The best campgrounds near St Johns, Michigan with swimming

Looking for a camping experience near St Johns, Michigan with swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 840 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Check out popular campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Long Haul Flower Farm (129 reviews), and Songdog Meadows (113 reviews). With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $13, there's something for every budget. Plus, popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires are available, along with activities like horseback riding, surfing, and hiking. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping trip!

98% (416)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping experience near St Johns, Michigan with swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 840 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Check out popular campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Long Haul Flower Farm (129 reviews), and Songdog Meadows (113 reviews). With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $13, there's something for every budget. Plus, popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires are available, along with activities like horseback riding, surfing, and hiking. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping trip!

98% (416)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Pine Creek⛺️💫Private Hilltop Camp

94%

(95)

46mi from St Johns · 3 sites · Tents · Lake Isabella, MI

Learn more about this land:Privet campsite secluded along the Pine Creek high banks. (Designated)This primitive campsite is the only site on our property so there will not be other Campers; giving you peace and solitude. River access close to campsite. ( River trail ) Small Fire Pit. Trails for Wildlife/Bird watching, (Please stay on the designated trails)Sunsets and Stargazing. (Woods Loop Trail )Very private on a seldom traveled dirt road.Chairs and Table, Bucket for water, and Shovel for fire safety included .No power, No Water, No Toilet, No Trash. Leave no Trace. Our Property is home to many wildlife, ( I am just starting to establish this location as a Campsite. The trails are in progress so explore with caution, working on making the campsite even more enjoyable. History- "This is an old party spot from the 70s"Thanks for Checking out the Listing. =)

2. Life Adventures

97%

(345)

34mi from St Johns · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Saranac, MI

Sleep to the sound of tree frogs, owls, distant coyotes. Walk thru a glitter of fire flies down a trail at night. My black lab Luke or cat Mojo will likely visit your site to say hello and are super chill. 2 disc golf Black Hole Pro baskets on site to practice with. Only 30 minutes east of Grand Rapids, this property was established as a Youth Camp for 15 years is now a private event venue and campground, so it has nice amenities like FULL restrooms, a picnic shelter, and even a few small cabins that can be rented. Cabins ARE SMOKE FREE and may not be used as kennels so please keep pets off furnature and don't leave them inside when you are gone. You must bring your own queen sheet set. Steam cleaning the mattress will be an extra charge. Swimming beach is available in Lowell a few miles away. Fishing rivers and lakes are also in the area. (live bait in Saranac) Woods site and Open Area have a few different locations you can choose from. If woods or open shows booked already, please contact me. Additional fee of $20 per extra tent/camper that sleeps an adult. Picnic shelter is also available. Use my website to RSVP entire camp area for an event such as wedding.

3. 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!

4. Sleepy Hollow State Park

92%

(6)

182 sites · Lake Victoria, Michigan

Discover Sleepy Hollow State Park's lush trails and serene camping spots.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Seven Lakes State Park

75%

(3)

71 sites · Holly, Michigan

Discover the natural splendor of Seven Lakes State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Tom and Julie's Place

100%

(104)

47mi from St Johns · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · MI

10/12/25 The camping season in Michigan is coming to a close. We'll be open through October with full closure starting Nov. 1 through mid-March 2026. If the weather is kind, 2 sites will open, followed by the other 2 beginning May 1. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you again next year! Thank you to all who chose to stay this year. ***For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs & posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. Please see the site rules for current max time for check-in. (With changing daylight hours, this time limit will change throughout the season.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, & Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill water tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed (cats & dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max). *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites & for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES: *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES: *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door. Free wagon rides on the weekends and a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, and other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away beginning around mid-September for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.

