RV camping near Franklin, Michigan offers many options within a 30-mile radius of this Oakland County community. The region features a mix of state recreation areas and private campgrounds situated among southeast Michigan's lakes and woodlands. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 900-1,100 feet and experience typical Midwestern seasonal changes with camping facilities generally operating from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails: Holly Recreation Area provides several well-marked trails through wooded terrain. "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," notes a visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature lakes for swimming and boating. At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," according to a camper.
Seasonal events: Halloween-themed weekends are popular at multiple campgrounds. "We've been here a few times. Very close to our house just a nice little getaway. We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!" reports a visitor at Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
What campers like
Lake access: Water features rank highly among camper preferences. One guest at Camp Dearborn noted, "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more. Pull behind sites were easy to access."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive frequent positive mentions. "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 Proud Lake Recreation Area visitor.
Spacious sites: Many campers value adequate space between sites. At Holly Recreation Area, "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," and another camper noted, "We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park runs from April through October, while others like Haas Lake Park operate from late March to early November. One traveler warned: "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season."
Site selection: Choosing the right site matters significantly. At Harbortown RV Resort, a camper advised, "Very clean, nice sites with a friendly staff. We have a 21' camper and the sites feel small. Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night."
Weather preparedness: Some sites experience drainage issues during rain. "When it rains several campsites get very wet! There are a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass. Not paved so a lot of pot holes. I would suggest to come in the park and drive through and pick a spot that you like before making reservations," recommended a Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated activities: Several campgrounds offer family-focused amenities. "Camp Dearborn has a lot for the kids, outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading," shares a regular visitor.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "The bathhouse is new and very nice. There are a few sites on an incline and that made it hard to get in and out of our fifth wheel," notes a visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Beach facilities: Water recreation options provide entertainment for children. "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... Just a one night stay to visit a friend. If you have kids it is perfect! Staff was nice and very helpful," reports a Camp Lord Willing guest.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be prepared for variable hookup placements at sites. "Electrical hookup with 50, 30, and 110, and most importantly, while the campground feels like you are remote, if you need supplies, there is a small shopping center about a mile away," explains a Proud Lake Recreation Area visitor.
Site surfaces: Surface conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "All concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance," notes a Harbortown RV Resort camper.
Off-season availability: Limited year-round options exist for RVers. Camp Lord Willing RV Park remains open all year, while most others close by November. "Stayed at Camp Lord Willing in June 2021 and it was a peaceful friendly environment with seasonal and experienced campers. Lots are gravel. Shower House is at the front and not in a centralized location," advises a visitor.
