Best Campgrounds near Clare, MI

Camping near Clare, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to enjoy outdoor adventures, there are several campgrounds that cater to different tastes.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Bay City State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground usually clean and patrolled. Showers/restrooms are good, cleaned twice a day." This park has trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking.

• Fishing and Swimming: At North Higgins Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A visitor shared, "The lake is amazing and would definitely go back!" It's a great spot for water activities.

• Disc Golf and Stargazing: Check out Newaygo State Park Campground for disc golf and stargazing. One camper said, "Ample activities in the area (hiking, disc golf, biking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, tubing and stargazing)."

What campers like:

• Quiet and Clean Campgrounds: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness and quietness of places like Sherman City Acres. One happy camper noted, "If you enjoy camping without the crowd, this is an ideal location."
• Large Campsites: Campers at Bay City State Park Campground enjoy spacious sites. A reviewer mentioned, "Most sites are good, though some have slopes to them. Choose carefully."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the friendly hosts at places like Coolwater on the Pine River Campground. One visitor said, "The new owners have only had this place for about 8 months... super nice owners."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A camper at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground was located right next to a busy road. So, there was road noise through the night."
• Reservation Challenges: Popular spots like South Higgins Lake State Park Campground can be hard to book. One camper said, "It's impossible to get a spot somehow they’re already booked before they even allowed to be booked."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, have fewer amenities. A visitor noted, "The sites require a reservation... Not somewhere you can just pay for on spot."

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Bay City State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Great newer playscape and splash pad (!) for the kids."
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Wabasis Lake County Park said, "The lake access was extremely busy."
• Plan for Wildlife: Be prepared for raccoons and other wildlife. A visitor at Wabasis Lake County Park warned, "Lots and lots of raccoons, that aren’t shy at all!"

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A camper at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are ok sized, bathroom was clean."
• Bring Extension Cords: Some sites may require extension cords for electric hookups. A visitor at Bay City State Park Campground noted, "Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far."
• Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast, so book your spot well in advance. A camper at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground said, "You will want one of the sites closer to the lake."

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