7. North country trail, riverside camp

100%

(48)

39mi from St Johns · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lowell, MI

Learn more about this land:We are a 20 acre hobby farm along the Grand River in Lowell Michigan. A walkable small town. The river is accessable to small craft. Swimming is not prohibited, but is at your own risk. Several fields are available as well as a small and large tent site along the river. Campers may park in the field. We are located along the North Country Trail and only a few blocks from their office as well as walking distance from the Kent county youth fairgrounds There is several restaurants and breweries walking distance away, joined by a social district as well as several cannabis stores. A dollar store and ice cream shop are 2-3 blocks away. And a country style breakfast restaurant is next door. Have a fire or go fishing down by the river, or visit the animals at feeding time. The donkey likes attention. Fresh eggs are also available for $3/doz The Kent county fair grounds are 1/2 mile away

8. Country Camp

100%

(4)

24mi from St Johns · 2 sites · RVs · Alma, MI

Learn more about this land: Located on 11 acres with a swimming pond and small beach, fishing and a water trampoline. There is also a campfire pit located down by the pond with wood available. We have a few trails cleared out through our woods that can be explored. We have two horse, a miniature pony, two cats, a pug and two chickens. There is also a paved bike trail across the road from us that can be accessed. Electrical is available however, it is very poor and will not run an a/c unit!

9. Oak Grove Campground

20mi from St Johns · 1 site · Carson City, MI

Discover the charm of Oak Grove Campground, a unique family-owned retreat nestled just north of Carson City, Michigan. This serene campground is surrounded by mature oak trees, providing a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. Oak Grove Campground features full hookup RV sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a modern bathhouse, seasonal and monthly RV sites, and “The Barn,” a versatile pavilion that hosts events such as movie nights and weddings. For those looking to unwind, the heated pool and hot tub offer a refreshing escape. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the fishing and swimming pond, complete with a sandy beach, ideal for a day of fun in the sun. Additionally, paddle boats are available for leisurely exploration of the pond. While staying connected is easy with free limited Wi-Fi, the natural beauty surrounding the campground invites guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. With walking trails nearby and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, Oak Grove Campground is the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories in a tranquil setting.

Pets

Toilets

Camper favorites near St Johns

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tom and Julie's Place

100%

(104)

47mi from St Johns · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · MI

10/12/25 The camping season in Michigan is coming to a close. We'll be open through October with full closure starting Nov. 1 through mid-March 2026. If the weather is kind, 2 sites will open, followed by the other 2 beginning May 1. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you again next year! Thank you to all who chose to stay this year. ***For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs & posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. Please see the site rules for current max time for check-in. (With changing daylight hours, this time limit will change throughout the season.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, & Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill water tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed (cats & dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max). *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites & for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES: *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES: *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door. Free wagon rides on the weekends and a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, and other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away beginning around mid-September for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.

North country trail, riverside camp

100%

(48)

39mi from St Johns · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lowell, MI

Learn more about this land:We are a 20 acre hobby farm along the Grand River in Lowell Michigan. A walkable small town. The river is accessable to small craft. Swimming is not prohibited, but is at your own risk. Several fields are available as well as a small and large tent site along the river. Campers may park in the field. We are located along the North Country Trail and only a few blocks from their office as well as walking distance from the Kent county youth fairgrounds There is several restaurants and breweries walking distance away, joined by a social district as well as several cannabis stores. A dollar store and ice cream shop are 2-3 blocks away. And a country style breakfast restaurant is next door. Have a fire or go fishing down by the river, or visit the animals at feeding time. The donkey likes attention. Fresh eggs are also available for $3/doz The Kent county fair grounds are 1/2 mile away

Country Camp

100%

(4)

24mi from St Johns · 2 sites · RVs · Alma, MI

Learn more about this land: Located on 11 acres with a swimming pond and small beach, fishing and a water trampoline. There is also a campfire pit located down by the pond with wood available. We have a few trails cleared out through our woods that can be explored. We have two horse, a miniature pony, two cats, a pug and two chickens. There is also a paved bike trail across the road from us that can be accessed. Electrical is available however, it is very poor and will not run an a/c unit!

