend they have a theme. We stayed when they had the country western weekend. They had all kinds of stuff going on for kids. Pony rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, games and activities."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping near Stanton operates between May and October due to Michigan's weather patterns. School Section Lake Veteran's Park notes a season from "May 1 to Oct 1."
Limited dog access: Some campgrounds restrict pets. Edmund P. warns about School Section Lake: "Great park that offers both seasonal and weekend campers. No dogs allowed so make sure you plan accordingly."
Electrical hookup locations: Be prepared with extension cords at some campgrounds. Nick W. mentions at Sleepy Hollow: "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots... This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Additional fees: Brower Park Campground and others may charge for boat access or daily use. Joshua E. notes, "Be prepared for extra fees for your cars and boats, the sites are still so fairly priced it's really not that bad."
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Choose campgrounds with gradual-entry swimming areas. Bethany S. says Brower Park Campground "has a large swimming area, nice sandy beach along the swimming area, play grounds, everything is clean and well kept."
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled children's programs. According to Russell S., School Section Lake has "weekend activities for the kids. Make sure you bring insect repellent!"
Biking opportunities: Sandy Beach County Park provides safe cycling areas for children. Greg N. shares, "The kids got to ride their bikes in a safe and friendly environment. All of our neighbors were friendly. It was clearly a popular place for families who liked to play on and near the water."
Space considerations: Some sites may be close together. Beth C. notes about Snow Lake Kampground, "It's a really fun place for kids with lots going on over the weekend. There's a decent pool, with a TON of rules. Free putt putt. Nice place for them to ride bikes."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs. At Double RR Ranch RV Resort, Joanie C. recommends, "We always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing."
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full connections. Heather Q. describes Brower Park: "Each site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Electricity and water hookup is included at each site."
Site dimensions: Check space requirements before booking. Jordyn W. cautions about School Section Lake: "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs."
Extension cords: Bring additional electrical cables as a precaution. According to Nick W., "We finally got set up with an extension cord from the camp office" at Sleepy Hollow State Park.
