Best Campgrounds near Birmingham, MI

Campgrounds near Birmingham, Michigan provide a surprisingly diverse mix of camping experiences within a short drive of this suburban area. Recreation areas like Proud Lake and Pontiac Lake offer well-maintained campgrounds with amenities for tent and RV campers, while Bald Mountain Recreation Area provides rustic cabin options. Within 30 minutes of Birmingham, these state recreation areas feature wooded sites that create a northwoods feel despite their proximity to metro Detroit. Most established campgrounds in the area accommodate tents and RVs, with several also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter.

Modern facilities characterize many camping areas near Birmingham, with several state recreation areas featuring recently renovated bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms ARE nice. They have the standard stall restrooms AND they have family bathrooms that are a toilet, bench and shower area. They've clearly been remodeled lately," notes one visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area. Camping options range from rustic sites with basic amenities to more developed campgrounds with electric hookups, water access, and modern restrooms. While most campgrounds operate year-round, some county parks like Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks have seasonal availability from spring through fall. Recreation passports or permits are typically required for state recreation areas, while county parks have their own fee structures.

The natural setting of campgrounds near Birmingham often surprises first-time visitors expecting more urban conditions. Campers report enjoying wooded sites that provide shade and privacy despite being close to suburban areas. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "When I think of camping, I think of heading 'up north', but I am so glad that we decided to head south and meet some family members half way. This campground has the feel of 'up north' as it is wooded and tucked away in an oasis of water, greens, and wildlife galore." Many camping areas in the region feature water access for activities like kayaking, fishing, and swimming, making them popular for summer recreation. While most campgrounds maintain clean facilities and well-kept grounds, visitors note that sites can fill quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods, particularly those with waterfront views.

Best Camping Sites Near Birmingham, Michigan (73)

    1. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 666-1020

    $22 / night

    "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive."

    "Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk."

    2. Proud Lake Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    Wolverine Lake, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 685-2433

    "I had no clue what to expect when booking so close to a few major cities in Michigan. I love feeling secluded while camping and was nervous this would feel like parking lot camping."

    "First, I'd like to say that I was born and raised in Northern Michigan. That's where I'm used to camping and hiking. I moved to the metro Detroit area a few years ago."

    3. Haas Lake Park RV Campground

    17 Reviews
    New Hudson, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 437-0900

    "Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water . The first night was super quiet!"

    "I highly recommend Hass Lake campgrounds. It is a very clean, quite, Beautiful campgrounds."

    4. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area

    33 Reviews
    Ortonville, MI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-8811

    $27 - $30 / night

    "Group area is away from the main area. Kayak lakes are nice. Excellent hike/bike trails. Park is located just down the road from the Holly Oaks Off road park."

    "I love to come here when I want a quick get away from home because it is only 30min away. The campsites are big,secluded, wooded, and clean."

    5. Addison Oaks County Park

    13 Reviews
    Lakeville, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 858-1400

    "The park has a beautiful 2.5 mile trail around the lake that makes this campground great. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats. We saw deer and rabbit."

    "Cell phone tower is close by. We especially enjoy the intermediate level mountain bike trails. Showers are hot. Lots of deer to see at dusk."

    6. Camp Agawam

    2 Reviews
    Auburn Hills, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 391-0304

    $20 - $30 / night

    "I come down to Detroit from Windsor every year to camp in Michigan with friends and this year we went to this very nice campsite in Orion Twp and I loved it."

    7. Camp Dearborn

    16 Reviews
    Milford, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 684-6000

    $3 / night

    "Booked a two week stay at Pontiac Lake Rec. area in Whitelak, MI. Huge sites not stacked on top of one another. They have electric hookups, but only 30 amp."

    "Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site."

    8. Bald Mountain Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Lake Orion, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 693-6767

    "The trails are well maintained and well marked. There is also tons of clean, easy to access lakes within the park too. Perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing."

    "Great trails and kids friendly."

    9. Groveland Oaks County Park

    19 Reviews
    Holly, MI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-9811

    $28 - $48 / night

    "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds."

    "Large campground with lots of trails and activities (although we camped in early May so many activities were not open)."

