Gray's Riverside Campground

For Michigan locals seeking a blend of tranquil natural beauty, engaging outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations, Gray's Riverside Campground in Big Rapids stands out as a hidden gem. This unique campground, nestled alongside the picturesque Muskegon River and with direct access to the White Pine Trail, offers more than just a place to stay; it's an experience designed for relaxation, adventure, and creating cherished memories. Under new ownership since 2021, the campground is undergoing thoughtful renovations to enhance its classic charm with modern comforts, making it an increasingly attractive destination for Michiganders.

Gray's Riverside Campground is known for its serene setting, its friendly and accommodating staff (led by owner Angie), and its commitment to being a welcoming space for all, including furry family members. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend by the river, an active kayaking excursion, or a scenic base for exploring the local trails, Gray's Riverside Campground "marks off all the boxes and then some!" This article will delve into what makes this Big Rapids campground a must-visit, from its strategic location and diverse offerings to its ongoing enhancements and the genuine hospitality that defines it.

Gray's Riverside Campground is perfectly situated at 14161 New Millpond Rd, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA. This prime location offers an exceptional balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to local amenities and regional attractions, making it highly accessible for Michigan residents.

The campground's most notable geographical features are its proximity to two significant natural assets:

• Muskegon River Frontage: The camp is located directly on the Muskegon River, one of Michigan's longest and most scenic rivers. This provides campers with "riverside camping" and easy access for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the tranquil sounds of flowing water.
• White Pine Trail Access: Critically, the campground boasts direct access to the White Pine Trail. This 92-mile linear state park, built on a former rail bed, is perfect for biking, walking, and running, connecting Big Rapids to Grand Rapids in the south and Cadillac to the north. As one reviewer noted, "the White Pine Trail out front and the Muskegon River in the back" truly define its unique position.

For Michigan locals, the location in Big Rapids (home to Ferris State University) is particularly convenient. It's centrally located in the Lower Peninsula, making it an easy drive from many major cities, and it serves as an excellent base for exploring West-Central Michigan. Big Rapids itself provides all necessary services, including grocery stores, gas stations, diverse dining options, and local attractions, meaning campers are never far from conveniences.

The serene environment offers a "quiet campground" experience, with frequent sightings of local wildlife like deer and wild turkeys, adding to the natural charm. This blend of riverside tranquility, trail accessibility, and proximity to a vibrant town makes Gray's Riverside Campground an ideal and accessible choice for a wide range of Michigan outdoor enthusiasts.

Gray's Riverside Campground, under its new ownership, is actively enhancing its services to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience, blending rustic charm with modern convenience.

• Campsites with Hookups: The campground offers 13 campsites, primarily designed for RVs and trailers. Most sites come with electric (15 or 30 amp options) and water hookups, allowing campers to power devices and have access to fresh water. Each site typically includes a fire pit for campfires and often patio furniture for added comfort.
• Cabin Rentals: Gray's Riverside Campground features cabins for rent (Cabin 1, 2 & 4). One reviewer highlighted a newly remodeled cabin as "immaculate" inside, with "three nice sized bedrooms, modern bathroom, full kitchen, living room and a patio," making it a highly attractive option "for less than a two star motel room." While some buildings are still undergoing renovation, the commitment to modernizing these accommodations is clear.
• Bathhouse / Club House (Under Renovation): The campground aims to provide a full-service bathhouse with hot showers and restrooms. However, as noted in a recent review, the bathhouse facilities were "not functional yet" as renovations were ongoing. Guests should verify the current status of these facilities directly with the campground. During renovation periods, "porta potty" facilities are provided and are noted as being "really clean and not smelly."
• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is available on-site for convenient waste disposal.
• On-Site Store / Snack Shack: A "snack shack" or "incredible camp store" is on the premises, offering essentials like ice, bug spray, marshmallows, and other crucial items campers might forget.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase, typically for a small fee (e.g., $5 a bundle), conveniently located near the pavilion.
• Recreational Rentals:
  • Kayaks: Kayaking opportunities are a significant draw, with kayaks available for rent at "reasonable prices" (e.g., $25 per person).
  • Bicycles: Bike rentals are available for guests who wish to explore the adjacent White Pine Trail, often for a nominal fee (e.g., $5).
• Communal Amenities: The "bath/clubhouse" (even during renovation) is noted to have recreational items like ping pong and Jenga, providing indoor entertainment options. Most sites also reportedly have cornhole nearby, encouraging friendly outdoor games.

While some facilities are still being upgraded, the existing services and the clear commitment to improvement make Gray's Riverside Campground a well-equipped and evolving choice for campers.

