Clare, Michigan sits at the junction of US-127 and US-10 in the central Lower Peninsula. Located at an elevation of 850 feet, this area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures of 82°F and cold winters with January temperatures often below 20°F. Camping season typically runs from May through October, with many campgrounds closing for winter.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: Several campgrounds offer water access for cooling off during summer months. At Herrick Recreation Area, campers can enjoy "a full beach across the road" where swimming is permitted, according to Curtis S. The beach area is part of the day-use section but "still included with your stay."
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes and ponds provide fishing options for all skill levels. Jennifer H. notes that Herrick Recreation Area has "a few spots for fishing" while at Mud Lake State Forest Campground, Matt T. found lake access "literally 50 yards from my campsite" making it "great for canoe, kayak or boat."
Hiking and biking: The region offers trails suitable for different abilities. Jennifer H. mentions "the Pier-Marquette Rail trail about 1.5 miles from the campground, great for biking, running etc." Ari A. notes that Mud Lake connects to a network: "a 2.5-mile-long connector from this campground to the Green Pine Lake Pathway -- it's a total of about 9 miles of trails that connects you to three different lakes."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous site sizes. At Countryside Campground & Cabins, Tracey L. found "sites around #40 are spacious and shaded all day which was awesome." At Herrick Recreation Area, Macy M. mentions "lots were large, no issues with backing in our 36' TT with 2 slides."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently praised. James P. found Countryside Campground to be "the prefect RV park. The staff is very accommodating and the amenities are amazing." Emily W. notes "bathrooms are clean & well maintained" and mentions they "deliver firewood $30 for a tractor bucket full."
Quiet atmosphere: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Clare offer peaceful settings. At Mud Lake State Forest Campground, Brian H. describes it as a "quiet campground primitive only nice lake good size lot." Jacki F. adds it "has the feel of a hike-in campground while being accessible by vehicle" and is "located off the beaten path in the middle of nowhere."
What you should know
Hookup variations: Water access differs between campgrounds. Sue B. notes at Herrick Recreation Area, "sites have electric with shared water." Dj W. elaborates: "Power at most spots, communal water in the center of the 'pods' of sites."
Primitive options: For those seeking rustic experiences, Mud Lake State Forest Campground offers basic amenities. Jon S. describes it as having "8 sites with 3 on the lake" with "water well pump and 2 put toilets" plus a "great fire pit and flat area."
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others are first-come. Jennifer H. notes Pettit Park Campground "is a first come, self serve City Park" that's "only 0.5 miles from downtown Clare" making it convenient for overnight stays.
Seasonal variations: Be aware of weather patterns. Zara W. warns about ticks at Mud Lake: "Our dogs all had at least one on them and all of us campers had a few. It's expected being in the backs wood like that I just didn't realize how bad."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with children's facilities. Emily W. says Countryside Campground has an "upgraded park for kids" and mentions special activities: "They offered hay rides Saturday evening" and "had a foam party (my 5 year old loved this)."
Beach proximity: When camping with kids, consider sites near swimming areas. At Wilson State Park Campground, Lydia T. found "a great swim area, cute playground, and newer shower houses." Heather Q. advises "The small beach can be crowded toward the afternoon, so stake out a spot early!"
Pet-friendly activities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Clare provide dedicated dog areas. Tracey L. notes that Countryside has "a fenced in dog park with pick up bags" and "mowed trails for daily walking or biking."
Noise considerations: Be aware of potential noise sources. Dj W. notes Wilson State Park is "bordered on 2 sides by 2 major roads" and "Harrison is loaded with people who think 'no exhaust' equals 'cool car'" which can disrupt quiet camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose wisely based on size and needs. At Gladwin City Park & Campground, Andrea B. suggests you "may want to bring extra water hose as water hook ups can be farther away than expected." Dj W. warns about Wilson State Park: "be honest about your rig length when booking. Many sites are rather large, like 97, but severely sloped."
Local amenities: Know where to find supplies. Kenneth W. notes Gladwin City Park "is in town so easy everything you might need close to town" with "big sites and secure. Quit at night even though in town."
Leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain. Dj W. found at Herrick Recreation Area: "site 78 should be avoided if rain is forecasted for your time there. 73 sits at the low side of that pod, and gets washed out."
