J
John S.
Scout
ScoutProud Lake Recreation Area
Peaceful area.
The lake is very weedy. But silver lake or Bishop lakes are close.
Camping near Franklin, MI
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Camping near Franklin, Michigan encompasses a range of state recreation areas and county parks within a short drive of this Detroit suburb. The area is characterized by numerous lakes and wooded terrain, with established campgrounds like Proud Lake Recreation Area, Highland Recreation Area, and Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offering year-round camping options. These public lands provide access to water recreation, hiking trails, and varied camping experiences within 30-45 minutes of metropolitan Detroit, making them popular weekend destinations for city residents seeking outdoor recreation without long travel times.
Most campgrounds in the Franklin area require reservations through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or county park reservation systems. The camping season peaks from May through October, though several recreation areas remain open year-round. Summer weekends often fill to capacity, particularly at water-adjacent sites. Mosquitoes can be problematic in summer months, especially near marshy areas. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though signal strength varies by carrier and specific location within the parks.
The camping options range from modern facilities with full hookups to more rustic experiences. Family-friendly campgrounds like Groveland Oaks County Park feature amenities such as beaches, playgrounds, and organized activities. According to reviews, "There are lots of family activities like mini golf, kids bike courses and playgrounds" at these developed sites. More natural settings can be found at Highland Recreation Area, where campers note the opportunity to "unplug and just enjoy our surroundings." RV campers will find numerous options with electrical hookups, while tent campers can choose between sites with amenities or more secluded spots. Several campgrounds also offer cabin rentals and yurts for those seeking shelter without bringing their own equipment. Boat-in camping is available at select locations, providing unique access to waterfront sites.
Best Campgrounds near Franklin (82)
1. Proud Lake Recreation Area
"I had no clue what to expect when booking so close to a few major cities in Michigan. I love feeling secluded while camping and was nervous this would feel like parking lot camping."
"First, I'd like to say that I was born and raised in Northern Michigan. That's where I'm used to camping and hiking. I moved to the metro Detroit area a few years ago."
from $32 - $286 / night
Check Availability2. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
"Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive."
"Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk."
from $20 - $80 / night
Check Availability3. Haas Lake Park RV Campground
"Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water . The first night was super quiet!"
"I highly recommend Hass Lake campgrounds. It is a very clean, quite, Beautiful campgrounds."
4. Camp Dearborn
"Booked a two week stay at Pontiac Lake Rec. area in Whitelak, MI. Huge sites not stacked on top of one another. They have electric hookups, but only 30 amp."
"You will either need a longer electrical cord or if you can back your RV up far enough to reach you will need something to put under your steps to make them touch the ground."
from $47 / night
Check Availability5. McGinnis Lake Campground — Holly Recreation Area
"Group area is away from the main area. Kayak lakes are nice. Excellent hike/bike trails. Park is located just down the road from the Holly Oaks Off road park."
"I love to come here when I want a quick get away from home because it is only 30min away. The campsites are big,secluded, wooded, and clean."
from $27 - $80 / night
Check Availability6. Highland Recreation Area Campground
"Great time to unplug and just enjoy our surroundings and begin to learn our own creativity!"
"This is one of our family's favorite close to home sites. Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around. Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding."
from $20 - $186 / night
Check Availability7. Groveland Oaks County Park
"This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds."
"Large campground with lots of trails and activities (although we camped in early May so many activities were not open)."
from $28 - $48 / night
Check Availability8. Bishop Lake Campground — Brighton Recreation Area
"Campground Review: Bishop Lake is a great campground located in the middle of the Brighton Rec Area. The upper and lower campgrounds are both modern, with every site including electric."
"Great family place with paved and dirt biking/hiking trails. Very nice beach with grass and sand. There are 2 areas of inflatables, one of them is for the little kids 48 in. and under."
from $32 - $37 / night
Check Availability9. Addison Oaks County Park
"The park has a beautiful 2.5 mile trail around the lake that makes this campground great. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats. We saw deer and rabbit."
"Cell phone tower is close by. We especially enjoy the intermediate level mountain bike trails. Showers are hot. Lots of deer to see at dusk."
