RV parks near Dryden, Michigan offer camping options within the state's eastern Thumb region, where rolling agricultural lands meet hardwood forests at approximately 820 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels than western Michigan. Most campgrounds in this area connect to local trail systems that extend through the rural countryside.
What to do
Golfing opportunities: At Holiday Shores RV Park, campers can enjoy an attached 9-hole golf course with challenging terrain. "The attached 9 hole golf course was well maintained and had some tricky holes. There were changes in elevation and multiple water hazards... we may have lost some balls," shares one camper.
Lake activities: Wolverine Campground provides access to Holloway Reservoir for boating and fishing. "This campground is located on the north shore of Holloway reservoir... the lake is great for walleye. Campground has campsites on lake and is half wooded," notes a regular visitor. The reservoir is particularly known for its walleye population.
Nature trails: Several parks offer hiking opportunities through Michigan woodlands. "Holly State Rec has several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees," explains a visitor. The recreation area features multiple trail systems ranging from short quarter-mile loops to longer 2+ mile paths.
What campers like
Lake views: Campers consistently praise waterfront sites at Haas Lake Park RV Campground. "We thoroughly enjoyed the campgrounds- especially our lakefront full hookup. The fire rings are double insulated with sand, which made for a safer experience," shares one camper. The campground offers four separate lakes with varying site placements.
Wooded privacy: Sites with natural screening are highly valued. "We love this campground. It's quiet and well maintained. Wood bundles are available for purchase and they deliver to your site," reports a camper at Pine Ridge RV Campground. Many campgrounds in the region feature mature trees that provide shade and separation between sites.
Clean facilities: "The bathrooms are key for me and are very clean. Their shower are private and are quarter operated," notes one camper. Another mentions, "The entire facility was clean and staff couldn't have been friendlier." Most parks offer shower buildings with regular maintenance schedules.
What you should know
Extension cord needs: Several campers note electrical hookup placement issues. "If you're in a camper, make sure you have an extension cord. The power is quite a ways away," warns a camper at Wolverine Campground. Standard 25-foot cords may not reach some electrical boxes.
Reservation requirements: Most parks fill quickly during peak season. "On holiday weekends it is heavily used, so you may want to call ahead before you go," advises a camper. Many rv parks near Dryden require reservations 2-4 weeks in advance for summer weekends.
Variable site sizes: At Pine Ridge RV Campground, "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." Request specific site numbers when making reservations to avoid disappointment.
Cell service quality: Service varies significantly between campgrounds. At St. Clair RV Resort, a camper reports, "The only downside was the abysmal Verizon signal. I'm talking 3 mbps bad." Several campgrounds offer WiFi at central buildings but not throughout camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground offers multiple play areas. "There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court," notes a family camper. Most family-friendly campgrounds include at least basic playground equipment.
Swimming amenities: Several parks feature designated swimming areas. "Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," reports a visitor to Holly Recreation Area. Supervised swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Quiet hours enforcement: Campground policies vary regarding noise restrictions. "This is a giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids," explains a camper. Families should check specific quiet hour policies, which typically run from 10pm-8am.
Cabin options: For families without camping equipment, several Dryden area RV parks offer cabin rentals. "We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow," shares a visitor at St. Clair RV Resort. Cabins typically require earlier booking than traditional campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many campers note the importance of checking site conditions. "Our lot had a cement pad which required no leveling. The electrical, water and sewer connections were all easy to access," explains a new RVer at Holiday Shores. Request information about site surface types when booking.
Pull-through availability: "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible," reports one RVer about site navigation at Pine Ridge. Most Dryden area camping resorts offer a mix of back-in and pull-through sites with varying prices.
Seasonal considerations: Many Dryden Michigan RV campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Thousand Trails St. Clair offers seasonal camping from May through October with 30-amp electrical service," while others like Dancing Fire Glamping and RV Resort provide full hookup options with seasonal limitations. Weather in October can bring overnight temperatures below 40°F.
