Near Clinton Township, Michigan, campers have access to several state parks and recreation areas within 30 miles, most open year-round. These parks offer camping opportunities across a wooded landscape dotted with small lakes and river access points. Weather patterns typically include humid summers with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Freighter watching: At Algonac State Park Campground, visitors can observe large ships passing through the St. Clair River. "If you can get a River View site its is awesome. Freighters come by at all times of the day," notes Kelly B. Morning viewing is particularly rewarding as "the sunrise we witnessed from our site could have been a postcard," according to Rodger M.
Disc golf: Camp Agawam offers an accessible course for beginners and intermediate players within minutes of campsites. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf," writes James P.
Shooting sports: Some parks maintain designated ranges for target practice. Algonac State Park Campground includes "Gun range and archery range on site," mentions Kelly B., while another camper noted they "have a range for archery, and firearms."
What campers like
Modern facilities: Many parks have updated their amenities in recent years. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, "the bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," shares Jennifer O.
Water access options: Boating options vary across parks. At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," according to Karen C. Proud Lake offers "a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site."
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies significantly between parks and loops. At Holly State Recreation Area, "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," says David S., while another camper mentioned "We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Some parks have deteriorating internal roadways. At Algonac State Park, "Sooo many ruts that I was deeply concerned for the undercarriage of both my truck and camper... these roads put those investments at great risk," cautions Rodger M.
Insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic in summer months. "Fair warning, the staff aren't the only ones ready to greet you! Bugs, Mosquitoes, bees, and even raccoons (if food left out - which we did not)," notes Rodger M. about Ridgewood Campground.
Seasonal closures: Some park sections close during off-peak periods. One camper at Algonac noted, "Since this is well beyond normal camping season here in Michigan we understand staffing levels are going to be low... The newer, cleaner, and nicer facilities were closed up for the season."
Tips for camping with families
Specialty weekends: Many parks host themed events during summer and fall. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, "The camping loops also link to a one mile trail which will lead you to the beach if you like hiking!" says Sarah P., making it ideal for weekend adventures.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to pet-friendly camping near Clinton Township, cabins provide an easier entry point. "Bald Mountain Recreation Area offers cabin accommodations where pets are permitted," and one reviewer noted the cabins "sleep about 10-15 people if remember correctly. They are rustic, so they don't have electricity or heat but there is a large wood burning stove."
Playground access: Several parks maintain quality play areas for children. At Oakland County Addison Oaks, "The park offers nice holiday activities - we were last there for Halloween camping," reports Barb L., making it a good choice for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Different loops offer varying levels of privacy and hookups. At Addison Oaks, "Both times stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers... Sites have electricity and water and are well spaced out," recommends Richard T.
Extension cord needs: Power hookup locations vary significantly. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," warns Mary H.
Level site availability: Some campgrounds provide paved parking areas. Haas Lake Park RV Campground offers "a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway," according to Karen C., making it easier for larger rigs to set up.
