Campgrounds surrounding Clare, Michigan offer year-round camping options with seasonal variations in accessibility and amenities. Located in central Michigan's lake country, the Clare area includes multiple camping destinations within a 30-minute drive, most situated near water features ranging from small ponds to larger lakes and rivers. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while spring and fall camping requires preparation for cooler nights.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Gladwin City Park & Campground provides direct access to the Cedar River with a designated swimming area. "This is a very nice city park, nice play area, tennis and basketball courts, trails, river with beach area, pavilions, two bath houses, lots of shaded sites with a couple right on river," notes one camper at Gladwin City Park & Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The 7-acre pond at River Valley RV Park offers fishing without requiring a license. "7 acre swimming and fishing pond. River borders the campground. Rentals of boats, paddle boards, fishing boats, paddle boats and banana bikes," according to a visitor.
Casino entertainment: Several campgrounds provide shuttle services to nearby gaming facilities. "My aunt loves to visit the soaring eagle casino and because we live about an hour and half away, she likes to camp at the campground. This campground is a few miles from the casino, but offer free shuttles to the soaring eagle properties," explains one camper about Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers repeatedly mention bathroom cleanliness as a standout feature. "Bathrooms are clean & well maintained. They deliver firewood $30 for a tractor bucket full," notes a visitor at Countryside Campground & Cabins.
Water access: Many appreciate the proximity to swimming options. "Secord Lake Campground is a great spot for water lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy the campground's updated amenities," mentions one review.
Organized activities: "We have camped at this campground twice now & plan on going back next year... Offered hay rides Saturday evening. Had a foam party (my 5 year old loved this)," describes a family's experience at Countryside Campground.
Peaceful settings: Many visitors value the quiet atmosphere. "I have been here for over 2 weeks now and I am absolutely loving it! The Camp Hosts are delightful and helpful. It's a quiet and peaceful setting," reports a camper at Harrison RV Family Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Clare area operate from April/May through October, with limited year-round options. "Season: April 15 to October 15" applies to many facilities like Countryside Campground.
Reservation requirements: Walk-in camping can be difficult during peak summer weekends. "Call to reserve. I had a little lack of communication with the online reservation system but the park made up for it," advises a camper at Gladwin City Park.
Site variations: Campsite quality and size vary significantly between and within parks. "The campsites are very close together. However, the bathroom/shower facilities were in good condition. They even had two handicap accessible showers," notes a review of Wilson State Park Campground.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to main roads. "Unfortunately, it's bordered on 2 sides by 2 major roads, Old 27 and Townline Lake Rd," explains a Wilson State Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and organized activities. "Very nice campground with phenomenal owners... Rentals of boats, paddle boards, fishing boats, paddle boats and banana bikes. Nice camp store. WiFi," mentions a River Valley RV Park visitor.
Swimming options: Shallow water areas provide safer environments for children. "Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park...Lake on premise but is shallow, good for fishing, can swim but it was 94 degrees when we were here so it was warm water."
Playground access: "We really enjoyed our stay... Very well run campground with plenty for all of our kids to do," notes a camper at Countryside Campground about their Labor Day weekend.
Water park packages: Some campgrounds offer additional attractions. "You get discounts at the water park! 4th of July fireworks the best and so close!" shares a Soaring Eagle visitor about their family experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully consider site dimensions and hookup locations. "May want to bring extra water hose as water hook ups can be farther away than expected," advises a Gladwin City Park camper.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for comfortable setup. "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," notes a River Ridge RV Resort visitor.
Full hookup availability: Only certain campgrounds offer complete services. "This is a ver nice RV resort where you can be a transit RVer or be a season RVer. Nice pool, clubhouse, bathrooms, laundry room, and all the other amenities," reports a River Ridge camper.
Big rig accessibility: Larger RVs require specific campgrounds with appropriate space. "Needed a tent sight for 3 pup tents motorcycle camping. Nice quiet secluded campground in the woods... $25 for tent $35 RVs pull threw," mentions a camper describing the price structure at a local campground.