Oak Grove Campground

20mi from St Johns · 1 site · Carson City, MI

Discover the charm of Oak Grove Campground, a unique family-owned retreat nestled just north of Carson City, Michigan. This serene campground is surrounded by mature oak trees, providing a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. Oak Grove Campground features full hookup RV sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a modern bathhouse, seasonal and monthly RV sites, and “The Barn,” a versatile pavilion that hosts events such as movie nights and weddings. For those looking to unwind, the heated pool and hot tub offer a refreshing escape. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the fishing and swimming pond, complete with a sandy beach, ideal for a day of fun in the sun. Additionally, paddle boats are available for leisurely exploration of the pond. While staying connected is easy with free limited Wi-Fi, the natural beauty surrounding the campground invites guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. With walking trails nearby and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, Oak Grove Campground is the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories in a tranquil setting.

Pets

Toilets

Public campgrounds near St Johns

92%

(6)

Sleepy Hollow Campground

8.7mi from St Johns · 182 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sleepy Hollow State Park

75%

(3)

Seven Lakes Campground

47mi from St Johns · 71 sites · Tents, RVs · in Seven Lakes State Park

Stories from the community

C

Cynthia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Beautiful place & peaceful. I’d you want a nature break, this is the spit for you.. Camp host was on site briefly, his dog Luke kept me company for most of my stay. Already planning a visit next summer when I come to the area. Few things to note: *Bring a flashlight, it’s dark when walking to the restroom. *There are bugs & Spiders everywhere, it’s nature. *Futon in cabin-s isn’t comfortable, I slept in my zero gravity chair.. *Breathe, and have fun..

Luqianlan

October 2025

22 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

It was the second time we stayed at Julie’s place. The site was very well-maintained, private and beautiful. And there is a farm right next door for some daily activities, especially in the fall! Julie was very flexible and attentive to all my questions. Would definitely recommend this place!

J

Jordan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Another wonderful weekend away with my significant other, we will for sure be back next year.

W

Wendy

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

We had a great time here. Stephen is accommodating and friendly. Luke, the dog, is a perfect gentleman who escorted me to the restroom in the night. We noticed that Cabin M is equipped with an EV charger if that is important to you. We were end of season camping but found everything to be as expected and we plan a return visit in the spring.

P

Pamela

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Tom and Julie's Place

I camped at their beautiful meadow campsite offering a fire ring and picnic table. There are beautiful wooded trails, a nearby cider mill, petting farm, pumpkin patch, and a corn maze to explore during the fall. Tom and Julie are very welcoming, friendly, and accommodating, ensuring a safe and memorable stay.

N

Nichole

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Woods campsite #4 is absolutely amazing. It's close to a house, but plenty secluded, quiet and up on a small hill. Super close to the bathhouse which is rustic, but clean. Better yet within 20 minutes of being set up we were peacefully greated by Luke the pup who proceeded to be our campground guide, fire sentient, the bestest trail walk supervisor and even slept on our mat outside the tent at night.

Doug

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

I'm an experienced camper, due to motorcycling and whitewater kayaking. Have camped in Alaska, Colorado, bottom of Grand Canyon for 6 weeks. . This was my first time using Hipcamp, so I was unsure what to expect. Local state recreation areas were closed, so I gave this a try. . The camping area was exactly as described in words and photos. We had a walk-in tent site, so we parked at a marked parking spot. Then carried our gear another 500' across a tiny stream and up a hill. . It was a 2-night stay with my 4yo daughter on a father-daughter leaf-peeping motorcycle trip out of Detroit. She has also camped many times / places before, and I wanted her to have an adventure close to home. . Tom & Julie's place was perfect for us. It was about 3 miles east of Pinckney, so we had restaurants. The area is rural, and beautiful in the fall. The road to Tom & Julie's was smooth dirt for 2 miles. Then is was maybe 1/8 mile from their mailbox to the campsite. . The campsite was in a small clearing in the woods. Rarely did modern man-made noise intrude on the natural sounds. There was a fire-ring in the clearing, a couple cut logs to sit on. Firewood was available for a small fee. But there was plenty of dead wood around, for kindling or a small fire. So we enjoyed a small fire and did not purchase additional wood. . It was just our luck there was a pumpkin farm nearby. My daughter loved the hay rides, corn maze, etc. . The experience very positive, and I'd use Hipcamp again.

