Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Reservations are available year-round at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, a state-managed campground in Metamora, Michigan, with nightly rates running $35 to $120 and electric hookups at every site. The campground splits into two loops with distinct tradeoffs: the south loop has newer, larger restroom and shower facilities and more tree cover, while the north loop offers better lake views from its northwest end but older bathrooms. RVs up to 70 feet are accommodated, and rangers keep wood leveling blocks on hand for loan since a number of sites sit on uneven ground.

Water access is a draw here. Fishing, kayaking, and swimming are all available, with a day-use beach and concession stand across the lake from the camping areas. The park is notably sandy throughout, so campers should pack accordingly. A small camp store in the north loop stocks forgotten gear, though reviews flag it as pricey. Cell coverage runs to slow LTE on T-Mobile; satellite connections like Starlink have worked well at more open sites but may struggle under the heavier tree canopy.

Holiday weekends fill the campground to capacity, and the sites sit close together, which can feel tight when neighbors arrive with large rigs and multiple vehicles. That said, staff enforcement appears consistent. Rangers have removed disruptive campers, and restrooms are consistently described as well-maintained even during peak occupancy. Gary G. notes the electric pedestals "seem fairly new, and tight," a practical detail for RV campers checking connection reliability. Campers who want more elbow room might also look at Equestrian Campground at Ortonville Recreation Area or browse campgrounds around Metamora for alternatives. This campground suits anglers, paddlers, and families who prioritize solid facilities and lake access over seclusion.

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Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

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 & DirectionsMetamora-Hadley Recreation Area is located in Michigan near Metamora

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

The park is located 8 miles south of Lapeer, 20 miles southeast of Flint. From M-24, take Pratt Rd west 2 miles to Herd Rd approximately 1 mile to park entrance.

Address

3871 Herd Road
Metamora, MI 48455

Coordinates

42.94500006 N
83.35700036 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

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Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups

Drive Time


Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area

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4.0

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4 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned well-maintained facilities and respectful campers, though sites can be crowded and challenging with sandy conditions. Front sites are preferred, and muddy conditions occur in back areas during rain.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jul. 15, 2026

Nice state park

As usual, there's only electric at sites, but the pedestals seem fairly new, and tight. South loop is nicely wooded & has a newer, larger restroom/shower building, not much lake view. The north loop is a little less wooded, with the NW end having a little better lake views, but a pretty ancient restroom/shower facility.

Across the lake is the day use area with a beach and concession stand. (There's a small camp store in the north loop.)

ADA Only sites are asphalt paved. Some of the regular sites could be a challenge to get level on, but the rangers told me they have wood blocks for loan if you don't have enough.

Our first night & a half, we had some terrible neighbors two sites over. Constant profanities, yelling at & threatening their kids... real dirtbags. Rangers booted them from the park! Good to see them taking such positive action. I have not run into a single staff member here that wasn't pleasant.

This was our first time here. A test run, since it's only an hour from home (but feels farther). We'll be back for sure. (Especially with gas prices so high anymore.)

T-Mobile was only slow LTE at our site, but our Starlink worked perfectly at our site. Might be harder to get a clear shot in the more wooded areas of the park.

Site214
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area by Gary G., July 15, 2026
Reviewed Jul. 4, 2025

Okay

Stayed here the first night of July 4th weekend. Full campground and sites are close together and crowded. With the large camping trailers and 2-3 vehicles per site, it felt claustrophobic. A good number of sites are not level. Bathrooms were well maintained and people were courteous. I would not stay here again because it felt packed with people.

Site94
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 13, 2024

OK for last minute trips.

I have stayed here over 100 times in past thirty years. Front camp sites are better than back. Staff are friendly. The only rude person here is the camp store owner. Fishing is great, boat, kayaks, trails for everyone. If it rains everything is mud if your in the back camp section.

Site2
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area by D P., May 13, 2024
  • Review photo of Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area by D P., May 13, 2024
  • Review photo of Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area by D P., May 13, 2024
Reviewed Sep. 4, 2023

Great spot for weekend camping with the family

We camped here in our Coleman Lantern over Labor Day Weekend 2023. It was busy but everyone was respectful of one another. The community restrooms, dump station, and dumpsters were well maintained throughout the weekend. The camping store was well stocked for all of the things we forgot to pack but was expensive. The park is extremely sandy so be prepared. Overall it was a quiet, peaceful weekend in a great location. We will definitely be back!

Site72
Month of VisitSeptember

Frequently Asked Questions

What do visitors say about Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in their reviews?

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area offers a mixed camping experience. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained community restrooms, dump station, and dumpsters. The camp store is well-stocked with essentials for forgetful campers. Staff members are generally friendly, though some campers note the camp store owner can be less accommodating. Holiday weekends get quite busy with full occupancy, leading to a crowded atmosphere with sites close together and multiple vehicles per site. The front campsites are generally preferred over the back section, which can become muddy during rainy periods. Despite the crowds, most campers find their neighbors respectful and courteous.

What camping options and prices are available at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area?

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area offers various camping sites suitable for different equipment, from tents to larger camping trailers. The campground has both front and back sections, with front sites generally considered more desirable. Sites vary in levelness, with some requiring additional effort to set up properly. While specific pricing isn't detailed, the campground does offer a camping store where visitors can purchase forgotten supplies. For current rates and availability, contact the recreation area directly or check with Michigan's Department of Natural Resources website.

What trails and outdoor activities can you enjoy at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area?

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area offers trails suitable for all skill levels, making it accessible for everyone from casual walkers to more dedicated hikers. The recreation area boasts excellent fishing opportunities, consistently rated as a highlight by longtime visitors. Water enthusiasts can enjoy boating and kayaking on the area's waters. The diverse outdoor offerings make it a versatile destination for various recreational pursuits. For the most current trail conditions or activity restrictions, check with park management before your visit.

How does the reservation system work for camping at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area?

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area utilizes a reservation system for securing campsites, which is essential during busy periods like holiday weekends when the campground fills completely. Sites accommodate camping trailers and typically allow 2-3 vehicles per site. The campground can reach full capacity, especially during peak summer periods and particularly on holiday weekends. For the most accurate information about making reservations, available dates, and any reservation fees, contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources directly or visit their official reservation website.