Best Campgrounds near Holt, MI

Campgrounds near Holt, Michigan range from established facilities to rustic sites across state recreation areas and parks. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground in Laingsburg offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options. Lake Interstate State Game Area provides dispersed camping opportunities, though with limited amenities. The region includes several state recreation areas within a 30-minute drive, including Waterloo Recreation Area and Pinckney Recreation Area, both offering multiple camping styles from modern sites with electric hookups to rustic hike-in options.

Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with most developed campgrounds operating from May through October. Sleepy Hollow State Park and several other facilities remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation. Many campgrounds require advance reservations through Michigan's Department of Natural Resources website, especially during summer weekends. Electric hookups are common at established sites, while rustic areas typically provide only basic amenities like fire rings and vault toilets. Cell service varies considerably across the region, with better coverage near larger towns. A visitor commented on Sleepy Hollow State Park: "Quietly tucked into Clinton County Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. It's close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby."

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Several campgrounds feature lakefront sites or boat launches, including Green Lake Rustic Campground in the Waterloo Recreation Area. Campers frequently mention the quality of beaches and swimming areas as highlights of their stay. The Pinckney Recreation Area offers unique opportunities for hikers and bikers with its Blind Lake Rustic Campground, accessible only by trail or boat. A review noted: "Blind Lake rustic campground is located off of the very popular Potawatomi Trail, making this campground accessible only by hiking or biking in." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with state park facilities generally enforcing quiet hours while private campgrounds may have more activity. Most public campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, though amenities decrease at more remote sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Holt, Michigan (111)

    1. Lansing Cottonwood Campground

    11 Reviews
    Holt, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 393-3200

    $38 - $48 / night

    "There are a lot of wildlife noises, owls, frogs, crickets, etc. and you can hear some of the highway traffic but the nature sounds kind of drown it out."

    "Beautiful location, great owners, very clean and well kept. Nice Pool and great view. Kayakers and Paddle Boats. Uneven sloped site so come prepared. We love it!"

    2. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Ovid, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 447-2757

    $25 - $101 / night

    "Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name!"

    "Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan. We were in the midst of a heat-wave though and it was much appreciated."

    4. Eaton County Fairgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Charlotte, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 543-4510

    "Confidently located a mile outside of Charlotte, with all the conviences of restraunts, walmart, Meijer etc."

    5. Wheel Inn Campground

    1 Review
    Pleasant Lake, MI
    16 miles
    +1 (517) 589-8097

    6. Moon Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Haslett, MI
    16 miles
    +1 (517) 675-7212

    7. Bruin Lake Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Gregory, MI
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 426-4913

    $27 - $46 / night

    "There is a new large playground structure and nice but short paved path for kids to bike or scooter around."

    "On Crooked Lake, it has 25 sites, two of which are right on the water; #7 is full sun, larger, and 20 is sun/shade and tucked away in the back of the campground."

    8. Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach."

    "A few bathrooms are located around the campground. The spaces are generous and the majority have electricity only. The lake has a little beach with sands. Nice place."

    9. Blind Lake Rustic Campground — Pinckney Recreation Area

    18 Reviews
    Gregory, MI
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 426-4913

    $17 / night

    "Nice place to camp right on the lake. It's a 7 mile hike in(can also be accessed via boat), part of the Potowatomi loop trail(~18 miles) located in Waterloo-Pinckney recreation area."

    "Camp ground is located along the Potawatomi Trail in Pinckney Recreation area. Bikers head the opposite direction from hikers. The route I followed was about 8 miles in to Blind Lake."

    10. Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    Chelsea, MI
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "It is usually easy to get multiple sites next to each other with reservations.

    There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net."

    "There is an outside vault toilet behind the cabin. Lots of trails connecting the cabin to the rest of the park. Cheap too! Only $68 per night."

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Recent Reviews near Holt, MI

508 Reviews of 111 Holt Campgrounds


  • Joel K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    MTB camp and bike (again)

    We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer.  We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite. 

    We loved our site (so don't book this one) as it's close to the trails for riding.  The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites.

    All in all this was a great trip, and we even visited Belle's brewery on our way home.

  • Chris R.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Tyler Creek

    Absolutely garbage

    Had a reservation for 6 months and the day we were to arrive, we were told we could not have the site we prepared for because someone else wanted to stay longer.  Management has the right to alter your reservation without your consent or the courtesy of a phone call.  When questioned, the owner treated us like garbage and was rude as hell.  Would never recommend this place to anyone, stay away!!!

