Camping around Essexville, Michigan offers diverse accommodation options within the Saginaw Bay watershed region. Located at approximately 585 feet above sea level, this area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F and cold winters averaging 20°F in January. Sites throughout the region range from electric-only to full-hookup facilities, with many campgrounds providing access to the Saginaw Bay and associated waterways.
What to do
Hiking and wildlife observation: The trails at Port Crescent State Park Campground provide excellent opportunities for nature exploration. "There are trails for hiking around the wider state park area as well as a few that lead across the street to the swim area and day park," notes one visitor. The park's location makes it ideal for birdwatching, with many migratory species passing through.
Water activities: River recreation stands out at River View Campground & Canoe Livery, where summer visitors enjoy floating the river. "This is a fun camp with lots of stuff to do. Nothing like grabbing a tube a flowing down the river with friends," reports one camper. Hourly and daily rental options are available for water equipment with prices starting around $7-10 per hour.
Playground facilities: Families camping at Bay City State Park Campground appreciate the recreational infrastructure. One visitor describes it as "one of the best campgrounds for kids that I've ever visited" and notes the "huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching, pavilions, well kept bathrooms and changing rooms."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently comment on bathroom cleanliness at regional campgrounds. At Sebewaing County Park, facilities are described as "clean enough & refreshing enough" while maintaining an almost "prehistoric" feel that distinguishes it from more developed sites.
Spacious campsites: Pine Ridge RV Campground receives praise for its site layouts. "Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size. Nice shade trees at most sites," according to a recent visitor. Larger sites provide more privacy and comfort during peak camping season.
Organized activities: Many campgrounds in the Essexville region offer structured recreation options. One visitor at Covenant Hills Camp notes they have "lots of things to do. climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing a lot of pike," making it particularly appealing for family luxury camping experiences near Essexville.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "During summer months, it books up 6 months in advance. So learn their online reservation system and be quick at it if you have a specific site in mind," advises a camper about Port Crescent State Park.
Weather considerations: Storms can develop quickly around Saginaw Bay, affecting camping conditions. A camper warns, "When storms come it, make sure you have everything put away and your tent staked down reeeeeal good, cause I've definitely seen 60mph+ winds and tents end up in the trees."
Seasonal operations: Most glamping in Essexville, Michigan is available only during the warm months. Otter Lake Park Campground operates from mid-April to mid-October, typical of many local campgrounds, with some sites offering late check-ins: "Drop box available after 10pm(summer). Between 8p-10p there is a yellow phone to check in with."
Tips for camping with families
Check playground locations: At Bay City State Park, "There is a small playground in the campground, but you have to cut through campsites to reach it." Knowing the layout helps plan family activities more effectively.
Consider the schedule: Many campgrounds coordinate special events for younger visitors. "They have campground hosts that facilitate free activities organized by the park. We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," reports a camper from Bay City State Park.
Water safety planning: Tawas Point State Park Campground offers varying water conditions that families should consider. "The public beach on Lake Huron has rougher water and more rocks" while the bay side features calmer waters more suitable for younger swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Several campgrounds have unusual electrical setups. One camper notes, "Make sure to come with an extension cord - one member of our party had their power halfway into their neighbor's site through a bunch of bushes."
Site selection considerations: Carefully review site details before booking, especially for premium glamping sites in Essexville area. A visitor to Pine Ridge explains: "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."
Lighting awareness: RVers should be mindful of exterior lighting that might impact tent campers. "It's really hard to sleep in a tent when your neighbor's RV 'porch' light is on literally all night shining in the tent while your neighbors are sound asleep in RV," advises a visitor at Bay City State Park.