10. Camp Agawam
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 15 min from Detroit, MI
- 28 min from Ann Arbor, MI
- 42 min from Monroe, MI
- 48 min from Flint, MI
Recent Camping Photos near Franklin, MI
140 Photos of 82 Franklin Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Proud Lake Recreation AreaD
Haas Lake Park RV Campground
Pontiac Lake Recreation AreaW
Highland Recreation Area Campground
Camp Dearborn
Addison Oaks County Park
Wayne County Fairgrounds RV ParkS
Clear Water Campgrounds
McGinnis Lake Campground — Holly Recreation AreaD
Groveland Oaks County Park
The Holly Campground
Murray Lake Campground — Brighton Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near Franklin, MI
548 Reviews of 82 Franklin Campgrounds
- HHarold N.
TravelerKOA Campground Emmett
Great Campground
We had a great stay! Didn’t enjoy any of the activities but heard they were a blast. We enjoyed the texted alerts on activities. This was our second trip with our new rv, just chilled and enjoyed. It was a bit noisy at night, it’s to be expected with children and the generation we live in today. Overall a great experience! Hope to return soon to enjoy the activities.
Justin S.ScoutGreen Lake Rustic Campground — Waterloo Recreation Area
Awesome place
It's a nice Lil tucked back campground with a nice Lil fishing lake its quite and relaxing been here a few times this year so far plan on a few more
Michael M.
GuideSterling State Park Campground
Nice stop
Sterling State Park, Quick Two-Night Stay
We stopped at Sterling State Park for two nights and had a really nice stay. We were on an electric-only site, but the view and the short walk to the beach were awesome.
If you can score one of the sites along the edge of the campground that overlooks the beach, or one that backs up to the woods, I’d definitely recommend it. Those sites have a much better setting. Most of the other sites are more out in the open, with very little shade and not much of a view.
The central part of the campground feels busy and crowded, but surprisingly, most of the sites are actually spaced out pretty well. We didn’t use the bathhouse, so we can’t comment on its cleanliness or condition.
The campground itself was neatly mowed, and the staff seemed to do a good job keeping up with the grounds and general maintenance. We didn’t notice much trash or anything else that would be a negative.
The beach right in front of the campground was probably our favorite part. It was clean, spacious, and never seemed particularly busy while we were there.
Overall, Sterling State Park was a great stop for a couple of nights. If you can get one of the better-located sites, especially along the beach or woods, it makes the stay even better.
- ssusan V.Scout
Indian Creek Camp & Conference Center
Nice family campground
Pool, nice playground, small putt putt course, rec room and other activities available. We are retired and just needed overnight camping and the only site available was tiny and right on the curve of the road. Our firepit and picnic table were less than 10 feet from the road so not private at all. We felt it was overpriced for the site. Others were better but none very private(smallish and no trees).
Gary G.GuideSterling State Park Campground
State Park, almost zero trees
Why the Dyrt has this place listed under "glamping" is beyond me. This is very far from that. A state park, some FHU sites, some pull thru, but it's almost like camping in a prairie. There's so very few trees here, so almost every site will be full sun. Full, blisteringly hot, sun.
It's an ok campground, but that's it. Host (each time we were there) did nothing that we could see. People tend to drive fast here, even staff.
It's right on Lake Erie, which can be good/bad, depending on if the toxic algae blooms are occuring.
City of Monroe is nearby for whatever you might need. (Aldi, etc)
Even though this park is close, it's just not one we like to choose because of the barren feel of the place. (We've been here three times)
- Gary G.Guide
Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
Nice state park
As usual, there's only electric at sites, but the pedestals seem fairly new, and tight. South loop is nicely wooded & has a newer, larger restroom/shower building, not much lake view. The north loop is a little less wooded, with the NW end having a little better lake views, but a pretty ancient restroom/shower facility.
Across the lake is the day use area with a beach and concession stand. (There's a small camp store in the north loop.)
ADA Only sites are asphalt paved. Some of the regular sites could be a challenge to get level on, but the rangers told me they have wood blocks for loan if you don't have enough.