  • Bob B.
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    A return to my childhood

    I camped here countless times throughout my childhood. It was nice returning. I brought back great memories and it struck a balance of staying up with the times but still leaving most to nature.

    Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long.

    Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT.

    Don’t miss out on the great finishing and hiking. A great plus is still seeing kids rise actual bikes!

  • H
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Fort Custer Recreation Area

    Beautiful Woodsy Campground

    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! We love it here already with only being here twice!

  • Shelly The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    Had a good time, a little crowded

    We stayed for the weekend tent camping, getting to the site was a little crowded (alot of kids on bikes) our site was pavement but had some space to set the tent on the grass. I seen alot of sites with trees for shade. The vista walkway was across from us, it led right to the beach concessions. The beach walkway is handicap accessible. The fishing pier is new, has two benches and tables for your stuff. It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach. The park workers walk around and tell you about the activities they have that day. We enjoyed our stay there is alot to do

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Camp Dearborn

    Great for all ages!

    Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more. Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site.

  • linda F.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Snow Lake Kampground

    There are to many rules to keep up with.

    This campground used to be great. I don't know what happened I believe they have so many seasonal that they have become the bread and butter. Don't seem to care bout weekender. Every time you turn around there's another rule and/ or fee. It has gotten to the point we no longer enjoy the place. We will never come back! I understand having rules but this is ridiculous. They advertise all these amenities but ya got to pay for it all as well as the site rental. They have gone downhill in customer service. The office staff is very rude as well as the campground seasonal that patrol and watch your every move.


Guide to Holt

Camping near Holt, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From serene lakes to wooded trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Fort Custer Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, “We took full advantage of the mountain bike trails which are very easily accessed from the campground.”
  • Fishing: Head to Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground for some fishing. A reviewer noted, “The campsite itself was great, nice and roomy while also being wooded.”
  • Disc Golf: If you’re into disc golf, check out Proud Lake Recreation Area. One camper shared, “Had a great time. Clean campground, and activities to do.”

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the scenic views. A review for Holly Recreation Area said, “The campsites are big, secluded, wooded, and clean.”
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Many families enjoy the amenities at Groveland Oaks County Park. One visitor mentioned, “There are lots of family activities like mini golf, kids bike courses, and playgrounds.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often comment on the peacefulness of the sites. A reviewer at Bruin Lake Campground said, “The campground was quiet as well.”

What you should know:

  • Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially in wooded areas. A camper at Fort Custer Recreation Area warned, “It was EXTREMELY buggy. If you weren't covered in Deep Woods bug spray the whole time, you were getting bit.”
  • Limited Showers: Some campgrounds have fewer shower facilities than expected. A visitor at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground noted, “I found myself waiting in a line every time I wanted a shower.”
  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. A reviewer at Bishop Lake Campground mentioned, “Our neighbors across from us had 30 kids using one fire pit.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Groveland Oaks County Park that offer activities for kids. One family shared, “There’s a lot for kids to do.”
  • Plan for Crowds: If you’re camping on a weekend, arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Holly Recreation Area said, “It gets crowded, especially during weekends.”
  • Pack Bug Spray: Don’t forget to bring bug spray to keep the little ones comfortable. A camper at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground mentioned the bugs were intense.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Conditions: Some sites can be rocky or uneven. A reviewer at Haas Lake Park RV Campground advised, “Sites are super rocky, plan on wearing shoes the entire time.”
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. A camper at Proud Lake Recreation Area noted, “The bathrooms were clean at all times.”
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some RV sites can be close together. A visitor at Bruin Lake Campground mentioned, “The sites were spaced and wooded for shade and privacy.”

Camping near Holt, Michigan, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic getaway for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Holt to Brighton Recreation Area?

The distance from Holt to Brighton Recreation Area is approximately 45 miles, which typically takes about 50-60 minutes driving time depending on traffic and route. This recreation area offers both modern and rustic camping options with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a beach area. During wet weather, consider your vehicle capabilities if planning to visit the rustic camping areas, as some access roads can become muddy.

What camping is available near Holt, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Holt, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 111 campgrounds and RV parks near Holt, MI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Holt, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Holt, MI is Lansing Cottonwood Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Holt, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Holt, MI.