Oakland County features several cabin and glamping options within a 20-mile radius of Village of Clarkston, Michigan. The area sits at elevations of 900-1,300 feet above sea level with sandy soil that drains quickly after rain. Trail systems throughout the recreation areas connect lakes and natural features with varying degrees of difficulty for hikers and cyclists.
What to do
Water recreation: 2.5-mile trail loop around lake. At Addison Oaks County Park, visitors can enjoy the scenic lake trail that encircles the water. "This was our first time camping. The park has a beautiful 2.5 mile trail around the lake that makes this campground great. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats," notes Karen C.
Biking opportunities: multiple trail systems. The recreation areas around Clarkston offer extensive biking options. "The trails are well maintained and heavily trafficked," according to Kate K. at Addison Oaks. For more challenging terrain, Pinckney Recreation Area provides advanced options where "hikers and bikers start their trek at the Silver Lake day use area where the main hiking and biking trailhead is located."
Activities for children: scheduled events. Camp Dearborn runs regular activities for families throughout the camping season. "Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more," reports Ryan S. During Halloween weekends, special events include "lights is fun activities for the kids for halloween," according to Mary W.
What campers like
Secluded camping sites: wooded privacy. Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of certain sites at Holly Recreation Area. "I love this place and so do my 3 dogs. We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous- tucked into the woods and was easy to back into. You're far enough from people to where you don't really see a lot of them or hear them that often besides people walking by," writes Ashley F.
Modern bathroom facilities: recent upgrades. Several campgrounds have invested in updated bathroom facilities. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, "the bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," shares Jennifer O. Another visitor notes "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable."
Variety of glamping structures: beyond standard cabins. When seeking glamping in Village of Clarkston, Michigan area, campers can choose from various structures. "We stayed in one of the group sites and it was beautiful," writes Jennifer O. about Addison Oaks. At Brighton Recreation Area, "Large campsite with trees, lit path to the bathroom, and easy access to hiking trails and raft/boat launch," according to Brianna S.
What you should know
Campsite positioning: varying levels of privacy. Site selection matters significantly at recreation areas near Clarkston. At Groveland Oaks County Park, "Full hookup area is away from most of the weekend traffic with a short cut to get to where all the kids stuff is located," notes Debbie H. However, some campers find certain areas "very open but ya some cool amenities like the water slide for kids. Paths are nice, just wish there was more trees and less chain linked fence," says Kelsey P.
Seasonal considerations: bugs and weather. Michigan's camping season brings specific challenges. "There are TONS of mosquitos," warns Rebecca M. about Brighton Recreation Area. For wet conditions, "if it rains everything is mud if your in the back camp section," cautions D P. about Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area.
Reservation timing: high demand periods. Securing glamping accommodations near Village of Clarkston requires planning. "We would think that different times of year provide different experiences and we camped for a week in early May so we were able to experience quiet mornings and afternoons," explains Carol W. about Groveland Oaks. Weekends and holidays fill quickly at popular sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: multiple options available. Families enjoy the various water features at recreation areas. "The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds. Most of the activities (IE beach and rentals) open Memorial Day," shares Carol W. about Groveland Oaks County Park.
Playground access: multiple locations. Many campgrounds provide play areas for children. "We've state at this campground on and off for roughly 3 weeks staying mostly at the Cedar cabin but we also tent camped as well. The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet. Bathrooms are clean and it has hot showers and a place to do your dishes as well. We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," explains Stephanie H. about Holly Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: wildlife viewing. Families can use camping trips for learning experiences. "We were able to experience quiet mornings and afternoons, great walks with our four legged campground incredible views of swans, geese and ducks as they introduced their new little ones to the area," describes Carol W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: check levelness. RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "Our campsite was a little difficult to get into because it was on a curve and there was a seasonal camper with a Class A right across from our site which didn't allow for a lot of space to maneuver our 26 ft travel trailer," warns Debbie H. about Groveland Oaks.
Hookup availability: varies by campground. Electric and water connections differ across campgrounds. "Liked having full hook ups. But not many trees. We like the small swimming hole, the beach, the parks and putt putt," notes Tammy K. Proud Lake Recreation Area offers "electric hookup with 50, 30, and 110," according to D K.
Distance between amenities: plan accordingly. Some recreation areas have widely spaced facilities. "Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart. Bring a bike or drive. Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," advises Ethan R. about Holly Recreation Area.
