Glamping sites around Haslett, Michigan sit at an average elevation of 850 feet above sea level, positioned within southern Michigan's glacial plains region. Seasonal temperature swings impact camping preparation, with summer highs regularly reaching 85°F while spring and fall nights can drop below 40°F. The area's numerous inland lakes were formed by retreating glaciers, creating water features throughout the recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ovid provides excellent fishing for largemouth bass and bluegills. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils," notes Michael P., who visited Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground. The lake has restrictions on motor size which keeps water activities peaceful.
Hiking networks: 35+ mile system. The Waterloo-Pinckney Hiking trail spans over 35 miles of backcountry terrain. Greg F. describes Bruin Lake Campground as having "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. It has good isolation, but not far from creature comforts either."
Mountain biking: Technical trails. The area offers mountain biking enthusiasts challenging terrain. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" shares Maria G. about the trails near Bruin Lake Campground. The Potawatomi Trail system is particularly popular with cyclists.
Water activities: No-wake lakes. For paddlers seeking peaceful water, Sessions Lake offers a motor restriction. One visitor to Ionia State Recreation Area describes it as a "Great lake for fishing, swimming, kyaking or small boating. Scenic views on trails around the lake." The quiet waters make it ideal for novice paddlers.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Campers appreciate sites with good separation. "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," writes Amy D. about their stay at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, noting the natural barriers that enhance privacy despite the developed nature of the grounds.
Lakefront access: Direct views. Sites overlooking water features are among the most sought-after. A camper at Blind Lake Rustic Campground states "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." These waterfront sites typically book months in advance.
Modern facilities: Clean restrooms. Clean bathroom facilities rank high in camper satisfaction. At Bishop Lake Campground, visitors note that "The campgrounds restrooms and showers were clean. Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade." The balance of natural setting with essential amenities appeals to many glampers.
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds near Haslett maintain winter operations. "The park is open all year, making the Blind Lake campground a popular stop for hikers in the winter," mentions one reviewer, highlighting the extended season options unusual for Michigan glamping sites.
What you should know
Electrical access limitations: Many campsites require planning for power needs. At Sleepy Hollow, a camper observed: "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Site privacy varies significantly: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Sites 4, 5, 6 and 7 are right along the trail. Avoid 1 and 2 which are narrow, gravelly and at the top of the hill," advises Pat W. about Blind Lake Rustic Campground, highlighting how site selection impacts experience.
Beach access distances: Swimming areas may require a hike from campsites. "The beach is pretty good for swimming," notes one camper at Bruin Lake, while adding that "you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive."
Seasonal mosquito activity: Bug pressure peaks in early summer. A visitor to Green Lake Rustic Campground mentioned: "rear sites sit near a wetland aka the border of the mosquito kingdom," indicating that site selection affects insect exposure.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreation areas. "There is a nice sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net," notes one visitor to Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern, making it convenient for families with children who need regular activity options.
Biking-friendly loops: Some campgrounds offer safe cycling circuits. "The kids rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the the playground," shares Kim S. about their family experience at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern. The paved roadways provide contained areas for younger riders.
Educational programming: Rangers often lead structured activities. One long-time visitor to McGinnis Lake Modern Campground notes, "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site."
Lake features for children: Select swimming areas with gradual entry points. "Nice lake to kayak in," mentions DeEtta M. about Bruin Lake, while others note the beach areas that feature shallow entry zones ideal for young swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Pack extra-long power cables. "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas," advises Nathan V. who stayed at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven parking pads. "To say the sites are uneven is putting it mildly. For 15 sites, you seriously can't level them??" comments Michael S. about the Ionia Recreation Area, indicating that leveling blocks are essential equipment.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site waste disposal. RVers at Hell Creek Ranch & Campground appreciate that it "has full hook ups at most sites or at least your electric and water," making longer stays more convenient without needing to relocate for tank servicing.
Site width considerations: Larger rigs require careful site selection. "Site was a little small for our 38foot - we had to go sideways which opened us up to other campers," reports Beth G. about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern, highlighting the importance of researching exact site dimensions.
