Best Campgrounds near Dowling, MI

Camping near Dowling, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

• Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Fort Custer Recreation Area, have trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. One visitor mentioned, "We took full advantage of the mountain bike trails which are very easily accessed from the campground."
• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, check out Ionia State Recreation Area. A reviewer noted, "A lot of fishing spots, even if you are bank fishing."
• Swimming: Many campgrounds have swimming areas. For instance, Sharp Park Campground offers a sandy beach area, and one camper said, "The campground is right on the lake with a sandy beach area for swimming."

What campers like

• Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the scenic views and wooded areas. A visitor at Deep Lake Rustic Campground remarked, "This site was lovely, had a trail up to deep lake."
• Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A camper at Sharp Park Campground said, "Bathrooms and shower was spotless."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One reviewer at Hidden Ridge RV Resort shared, "Great place to stay. Nice folks, wide spaces."

What you should know

• Bug Spray is Essential: Some campgrounds can be buggy, especially in wooded areas. A visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area warned, "It was EXTREMELY buggy. If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit."
• Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Gun Lake Campground noted, "Weekends are always busy. Kids have plenty of room on the beach."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the modern conveniences. A reviewer at Yankee Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "No showers and no sewer hookups."

Tips for camping with families

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. One camper at TriPonds Family Camp Resort said, "Lots of activities for kids and adults."
• Space to Play: Choose campgrounds with open areas for kids to run around. A visitor at Woodchip Campground mentioned, "Great trees surrounding the property. Tons of kids - great activities for them!"
• Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have some downtime. A camper at Hungry Horse Campground noted, "Even when it rains, we have never had a bad time here!"

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Yankee Springs Gun Lake Trail said, "Spaces were too tight, even with a small camper."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need more amenities, check for campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Hidden Ridge RV Resort appreciated the "electric and water hookups."
• Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may not have nearby stores. A visitor at Tyler Creek mentioned, "Not much close to the campground at all."

Camping near Dowling, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!