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Best Campgrounds near Franklin, MI

510 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Franklin, Michigan (75)

    1. Proud Lake Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Wolverine Lake, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 685-2433

    "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."

    2. Haas Lake Park RV Campground

    17 Reviews
    New Hudson, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 437-0900

    "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."

    3. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 666-1020

    $22 / night

    "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."

    4. Camp Dearborn

    15 Reviews
    Milford, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 684-6000

    $3 / night

    "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."

    "close to Kensington park great for families!"

    5. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Ortonville, MI
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-8811

    $27 - $30 / night

    "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."

    6. Camp Agawam

    2 Reviews
    Auburn Hills, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 391-0304

    $20 - $30 / night

    "I come down to Detroit from Windsor every year to camp in Michigan with friends and this year we went to this very nice campsite in Orion Twp and I loved it."

    7. Highland State Recreation Area — Highland Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 889-3750

    "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."

    8. Addison Oaks County Park

    13 Reviews
    Lakeville, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 858-1400

    "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."

    9. Bishop Lake Campground

    28 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-6566

    $17 - $90 / night

    "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."

    10. Groveland Oaks County Park

    19 Reviews
    Holly, MI
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-9811

    $28 - $48 / night

    "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)."

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Recent Camping Photos near Franklin, MI

135 Photos of 75 Franklin Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Franklin, MI

510 Reviews of 75 Franklin Campgrounds

Guide to Franklin

Camping near Franklin, MI, offers a great escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are campgrounds nearby that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Holly Recreation Area. One reviewer mentioned, "We did a 7 mile loop hike and then went to Battle Alley Brewing in Holly (10 min away)."
  • Fishing: Head to Bishop Lake Campground for some great fishing spots. A visitor noted, "I've been here quite a few times to fish. Great fishing spot."
  • Swimming: Enjoy the beach at Groveland Oaks County Park. One camper shared, "The lake has a small shallow swimming area and beach that gets very busy during the day but less traffic right before sunset."

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground. A reviewer said, "The campsites are big, secluded, wooded, and clean."
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpful staff at Haas Lake Park RV Campground. One guest mentioned, "Friendly, helpful staff. Clean bathrooms."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers often highlight the peacefulness of Proud Lake Recreation Area. A reviewer noted, "A very quiet campground. The sites are spread out."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Camp Dearborn, may have dated facilities. One visitor remarked, "Bathrooms were dated and we arrived Monday after Labor Day so I can't judge them."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for raccoons at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground. A camper warned, "Raccoons run this place! Don’t leave any food or garbage out ever or you will be robbed by a gang of raccoons."
  • Crowded weekends: Expect busier conditions during weekends at Groveland Oaks County Park. One reviewer said, "Gets crowded, especially during weekends."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities, like Addison Oaks County Park. A visitor shared, "Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt."
  • Safety first: Keep an eye on your kids, especially around wildlife. One camper at Haas Lake Park RV Campground mentioned, "My husband took the dogs out... he came back in only to find he had ticks on him and the dogs."
  • Plan for bathroom trips: Some campgrounds have limited restroom facilities. A camper at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground noted, "I do wish there was more public bathrooms."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site conditions: Before booking, check the site conditions at places like Auburn Hills Holly KOA. One reviewer warned, "The sites do not have any type of lane which causes the lots to be soggy and muddy."
  • Leveling challenges: Be prepared for leveling issues at some sites. A visitor at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Leveling would be more of the challenge."
  • Bring your own supplies: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you need. A camper at Haas Lake Park RV Campground suggested, "Plan on wearing shoes the entire time. And maybe bring a big rake?"

Camping near Franklin, MI, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 16 reviews.

What parks are near Franklin, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Franklin, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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