Camping options around Caro, Michigan range from full-service facilities to simpler sites near the region's waterways. Located in Michigan's Thumb region at approximately 712 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summers with temperatures typically between 65-85°F and cold winters with significant snowfall accumulation. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October due to Michigan's northern climate conditions.
What to do
Hiking and walking trails: Covenant Hills Camp features multiple maintained paths through wooded areas with varying difficulty levels. "Lots of things to do. climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing alot of pike. Wooded lots very friendly," notes one visitor.
Water activities: At Bay City State Park Campground, campers can enjoy both the beach and paddling options. "We took a group of 6 adults and 3 kids to Bay City which was a pretty good drive for us. We had a lot of fun! Park was clean and located across from the lake. There was a splash pad area for the kids which they begged to go to every day!"
Outdoor games: Several campgrounds maintain sports facilities for guest use. At Holly State Recreation Area, "There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair."
What campers like
Quiet environments: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings at Pine Ridge RV Campground. As one visitor noted, "We love this campground. It's quiet and well maintained. The owners are friendly and willing to help. Wood bundles are available for purchase and they deliver to your site."
Clean facilities: Attention to cleanliness ranks high among camper priorities. A visitor to Otter Lake Park Campground commented on the amenities: "Laundry facility is nice and cheap, with a great sink to wash dishes. Bathrooms are poorly vented and gets so hot & humid, but I will say the showers are in-home quality for a campground!"
Lake views: Waterfront sites receive consistently positive feedback. At Port Crescent State Park Campground, "The sites on the front row by the water are the best in my opinion. Amazing sunset views and quick access to the beach. When storms come it, make sure you have everything put away and your tent staked down reeeeeal good."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. "Probably one of the most popular state parks in Michigan, and for good reason," notes one camper about Port Crescent. "The grounds offer bathrooms and showers, as well as electric and water for RVs. No rustic options available, so all sites are $35 per night."
Site variations: At Wesleyan Woods Camp, "Nice big sites and nice bath house. Great staff as well." However, site quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Otter Lake noted, "The campground is right in town and there are a few stores you can walk to. There is a boat launch, park and a beach."
Seasonal considerations: Most camping areas operate from spring to fall. At Covenant Hills Camp, the season runs "Apr 1 - Nov 1," but Evergreen Park Campground remains open "All year," providing glamping in Caro, Michigan during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Covenant Hills Camp offers numerous structured activities. "Lots to do for kids! Good, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground) lots to keep the kids busy, bonus ice cream store."
Water play options: Bay City State Park provides multiple water features. "The campground is located across the road from the beach with a playground, this year they have added a boardwalk." Another camper mentioned, "There was a splash pad area for the kids which they begged to go to every day!"
Dedicated spaces: Look for campgrounds with specific family-centered areas. A visitor to Bay City State Park noted, "We spent all day at the park with 4 kids 6yrs and under and not a single on of them complained of being bored."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Holly State Recreation Area, "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest."
Hookup availability: Consider utility needs when booking. Pine Ridge RV Campground offers "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff." Another RVer mentioned, "Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size. Nice shade trees at most sites."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties. At Bay City State Park, "Lots of moving around to get your electric hooked up to the shared and oddly placed power poles. Make sure to come with an extension cord - one member of our party had their power halfway into their neighbor's site through a bunch of bushes."
