The Clio, Michigan area features diverse wetland ecosystems alongside Pine Run Creek and Flint River tributaries. Situated at approximately 750 feet elevation, the region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 82°F and cold winters that can drop below 20°F. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though select sites near Clio offer year-round glamping accommodations.
What to do
Birding adventures: Bay City State Park Campground offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities along the lagoon nature trail. "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets, blue heron, sand pipers and their babies," notes one visitor who spotted deer within six feet while biking the paved paths.
Mini-golf outings: Otter Lake Park Campground provides family-friendly recreation just minutes from campsites. "There is a boat launch, park and a beach. The beach area is nice and sandy, lots of places to fish," explains a reviewer. The location allows visitors to access both water activities and nearby attractions without lengthy drives.
Splash pad fun: Bay City State Park Campground features the Spray by the Bay water play area located across from the campground. "From the beach, to the splash pad, the huge playground, the hiking trails, fishing in the lagoon, and the touristy attractions right down the road (i.e. - bumper boats, mini golf, batting cage, go karts, etc..)," writes one camper who found plenty to entertain children.
Kayaking opportunities: Covenant Hills Camp offers on-site paddling options with equipment rentals. "Lots to do, kayaking, fishing, the blob much more. Clean and friendly," reports a camper who appreciated the convenient access to water activities without leaving the grounds.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Holly Recreation Area provides camping among mature trees with decent separation between neighbors. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees," shares one visitor who particularly recommended site #1 for its roominess.
Clean facilities: Wesleyan Woods Camp receives consistent praise for maintenance and improvements. "Very nice camp and keeps improving every year we come back!" notes a regular visitor. The campground maintains a quiet, family-centered atmosphere with alcohol restrictions that some campers specifically appreciate.
Convenient location: Sleepy Hollow State Park balances natural settings with accessibility. "Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital. Fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available," writes a visitor who valued the park's proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a remote feel.
Ice cream access: Genesee Otter Lake Campground features a well-stocked general store with treats. "Forget to pack something?! No Worries...they have you covered at their general store anywhere from a toothbrush, table cloth, soda, Lg homemade Pizzas, Subs and the best Ice Cream ever in their homemade waffle cones!!" enthuses a visitor who enjoyed the convenience.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Pine Ridge RV Campground has variable site sizes that significantly impact camping experience. "Some camp sites are squished up to others. Other camp sites have plenty of room. So when you are stuck in a spot that is tight it kind of ruins the experience. Weird thing is, the bugger sites are the same price," explains a camper who recommends avoiding site 70 specifically.
Electrical hookups: Groveland Oaks County Park requires extension cords at certain sites. Similarly at Bay City State Park, "Make sure to come with an extension cord - one member of our party had their power halfway into their neighbor's site through a bunch of bushes," warns a recent camper.
Lakefront availability: At Genesee Otter Lake Campground, waterfront sites are primarily occupied by seasonal campers. "If you are looking to stay here, all of the decent waterfront sites have seasonal campers in them," notes a visitor who suggests managing expectations about waterfront access.
Tent restrictions: Pine Ridge RV Campground doesn't permit tent camping. "No tents allowed but pop-up are welcome," clarifies one regular visitor who appreciates the campground's quieter atmosphere that comes with this policy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Holly Recreation Area features multiple play areas for different age groups. "There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair," observes a visitor who appreciated the inclusivity.
Activity schedules: Bay City State Park provides organized recreation options through campground hosts. "They have campground hosts that facilitate free activities organized by the park. We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," shares a family who found these structured activities beneficial.
Conservation programs: Groveland Oaks County Park offers educational opportunities that engage children with nature. One visitor noted, "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds."
Glamping close to Clio, Michigan: Holts RV Sites and Mobile Home Court provides tent and yurt options with modern amenities. For luxury camping near Clio, they maintain year-round glamping accommodations that blend outdoor experiences with comfort.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Pine Ridge RV Campground accommodates larger rigs with some navigational planning. "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff," reports an RVer who recommends avoiding the north end of the campground due to nearby dirt bike track noise.
Late arrival procedures: Bay City State Park has specific check-in protocols after hours. "Drop box available after 10pm(summer). Between 8p-10p there is a yellow phone to check in with. Can book day of until 8pm online," explains a late-arriving camper who found the process straightforward.
Site leveling challenges: Covenant Hills Camp requires some setup adjustment on uneven terrain. "I wouldn't say rustic but the sites can be a bit hard to get into. They don't level out very well," notes a camper who suggests bringing leveling blocks.
