Tent camping options within driving distance of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan range from rustic sites with minimal facilities to fully equipped campgrounds with amenities for families. Situated in southeast Michigan's Oakland County, the area offers camping opportunities despite its suburban setting at elevations averaging 900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season.
What to do
Water recreation access: Island Lake Recreation Area features boating opportunities including hidden canoe camps accessible only by water. "Island Lake Recreation Area is home to two Huron River Canoe Camps. The sites are boat-in only (!) meaning you must haul any and all gear in a kayak or canoe for your stay," notes camper Don H.
Fishing opportunities: Camp Agawam provides fishing access within 20 minutes of Bloomfield Hills. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!" reports James P.
Trail exploration: PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND offers direct trail connections for hikers and cyclists on converted railway paths. Management received praise from camper Mike L. who stated, "Campers are very friendly, management is beyond friendly."
What campers like
Nearby access: Many campers appreciate not having to drive far for a wilderness experience. "Island lake really does feel like you're up north with the hours spent on I-75. There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills," explains Rachael D.
Lake views: Crooked Lake Rustic Campground offers waterfront camping with unobstructed sightlines. "The views of the lake are awesome, it's a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state," notes Jordan D., though he wishes "there were better noise restrictions and the campgrounds were more separated."
Privacy between sites: The best tent camping near Bloomfield Hills, Michigan often features separated camping areas. At Appleton Lake Campground, Mike B. appreciates that "this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other. Each site has a fire ring and ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent or small trailer."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife at some campgrounds. At Appleton Lake Campground, camper Angie H. warned, "The camp site itself was nice, but once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night."
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds near Bloomfield Hills operate seasonally. Hilltop Campgrounds runs from "April 15 to October 15," while Genesee Otter Lake Campground remains open "April to November."
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets are common at rustic sites. Mike B. noted about Appleton Lake, "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full." Bring hand sanitizer and toilet paper as backups.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment for children. At Port Huron KOA, Alex H. shares, "Family camping at its finest. This KOA has so many things to do you could stay a week... They have pretty much any site type you could ask for."
Swimming areas: Crystal Creek Christian Campground offers swimming in a "man dug pond" according to Tammy P., who notes it's "extremely affordable" at "$30 a night 30/50 amp full hook up" or "as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only."
Budget options: For affordable tent camping near Bloomfield Hills, consider rustic sites. Tammy P. points out Crystal Creek offers "rustic tent camping" for "$15 a night" while maintaining family-friendly amenities including "horse shoes, swimming, hiking, basketball, volleyball."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking, request specific sites for more privacy. At Port Huron KOA, Alex H. recommends, "If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space."
Hookup availability: Electric options range from basic to full-service. Tammy P. notes Genesee Otter Lake Campground accommodates "almost any style camper along with (2) Cottages for rent as well!"
Store access: Many campgrounds offer on-site supplies. At Genesee Otter Lake, Tammy P. mentions, "Forget to pack something?! No Worries...they have you covered at their general store anywhere from a toothbrush, table cloth, soda, Lg homemade Pizzas, Subs and the best Ice Cream ever."