    10. Highland State Recreation Area — Highland Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 889-3750

    "Great time to unplug and just enjoy our surroundings and begin to learn our own creativity!"

    "This is one of our family's favorite close to home sites. Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around. Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding."

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Recent Reviews near Birmingham, MI

523 Reviews of 73 Birmingham Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    Great Spot!

    Because it’s a state park, they have fresh drinking water, would for bonfires in private spots. This is one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming.

  • Vee H.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    KOA Campground Emmett

    Bed bugs in cabins

    Avoid this KOA at all costs– bed bugs and dishonest management. Our stay at the Emmett KOA was a nightmare. The cabin we rented was infested with bed bugs. When we brought it up, the owner flat-out lied and told us they hadn’t had bed bugs in“over 13 years.” That was absolutely false. There are multiple reviews on here already citing bed bug issues, and staff members themselves admitted to us that it has been an ongoing problem. Even the pest control company they claimed to use confirmed they’ve been battling bed bugs here. Instead of taking responsibility, management hid behind their ridiculous 14-day cancellation policy and refused to refund our second night(which we didn’t stay for obvious reasons). Their“solution” was insulting: a 20% discount for a future stay(as if anyone would want to come back!) and a handful of quarters so we could attempt to kill the bugs in our belongings using their dryer. The dishonesty from Toni and her father is appalling. Any business that knowingly lies to its customers about a health and cleanliness issue this serious has no integrity. Bed bugs are not a minor inconvenience– they spread, they infest, and they follow you home. We left disgusted and disappointed, and I strongly recommend avoiding this campground if you value your health, honesty, or basic respect as a paying customer.

  • Dan H.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    KOA Campground Emmett

    Avoid this KOA at all costs – bed bugs and dishonest management.

    Our stay at the Emmett KOA was a nightmare. The cabin we rented was infested with bed bugs. When we brought it up, the owner flat-out lied and told us they hadn’t had bed bugs in“over 13 years.” That was absolutely false. There are multiple reviews already citing bed bug issues, and staff members themselves admitted to us that it has been an ongoing problem. Even the pest control company they claimed to use confirmed they’ve been battling bed bugs here. Instead of taking responsibility, management hid behind their ridiculous 14-day cancellation policy and refused to refund our second night(which we didn’t stay for obvious reasons). Their“solution” was insulting: a 20% discount for a future stay(as if anyone would want to come back!) and a handful of quarters so we could attempt to kill the bugs in our belongings using their dryer. The dishonesty from Toni and her father is appalling. Any business that knowingly lies to its customers about a health and cleanliness issue this serious has no integrity. Bed bugs are not a minor inconvenience– they spread, they infest, and they follow you home. We left disgusted and disappointed, and I strongly recommend avoiding this campground if you value your health, honesty, or basic respect as a paying customer.

  • Edward C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Seven Lakes State Park Campground

    Beautiful park

    Very pretty park. Sites and facilities are well maintained.

    Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you.

  • Trevor O.
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Thousand Trails St. Clair

    Cabin Stay

    We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow

  • Nathan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Dancing Fire Glamping and RV Resort

    Suited for RVs - Very Kind Host

    Right off the highway. Clean. $69/night for a pad with power. We have a pop up tent and a utility trailer. Nice pool. Showers and sitewide wifi. Would have rated a 5 but the price seems high for a tent.

  • Elizabeth M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Hidden Lakes RV Resort

    Fantastic RV Park!

    We stayed here last weekend. It was quiet and relaxing. Easy parking for the 33ft RV. Camp store is well stocked. Staff were fantastic. You need yo camp here!


Guide to Birmingham

Camping sites near Birmingham, Michigan offer several convenient options within Oakland County. The area consists of rolling hills, kettle lakes, and second-growth forests, with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity, making camping comfortable from May through October with peak mosquito activity in July.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area features extensive trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "This is one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming," notes Christine A. The recreation area's trails accommodate riders of various skill levels.

Paddle sports on multiple lakes: Highland State Recreation Area offers a quiet, no-wake lake perfect for kayaking and canoeing. "Lovely little no wake lake perfect for swimming, fishing or paddling," according to Jennifer H. The calm waters make this an ideal spot for beginners.

