The best river, stream, or creek glamping near St Johns, Michigan

Looking for a luxurious camping experience by the river near St Johns, Michigan? Hipcamp offers over 300 options for glamping and river activities in the area. You can find accommodations for as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. Check out top-rated campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Harvest Village - Farmstay (95 reviews), and Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews). Popular amenities include showers, campfires, and potable water, while off-roading (OHV), boating, and surfing are among the popular activities to enjoy.

87% (34)

Top-rated campgrounds

Photo of the cabin from the trails. The photosphere isn't perfect but it gives you a good idea of the property.

Looking for a luxurious camping experience by the river near St Johns, Michigan? Hipcamp offers over 300 options for glamping and river activities in the area. You can find accommodations for as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. Check out top-rated campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Harvest Village - Farmstay (95 reviews), and Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews). Popular amenities include showers, campfires, and potable water, while off-roading (OHV), boating, and surfing are among the popular activities to enjoy.

87% (34)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cabin in the woods.

97%

(37)

35mi from St Johns · 2 sites · Lodging · Belding, MI

I am creating a homestead based on simple but holistic living. The cabin was built built by myself with the help of family and friends. There are a number of trails to walk on the 35 private acreage of rolling hills. This heavily wooded land hosts much wildlife and beautiful scenery. There is a sport court which provides opportunities to play basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or badminton. The property is a work in progress with lots of plans for the future; including a food forest, natural pool, recreation building (being built summer 2022), and more.. The property offers a chance to reconnect with each other, yourself, or the natural world in a simplistic and harmonious way. I hope you come experience it! 35 private acres of forest on rolling hill terrain. Lots of wildlife nestled very close to the flat river; 30-40 minutes away from Grand Rapids. The Fred Meijer trail provides great biking or hiking opportunities. Lazy float tubing or kayaking down the flat river is very popular and only a short walk away. Horse back riding, golf courses, and an amazing local bakery all within a couple miles. And a fun sport court (basketball hoop, volleyball/badminton/pickelball net all right on site!

2. The Farm

100%

(2)

31mi from St Johns · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Alma, MI

My wife and I are slowly starting up our own little farm. We have 2 indoor cats, 1 outdoor cat, a dog, chickens and two ducks. We are on 34 acres and have a river that runs through the middle of it. We are 10 minutes from Alma and 20 minutes from Mt Pleasant. Lumberjack park is about 2 minutes away and Stearns preserve is about 5 mins away where you can walk or ride bike on a nice paved trail. We have a small garden that we plant every summer and plan to start a small farm stand this year. We are in a quiet area with lots of wildlife. We have 1 spot near the house with a view of the river that can support electric hook for a smaller RV and can attach a garden hose for water if needed. We do have a “field” that RVs can use but there is no hook up and there ground may not be level. We have many options for rustic tent camping along the river. No public restroom available. We can also provide some fire wood for campfires for a small cost. Along the river fires are allowed but must be contained in a fire ring. If camping by the field fires will be dependent on conditions. We have 3 kayaks and a canoe that can be used with prior consent. There is a park up river where you can put in and then can exit at our house which is about an hour on the river. We are very new to this and just purchased a UTV so we will be able to start making trails and clearing areas. But for now, camping along the river you will have to walk (and carry belongings) through tall grass to the site you desire. Quiet time 11 pm. We are an easy going couple that just want to share this slice of paradise with others! WiFi available

3. Baggins Inn

100%

(3)

47mi from St Johns · 1 site · Lodging · Bellevue, MI

Rustic 1800s Traditional Cabin on 90 Acres with Pond and Wildlife. ••NO ELECTRICITY•• 🍁Propane heater provided🔅 Experience the charm of the 1800s in our authentic hand-built cabin with a communal loft, set on a serene 90-acre property. ☀️Wake up to the sights and sounds of nature, with deer, foxes, and more frequenting the area. ☕Sip your morning coffee on the porch as the mist rises over the woodlands. What You’ll Love: • Historic Cabin: Lovingly preserved with original details and rustic touches. • Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, foxes, and other wildlife right from your doorstep. • Private Pond: Relax and soak in the peaceful views. Amenities: • Sleeping arrangements for up to 8 guests • Guests provide their own cooking stove, bedding, and padding • Fire pit for evening gatherings • Neaby outhouse Perfect For: • Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts • Couples seeking a romantic escape • Creatives: Artists, Writers, and Musicians Immerse yourself in this rustic space surrounded by nature’s beauty. As night falls, enjoy starry skies and the tranquility of the forest. Book your stay to escape into this peaceful sanctuary!

4. Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

30mi from St Johns · 107 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durand, MI

Discover the unique charm of Walnut Hills Family Campground, where our short drive time, diverse activities, and efficient no-wait check-in process allow you to maximize your fun and minimize your time on the road. Spanning 45 acres and featuring 203 spacious grassy sites, our campground is beautifully situated along the Shiawassee River, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. At Walnut Hills, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable experiences for families and friends. Our extensive amenities and engaging activities are designed to foster lasting memories. One of the highlights of our campground is the exhilarating Wibit Water Park. This exciting aquatic attraction features a variety of inflatable obstacles, slides, and platforms, ensuring endless entertainment for guests of all ages. Whether you’re ready to tackle the floating challenges or simply relax in the sun, the Wibit Water Park adds a splash of adventure to your camping experience. Join us at Walnut Hills Family Campground, where outdoor adventures and aquatic thrills come together to create the perfect getaway. Explore the natural beauty surrounding our park, enjoy nearby swimming holes, and take advantage of local restaurants and shops. Your unforgettable camping experience awaits!

Stories from the community

S

Steve

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Baggins Inn

Very cool historic cabin surrounded by a marsh. My dog had a great time exploring the area. The owners put in a great propane heater and I had a nice warm evening in the cabin. Would definitely return!

H

Hannah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Baggins Inn

An amazing place to stay if you are looking for a private rustic getaway! My boyfriend and I picked this site to take our 9mo old puppy camping for the first time and it was an incredible experience. We did a lot of hiking, cooking, and relaxing. We saw deer, possums, and turkeys! Just remember to do tick checks!

Pamela

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Baggins Inn

My husband and I travel all over the country and we have stayed at unique locations over the years. This was a unanimous vote for our very favorite. The setting is something straight out of the cinema. You have 360 views of nature and serenity. The cabin is an art installation. It’s phenomenal. The attention to detail is incredible. The smell of it is something I’d wear like perfume. There is no power and low reception and that’s just what we were looking for. The bathroom is a short walk from the cabin. We brought cute little camping lights that made our stay all the more magical. The sounds of the forest around you and the way the sun and moon both shine down in the woodland is magnificent. We weren’t even checked out before deciding we need to plan a trip back. 10/10.