Established campgrounds near Detroit offer multiple dog-friendly options within a 60-mile radius. Most state parks in the area maintain specific pet policies with designated areas for exercise, while private campgrounds may feature fenced dog areas. Weekly and monthly rates vary significantly across campgrounds, with state park fees typically lower than private operations.
What to do
Mountain biking at Pontiac Lake: Trails range from beginner to advanced with 10+ miles of riding options. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports," notes a visitor to Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. "The park offers lots of private sites!"
Kayaking on multiple waterways: The Huron River system connects several campgrounds with navigable sections for beginners and intermediates. "The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," mentions a camper at Pontiac Lake, which offers "great hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming."
Halloween camping events: Many campgrounds host seasonal activities from late September through October with organized trick-or-treating. "Fun family atmosphere," reports a visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area, where they've "been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides."
Water park activities: Bishop Lake features inflatable water attractions for an additional fee. "We had a blast at Jump Island!" says a visitor to Bishop Lake Campground. Another camper adds that it "costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds have updated their shower buildings in recent years. "The bathhouse is new and very nice. There are a few sites on an incline and that made it hard to get in and out of our fifth wheel," notes a camper at Proud Lake. At Holly State Recreation Area, "bathrooms are clean and it has hot showers and a place to do your dishes as well."
Secluded sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds offer private spots. "I love this place and so do my 3 dogs. We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous- tucked into the woods and was easy to back into," reports a Holly State visitor. Similarly, at Haas Lake Park RV Campground, "sites where huge and the campground was so clean and beautiful!"
Watching freighter traffic: Campgrounds along waterways provide unique viewing opportunities. "If you can get a River View site its is awesome. Freighters come by at all times of the day," describes a visitor to Algonac State Park Campground. "The freighter traffic did not disappoint. We saw at least 4 during our 2-night stay."
Community gardens: Some campgrounds offer edible landscaping for campers. "My favorite aspect of this campground is that they had a community garden that you were welcome to pick from. We got tomatoes, Swiss chard, peppers, broccoli, and more," mentions a visitor to Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park.
What you should know
Limited shade at certain campgrounds: Many sites lack mature trees for sun protection. At Bishop Lake, one camper noted their "campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade." Similarly, at Sterling State Park, "the sites are all in full sun, with not much privacy between them, but most campers are respectful."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds shut down completely for winter. "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season," reports a visitor to Wayne County Fairgrounds, which operates "April 1 to October 31."
Varying pet policies: While most campgrounds allow pets, rules differ significantly. "Dogs must remain leashed throughout" is standard, but at Camp Dearborn, campers appreciate the "outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading" but note the park "is not kept up as well as it could be."
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas may become waterlogged after heavy rain. "After only a few hours of moderate rainfall, we arrived to a completely flooded park," reports a Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA visitor, highlighting the importance of selecting elevated campsites when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Look for Halloween weekend activities: Many Detroit-area campgrounds host special October events. "We have been going to Camp Dearborn for five years now," shares a family, "They have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line."
Consider platform tents: Families with limited gear can use semi-permanent structures. "We usually get a platform tent, which sleeps six people and comes with a kitchen cabana," notes a Camp Dearborn visitor, providing an option between tent camping and cabin rental.
Find playgrounds and activities: Sites with built-in entertainment reduce boredom. Holly State Recreation Area offers "a lot of activities for the whole family," according to a visitor. "The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet. The kids loved the parks."
Prioritize beach access: Several Detroit-area campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for children. "We spent a weekend there with my son, secluded site, staff was great and camp grounds were clean," mentions a Pontiac Lake visitor, where there's "great hiking and world class mountain bike trails."
Tips from RVers
Bring extension cords: Electric hookups can be positioned awkwardly at some sites. "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," advises a Pontiac Lake camper. "The site was very spacious and offered picnic table, fire ring, paved pad, and electrical hook up."
Watch for road conditions: Some campground interior roads need maintenance. At Algonac State Park, "the roads are paved, however in very bad shape," notes a camper. Another visitor was "deeply concerned for the undercarriage of both my truck and camper" due to numerous ruts.
Choose sites away from highways: Road noise affects sleep quality at certain campgrounds. "When booking I suggest looking at the site map and choosing a site well off the road, its a busy throughway and the noise can be distracting, especially in summer months," suggests an Algonac State Park visitor.
Consider full hookup availability: Access to water, electric, and sewer varies by campground. "Full hookups are available, as are partial h/u's and tent spaces," notes a Wayne County Fairgrounds camper, while Sterling State Park offers "everything from back ins with only electrical to pull throughs with full hook-ups."
