Bay City, Michigan camping areas sit within Michigan's Thumb region at approximately 585 feet above sea level along Saginaw Bay's western shore. The region features a humid continental climate with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through October, though select RV parks remain open year-round.
What to do
Beach activities at Bay City State Park: Located directly on Saginaw Bay, this park offers a sandy beach area with swimming access. "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets, blue heron, sand pipers and their babies," notes Jennifer H., who also recommends checking out the watch towers accessible via paved bike paths.
Splash pad fun for kids: Bay City State Park Campground features the "Spray by the Bay" splash pad across from the campground. "We spent all day at the park with 4 kids 6yrs and under and not a single one of them complained of being bored," writes Sarah S., highlighting the combination of "a huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching, pavilions."
Casino entertainment: Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park offers free shuttles to nearby casino properties. "This campground is a few miles from the casino, but offers free shuttles to the soaring eagle properties (including the water park)," explains Stephanie C. The park includes lake access where campers can swim and fish during hot weather.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on campers' priorities. At Bay City State Park, "The bathrooms and showers were very clean, smelled of bleach," reports Jennifer H. Similarly, lathan W. appreciates that Finn Road Park is "very nice, quiet and clean, everything you need."
Full hookup convenience: Finn Road Park provides complete services for RVers. "Sites are concrete pads and level," mentions Dave P., adding that "sites are mostly shaded." The park offers 57 concrete pad sites with complete water, electric, and sewer connections.
Peaceful wooded settings: Northern Bear Paw RV Park receives praise for its natural environment. "This place is gorgeous. Owners have done a great job with the property. Pine trees left intact. It sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit," writes Nellie, appreciating the "very peaceful setting."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most RV parks near Bay City operate seasonally. Bay City State Park Campground runs from May 1 to October 31, while Soaring Eagle operates April 1 to October 31. For winter camping options, Northern Bear Paw RV Park remains open year-round.
Bathroom cleaning schedules: Bay City State Park has specific cleaning times. "The bathrooms and showers are very clean. They are closed an hour a day for thorough cleaning and restocked and wiped down in the late evening," explains Sarah S., information helpful for tent campers planning shower times.
Site variations: Pine Ridge RV Campground has inconsistent site sizes. "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., noting the "weird thing is, the bigger sites are the same price."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Organized activities enhance family camping experiences. Bay City State Park offers scheduled events throughout summer. "They have campground hosts that facilitate free activities organized by the park. We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," shares Sarah S.
Bike-friendly options: Campgrounds with paved roads provide recreational opportunities. "The park is huge and there are lots of places to ride your bike," says Stephanie C. about Bay City State Park. The "drive around the campground is all paved and very long, so be sure to bring your bikes," recommends another camper.
Site selection for groups: Ogemaw County Park West Branch RV Park offers affordable options for group camping. "Needed a tent site for 3 pup tents motorcycle camping. Nice quiet secluded campground in the woods. Nice clean baths and showers. $25 for tent $35 RVs pull through," reports Gary D.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Electric hookups at Bay City State Park can be challenging to access. "Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far," advises Tanner G., noting that "sites are electric only" without water or sewer connections at individual sites.
Late arrival procedures: For RV parks Bay City, Michigan has options for after-hours check-in. "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," explains Tanner G. about Bay City State Park's procedures.
Overnight convenience stops: Love's RV Hookup in Bridgeport offers a limited but useful option with just 4 sites featuring full hookups including 30/50 amp electric, water, and sewer connections. This makes it ideal for travelers passing through who need a quick overnight stay with all services.
