Burton area campgrounds feature both smaller park facilities under 200 sites and larger resort-style operations with over 700 campsites. The region's camping season typically extends from April through October, though several year-round options maintain winter operations. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 800-900 feet with water-based recreation centered around manmade lakes and reservoirs rather than natural water features.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Holly Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems connecting natural areas with camping facilities. A visitor noted, "We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," while another mentioned it's a "giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids."
Water sports and fishing: Wolverine Campground provides access to Holloway Reservoir with options for various water activities. "The water isn't very deep but great place to go for water sports," explains one camper, while another notes it's "great for walleye fishing."
Winter recreation: While many campgrounds close seasonally, Outdoor Adventures Lake Shore Resort maintains year-round accessibility with specific cold-weather amenities. A reviewer points out their "great opportunities for winter sports" and notes the campground offers "indoor and outdoor pools."
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area where sites offer natural separation. A camper describes, "The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors." Another adds their site "felt very secluded and could barely see site past truck in parking spot."
Swimming options: Seven Lakes State Park Campground provides water recreation focused on Sand Lake. One visitor described it as having "breath taking - it's a small pond really, but great for kayaking. Crystal clear, clean water, a good public beach."
Varied accommodation types: Covenant Hills Camp offers multiple lodging options beyond standard tent and RV sites. A camper who visited with a large group mentioned, "We used multiple different styles of cabins and a few RV sites, as well as various buildings for activities."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Burton area require advance booking, particularly during summer months. At Groveland Oaks County Park, one reviewer advised, "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland."
Membership considerations: Some facilities limit access to members or require day passes. At Outdoor Adventures Lake Shore Resort, a visitor explained: "Membership campground, membership fees are WAY overpriced, check FB Marketplace for folks selling their membership."
Site conditions vary: Terrain and maintenance levels differ significantly across campgrounds. A camper at The Holly Campground reported, "The lots do not have any type of lane which causes the lots to be soggy and muddy. I had to put my F250 into 4L to keep it from getting stuck while parking the camper."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-rich options: Walnut Hills Family Campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities. A visitor observed there are "things to do for all ages" while another detailed that "there is swimming, some fishing, camp store, & activities for the kids! It is a very clean atmosphere with friendly people!"
Kid-focused amenities: Covenant Hills Camp provides specialized recreation for younger campers. A reviewer mentioned their "climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing alot of pike" and noted it was a "great place to keep kids busy."
Age-appropriate facilities: When selecting a campground, consider the specific amenities for your children's ages. At Walnut Hills, one camper noted they have a "playground for kids under 10" along with "swimming, volleyball net, basketball court, paddle boat, tube rentals."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area requires additional equipment for electrical hookups. A visitor advised, "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."
Site selection strategies: Larger rigs require careful planning at most Burton area campgrounds. A camper at Groveland Oaks County Park mentioned, "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."
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs comfortably. At The Holly Campground, an RVer warned, "I got put into a very tight and very unlevel spot. Additionally the spots are close together and there's a lot of them. I personally wouldn't stay here again, however if your camper isn't 43ft long you may not have any issues."
