Glamping in Burt, Michigan offers a mix of woodland and lakeside settings across the Saginaw Bay region. The area sits at approximately 650 feet above sea level and features diverse freshwater ecosystems. Typical summer temperatures range from 65-85°F with humidity levels higher near lake areas, creating conditions where evening campfires are comfortable through early October.
What to Do
Hiking trail exploration: At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, visitors can access extensive trail systems surrounding the park. A camper noted, "Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital. Fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available."
Water recreation: Bay City State Park Campground features multiple water recreation options. One reviewer mentioned, "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets blue heron, sand pipers and their babies. There is a long paved bike path we had a dear pass within 6 feet of us and enjoyed hiking out to the watch towers."
Indoor recreation alternatives: During inclement weather, many glamping structures offer indoor amenities. A visitor at Covenant Hills Camp shared, "Bathrooms and meeting buildings were adequately upgraded and offered pleasant amenities, such as a game room, large gym and decent air conditioning."
What Campers Like
Private, shaded sites: Pine Ridge RV Campground receives praise for its natural setting. According to one camper, "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. There's private land on either side and a dirt bike track that the neighbor owns on the north end, so if you've got a light afternoon napper, stay away from that end."
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations maintain high cleanliness standards. A visitor at Bay City State Park noted, "The restrooms and showers were very clean, smelled of bleach. The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream."
Year-round availability: While most glamping structures are seasonal, some parks remain open through winter. At McGinnis Lake Modern Campground, a winter visitor shared, "Paved sites. Some are pretty secluded. Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart. Bring a bike or drive. Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake."
What You Should Know
Site selection importance: Glamping site quality varies significantly within each campground. One camper at Pine Ridge observed, "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. Weird thing is, the bigger sites are the same price."
Bathroom cleaning schedules: At Bay City State Park, bathrooms close for cleaning during peak morning hours. A visitor noted, "Cleaning the bathrooms at 8:30 and 9:30 in the MORNING? Bummer for tenters."
Some parks prohibit alcohol: Unlike most campgrounds, certain locations enforce strict no-alcohol policies. At Covenant Hills Camp, a camper mentioned, "Nice family/Christian campgrounds... ok for those who care not enjoy alcohol beverages while vacationing, great activities set up for the kids."
Tips for Camping with Families
Adventure activities: Groveland Oaks County Park provides numerous structured activities. A parent shared, "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."
Beach and splash pad access: Families staying near Bay City benefit from water features specifically designed for children. A family camper observed, "Take a 2 min walk from the camp office across to the day park and you'll find the Spray by the Bay splash pad, a huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching, pavilions, well kept bathrooms and changing rooms."
Weekend programming: Many glamping locations offer scheduled activities. At Covenant Hills Camp, a visitor mentioned, "Large sites, all full hookup. Plenty of onsite activities on the weekend. Large play areas, dog run, basketball court, lots of walking trails, and family friendly."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: When glamping with electrical needs, be prepared for outlet location issues. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, a camper warned, "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Site access challenges: Some glamping locations have difficult approaches. A reviewer at Otter Lake Park Campground noted, "The sites do not have grass so it is a bit messy- may be tough for larger units to navigate around. Campground is small and the people are nice."
Full hookup availability: For those seeking full utilities, selective campgrounds offer these amenities. A visitor to Pine Ridge RV Campground said, "We enjoyed this very quiet campground. It is not a family 'resort' style campground. There is a playground, no pool. Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size."
