Campgrounds near Garden City, Michigan include sites located within 30 minutes to 1 hour driving distance, offering access to lakes, hiking trails, and recreation facilities. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with a handful remaining open year-round. Many campgrounds feature electric hookups and modern restrooms, with varying policies regarding tent camping access.
What to do
Kayaking and water recreation: At Proud Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy paddling on the Huron River. "There is a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site," notes one camper. The area features multiple water-based activities suitable for different skill levels.
Hiking through wooded terrain: Trails at Holly Recreation Area provide varied terrain for nature walks. "Lots of trails and great beach with a dog friendly area," reports a visitor. The park contains several well-marked paths that wind through forests and around lakes.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Cyclists can access maintained bike paths at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. A reviewer mentions the park has "world class mountain bike trails." The recreation area features both beginner and advanced biking routes with natural obstacles and elevation changes.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Bishop Lake Campground. "Some good spots have some shade to stay out of the sun," notes one camper. The campground maintains natural buffers between many sites, creating more private camping experiences.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention bathroom quality at area campgrounds. At Sterling State Park Campground, "The shower house is clean and in good condition," according to a recent visitor. Most campgrounds in the region feature modern bathroom buildings with flush toilets and hot showers.
Beach access: Several campgrounds provide swimming opportunities. "Nice lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure," writes a Proud Lake camper. Sterling State Park features "a sandy beach on Lake Erie" that many visitors highlight as a key amenity.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park operates "April 1 to October 31," while Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA runs "Apr 1 to Oct 31." Always check current operating dates before planning a trip.
Varied site sizes: Campsite dimensions and configurations differ significantly between parks. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, one camper noted their "site was across the small road from the lake" and had "plenty of trees all around."
Water issues after rain: Several campgrounds experience drainage problems during wet weather. A Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA review warns that "after only a few hours of moderate rainfall, we arrived to a completely flooded park." Consider visiting during dry periods or requesting elevated sites.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween weekends: Seasonal events provide structured activities for children. At Camp Dearborn, a camper shared, "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, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere."
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Holly Recreation Area offers "several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court," according to a visitor. These amenities provide entertainment options during downtime at camp.
Swimming beaches: Supervised swim areas with gradual entries work well for younger children. "Jump Island at Bishop Lake costs $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons. You can also just swim at the lake- nice area with shade trees beach and nice lake water," notes a helpful reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Sterling State Park offers "everything from back ins with only electrical to pull throughs with full hook-ups," according to a camper. Some parks like Wayne County Fairgrounds provide 50-amp service and sewer connections at premium sites.
Site surfaces: RV parking pads differ between locations. A Pontiac Lake visitor noted, "Camp site was nice with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded." Some campgrounds feature concrete pads while others use gravel or dirt surfaces that may become uneven.
Extension cord requirements: At some parks, utility connections may be distant from parking areas. A visitor to Pontiac Lake 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."
