Twin Lake, Michigan serves as a hub for family camping experiences in West Michigan, approximately 15 miles north of Muskegon. The area features sandy beaches along Lake Michigan shores and inland lakes with water temperatures that average 70°F during summer months. Campsites near Twin Lake typically open from May through mid-October with seasonal closures due to Michigan's winter conditions.
What to do
Beach activities at Lake Michigan: Several campgrounds offer direct or nearby access to Lake Michigan beaches. At Muskegon State Park's Lake Michigan Campground, visitors can enjoy the sandy shoreline. "The beach is right there at the campground, which is absolutely great. The woods surrounding are great for hiking, and we were excited to find geocaches around the park," notes Emma W. about Muskegon State Park Lake Michigan Campground.
River tubing and kayaking: Water recreation on local rivers provides family-friendly activities. Chinook Camping offers convenient river trips. "This is a great campground for tubing down the river. They rent the tubes right at the campground, take you up river, and then you get out of the river back at the campground," explains a visitor of Chinook Camping.
Winter activities: Camping doesn't stop when temperatures drop. Some parks offer winter-specific amenities. "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. about winter camping at Muskegon State Park.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Many campers appreciate waterfront views and swimming opportunities. At Blue Lake County Park, campers enjoy the secluded setting. "Very pretty small campground right on blue lake. Lots of wildlife. We stayed at site 1 best views of the whole site. A little tricky to make work but definitely best site. Beautiful sunset," reports Dakota R. about Blue Lake County Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high on camper priorities. "The staff did a great job keeping things clean and well stocked. My site was right next to the beach access, and it was fantastic!" remarks Holly S. about the Lake Michigan Campground.
Downtown access: Some campgrounds provide convenient access to urban amenities while still offering waterfront experiences. At Fisherman's Landing, one camper explains: "Located in downtown on Muskegon Lake, this campground is not much; HOWEVER, it offers all the ability to experience much!!! 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. about Fisherman's Landing & Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites, especially during peak season. At Pioneer County Park, a camper notes: "This camp ground is very crowded, during the summer. The sites are close together, dirt, grass and semi-level. They have water, electric, dump station, firepit & picnic table. There is a path to Lake Michigan. The beach is small but there is access to swimming." Lora H. advises about Pioneer County Park.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with Lake Michigan access. Planning ahead is essential for securing spots during summer months. Some campgrounds offer year-round availability while others operate seasonally from May through October.
Variable amenities: Fire restrictions and basic facilities differ between parks. At Grand Haven State Park, Sara G. suggests: "Campfires are not allowed. Suggest bringing your Coleman grill as campfires are not allowed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Oak Knoll Family Campground offers family-oriented amenities. "This was an awesome camping experience with our four kids. Small, fully stocked store with all the necessities. Extremely friendly and welcoming staff. The campground is clean, but very small spaces for each site," shares Amanda K. about Oak Knoll Family Campground.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds feature beach access while others have dedicated swimming areas. Look for campgrounds with designated swim beaches for safer water activities with children.
Camp store essentials: Campgrounds with on-site stores provide convenience for families. Joie V. notes about Chinook Camping: "Basically everything you could need is in the campground or across the street at the store. Campground offers river trips by tube or kayak."
Tips for RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should check site sizes before booking. "The 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," notes Melissa M. about winter RV camping at Muskegon State Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by campground. At White River RV Park & Campground, facilities receive high marks. Ricky M. shares: "Staff was very helpful in making reservations and holding sites for our group. Nice large level sites very helpful staff. Very pleasant long weekend. Reasonable checkout and check in times. In at 3 PM out by 1 PM."
Seasonal limitations: Some parks close water systems during winter months. Check with parks about off-season amenities if planning a non-summer trip with an RV.
