Fort Custer Recreation Area and Yankee Springs Recreation Area dominate the camping landscape near Hickory Corners, Michigan. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with moderate summers reaching 80-85°F during peak camping months and winters that often drop below freezing. Lake activities form the recreational backbone at most area campgrounds, with 20+ lakes within a 15-mile radius of Hickory Corners.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area features extensive trail systems for all skill levels. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes Bob B. about Fort Custer. "We camped and rode at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before and this has now officially become a favorite," adds Joel K.
Fishing from piers and docks: Deep Lake Rustic Campground provides fishing opportunities from their dedicated dock. "Great camp ground lots of shade camp site are spaceful and you can pick your site. Great times has a fishing dock and a boat landing but no beach," explains Dale B.
Disc golf courses: Cold Brook County Park offers a full disc golf course alongside camping options. "A nice disk golf course, lots of fishing. Our fire pit needs some fix in' but not at all a problem," shares Rich L. who stayed at Cold Brook County Park.
Water activities: Sharp Park Campground provides lake access and equipment rentals. "Sharp Park offers canoe, kayak, fishing boat, and paddleboat rentals as well as fishing pole rentals with night crawlers available for purchase in the store," explains Teresa V.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Several campgrounds offer more private camping experiences. "We loved our site as it's close to the trails for riding. The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites," writes Joel K. about Fort Custer Recreation Area. At Yankee Springs Recreation Area, campers appreciate the rustic options: "If you want seclusion away from the parking lot atmosphere down the road at Yankee Springs this is your place," notes Mary Z.
Upgraded facilities: Many campgrounds have undergone recent renovations. "This campground is under new ownership for the 2022 camping season. Both bath houses were redone inside, there is now a campground store and office as well as several other improvements," reports Teresa V. from Sharp Park Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Michawana Campground receives high marks for family activities. "This campsite is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite. They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall," shares Bailey C.
What you should know
Campground access challenges: Some campgrounds can be difficult to locate. "Drove through this place and ended up not booking. Sites seem very small. Place seems run down- it really looks like a place for seasonal campers," reports Joie V. about Sharp Park Campground.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate April through October. "Disappointed that it was not open year round but the trails are still open," notes Jessica R. about Deep Lake Rustic Campground.
Varying shower facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies widely between campgrounds. "Don't expect any glamorous showers or bathhouses. There are pairs of outhouses and the smell comes with," writes Joshua M. from Deep Lake Rustic Campground.
Site selection matters: Brookside City Park requires attention to site location. "Noise level is moderate to high - road noise & construction, and relatively loud water treatment. Water and electric available, no dumping," mentions Katie, highlighting the importance of site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Cold Brook County Park includes child-friendly water features. "Small county park. Lots of lake for small boating, kayaking. Fishing pier to fish off. Playground for the kids. Swimming beach with sand," describes Nellie.
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "We've stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" writes Hannah about Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Themed weekend events: Many campgrounds offer structured activities. "They have events most weekends and several trails nearby for hiking," explains Teresa V. about Sharp Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Limited sewer connections make dump stations important. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," cautions VB S. about Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature varying terrain. "Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT," notes Bob B. about Fort Custer.
Utility hookups: Hidden Ridge RV Resort provides comprehensive hookups. "All sites include a concrete pad, fire ring and full hook-up. 120/150 amp," explains Kathleen D.
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