Camping spots near Wolverine Lake, Michigan range from modern facilities with electric hookups to rustic sites with vault toilets. Most campgrounds in Oakland County offer seasonal accommodations from April through October, with average summer highs in the mid-80s and winter lows around 20°F. Water-based recreation dominates the area's camping experience with several inland lakes available for kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area features exceptional biking terrain for various skill levels. One visitor noted, "The trails available here are where I learned to mountain bike, they're not the easiest but they are not so challenging that you won't have fun."
Kayaking and canoeing: Island Lake Recreation Area offers unique canoe-in campsites accessible only by water. A reviewer explained, "Island Lake Recreation Area is home to two Huron River Canoe Camps. The sites are boat-in only (!) meaning you must haul any and all gear in a kayak or canoe for your stay."
Seasonal activities: Camp Dearborn provides organized activities throughout camping season. "They have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line," shared one camper, while another mentioned, "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes across the recreation areas support fishing. A visitor to Highland State Recreation Area described it as having a "quiet lake perfect for unwinding after a long day" with "extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area receives praise for its secluded camping atmosphere. A camper shared, "This campground is my FAVORITE in Oakland County. The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards of cleanliness. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, a visitor reported, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable."
Waterfront access: Haas Lake Park RV Campground offers direct lake views from multiple sites. A camper described, "Arrived to a super friendly guy Chris that escorted us to our site. We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway. Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes."
Natural settings close to urban areas: Despite proximity to metropolitan Detroit, many campers appreciate the natural atmosphere. "When I need a weekend get away but don't want to drive to far this here is the spot! The facilities are kept up quite well and the campgrounds are secluded enough," noted a Proud Lake visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Campground terrain can range from level to challenging. One Pontiac Lake camper advised, "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad."
Reservation requirements: For specialized sites, advanced planning is necessary. A reviewer explained about Island Lake, "The sites, Canoe Camp #1 and #2, can be only be reserved by calling or visiting the main office."
Bug awareness: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito and tick populations. A Pontiac Lake camper warned, "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear."
Beach access: Not all campgrounds offer walking access to swimming areas. At McGinnis Lake Modern Campground, "The campground has the feel of 'up north' as it is wooded and tucked away in an oasis of water, greens, and wildlife galore."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several parks provide dedicated play areas for children. Groveland Oaks County Park is described as "Great campground, so much to do, especially for families with smaller children."
Halloween events: Special seasonal programming creates memorable experiences. A Camp Dearborn visitor shared, "We've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere."
Water recreation options: Bishop Lake Campground features attractions for children. "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" noted one visitor, while another explained, "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for curious youngsters. At Highland Recreation Area, one camper reported, "We ran up on a group of probably 70 wild turkeys on the trail!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varied site conditions. A Pontiac Lake visitor shared, "Camp site was nice with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded and could barely see site past truck in parking spot."
Hook-up availability: Not all campgrounds offer full services. At Holly Recreation Area, a camper noted, "There is no water hookup- but you can fill up and dump at the front of the campground."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV parks operate with limited seasons. A Haas Lake visitor advised, "They offer very reasonable weekly and monthly rates. It seems as though most campers are seasonal residents making it difficult to get a decent spot for weekend campers."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs may face challenges at some campgrounds. A camper warned, "Not all sites have full hook ups. Most are missing sewer. Not all sites have 50 amp available. I got put into a very tight and very unlevel spot."
