Camping options near Lapeer, Michigan range from rustic state recreation areas to full-service RV parks throughout Lapeer County and neighboring communities. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F—ideal for camping from May through October when most RV parks operate. Winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures that can drop below 20°F.
What to do
Fishing at Holloway Reservoir: The lake at Wolverine Campground offers quality fishing opportunities, particularly for walleye. "Lake is supposed to be great for walleye fishing, even if it a tad shallow. Campground is well maintained with picnic tables, and fire rings," notes Chris S. Water sports enthusiasts also find the reservoir accommodating, as Crystal G. mentions, "the water isn't very deep but great place to go for water sports."
Golfing on-site: Several campgrounds feature golf courses where you can play without leaving the property. The 9-hole course at Holiday Shores RV Park "was well maintained and had some tricky holes. There were changes in elevation and multiple water hazards," according to Jamie H., who also notes they're working on obtaining a liquor license.
Hiking trail systems: Many campgrounds offer extensive trail networks perfect for day hikes. At Holly Recreation Area, campers can access "several well marked trails" with Jennifer H. highlighting that the "park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise tree coverage and site separation at certain parks. At Holly Recreation Area, Ashley F. appreciates the seclusion: "We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous- tucked into the woods and was easy to back into. You're far enough from people to where you don't really see a lot of them or hear them that often besides people walking by."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. John C. from Haas Lake Park RV Campground notes, "The entire campground was well kept; the bathrooms, the grounds, and the laundry facility were all in great condition."
Lake access: Multiple waterfront campgrounds offer direct lake access for boats and swimming. Joseph S. raves about the waterfront experience: "The views of the lake are so pretty, waterfront, fire rings, clean water, full hook ups, and a waste removal service at your camp site if needed." Many campers extend their stays after experiencing these amenities.
What you should know
Site variations within campgrounds: Site sizes and privacy can vary significantly within the same facility. At Pine Ridge RV Campground, Kristin T. points out, "Some camp sites are squished up to others. Other camp sites have plenty of room. So when you are stuck in a spot that is tight it kind of ruins the experience. Weird thing is, the bigger sites are the same price."
Extension cords needed: Power hookups can be located far from parking pads at some campgrounds. Jennifer from Wolverine Campground advises, "If you're in a camper, make sure you have an extension cord. The power is quite a ways away."
Variable cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. At Thousand Trails St. Clair, David B. warns about technology limitations: "The only downside was the abysmal Verizon signal. I'm talking 3 mbps bad."
Seasonal considerations: Most rv parks near Lapeer, Michigan close between October and May, with a few exceptions. Many facilities fill up quickly during summer holiday weekends, requiring advance reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: When selecting Lapeer area rv parks for families, consider available play structures. Stephanie H. from Holly Recreation Area shares: "We've state at this campground on and off for roughly 3 weeks staying mostly at the Cedar cabin but we also tent camped as well. The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet... We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks."
Beach and swimming facilities: Thousand Trails St. Clair offers family-friendly water activities that appeal to children. Trevor O. notes, "We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature opportunities to observe local wildlife safely. At Holly Recreation Area, one camper shares, "At night we did get a visit from a view critters and my daughter thought it was the coolest thing ever."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Several rv parks near Lapeer offer cement pads that eliminate leveling needs. According to Jamie H., Holiday Shores has "a cement pad which required no leveling. The electrical, water and sewer connections were all easy to access and each lot had a picnic table and fire ring!"
Tree clearance consideration: When choosing a site at campgrounds with mature trees, assess overhead clearance. Mitchell C. observes that Pine Ridge has "nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible."
RV size limitations: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs, so confirm space availability before booking. Dancing Fire Resort has 140 sites with full hookups but Nathan H. notes the price for simple setups can seem high: "Right off the highway. Clean. $69/night for a pad with power. We have a pop up tent and a utility trailer."
