Glamping in Concord, Michigan offers elevated outdoor experiences across several recreation areas within a 30-mile radius. The region features diverse terrain with multiple lake systems connected by hiking trails throughout the 20,000-acre Waterloo Recreation Area. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F, while summer averages hover around 80°F, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, mountain biking enthusiasts find excellent trail systems designed specifically for riders. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "We camped and rode at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before and this has now officially become a favorite."
Lake paddling across connected waterways: Multiple bodies of water throughout the region provide paddling opportunities. "I loved this quiet little campground! I stayed at #6 and had a beautiful view of the lake. There is muddy lake access on that site and I paddled from there in my kayak," reports a Green Lake visitor. The area's lakes support kayaking, canoeing and fishing without motorized boat traffic in many locations.
Winter backpacking with yurt options: Pinckney Recreation Area maintains trail access during winter months with yurt accommodations available for cold-weather camping. "The park is open all year, making the Blind Lake campground a popular stop for hikers in the winter," notes a ranger. Trails remain accessible with proper winter gear.
Backcountry skill-building on shorter loops: Perfect for beginners, the Waterloo-Pinckney system offers shorter trail segments. "This is a great trail for beginning backpackers or anyone looking for a quick escape to the woods. We hiked the 7.5 mile loop and stayed one night," shares a hiker, adding that "there are no campgrounds so no loud groups of people/signs of humans everywhere."
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Green Lake Rustic Campground offers well-spaced sites with natural buffers. "The sites are generously sized, with room to stretch out," explains one camper. Another adds, "Sites are generally first come first serve though reservations are now taken since the Covid-19. Most sites are shaded and all have a fire ring."
Night sky viewing without light pollution: Several campgrounds maintain minimal artificial lighting. "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," shares a Fort Custer camper. Limited development around these recreation areas preserves darker skies than urban camping locations.
Seasonal water recreation options: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern provides waterfront activities during warmer months. "It has a very nice play area for the children and clean bathrooms. The boat launch was near our camp site which was nice not having to leave the campground," mentions a visitor. Swimming beaches typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Varied terrain for hiking: The region features diverse ecosystems across short distances. "We hiked on a multi-use trail that the ranger suggested. The blue trail goes around a couple lakes and was wonderful," explains an explorer. Trails connect woodlands, wetlands, prairie remnants and lakeshores within single hiking routes.
What you should know
Seasonal bug conditions: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in certain areas, particularly near wetlands. "The mosquitoes are awful. The site was a decent size and had a lot of shade, which was nice," reports one Fort Custer camper. Another notes: "We missed a sign or two and ended up turning our 4 mile trip into a 6.5 mile one but there are plenty of spots to rest."
Limited services at rustic sites: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "It is rustic with just vault toilets. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring," explains a Green Lake camper. Another mentions: "The lake is not good for swimming as it is very mucky and covered in Lilly pads."
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Many sites require advance booking during peak months. A Green Lake visitor shares, "I would recommend getting a reservation before showing up. They have laminated signs posted on the campsites to let you know which ones are taken." Firewood availability can be limited at backcountry sites.
Trail sharing with multiple user groups: Blind Lake Rustic Campground experiences trail traffic from various recreationists. "Trail was in great condition and is well marked with numbered posts," one hiker notes, while another cautions, "Great place to train and get your trail legs as well as test out new gear. Overall great place near home."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking routes: Several interconnected trail systems allow customizable distances for families. "This is a great trail for beginning backpackers or anyone looking for a quick escape to the woods," shares one visitor to Blind Lake. Multiple access points let families adjust hiking distances based on children's abilities.
Structured activities at developed campgrounds: Jellystone Park at Barton Lake offers organized programming for children. "Have created a tradition in our family to go to Yogi every year at the end of summer! It's a great place to swim, ride bikes, do crafts, play bingo, and a wide variety of fun activities for the whole family," reports an enthusiastic parent.
Playground facilities at multiple locations: Several campgrounds feature play structures near camping areas. "Nice, clean modern Campground with a few rustic sites. Lake is very clean on a small chain," says a Pinckney visitor. Waterloo Sugarloaf features "a nice park and clean bathrooms" according to a camper who visited with family.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups at state parks: Most state recreation areas offer limited services. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," notes a Fort Custer visitor. Water fill stations and dump facilities may have lines during peak checkout times.
Full-hookup options at private campgrounds: Holiday RV Campground provides complete services for larger rigs. "This campground is family owned and very nicely kept up. It is predominantly all season campers but there are plenty of other spots open for short visits. They have expanded sites recently, newer areas have no trees," reports a recent visitor.
Site length considerations: Space for larger RVs varies between campgrounds. "Our site was a little small for our 38-foot - we had to go sideways which opened us up to other campers," shares a visitor to Waterloo Sugarloaf. Advance research on specific site dimensions prevents arrival challenges.
