Campgrounds near Dryden, Michigan range across the Oakland and Lapeer County region with elevations averaging around 900-1,100 feet above sea level. The area features a mix of forested terrain and inland lakes formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. Most campsites maintain accessibility from April through October, with average summer temperatures reaching 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Explore the extensive trail network at Addison Oaks County Park, which features paths suitable for intermediate-level riders. "Tons of trails for hiking and biking. They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," notes Wendy K., who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds within 20 miles of Dryden offer disc golf opportunities. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," says Joe S. about Addison Oaks.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at one of the stocked lakes in the area. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, visitors appreciate the accessibility. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports," according to Mary H., who found the park offers "lots of private sites."
Wildlife observation: Many camping areas feature abundant wildlife viewing. "We saw deer and rabbit. Our spot #18 I felt was spacious and not too close to the people next to us and trees behind us," shares Karen C. about her experience at Addison Oaks.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many campers appreciate the sense of seclusion at Holly State Recreation Area. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," David S. commented in his 5-star review. Another visitor noted, "We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees."
Paved camping pads: Several campgrounds feature paved or cement pads for level setup. Ron E. describes Addison Oaks as a "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees."
Clean facilities: Despite high usage, campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Holly State Recreation Area, one camper reported, "The bathrooms were clean. There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court."
Year-round access: Some recreation areas like Bald Mountain Recreation Area remain open throughout winter months. "Well planned and nicely maintained. Easy to find anchor points to camp. Great trails and kids friendly," according to Priyank S.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds near Dryden offer different levels of site seclusion. "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," explains Sarah P. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Weather considerations: Sandy terrain can become challenging after rainfall. At Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, a camper observed, "If it rains everything is mud if your in the back camp section."
Seasonal water access: Swimming areas typically open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Barb L. noted at Addison Oaks that it "Would be nice to have a swimming option - I understand beach was permanently closed a few yrs ago."
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential, especially for weekend camping. Sites at popular locations fill quickly during summer months and holiday weekends. Many campgrounds offer online reservation systems.
Tips for camping with families
Look for planned activities: Several campgrounds offer scheduled weekend events for children. "They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," shares Wendy K. about Addison Oaks.
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Groveland Oaks County Park receives high marks from families. "Great campground, so much to do, especially for families with smaller children," writes Anna H. Another camper adds, "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing."
Check cabin availability: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort while still enjoying the outdoors. "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," reports Stephanie H. about Holly State Recreation Area.
Plan for hiking distances: Some recreation areas have significant distances between campgrounds and beaches or recreation areas. At Pontiac Lake, Mary H. notes, "Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk. (Trail is not stroller/wagon friendly)"
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At some campgrounds, electrical hookups may be positioned far from RV pads. "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," advises Mary H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Site leveling: Check for level sites when booking. At Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, one camper noted "A good number of sites are not level."
Full hookup availability: RVers seeking full hookups have limited options near Dryden. Water Tower Travel Trailer Park offers "sites are long but not wide. Level. Full hookups. Wifi you can stream on," according to Lake George L., though the campground is "extremely small, tightly crammed in 30 total sites."
Site selection for larger rigs: Carefully research site dimensions before booking. Carol W. suggests, "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."
