Camping spots near Leonard, Michigan offer diverse terrain with primarily flat to gently rolling landscapes. The area contains several lakes and ponds within recreation areas, with sandy soil throughout much of the region. Campgrounds typically sit at elevations between 980-1,050 feet, with oak and maple forests providing variable shade coverage across campsites.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 26 miles of paths at Addison Oaks County Park provide options for riders of different abilities. "We love it here. Good sites I have stayed in both area B and C. Great hiking trails easy access. Friendly staff," noted Gary E. The trail system includes both paved and dirt sections.
Disc golf: 18-hole course available at Bald Mountain Recreation Area offers a challenging layout through wooded terrain. "I absolutely adore Bald Mountain Recreation area! The trails are well maintained and well marked. There is also tons of clean, easy to access lakes within the park too," a visitor shared.
Swimming: Beach access with designated areas at most recreation areas. The Pontiac Lake Recreation Area beach sits 1.8 miles from the campground. "The beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk. Trail is not stroller/wagon friendly," explains Mary H.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Loop D at Addison Oaks provides more privacy. "This is the second time staying in these campgrounds in two weeks. Both times stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers," Richard T. commented. These areas feature denser tree coverage for a more remote feel.
Modern facilities: Clean restrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. At Holly Recreation Area, "The bathrooms were clean. There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair," Jennifer H. observed.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer best opportunities for seeing native animals. "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. We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," Stephanie H. remarked about her Holly Recreation Area visit.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book early for summer weekends, especially at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area where sites fill quickly from June through August. "Clean campground and well maintained. Two different loops to choose from for camping. Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," notes Renee R.
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitoes are prevalent from late May through September. "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear," advises Kristina J.
Terrain variation: Sandy soil predominates in many campgrounds. "The park is extremely sandy so be prepared. Overall it was a quiet, peaceful weekend in a great location," Mandy B. mentioned about Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Weekend programs offer structured entertainment for children. At Groveland Oaks County Park, "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland. We feel like we went up North without the driving four hours. The park is well laid out and includes a ton of fun activities for young and old," Mike N. shared.
Site selection: Loop C spaces typically provide more room for family setups. "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees," Ron E. commented about Addison Oaks.
Water activities: Boat rentals available at many parks from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds," Debbie H. reported about her Groveland Oaks experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Extension cords needed at some sites where electrical connections are distant. "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," Mary H. advised about Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain in some campgrounds. "Nice park, family friendly, very clean and maintained. Bike and boat rental, children's playground and activities. Hiking and biking trails," tim O. noted. Many sites require blocks for proper leveling.
Loop selection: Site accessibility varies between camping areas. "The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course. Mountain biking seems to be very popular there are dirt trails off the paved hiking loop. Sites have electricity and water and are well spaced out," Richard T. observed.
