Hamburg Township sits within Michigan's Lower Peninsula between Ann Arbor and Brighton, with elevation ranging from 850-950 feet. The area contains multiple interconnected lakes and extensive trail systems spanning 30+ miles through dense hardwood forests. Many Hamburg-area campgrounds remain open from April through October, though some rustic sites operate year-round despite Michigan's variable spring and fall temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking chain of lakes: From Bishop Lake Campground, paddlers can access a connected waterway system perfect for day trips. "The campgrounds restrooms and showers were clean. Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade. The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," notes Debra B.
Mountain biking Potawatomi Trail: The 17.5-mile trail system offers technical challenges for bikers staying at Blind Lake Rustic Campground. "Hiked the complete potawatomi trail (18 miles) great site for lakeview but #3 looked to be the best with swimming access... Trail was very well maintained however keep your head up as there are many mountain bikes on the trail," shares Michael S.
Horseback riding: Hell Creek Ranch provides direct trail access for equestrians. "What started as a little get away turned into not wanting to leave! A swimming pool and playground with basketball court to keep my kids entertained and clean facilities convinced me I had made the right choice. As an added plus a horse barn (Heavenly Horse Stables) right on property offering riding lessons, trail rides and meet and greets with their houses and other barn animals," explains Ashley S.
What campers like
Beach accessibility: Camp Dearborn maintains two sandy beaches with well-maintained swimming areas. "We have been going to Camp Dearborn for five years now, and our friend's family has been going for nearly sixty! They have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line," writes Teresa B.
Rustic lake views: Green Lake Rustic Campground offers waterfront sites that provide quiet mornings and evenings. "I loved this quiet little campground! I stayed at #6 and had a beautiful view of the lake. There is muddy lake access on that site and I paddled from there in my kayak. There is an official boat launch nearby," shares Melissa B.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Pinckney Recreation Area provide opportunities to see deer, turkeys, and waterfowl. "There are multiple camping opportunities with a variety of camping styles. Yurt rental, to hike-in rustic sites, there's good camping for anyone. A 35 mile hiking trail runs through the entire area with small day trails branching off to points of interest, all with corresponding camp sites," explains Greg F.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers varying levels of privacy between sites. "This was a campground that we stayed at on our way to the northern part of the state. This for me, was a place that I would like to come back to for a longer stay. The camp sites were nice, there was a nice swimming area in crystal clear water and a beautiful bathhouse. My only complaint was the mosquitoes were pretty bad," explains Kevin C.
Booking requirements: Most glamping sites near Hamburg require advance reservations, especially during summer. "We hiked into the blind lake campground and stayed one night. The campsites were very clean and the put toilets were clean. We really appreciated having a water pump near our campsite," notes Bryan T.
Bug preparation: Michigan's humid summers create mosquito-friendly environments. "We stayed at lot M18 of the rustic site, Murray Lake. The site was large and had a picnic table and fire pit. There are TONS of mosquitos. Gas and convenience is not far away," warns Rebecca M.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for all ages: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers safe swimming and kayaking options. "Nice camp sites with views of the lake. Big bathrooms that are super clean! Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" reports Debra B.
Glamping close to Hamburg, Michigan: Several campgrounds offer platform tents and cabins for families seeking comfort. "Options for camping range from tent sites to luxury cabins. We usually get a platform tent, which sleeps six people and comes with a kitchen cabana," explains Teresa B. about her Camp Dearborn experience.
Playground accessibility: Most major campgrounds feature dedicated play areas near campsites. "The bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm. The beach is pretty good for swimming," shares Mike B. about Bishop Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Holly Recreation Area offers varied terrain for RVs. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest. Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest," suggests Jennifer H.
Water access points: Most campgrounds near Hamburg have fill stations but limited direct hookups. "Nice flat campsites near the beach area. It has a very nice play area for the children and clean bathrooms. The boat launch was near our camp site which was nice not having to leave the campground," notes Debra B. about Waterloo Sugarloaf.
Seasonal considerations: Michigan's weather impacts RV camping conditions. "The property is very well maintained with a nice park and clean bathrooms. The campground has some nice full-grown trees, but isn't extremely wooded. The trees offer shade, but are spaced out enough that a group can pull their campers around for privacy," explains Jonah H.
