Bath, Michigan sits within an area rich in diverse recreation areas and waterways, featuring several small lakes within a 25-mile radius that provide quiet camping alternatives to more crowded destinations. The region offers four-season camping options with shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) typically providing less crowded conditions and increased wildlife viewing opportunities. Campsites here range from basic rustic experiences to luxury glamping accommodations with most requiring reservations 2-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Pinckney Recreation Area features extensive interconnected trails with options for backpackers and day hikers alike. At Blind Lake Rustic Campground, access to the Potawatomi Trail provides multiple loop options. "This is a great trail for beginning backpackers or anyone looking for a quick escape to the woods. We hiked the 7.5 mile loop and stayed one night. The best part is that there are no campgrounds so no loud groups of people/signs of humans everywhere," notes Megan C.
Mountain biking: The area has designated mountain bike trails with varying difficulty levels. At Pinckney Recreation Area, dedicated bike trails offer recreational cyclists plenty of options. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" shares Maria G. The trail system includes both beginner and intermediate options with well-marked routes.
Kayaking and small craft boating: Several no-wake lakes provide peaceful paddling experiences. Maple River Campground offers direct river access for kayakers and canoeists. "It was a great little location that even had some river side cabins you could rent. The amount of nature was overwhelming. Lots of turtles and ducks to be seen," reports David F. Rental options are available at several locations from May through September.
Winter camping: For cold-weather glamping near Bath, Michigan, several sites remain open year-round with unique winter activities. "We took advantage of one of the hike in only areas along the waterloo trail... There is a Horse camp not too far from the hike-in campground which is reported to have running water," explains Heidi S., describing winter hiking opportunities in the area.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Unlike the glamping pods mentioned in the existing description, Bishop Lake Campground offers more traditional sites with natural features. "The campgrounds restrooms and showers were clean. Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade. The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive," explains Debra B. Sites typically accommodate tents and medium-sized RVs.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Green Lake Rustic Campground, "The sites are generously sized, with room to stretch out. There isn't much privacy between sites, with a few exceptions, but this campsite is so quiet and well-behaved that it didn't end up mattering much," notes Alaine S. Most campgrounds provide vault toilets that are regularly serviced.
Lake access and fishing: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities even when not explicitly marketed as glamping destinations near Bath. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass,and huge blueguils. Lots of traffic being so close to City, but good day excursion," shares Michael P. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground. The primary fishing season runs April through October.
Diverse camping styles: The area accommodates various camping preferences beyond traditional setups. "There are multiple camping opportunities with a variety of camping styles. Yurt rental, to hike-in rustic sites, there's good camping for anyone. A 35 mile hiking trail runs through the entire area with small day trails branching off to points of interest, all with corresponding camp sites," explains Greg F. about Pinckney Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advanced planning, especially for glamping accommodations near Bath. "We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous- tucked into the woods and was easy to back into. You're far enough from people to where you don't really see a lot of them or hear them that often besides people walking by," shares Ashley F. about Holly Recreation Area. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through the Michigan DNR website.
Limited privacy at some sites: Not all campgrounds offer secluded experiences. "This is another one of those 'parking lot campgrounds' where you can see all of your neighbors at all times. That being said, the park was very well kept and quiet at night which was nice," notes Sarah P. about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern. Site maps online typically indicate which sites offer more seclusion.
Varying amenities between campgrounds: Facilities range widely from rustic to modern. "Green Lake is the rustic campground on the east end of the area. No electricity, 3 privies, a water pump, and a boat launch. No swimming area," explains James P. Different campgrounds within the same recreation area can have vastly different amenity levels.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts site conditions throughout the year. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. I wanted to visit Potter Park Zoo so we choose to stay at Sleepy Hollow for a few days. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right. Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac," reports Amy D. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with higher humidity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. At Ionia State Recreation Area, "Our kids enjoyed this park every year while growing up. Hunting for mushrooms, fishing, swimming in the lake, building forts, riding bikes. Big sites! This place was the perfect get away," shares Heather H. Playgrounds are typically located near beach areas or central campground loops.
Swimming beaches: Family-friendly water access varies between locations. "It was our first time camping dry but super easy to learn. Nice place pretty full. Nice bathrooms. Great Lake," notes Beth G. about Bishop Lake Campground. Swimming areas generally have gradually sloping entries without lifeguards.
Halloween events: Seasonal family activities provide special experiences. "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site," advises Stephanie C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground. These themed weekends typically run in September and October with advanced reservations required.
Nature education: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for children. "This is a great campground for family's it's peaceful and for the most part a quiet campground. A short walk or bike ride to the beach of Sessions Lake or even to the peninsula to fish from dock," explains Nick B. Ranger-led programs are available at select parks during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Power availability varies widely between sites. "The campground needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment," notes Amy D. about Sleepy Hollow State Park. Most sites offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp connections available at certain campgrounds.
Site dimensions: Space constraints impact larger rigs. "Site was a little small for our 38foot - we had to go sideways which opened us up to other campers. Not my favorite," shares Beth G. about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern. RV sites typically accommodate units up to 35 feet, with some exceptions for larger rigs.
Water access points: Filling stations require planning. "No water hookup- but you can fill up and dump at the front of the campground," explains Ashley F. about Holly Recreation Area. Most campgrounds have central water access rather than individual site connections.
Dump station locations: Sanitation facilities may involve extra fees. "You do have to pay $5 for shower use and $5 to use the dump station. They do have ice and firewood for sale there, but there isn't a little store so you have to leave the campground and drive a few miles for that," notes Alexandra M. Dump stations are typically open during daylight hours only.
