Bay City's camping options range from organized campgrounds to premium glamping retreats along Saginaw Bay, where water levels typically fluctuate about 1-2 feet throughout the camping season. The area maintains average summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping months from May through September, with higher humidity near the shoreline. Most glamping accommodations close to Bay City, Michigan require advance reservations due to high demand during summer weekends.
What to do
Wildlife observation trails: 7 miles of varied terrain at River View Campground connects directly to water activities. "Family goes there every year. Campground offers many amenities and with the river right on site there is so much to do. We always go tubing and kayaking," writes Jennifer S.
Riverside water sports: Rent tubes and kayaks on-site at most riverfront locations during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). According to Mikayla H., "I love this campground. We go annually for a women's camping trip. It's always beautiful and relaxing."
Otter Lake activities: $7-10/hour boat rentals available at Otter Lake Park Campground for exploring the water. "Otter lake itself is nice, and picturesque, I wish we'd had time to use our canoe to explore it, or even to take advantage of the beach," reports Brian O.
ORV trail access: Direct trail connections from some campgrounds for dirt bikes and off-road vehicles. "ORV trail butts up to the campground so bring your dirt bikes!" advises Alyssa C., highlighting the options for motorized recreation beyond standard camping activities.
What campers like
Generous spacing between glamping sites at Covenant Hills Camp provides privacy for luxury stays. "Large sites, all full hookup. Plenty of onsight activities on the weekend. Large play areas, dog run, basketball court, lots of walking trails, and family friendly," notes Andrew H.
Rustic glamping options with water views can be found at select locations. "We tent camped in site #56... The lake is soooo beautiful and you can rent kayaks $7/hour or a 2 person small boat for $10/hour," reports Alyssa C.
Modern bathrooms with hotel-quality showers are standard at premium glamping locations. One camper states, "I will say the showers are in-home quality for a campground!" This represents a significant upgrade from standard campground facilities.
Wooded settings with established shade trees create comfortable microclimates at Pine Ridge RV Campground. Mary S. observed, "Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size. Nice shade trees at most sites."
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most glamping sites near Bay City operate May 1 through October 31, with reduced availability in shoulder seasons. "Since 1966 I visit, often just back packing. Clean enough & refreshing enough & still something pre-historic, particularly the beach, & the roads to it," says Don M. about Sebewaing County Park Campground.
Electric hook-up positions vary significantly: Many sites require extension cords due to unusual outlet placements. Tanner G. advises, "Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far. Website has pictures for sites and will advise if lot gets wet."
Late arrival procedures: Most campgrounds provide after-hours check-in options. "We came in late for just a place to rest before heading further north. Drop box available after 10pm(summer). Between 8p-10p there is a yellow phone to check in with."
Alcohol policies differ by campground: Several faith-based campgrounds prohibit alcohol, while others permit it. "Good, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground)lots to keep the kids busy, bonus ice cream store," notes David B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity considerations: Sites near playground areas offer convenience but increased noise. A camper at Evergreen Park Campground notes, "Very loud, lots of children, kids will be kids, but the loud music until very late and the dogs barking all hours not necessary!"
Religious program awareness: Some campgrounds include faith-based activities. "Definitely recommend to families w kids that are on the conservative side and would like to keep their faith religiously on sundays with service and etc," explains Tammy P.
Recreational facility scheduling: Many campgrounds offer structured activities on weekends only. "They take very good care of this campground... Lots to do for kids!" according to Carol M.
Budget for additional rentals: Boat and equipment fees average $7-15 per hour at most locations. "The spray park and playground are nice for kids," with fees typically separate from camping costs.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity limitations: Verify amperage availability before booking luxury glamping units with high power needs. Mitchell C. explains, "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff."
Variable site dimensions: Some premium sites cannot accommodate larger RVs despite listings. "Some camp sites are squished up to others. Other camp sites have plenty of room. So when you are stuck in a spot that is tight it kind of ruins the experience," warns Kristin T.
Site surface conditions: Many sites lack defined camping pads, requiring strategic setup. "Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size. Nice shade trees at most sites," notes Mary S.
