Proud Lake Recreation Area sits on the Huron River about 20 miles northwest of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The region features rolling hills, hardwood forests, and numerous lakes formed during the last glacial retreat. Campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with most premium sites requiring reservations several weeks in advance during summer months. Winter camping options are limited to a few year-round facilities.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers trails suitable for various skill levels. "The trails available here are where I learned to mountain bike, they're not the easiest but they are not so challenging that you won't have fun," notes Syed M. about the well-maintained paths.
Kayaking on connected waterways: Multiple lakes and rivers allow for day-long paddling adventures. "Great lake to kayak on," confirms Debra B. at Proud Lake, where rental services operate from May through September. Water temperatures remain comfortable for paddling from June through early October.
Disc golf courses: Holly Recreation Area maintains a full 18-hole course open to campers without additional fees. The courses include both wooded technical holes and open field distances. "Wonderful park with hiking trails and beautiful lakes. Campsites are wooded and pretty private," explains Marcy D.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Recent renovations at several parks have improved comfort substantially. "The bathhouse is new and very nice," reports Stephanie C. at Proud Lake Recreation Area. "The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," Jennifer O. adds.
Wooded sites with privacy: Many campgrounds maintain natural buffers between sites. "We stayed in the rustic Aspen loop and it was fine for early season but come peak season, the sites lack privacy and are kind of small," explains Ashleigh M. about Holly Recreation Area, highlighting the importance of site selection.
Winter season activities: Some parks remain operational year-round with special events. "Proud lake is very nice... we've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere," shares Justin G.
What you should know
Site elevation variations: At Camp Dearborn, campers should be prepared for significant grade differences. "There's a severe hill from the back part of the loop towards the lake - at one point I was worried an improperly locked down camper would roll straight through our tents!" warns Jennifer O.
Reservation timing: Premium sites at most parks book quickly, especially for summer weekends. Reservations open six months in advance, with holiday weekends often filling within hours of availability.
Noise levels vary by loop: "This site was very nicely kept but felt a little like a sardine can. SO many RVs and children EVERYWHERE kind of ruined the relaxed calm one looks for when camping," notes Jennifer O. about certain sections at Proud Lake. Selecting sites in outer loops generally provides a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Children's programming: Groveland Oaks County Park offers structured activities throughout summer. "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.
Cabin options for first-timers: For families new to camping, consider starting with cabin accommodations. "We've stayed in their tent/cabins and our own RV. Great park, clean, nice swimming lakes, the teens love the canteen," shares Beth G. about Camp Dearborn.
Weekend event schedule: "They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," notes Wendy K. about Addison Oaks County Park. Many parks publish activity calendars online two weeks in advance.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several parks near Bloomfield Hills offer complete services. "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees," notes Ron E. about Addison Oaks County Park.
Site leveling challenges: Bishop Lake Campground requires additional preparation for larger rigs. "Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade," reports Debra B., highlighting the trade-offs between location and amenities. Many RVers recommend carrying extra leveling blocks for the varied terrain.
Seasonal site considerations: "Full hookup area is away from most of the weekend traffic with a short cut to get to where all the kids stuff is located," explains Debbie H. about Groveland Oaks County Park, noting the benefit of their specific arrangement for longer-term stays.