Disc golf courses: Several parks near Birmingham feature disc golf courses, including Addison Oaks County Park. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," reports Joe S. The course winds through wooded areas with well-maintained baskets.

Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes throughout the recreation areas offer fishing access. At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," explains Karen C. The area supports bass, pike, and panfish species.

Wildlife viewing: The natural areas support diverse wildlife. At Pontiac Lake, "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear," advises Kristina J.

What campers like

Private, wooded campsites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion available at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. "The spots are all pretty private due to trees and vegetation. Nice fire pit," notes Sam H. Sites at Pontiac Lake feature natural buffers between camping areas.

Modern bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms rank high on camper satisfaction. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable," reports Laura M.

Proximity to water: Access to lakes rates highly for campers. "Sites were nice with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded and could barely see site past truck in parking spot. Great for getting away and seeing the night sky," mentions Daniel at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.

Family-friendly amenities: Groveland Oaks County Park receives praise for its facilities. "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds," explains Debbie H.

Urban accessibility: Campers value the convenience of these sites. "When I need a weekend get away but don't want to drive to far this here is the spot! The facilities are kept up quite well and the campgrounds are secluded enough," shares Jessika A. about Proud Lake.

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Birmingham require advance booking during peak season. The Michigan Recreation Passport ($13 annually for Michigan residents) grants access to state recreation areas.

Campsite types vary: Sites range from rustic to full hookup. Holly State Recreation Area offers a mix of options. "Sites in the Maple loop had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest," reports Jennifer H.

Seasonal limitations: County parks typically operate from spring through fall. "Most established campgrounds in the area operate year-round, while county parks like Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks have seasonal availability from spring through fall," with Groveland Oaks open "Last week of April through first week of October."

Distance to amenities: Some campgrounds have significant distances between facilities. At Pontiac Lake, "The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," explains Renee R. Similarly, Mary H. notes, "Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk. (Trail is not stroller/wagon friendly)."

Noise levels vary: Campgrounds closer to urban areas may have more activity. At Camp Dearborn, one camper notes, "It was extremely crowded and people were very rowdy late into the night and obviously intoxicated."

Tips for camping with families

Water activities for kids: Camp Dearborn offers multiple swimming options. "Camp Dearborn has a lot for the kids, outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading," shares Melissa M. The beach areas feature designated swimming zones.

Look for holiday events: Several campgrounds host special weekend activities. At Groveland Oaks, campers mention, "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland. We feel like we went up North without the driving four hours."

Choose sites based on privacy: For families wanting space, Highland Recreation Area offers room to spread out. "This rustic campground is obviously well-tended and has an almost magical feel to it. It's private, quiet, and full of wildlife," says Brett B.

Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort. Bald Mountain Recreation Area offers rustic cabins that "sleep about 10-15 people if remember correctly. They are rustic, so they don't have electricity or heat but there is a large wood burning stove."

Pack for insects: Bug protection remains essential for family comfort. Multiple campers mention mosquitoes, with one noting, "Make sure you bring bug spray."

Tips from RVers

Extension cord requirements: Some electrical hookups require planning. At Pontiac Lake, "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," advises Mary H.

Site access challenges: RV campers should research site layouts. At Groveland Oaks, "Our campsite was a little difficult to get into because it was on a curve and there was a seasonal camper with a Class A right across from our site which didn't allow for a lot of space to maneuver our 26 ft travel trailer."

Dumping stations: Most campgrounds offer sanitary dumps, but location varies. At Proud Lake, "Water hookup and dump on site," mentions Sam H., making it convenient for shorter stays.

Site surface variations: Parking surfaces differ between campgrounds. Some campers note Pontiac Lake has "blacktop pad" while other campgrounds feature gravel or grass parking areas. At Holly State Recreation Area, "Paved sites" are standard in the modern campground loops.

Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. One Camp Dearborn reviewer suggests, "We travel in a 42 ft motorhome and suggest if you are traveling in a large rig, drive through the park to find an appropriate site."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Birmingham, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Birmingham, MI is Pontiac Lake Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 19 reviews.