RV camping near Lake Orion occurs within the rolling terrain of central Oakland County, where camping options sit at elevations between 900-1100 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F while summer highs average 82°F, with most local campgrounds receiving approximately 32 inches of rainfall annually. Local sites often feature a mix of wooded and open spaces with variable cell service quality depending on carrier.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground at Holly Recreation Area maintains multiple lakes stocked with bass and panfish. "We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," notes a camper who stayed at Holly's Cedar cabin.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "The campground has a private lake that's good for swimming and fishing," while at Groveland Oaks County Park, "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing."
Hiking trails: Most recreation areas offer marked walking paths ranging from 0.5 to 5 miles. "Pretty park with several well marked trails," mentions one Holly Recreation visitor, while another appreciates "the trail around the lake" that provides "an up north feel in the middle of Ypsilanti."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers value separation between sites. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," writes one visitor about Holly Recreation Area. Another notes that "We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards vary between locations but receive frequent mention in reviews. At Pine Ridge RV Campground, "The bathrooms are key for me and are very clean. There shower are private and are quarter operated," while Holly Recreation features "Bathrooms... clean and it has hot showers and a place to do your dishes as well."
Seasonal activities: Many parks organize special events during major holidays. "We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!" reports a camper at Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
What you should know
Variable site quality: Layout and privacy differ significantly between campgrounds and within loops. "Some camp sites are squished up to others. Other camp sites have plenty of room," reports a visitor to Pine Ridge RV Campground.
Weather preparedness: Seasonal variations affect campground conditions considerably. "When it rains several campsites get very wet!" warns a camper at Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, while another notes that sites with "a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass."
Reservation timing: Availability constraints affect most local parks. At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, staff may be "extremely accommodating after I discovered my booking error - they worked diligently to make me a happy camper." However, many parks reach capacity during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific children's facilities. "This campground is good for families with young children, lots of activities for children," says one visitor about Groveland Oaks County Park, while another mentions it "includes a ton of fun activities for young and old."
Swimming areas: Beach access factors heavily into family enjoyment. At Thousand Trails St. Clair, "We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow," reports a family.
Playground proximity: Consider campsite location relative to play areas. Holly Recreation Area features "several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court," making it convenient for families with active children.
Tips from RVers
Challenging terrain: Site leveling difficulties appear in several reviews. "Sites above 80ish are very hilly and may be difficult to level an RV," applies to certain areas, while at Pine Ridge "some are tight, but none are impossible."
Hookup variations: Electric service and water access differ between parks. "Right off the highway. Clean. $69/night for a pad with power," reports a camper at Dancing Fire Glamping and RV Resort, though they noted "the price seems high for a tent."
Access roads: Road quality affects RV arrival ease. Haas Lake Park features "full hookup area is away from most of the weekend traffic with a short cut to get to where all the kids stuff is located," though some sites can be "a little difficult to get into because it was on a curve."
