Campgrounds near Livonia, Michigan offer diverse camping options within a short drive of Detroit's western suburbs. This area sits at an elevation of about 675 feet above sea level in Michigan's southeastern region, where summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with occasional rain showers. Local state recreation areas provide water access with opportunities for fishing and paddling on inland lakes and the Huron River.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several paths at Proud Lake Recreation Area accommodate various skill levels. "The trails available here are where I learned to mountain bike, they're not the easiest but they are not so challenging that you won't have fun," notes one visitor who rated the park 5 stars.
Kayaking: Launch from multiple access points around the area's lakes. A camper at Proud Lake noted: "Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" The park includes "a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site."
Swimming: Cool off during summer months at Camp Dearborn, which features "two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line." This family-friendly park provides "outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The modern bathhouses at Proud Lake earn consistent praise. "The bathhouse is new and very nice," reports one camper, while another mentions, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable."
Family activities: Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA offers seasonal themed weekends that appeal to families. "We've been here a few times. Very close to our house just a nice little getaway. We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!"
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide peaceful settings at several campgrounds. One Harbortown RV Resort visitor mentioned their "pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway. Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from spring through fall. Camp Dearborn and Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA offer Halloween-themed weekends in October with trick-or-treating and site decorating contests before closing for winter.
Weather contingencies: Heavy rainfall can affect camping conditions. At Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park, one camper noted: "The sites are level but some lack grassy making the patio pretty dusty or muddy. Unfortunately, where we were was pretty muddy just after a light rain."
Proximity to urban amenities: Despite feeling remote, many campgrounds provide quick access to stores. A visitor to Proud Lake mentioned, "while the campground feels like you are remote, if you need supplies, there is a small shopping center about a mile away."
Tips for camping with families
Holiday weekend planning: Book early for summer holidays. "We stay memorial day weekend and the last weekend of the season which is the harvest festival. My grandchildren always have a blast as well as grandma and Papa!" reports one visitor to Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
Playground access: Multiple play areas at Holiday RV Campground accommodate children of different ages. "Playgrounds everywhere for the kids. Giant dog park and ponds," notes one camper, while another mentions it's "impossible to be bored" with activities like "swimming, zip-lining, mini-golf, fishing, paddle boats, basketball."
Site selection: Request shaded sites during summer months. At Camp Dearborn, a visitor advised: "I would suggest to come in the park and drive through and pick a spot that you like before making reservations." This helps ensure your site meets specific family needs.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Haas Lake Park RV Campground offers spacious sites for larger rigs. "Sites where huge and the campground was so clean and beautiful!" noted one RVer. Another camper mentioned, "We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway."
Full hookup options: Several rv campgrounds near Livonia, Michigan provide complete utility connections. According to a Harbortown visitor, the park includes "all concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance."
Site surface variations: Prepare for different ground conditions at Livonia-area RV parks. One camper at Holiday RV Campground observed: "Large spots to accommodate big rigs and kids. Full hook ups. Just needs more grass. Our spot was really patchy and resulted in a lot of mud."
