Modern campsites near Fenton, Michigan offer alternatives to traditional tent camping with several state parks and county facilities providing cabins and yurt camping within a 30-mile radius. The region features diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 850-950 feet above sea level across rolling hills and small lakes. These areas experience distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making water activities popular from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking on interconnected lakes: Proud Lake Recreation Area provides excellent water recreation with boat-in access and connecting waterways. "The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds. Most of the activities (IE beach and rentals) open Memorial Day," notes a visitor to Camp Dearborn.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: The region offers extensive trail systems ideal for cyclists of various skill levels. "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," mentions one visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Disc golf courses: Several parks maintain full disc golf courses for visitors. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," reports a camper at Addison Oaks County Park.
What campers like
Lakefront yurt camping sites: Yurt accommodations with lake views offer convenient access to water activities. "Our site wasn't level, so we were rolling around a bit. If I went there again I'd try to find a spot towards the end of the loop by the exit. These sites were higher and some of them were private," explains a visitor at Brighton Recreation Area.
Private wooded sites: Many campsites provide natural screening and shade. "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest," shares a camper at Holly State Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathhouses. "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable," reports a visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Reserve sites at least 2-3 months in advance for prime spots.
Seasonal availability: While some parks offer year-round access, many facilities operate with limited services outside peak season. "The park is open all year, making the Blind Lake campground a popular stop for hikers in the winter," notes a visitor to Blind Lake Rustic Campground.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds and even within loops. "This campground is very clean, well-manicured and is vast. I didn't have time to explore everything. There is a TON of things to do: swimming, zip-lining, mini-golf, fishing, paddle boats, basketball," explains a Camp Dearborn visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Adventure activities for kids: Several parks provide specialized recreation options for children. "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more," reports a visitor to Camp Dearborn.
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available at most family-friendly facilities. "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. We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," shares a camper at Holly State Recreation Area.
Water attractions availability: Special water features operate on seasonal schedules. "The lake has water activities you can pay extra for if you would like to do that," explains a Brighton Recreation Area visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many RV sites require careful navigation due to terrain or trees. "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," advises a visitor to Groveland Oaks County Park.
Hookup variations: Electric service varies between parks, with some offering 50-amp service while others are limited. "Our campsite was a little difficult to get into because it was on a curve and there was a seasonal camper with a Class A right across from our site which didn't allow for a lot of space to maneuver our 26 ft travel trailer," explains a Groveland Oaks County Park visitor.
Dump station locations: Note which campgrounds provide dump stations and their accessibility. "It was our first time camping dry but super easy to learn. Nice place pretty full. Nice bathrooms. Great Lake," shares a camper at Bishop Lake Campground.
