W.J. Hayes State Park
W.J. Hayes State Park is one of Michigan's oldest state parks. Founded in the 1920's, it has been a meeting place for families and individuals looking to seek refuge in the great outdoors. W.J. Hayes State Park is located inside the Irish Hills in between two of the area's fresh water lakes--Wampler's Lake and Round Lake. Along with a swim area, wildlife preserve and public beach, camping is a main attraction. This is one of the area's only state run campgrounds. The campground holds 185 sites with both electric, water and primitive camping. The campground is nestled in deep woods rather than open fields, offering shade and seclusion. There are two mini cabins for rent at the campground, offering those without an RV a chance to experience the outdoors. This campground is across the street from the park area but still within walking distance. While there are no marked trails at this park, there are more than 654 acres to cover on foot or mountain bike that are mainly wooded. There is a boat launch and fishing pier near the campground with access to Round Lake but with no swimming. The campground is open seasonally starting in April.
W.J. Hayes State Park
1220 Wampler's Lake Road
Onsted, MI 49265
(517) 467-7401
Irish Hills Resort Kampground
The Irish Hills Kampground is located in Cement City right in the heart of the Irish Hills area. This campground is a hot spot for Michigan International Speedway guests because of its close proximity to the racetrack. Keep this in mind when booking during race weekend. This campground boasts over 140 sites that offer water, electrical and primitive camping. There are also camping cabins available. This campground is situated on a hilly landscape that offers part wooded and part field campsites. The campground offers a fishing lake with free boats for a day of catch and release fishing without a permit. There is a smaller fishing pond offering rental paddle boats. There is a party store and arcade on premises that offers refreshments and fun. There is a ground pool onsite with a patio for sunbathing--no lifeguard is on duty. There are many sightseeing attractions and the Hidden Lake Gardens offering miles of marked hiking trails and preserved plant species.
Irish Hills Resort Kampground
16230 U.S. 12
Cement City, MI 49233
(517) 592-6751
kamping@frontiernet.net
JaDo Campground
The JaDo campground is located in Tipton, Michigan off of US 12. This is a family-friendly campground that offers grassy campsites deep in the Irish hills area. This campground has a playground, paddle boat and row boat rentals and more than 108 widely spaced campsites to choose from. This campground offers outdoor activities such as a basketball court, volleyball area and horse shoes. There is a large catch and release spring fed pond for fishing. The campground has several weekend activities that include themed camp-outs, bake sales, yard sales and parades.
JaDo Campground
5603 US-12
Tipton, MI 49287
(517) 431-2111
info@jadocampground.com
Article Written By Julie Boehlke
Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the Great Lakes state. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. Boehlke has more than 10 years of professional writing experience on topics such as health and wellness, green living, gardening, genealogy, finances, relationships, world travel, golf, outdoors and interior decorating. She has also worked in geriatrics and hospice care.
