Best Campgrounds near Chelsea, MI

Are you in need of a campground near Chelsea, MI? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Chelsea, Michigan (99)

    1. Blind Lake Rustic Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area

    18 Reviews
    Gregory, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 426-4913

    $17 / night

    "Nice place to camp right on the lake. It's a 7 mile hike in(can also be accessed via boat), part of the Potowatomi loop trail(~18 miles) located in Waterloo-Pinckney recreation area."

    "Camp ground is located along the Potawatomi Trail in Pinckney Recreation area. Bikers head the opposite direction from hikers. The route I followed was about 8 miles in to Blind Lake."

    2. Bruin Lake Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Gregory, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 426-4913

    $27 - $46 / night

    "There is a new large playground structure and nice but short paved path for kids to bike or scooter around."

    "On Crooked Lake, it has 25 sites, two of which are right on the water; #7 is full sun, larger, and 20 is sun/shade and tucked away in the back of the campground."

    3. Green Lake Rustic Campground — Waterloo Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Chelsea, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "I stayed at #6 and had a beautiful view of the lake. There is muddy lake access on that site and I paddled from there in my kayak. There is an official boat launch nearby."

    "This campground is part of the Waterloo State Recreation area, about 6 miles north of Chelsea MI. Sites are decent-sized, not much privacy between some sites."

    4. Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Chelsea, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "It is usually easy to get multiple sites next to each other with reservations.

    There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net."

    "There is an outside vault toilet behind the cabin. Lots of trails connecting the cabin to the rest of the park. Cheap too! Only $68 per night."

    5. Bishop Lake Campground

    26 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-6566

    $17 - $90 / night

    "Campground Review:

    Bishop Lake is a great campground located in the middle of the Brighton Rec Area. The upper and lower campgrounds are both modern, with every site including electric."

    "Great family place with paved and dirt biking/hiking trails. Very nice beach with grass and sand. There are 2 areas of inflatables, one of them is for the little kids 48 in. and under."

    6. Hell Creek Ranch & Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pinckney, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 878-3632

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Direct connections to the Waterloo Pinckney trail system. Near Hell, Michigan and Chelsea, Michigan. Large pool in season. Priced reasonably."

    "Wow.. what a nice little getaway in Hell, Michigan area! Camp host, “Lightening” is a friendly and helpful guy who NEVER stopped working (except to chat with campers here and there)."

    7. Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "A few bathrooms are located around the campground. The spaces are generous and the majority have electricity only. The lake has a little beach with sands. Nice place."

    "Nice campground with lots of sites, after the weekend we had half the place to our selfs, nice big clean lake that also offers row boat rental."

    8. Portage Lake Campground — Waterloo Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "We purchased our new rPod 193 late in the fall and have been dying to give it a test camp and Michigan Winter Weather gave us a great opportunity the week after Christmas (2021)."

    "Enjoyed a nice paddle on the lake the morning before I left!"

    9. Holiday RV Campground

    5 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 522-5846

    "Playground near pool is nice, and there are 2 other playgrounds. Pool is very new. Owners and other campers very friendly.
    There is a small camp store and a very nice pool."

    10. Crooked Lake Rustic Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Pinckney, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 426-4913

    $20 - $28 / night

    "We could see the lake and had an outhouse right nearby."

    "The views of the lake are awesome, it’s a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state. Wish there were better noise restrictions and the campgrounds were more separated."

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Showing results 1-10 of 99 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chelsea, MI

561 Reviews of 99 Chelsea Campgrounds



Guide to Chelsea

Camping near Chelsea, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Biking and Hiking: Many campgrounds have trails for biking and hiking. At Maumee Bay State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "There are miles of paved bike paths throughout the campsite and a short ride to the lake." This makes it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Fishing and Swimming: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground is perfect for those who enjoy fishing. A visitor shared, "The dog beach was small and full of algae," but it still offers a nice spot for a swim.

  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Harrison Lake State Park Campground provide opportunities to see local wildlife. One camper noted, "The grounds were well maintained but the potable water within camp was not," highlighting the natural beauty of the area.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A review for McGinnis Lake Modern Campground stated, "The bathrooms were clean," which is a big plus for many families.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. At Bishop Lake Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The campsites are big, secluded, wooded, and clean," making it a comfortable choice for camping.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Groveland Oaks County Park are known for their family activities. One camper said, "There are lots of family activities like mini golf, kids bike courses, and playgrounds."

What you should know

  • Bug Spray is Essential: Many campers have noted the presence of bugs, especially mosquitoes. A review for Harrison Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Mosquitoes were crazy no matter the bug protectants used."
  • Limited Cell Service: If you're planning to stay connected, be aware that some campgrounds have poor cell service. A visitor at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground noted, "Verizon service was basically non-existent other than at the beach."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during weekends. A camper at Maumee Bay State Park Campground mentioned, "You don't feel like you are close to anyone because most sites are surrounded by trees and shrubs," but it's best to book ahead.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer family-friendly activities. Groveland Oaks County Park has playgrounds and mini-golf, making it a hit with kids.
  • Pack Extra Supplies: Be prepared for anything. A camper at Holly Recreation Area advised, "Bring a big rake? Beautiful campground. Friendly, helpful staff."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours. A review for Bruin Lake Campground mentioned, "They say quiet time is all the time, and I love that."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Conditions: Some sites can be sloped or uneven. A visitor at Holly Recreation Area noted, "I wouldn't pick site 93 however as the pavement is sloped."
  • Fill Up Before You Go: Make sure to fill your fresh water tank before setting up. A camper at Sterling State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station is at the first buildings."
  • Watch for Wildlife: Keep an eye out for raccoons and other animals. A camper at Holly Recreation Area warned, "Raccoons run this place! Don’t leave any food or garbage out ever or you will be robbed by a gang of raccoons."

Camping around Chelsea, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chelsea, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chelsea, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 99 campgrounds and RV parks near Chelsea, MI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Chelsea, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chelsea, MI is Blind Lake Rustic Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area with a 4.7-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chelsea, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Chelsea, MI.

What parks are near Chelsea, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Chelsea, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.