Appleton Lake Campground, near Brighton, Michigan, is a rustic spot that’s perfect for those who love the great outdoors. With designated tent sites surrounded by mature trees, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for camping enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
The campground features picnic tables and fire rings, making it easy to enjoy meals and evenings around the fire. Visitors have noted the tranquility of the area, with one camper mentioning, “I liked that this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other.” Just keep in mind, there are no showers or drinking water available, so plan accordingly.
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the nearby trails are great for hiking and trail running. The lake is ideal for kayaking and small fishing boats, although there’s no real beach area. If you’re looking for a more developed experience, Brighton Recreation Area is just a short drive away, offering RV sites and indoor plumbing.
While some campers have had encounters with local wildlife, like raccoons, the overall vibe is laid-back and friendly. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Appleton Lake Campground provides a solid base for enjoying nature and making memories.
Description
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Planned improvements at Bishop Lake Campground including road and electrical are underway. Thanks to steady progress, were pleased to announce that the majority of sites have reopened; however, 14 sites will reopen July 2. A proposed $2.97 million in federal relief funding from *Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan* made these renovations possible. (Updated 5/26/26)
Check in your campsite reservation and occupy your campsite no later than 3 p.m. one day after your scheduled arrival date to avoid being automatically cancelled. If you need to arrive later, you must adjust your arrival date by calling 1-800-44(PARKS) or by going on-line to www.midnrreservations.com . If you don't check in or update your arrival date, our system will automatically cancel your reservation and youll incur the loss of two nights' fees, the non-refundable reservation fee, $10 cancellation fee and the reduced-stay fee. Staff are unable to override this process.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAppleton Lake Campground is located in Michigan near Brighton
Directions
I-96 to Exit 140, go south 6 miles to Chilson Road. Drive south 1.5 miles to Bishop Lake Road. 20 miles north of Ann Arbor, 35 miles southeast of Lansing.
Address
5210 Bishop Lake Rd
Brighton, MI 48116
Coordinates
42.50626333 N
83.83598036 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 1/18/26- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 6/25/26
AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/25/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 1/18/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 6/25/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/25/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 21 min from Ann Arbor, MI
- 41 min from Flint, MI
- 47 min from Detroit, MI
- 52 min from Jackson, MI