Our first night & a half, we had some terrible neighbors two sites over. Constant profanities, yelling at & threatening their kids... real dirtbags. Rangers booted them from the park! Good to see them taking such positive action. I have not run into a single staff member here that wasn't pleasant.
This was our first time here. A test run, since it's only an hour from home (but feels farther). We'll be back for sure. (Especially with gas prices so high anymore.)
T-Mobile was only slow LTE at our site, but our Starlink worked perfectly at our site. Might be harder to get a clear shot in the more wooded areas of the park.
Dana B.ScoutGroveland Oaks County Park
Absolutely beautiful
My husband and I actually took our first camping trip in our new camper to this location, but we are novice when it comes to campgrounds. It was nice because there was always an attendant at the office to help. They gave clear and concise directions. The grounds were impeccable. Everything looked fantastic. We have even considered being seasonal here because it is so beautiful.
GinnyTravelerGroveland Oaks County Park
Well kept park :)
Pretty with trees, although you do have very open views if you like more growth... weekend activities... family park, you need to be able to walk a ways to enjoy all their games, activities and beach...
Guide to Franklin
Campgrounds near Franklin, Michigan provide year-round access to outdoor recreation within a convenient drive from the Detroit metropolitan area. The region sits at elevations between 900-1,100 feet above sea level, characterized by glacial moraines and kettle lakes formed during the last ice age. Most campgrounds in the area report significant mosquito and tick activity from June through August, requiring proper preparation and daily checks.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers varied terrain for cyclists of all 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," says Syed M. of Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Huron River provides excellent paddling opportunities. "There is a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site," notes John F. about Proud Lake. For those wanting multiple lakes, Highland Recreation Area offers a quieter experience where "lovely little no wake lake perfect for swimming, fishing or paddling," according to Jennifer H.
Swimming and splash zones: For families seeking water activities, Holly State Recreation Area features a water park on the lake. "Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," explains Ethan R., making it popular during summer months.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots despite their proximity to urban areas. "When I think of camping, I think of heading 'up north', but I am so glad that we decided to head south and meet some family members half way. This campground has the feel of 'up north' as it is wooded," says Stephanie C. about Proud Lake.
Clean facilities: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area maintains high standards for their amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean with hot water. The spots are all pretty private due to trees and vegetation," reports Sam H., highlighting a common priority for weekend campers.
Convenient locations: Proximity to home makes these campgrounds practical for short trips. "When I need a weekend get away but don't want to drive to far this here is the spot," mentions Jessika A. about Proud Lake. Similarly, Christie V. describes Pontiac Lake as a "Hidden Gem" with an "up north feel" despite being close to suburban areas.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Ticks and mosquitoes are prevalent in warmer months. "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear," warns Kristina J. about Pontiac Lake.
Campsite privacy varies: Haas Lake Park RV Campground offers both isolated and social camping options. "The round area's with the sites on the outside and common area on the inside make for a great group type setup," notes Gary E., while Karen C. mentions, "We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway."
Distance to amenities: Some parks have separated camping and recreation areas. At Pontiac Lake, "The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," explains Renee R. Similarly, 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 for camping with families
Youth activities: Groveland Oaks County Park specializes in kid-friendly amenities. "The park is well laid out and includes a ton of fun activities for young and old," says Mike N. Another camper, Justin G., mentions seasonal events: "We've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Many parks feature dedicated cycling areas. At Groveland Oaks, there are "bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds," according to Carol W. Similarly, Pontiac Lake has "extensive mountain biking trails" as noted by Mary H.
Water recreation options: Camp Dearborn offers numerous water activities. "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more," describes Ryan S., making it ideal for families with children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: Consider extension cord length at some campgrounds. At Pontiac Lake, Mary H. advises, "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."
Site selection: For larger RVs, careful site selection is important. Carol W. suggests at Groveland Oaks: "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."
Parking considerations: Some sites present challenges for backing in. "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," warns Debbie H. about Groveland Oaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Franklin, MI?
Which is the most popular campground near Franklin, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Franklin, MI is Proud Lake Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.
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