Camping areas near Fenton, Michigan provide options from rustic sites to full-hookup facilities within a 30-minute drive radius. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winters dropping below freezing, often with significant snowfall. Many campgrounds maintain open sites year-round, though amenities and accessibility vary significantly with seasonal changes.
What to do
Water activities beyond swimming: Seven Lakes State Park Campground offers multiple lakes perfect for fishing and paddling. "The campground has a private lake that's good for swimming and fishing. Plenty of hiking/biking trails easily accessed from the campground," notes a visitor at Seven Lakes State Park Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area features extensive mountain biking paths for various skill levels. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports. Park offers lots of private sites," explains one camper at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Winter activities: Several campgrounds maintain winter operations for cold-weather camping. The Holly Recreation Area provides trails for winter hiking and cross-country skiing. "This is a giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids," says a visitor.
What campers like
Secluded, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds. "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," reports a camper at Holly Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Proud Lake Recreation Area receives consistent praise for its updated facilities. "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable," writes a visitor at Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Beach access: Bishop Lake Campground offers popular swimming areas with additional attractions. "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" says one camper. Another notes, "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive."
What you should know
Site elevation and drainage: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues during heavy rainfall. "What started out w/ us almost 2' under water... Poured down rained while setting up to the point we couldn't step outta our camper without being up past our knees in water," reports a visitor at Walnut Hills Family Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends. Sites at popular lakes often book 3-6 months ahead for prime summer dates, with holiday weekends filling almost immediately upon availability.
Fee structures: Beyond standard campsite fees, most locations require a Michigan Recreation Passport ($12 annual for residents, $9 daily for non-residents) for entrance. Some campgrounds charge additional fees for amenities like boat rentals or special activities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Dearborn offers extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. "Camp Dearborn has a lot for the kids, outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading. Our family had been coming here for years for Girl Scout camps and individual camping experiences," writes a visitor at Camp Dearborn.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain multiple play areas. Holly Recreation Area features "several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair."
Swimming alternatives: When weather doesn't cooperate for lake swimming, look for campgrounds with additional options. Groveland Oaks County Park includes a water slide and arcade for rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup distances: At some campgrounds, electrical connections require extended cords. "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 a camper at Pontiac Lake.
Site leveling challenges: Many of the best places to camp near Fenton have uneven sites. "I had to put my F250 into 4L to keep it from getting stuck while parking the camper. The lot was so filled with tire tracks and mud that our dogs and children would not be able to walk outside," reports an RVer about one campground.
Water access limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Not all sites have full hook ups. Most are missing sewer. Not all sites have 50 amp available," notes an RVer, highlighting the importance of confirming specific hookups when booking.
