Glamping options near Clare, Michigan span across multiple state parks and private campgrounds in the central Michigan region. With elevations ranging from 750-1,000 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild summers ideal for outdoor activities from late May through early October. Most glamping sites sit on glacial moraines surrounded by mixed hardwood forests, offering protective shade during summer camping seasons.
What to Do
Disc golf adventures: Newaygo State Park Campground features a challenging course alongside the lake. One visitor shared, "There's good hiking, an awesome disc golf course, and the lake right there with boat launches for fishing. If you're not into fishing or disc golf, you might be happier elsewhere."
Lake swimming: Wilson State Park Campground provides accessible water recreation with minimal depth changes. "The campground is beautiful and very clean with a great swim area, cute playground, and newer shower houses," notes one camper, while another mentions "the small beach can be crowded toward the afternoon, so stake out a spot early!"
Hiking trails: The region offers numerous trail networks for various skill levels. A visitor to Brower Park Campground reported, "The park is right next to the Dragon Trail, a hiking and mountain biking trail that runs 47 miles round Hardy Pond. There is a short loop called the Brower Park Loop that has some amazing views and is great to hike."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. At North Higgins Lake State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "The park and bathrooms were always clean, showers were clean and had good water pressure."
Waterfront access: Proximity to lakes and rivers ranks highly among campers. One reviewer at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground shared, "The beach is clean and the water clear. The beach is great for kids to play in safely while the parents chill at the shore."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. According to a visitor at School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground, "Very nice camp with an awesome lake and great swimming area! Kids love this park! Sometimes it gets busy. The shop has snacks and ice cream."
What You Should Know
Seasonal variations: Most glamping accommodations operate from May through October, with limited winter availability. Several parks have specific closing dates, like School Section Lake which operates "May 1 to Oct 1."
Site selection matters: Certain campgrounds have significant variation between sites. At Wilson State Park, one camper advised, "Many sites are rather large, like 97, but severely sloped, also like 97... Others are flat, small, and your camper is right near the road."
Additional fees: Some parks charge for extras beyond the site rental. A visitor to Bay City State Park Campground mentioned, "They sold ice and wood at the camp office," while Brower Park notes "You will need to pay either a $7 daily or $30 annual fee for your boat but kayaks and canoes are free."
Tips for Camping with Families
Planned activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events for children. A visitor to Brower Park Campground shared, "Hayrides and movies on the weekend," while another mentioned, "They had some weekend activities for the kids."
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas. At School Section Lake, one camper observed, "Small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean (but slightly dated) facilities led to fun times with grandkids."
Safety considerations: Water depths and supervised areas vary between parks. North Higgins Lake State Park offers "lakeside swimming and picnic tables while having the camping site close by," making it easier for parents to monitor children while preparing meals.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have specific limitations for larger vehicles. At School Section Lake, one RVer cautioned, "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs."
Hookup locations: Electrical connections can require planning at some sites. A camper at Bay City State Park advised, "Can book day of until 8pm online. Easy to get into late at night. Big lots. Fire pit. Sites are electric only. Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far."
Seasonal site considerations: Weather patterns affect site conditions. An RVer at Outdoor Adventures Mount Pleasant Resort shared, "This campground is the best one in their fleet. It is super dog friendly as well. This is our 'go to' spot for sure."
