Camping options near Wayland, Michigan span rustic to full-service sites across the region's rolling hills and lakeshores. The area's continental climate features warm summers with highs around 80°F and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season. Most campgrounds in the Wayland area operate from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, campers can enjoy multiple no-wake lakes perfect for fishing, swimming, and paddling. "We loved our site as it's close to the trails for riding. The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites," notes one visitor. The recreation area offers extensive trail systems for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Disc golf courses: Ionia State Recreation Area features a well-maintained disc golf course along with numerous outdoor activities. "There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing," reports one camper. The park's varied terrain creates challenging and scenic disc golf experiences.
Fishing spots: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities, including Indian Valley Campground along the Thornapple River. "Indian Valley Campground is right on the thorn apple river! Great sites, some with electric, they even have a few cabins for rent," writes one visitor. The river provides excellent fishing for multiple species and canoe/kayak rentals for river exploration.
What campers like
Private camping spots: For those seeking seclusion, WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers intimate camping experiences. "Private, clean, and relaxing... It was beautiful with solar lights at night and a private beach. Great swimming, in a very private area. It also has great trails for walking," shares one camper. With only three sites available, advance reservations are essential.
Camping with lake access: Welcome Woods Family Campground provides direct lake access for fishing and boating. "They offer both rustic and water and electric sites. This is a family campground and my kids loved the playground! They also have a dock you can rent space and keep your boat in the lake. Great fishing," notes a visitor. The campground maintains clean facilities and offers a well-stocked store with reasonably priced items.
Amenities for extended stays: For those planning longer camping trips, Hungry Horse Campground provides numerous conveniences. "We have two young girls and they had plenty to do all week during our stay. Multiple playgrounds, toddler pool and regular pool, jump pad, and lots of room to run around," writes one camper. The campground also offers honey wagon service for non-sewer sites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season weekends. Bookings often open 6 months in advance for popular sites.
Campground accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain or specific site configurations. At Ionia State Recreation Area, navigation can be difficult: "Pretty much the worst signage I've seen in Michigan State Recreation Area. Once you do figure out that you have to drive to absolute back end of park to register then turn all the way back around and find hidden non marked campground, you'll soon realize they are walk/hike in sites."
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Wayland, Michigan, Michawana Campground offers alternative accommodations alongside traditional camping. "Beautiful large sites on a lake," mentions one visitor. Fort Custer Recreation Area also provides yurt rentals as an alternative to tent or RV camping, making it a prime destination for yurt camping in the Wayland area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-specific activities: Family-friendly campgrounds often offer organized activities. "Kid friendly! This park always finds a way to have something fun for the kids to do," notes one camper about Hidden Ridge RV Resort. Many campgrounds schedule weekend activities specifically for children.
Look for water features: Campgrounds with swimming opportunities rank highly with families. At Michawana Campground, "The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite. They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall."
Consider bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, bathroom location matters. "The bathroom and showers are a pretty far walk so plan on driving or riding bikes. They do have outhouses closer to the sites, which were clean and did not smell," advises a Welcome Woods camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and surfaces: Tyler Creek has been making improvements to their RV sites. "Lots of lot improvement so it's not so bumpy and off level. Neighbors had a problem with their electric box, the owner was there in 5 minutes to fix it," reports one RVer. Inquire about pad material and dimensions when booking.
Dump station timing: At campgrounds without full hookups, plan dump station visits strategically. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," warns one Fort Custer visitor. Midweek or early morning visits typically have shortest wait times.
Shaded vs. open sites: Consider your power needs and seasonal timing when selecting between shaded or open sites. Many campgrounds offer a mix of both. Some sites at Hidden Ridge "are in the sun all day" while others around the perimeter offer more shade coverage.
