Glamping options close to Davison, Michigan center around the Huron, Cass, and Flint River watersheds at elevations between 750-850 feet. The region features primarily oak-hickory and beech-maple forests with terrain that's gently rolling rather than mountainous. Most glamping facilities maintain seasonal operations from April through October when temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, though several year-round options exist.
What to do
Kayaking at reasonable rates: At Otter Lake Park Campground, visitors can rent kayaks for $7/hour or two-person boats for $10/hour. "The lake is soooo beautiful and you can rent kayaks $7/hour or a 2 person small boat for $10/hour," notes camper Alyssa C.
Mountain biking for beginners: The trail system at Proud Lake Recreation Area offers good options for new riders. "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," shares Syed M.
Mini golf and arcade games: Genesee Otter Lake Campground provides structured entertainment beyond natural activities. "Plenty of activities planned and structured thru the grounds to keep the whole family entertained including PUTT PUTT Golf, Arcade, Saturday Night Adult Bingo weekly, and tons more!!" according to camper Tammy P.
Disc golf course access: Multiple courses are available within short driving distance. Addison Oaks County Park maintains a dedicated course. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," reports Joe S.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between campsites. At Holly Recreation Area, "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," notes David S. Another camper, Ashley F., adds: "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."
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Several glamping locations feature recently renovated facilities. At Proud Lake, "The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," according to Jennifer O.
Dedicated swimming areas: Most locations offer beach access with designated swimming zones. "The beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," reports Ethan R. about Holly Recreation Area.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Many glamping sites welcome pets. "I love this place and so do my 3 dogs," shares Ashley F. about their Holly Recreation Area experience.
What you should know
Site variations within campgrounds: Quality and privacy can vary significantly between sites at the same location. "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," notes Kristin T. about Pine Ridge RV Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping facilities operate from April through October. "We stayed for two nights, and enjoyed our stay for the most part. But our main reason to be there was to visit nearby Pictured rocks national lakeshore," shares Brian O. about Otter Lake, highlighting the need to coordinate your visit with attraction availability.
Distance between amenities: Some campgrounds have widely spaced facilities. "Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart. Bring a bike or drive," advises Ethan R.
Terrain considerations: The natural topography affects site quality. Jennifer O. notes about Proud Lake: "The site was nice, a little rocky so hard to pitch a tent, and theres a severe hill from the back part of the loop towards the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for sites near play areas. "The campground has it all, electric, cabins, playgrounds, basketball courts, etc... Ideal for families and people who like to camp but aren't into the 'rustic' part," shares Kate K. about Holly Recreation Area.
Activity scheduling: Covenant Hills Camp offers structured programs. "Lots of things to do. climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing alot of pike. Wooded lots very friendly," notes C P. Another visitor, Tammy P., adds: "Nice family/ Christian campgrounds... great activities set up for the kids."
Beach proximity: Waterfront sites provide easier access for children. "We loved the small swimming hole, the beach, the parks and putt putt," shares Tammy K.
Special events: Many campgrounds host seasonal celebrations. "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," says Justin G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Groveland Oaks County Park, Carol W. advises: "We travel in a 42 ft motorhome and suggest if you are traveling in a large rig, drive through the park to find an appropriate site. We had called ahead but the site they had reserved for us would not have worked."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible," reports Mitchell C. about Pine Ridge RV Campground.
Electrical options: Most glamping sites provide electrical hookups. "I didn't use all amenities but there was a modern bathroom facility with showers. kayaking, hiking, electric hookup with 50, 30, and 110," notes D K. about their Proud Lake stay.
Water fill stations: Not all sites have direct water connections. "There is no water hookup- but you can fill up and dump at the front of the campground. No store- but you can stop and get firewood when you check in," advises Ashley F.
