Best Campgrounds near Hillsdale, MI

Join the fun near Hillsdale. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Hillsdale, Michigan (128)

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Showing results 1-10 of 128 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hillsdale, MI

435 Reviews of 128 Hillsdale Campgrounds



Guide to Hillsdale

Camping near Hillsdale, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the 13 lakes at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Pokagon State Park Campground. A camper noted, "They have good hiking trails, nice refreshing waters, good food options at certain places."
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Lake Hudson Recreation Area. A reviewer mentioned, "We caught sunfish, large and small mouth bass."

What campers like

  • Family Activities: Many families enjoy the amenities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake. One parent said, "My son had a blast and said this was the best campground he has ever been to."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Harrison Lake State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "The shower house was nice but no benches in the stall and only had curtains. They were very clean."
  • Secluded Sites: Campers at Lake Hudson Recreation Area enjoy the privacy. One camper noted, "Great grassy sites with vegetation between each site providing privacy."

What you should know

  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds during peak times at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground. A reviewer warned, "A very hard campsite to navigate and a busy weekend forget about dumping lol you're gonna be there a while."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service at Pokagon State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "With T-Mobile, Internet service was practically non-existent."
  • Rustic Amenities: At Lake Hudson Recreation Area, amenities are basic. A visitor noted, "It's a rustic campground with no water or dump station, so make sure you bring water and have a plan for dumping."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake that offer plenty of kid-friendly activities. A parent shared, "The kids loved the activities and amenities."
  • Safety First: Be cautious with young children around fire pits, especially at campgrounds with sloped sites like Harrison Lake State Park Campground. One camper said, "This was dangerous given the fact that the picnic table was sloped right by the fire ring."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring bug spray and plenty of water, especially at places like Lake Hudson Recreation Area. A visitor advised, "The mosquitoes and gnats were terrible so make sure you bring bug spray."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify site sizes at Pokagon State Park Campground to accommodate larger rigs. A reviewer cautioned, "Some sites are level, some aren't. Some can accommodate larger rigs, most can't."
  • Bring Extension Cords: At Lake Hudson Recreation Area, electrical hookups can be far from the sites. One camper noted, "Make sure you have extension cords!"
  • Avoid Peak Times: If possible, try to camp during weekdays to avoid the crowds at popular spots like Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies."

Camping near Hillsdale, Michigan, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's a campground that fits your needs.

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