N

Nancy

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

I loved staying here! There was a slight miscommunication about my site which was quickly resolved. There are lovely trails, a wonderful wildflower field, and a few open areas to take in the view and sun. The firewood portion supplied for $5 was a great deal and lasted me all 48hours i was present. The cabin was minimally but adequately furnished, the outside space includes plenty of seating and table options too. My dog also had a blast with the wide areas and trails to explore. I do photography and got some lovely shots of different plants, flowers, fungi, myself, my dog, etc. The weather was phenomenal during my visit so it was all around a lovely, magical retreat from the corporate life 🖤

M

Michela

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

The cabin was as expected. It’s in a beautiful space that makes you feel far from the noise of more suburban areas. Luke is such a sweetheart and I felt so protected knowing he was around. Every morning he was laying by my chair. I would like to comment on the restroom area, I’ve camped around and this was clean and it was nice to have some items like hand soap and shampoo. Minimal spiders lol I plan on coming here again soon!

W

Wayne

October 2025

31 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Life Adventures

This was my first Hipcamp stay. It was fantastic! I plan to stay here again. My 4 small dogs had a blast being off leash. They stayed in the area rolling in the grass and hunting chipmunks. (They never catch them). We stayed here to be close to our grandkids and watch them play football nearby. Nice fire with a barrel of firewood for $5 extra. I got a brief view one morning of the black dog everyone mentioned, but he was just passing thru. Played some Frisbee golf. Checked out the bathhouse and the cabins. This is the exact type of place I like to camp at. I have a class C that is fully self contained so I didn't need water or electricity, but they are available.

C

Christopher

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Life Adventures

Stephen is a great host! I enjoyed camping there with all the amenities!

R

Robert

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

Perfect spot to have some privacy and feel safe. Camping on grass and some level ground is really nice as opposed to a beet down Public camp ground. I sat and talked with owner Tom, great guy. They call people like this good folk. Real good site too solid ground, lots of geese and cranes went by multiple times. Loved the stay here. We tested out a new air tent here had several nice fires and ate few really good steaks our last night. I almost hate post up here about this little gem in fear of others finding out about this gem. Oh did I mention how Responsive and respectful Julie was in returning information and questions getting answered.

N

Nate

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Life Adventures

Beautiful area and very peaceful. Luke, the campground dog, was great company too! 🐕

V

Vonda

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Amazing place we will definitely be back there. Bed was uncomfortable but the view was beautiful in the morning. Clean showers and bathroom.

E

Eli

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Life Adventures

Only stayed for one night and the host was accommodating when I needed a short notice booking. The photos are accurate

A

Amanda

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

For a quick overnight stay, definitely what we needed. Nice that there is electric at the site & also bathrooms available on the property.

L

Lee

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Secluded and easy to navigate - I'd recommend arriving before nightfall just for ease of check-in. Stephen was quick to respond and we enjoyed our time in the little cabin.

J

Jordan

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Life Adventures

Great experience, space was clean and cozy. Very private and peaceful.

K

Kirk

September 2025

Tent

5 nights at Life Adventures

Had a great time in woods site 4! Had power and just a short walk to the shower/bath house. Luke, one of the dogs that roam the property, was friendly and quite protective of our site. He hung out with us for almost the entire time we were there. I would camp here again.

Jerry

September 2025

39 ft Class A

4 nights at North country trail, riverside camp

One of the best places we’ve stayed yet! Our host was great! No hookups at the site area but Matthew was very helpful and allowed us to use the water spigot on the side of the house. HUGE BONUS, you get to play frisbee with his awesome, crazy smart dogs!! The sites are in a field right on the river. The little road back to the field is a bit bumpy but we made it easily in our 39ft class A towing our car. Tons of room to turn around too. Just needed to take it slow. Will definitely be staying here again. Soooo peaceful and relaxing.