Gray's Riverside Campground shines with a variety of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Michigan locals, blending natural beauty with thoughtful amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Riverside Location and Water Activities: Its prime location directly on the Muskegon River is a major draw. This allows for excellent "riverside camping" experiences and provides immediate access for:
  • Kayaking: Optional kayaking at "reasonable prices" is a significant highlight, offering a fantastic way to explore the river.
  • Fishing: The river is "right there," making it incredibly convenient for anglers, as one passionate reviewer emphatically noted the missed opportunity of forgetting a fishing pole!
• Direct Access to White Pine Trail: Having the White Pine Trail "out front" is a unique advantage. This extensive rail-trail is perfect for biking, walking, and running, providing miles of scenic pathways for outdoor enthusiasts. Bike rentals are available on-site.
• Ongoing Renovations and Modernization: The campground is actively undergoing renovations, indicating a strong commitment from the new owners (Angie Gray, CEO & Owner since 2021) to enhance the guest experience. The "immaculate" interior of a remodeled cabin, with its modern amenities (three bedrooms, full kitchen, modern bathroom, living room, patio), is a testament to this effort. This ongoing improvement means visitors can expect an increasingly refined experience over time.
• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: Reviewers consistently praise the "friendly staff," "amazing host Angie," and their responsiveness. This personal touch and attentiveness to guest needs contribute significantly to the positive camping experience.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: A major highlight for many Michigan families is that Gray's Riverside Campground is explicitly "dog friendly." This inclusive policy allows campers to bring their "80+ pound bullies" (or any size dog) without issue, ensuring that no family member is left behind. The property provides ample space for dogs to "wander through the woods, smelling ALL the smells."
• Abundant Wildlife Sightings: The natural setting attracts local wildlife, with frequent sightings of turkeys and deer directly on the property, providing delightful opportunities for nature observation.
• Thoughtful Site Amenities: Many campsites go beyond the basic, offering patio furniture, fire pits, and cornhole nearby, enhancing the comfort and recreational opportunities directly at your site.
• Photo Opportunities: The camp features "several photo opportunities with lights and outdoor settings," suggesting well-designed aesthetic touches that enhance the overall ambiance and create memorable visuals.
• Versatile for Events: The campground is explicitly welcoming of "Weddings and large events," indicating its capacity and suitability for group gatherings beyond individual camping trips.

These highlights collectively paint a picture of Gray's Riverside Campground as a dynamic, evolving, and highly hospitable destination that caters to a wide array of preferences, making it a compelling choice for Michigan locals.

While Gray's Riverside Campground does not widely advertise specific "promotions" in the traditional sense on public search results, their direct website and Hipcamp listings provide insights into their pricing structure and value-added services. As a smaller, privately owned campground undergoing renovations, their offers might be more personalized or seasonal.

Potential "offers" or value points include:

• Reasonable Base Rates: Campsites are listed at a competitive rate (e.g., $38 for 4 guests on Hipcamp, $35/night on their website), offering good value for a riverside location with hookups.
• Affordable Rentals: Kayak rentals are at "reasonable prices" (e.g., $25 per person) and bike rentals are a nominal fee (e.g., $5), making activities accessible.
• Flexible Accommodations: The availability of RV sites, tent sites (with electric options if requested), and renovated cabins (offering a "less than a two star motel room" price for immaculate interior) provides options for various budgets and preferences.
• Value-Added Amenities: The inclusion of fire pits and sometimes patio furniture at sites, along with communal games (ping pong, Jenga, cornhole), adds value without extra cost.
• Seasonal Opportunities: Given Michigan's distinct seasons, it's possible they offer special rates or packages during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or for longer stays, though these are not explicitly listed in public data.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on pricing, any potential package deals, or seasonal offers, the best approach is always to directly contact Gray's Riverside Campground. Their owner, Angie, is noted for being "super sweet and attentive," making direct inquiry an easy and reliable way to plan your stay and explore any available promotions.

To plan your visit or inquire further about Gray's Riverside Campground, you can easily reach out to their friendly and accommodating team.

Address: 14161 New Millpond Rd, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA

Phone: (231) 499-3321

Mobile Phone: +1 231-499-3321

You can also visit their official website for more information: graysriversidecamp.com

And find them on Hipcamp, where you can view more details and potentially book: Hipcamp.com/en-US/land/michigan-gray-s-riverside-camp-9mxhwvkn

When you contact Gray's Riverside Campground, you can expect a prompt and helpful response from owner Angie, who is praised for being "super sweet and attentive" and "very accommodating." Whether you have questions about site availability, the status of renovations (like the bathhouse), kayak rentals, or specific site features, direct communication will ensure you have all the information needed for a perfect camping experience.

Gray's Riverside Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for Michigan locals seeking a versatile, engaging, and genuinely welcoming outdoor escape. Its unique blend of prime natural features, ongoing enhancements, and outstanding hospitality makes it a standout choice for a wide array of preferences.

For Michiganders who value the great outdoors, the campground's immediate access to the Muskegon River for fishing and kayaking, combined with direct entry to the White Pine Trail for biking and walking, creates an unparalleled recreational hub. This dual access caters to both water lovers and trail enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for active enjoyment within minutes of your campsite. The frequent sightings of deer and wild turkeys further immerse visitors in Michigan's natural beauty.

The commitment of the new owners, particularly Angie, to renovating and modernizing the campground is a significant draw. While some facilities are still being upgraded, the progress, exemplified by the "immaculate" remodeled cabin, signals a clear vision for an increasingly comfortable and high-quality experience. This dedication ensures that the campground will continue to evolve, offering improved amenities while retaining its charming, quiet atmosphere.

Furthermore, Gray's Riverside Campground's pet-friendly policy is a huge bonus for local families who wish to bring their beloved dogs along for the adventure, regardless of size. The ample space for pets to roam and explore, coupled with the understanding staff, makes it a stress-free environment for pet owners. The consistent praise for the "friendly staff" and their accommodating nature underscores a level of hospitality that fosters a sense of community and makes every camper feel valued.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat to "get some peace and quiet," an active base for kayaking and biking, or a charming venue for a "large event," Gray's Riverside Campground "marks off all the boxes." It offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and evolving comforts, solidifying its place as an ideal choice for Michigan locals seeking an authentic and enjoyable outdoor experience.