Camping near Goodells, Michigan offers several wooded sites within a 30-minute drive radius. The area features a mix of county parks and private campgrounds situated around the southeastern Michigan landscape, where summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from late April through mid-October due to Michigan's northern climate.
What to do
Rock hunting on Lake Huron: At Lakeport State Park Campground, the rocky shoreline presents excellent opportunities for finding unique stones. "I have found the most beautiful Petoskey Stones at Lakeport. I have also found a large pudding stone. My husband brings his chair down to the water and I walk the short shore for hours and hours looking for rocks," shares reviewer Stephanie C.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: Oakland County Addison Oaks features an extensive trail system popular with cyclists. "Addison Oaks is a campground that features hiking and mountain biking trails, campground, cabins, disc golf course, and a lake for boating. The trails are well maintained and heavily trafficked," notes Kate K.
Fishing in quiet waters: Many campgrounds provide fishing access, with Ruby Campground situated directly on a river. "Ruby is a fitting name for this gem. This is the most wholesome cute campground I've ever been to. It has a family owned summer camp vibe and the owners are very kind and helpful. The grounds are very well managed it's right on a river," states Sean H.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural settings at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground in Holly Recreation Area. "I stayed in the rustic Aspen loop and it was fine for early season but come peak season, the sites lack privacy and are kind of small. It's not a bad walk to modern restrooms and it was very quiet," explains Ashleigh M.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high on campers' priorities. "The bathhouse in the northern park is the typical State of MI campground, however the bathhouse in the southern campground is the older style," notes a Lakeport State Park camper.
Family-oriented atmosphere: Groveland Oaks County Park receives praise for its kid-friendly environment. "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland. We feel like we went up North without the driving four hours. The park is well laid out and includes a ton of fun activities for young and old," shares Mike N.
What you should know
Site differences within campgrounds: At Lakeport State Park, the two sections offer different experiences. "The northern section seems to be the louder section and the southern section seems to be the more laid back quiet section. The south section has more of a woodsy outdoor feel while the north section has more of an open space, smaller lots, crowded feel," explains Stephanie C.
Seasonal considerations: For glamping close to Goodells, Michigan, timing matters. Most yurts at Addison Oaks are available from late April through October, with some campgrounds having limited facilities in early spring.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for glamping accommodations. "My suggestion is to book six months in advance because it is extremely hard to get into this campground on the weekends," advises a Lakeport State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water shoes for beach activities: Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area has sandy areas to navigate. "The park is extremely sandy so be prepared. Overall it was a quiet, peaceful weekend in a great location," notes Mandy B.
Consider campground sections based on activity level: When seeking glamping options near Goodells, Michigan, choose areas based on your family's needs. "If you have kids or do not mind kids running around everywhere, this is the side for you! If you want peace and quiet, stay in the south section!" advises a Lakeport camper.
Pack for variable weather: Michigan weather can change rapidly, even during summer months. "We left disgusted and disappointed," reported one unhappy camper caught unprepared for conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Port Huron KOA offers specific sites better suited for larger campers. "If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space," suggests Alex H.
Dump station logistics: Some campgrounds have unusual dump station configurations. "The dump station is at the north campground and to get to it, you have to enter the north campground and drive all the way through it, come back out, and then go to the dump station! It is the weirdest set up ever," explains a Lakeport State Park visitor.
Electrical considerations: Power capacity varies between campgrounds and even within different sections. Some campgrounds have undergone electrical upgrades to support increased demand from modern RVs.
