Camping around Leonard, Michigan provides access to several RV-friendly areas within eastern Michigan's oak-hickory forests. The region sits within the Clinton River watershed at approximately 1,050 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and moderate humidity. Most campgrounds open between April and October, closing during Michigan's snowy winter months when temperatures regularly dip below freezing.
What to do
Boating opportunities: At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, visitors access four small lakes for fishing and non-motorized boating. "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," reports Karen C. The park maintains multiple fishing docks and rental boats for day use.
Golf access: Washakie Golf & RV Resort combines camping with direct golf course access from May through October. The course features 9 holes with moderate difficulty ratings, making it suitable for beginners and experienced golfers alike. Green fees start at $25 for weekdays with discounted rates for campers.
Trail exploration: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground offers extensive hiking through hardwood forests. "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees," notes Jennifer H. The trail system connects to over 8 miles of pathways suitable for both hiking and mountain biking.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Port Huron Township RV Park receives consistent praise for its peaceful setting despite highway proximity. "If you want a peaceful camp trip, this is the place. It is right off of a major interstate, so you'll hear occasional noise. But overall, I love this place," says Terri W. The park enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites with natural buffers. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," David S. says about Holly Recreation Area. Similar comments appear frequently in reviews, particularly for the Maple and Trillium camping loops with their mature tree coverage.
Clean facilities: Dancing Fire Glamping and RV Resort maintains well-regarded facilities according to reviews. "Clean. $69/night for a pad with power. We have a pop up tent and a utility trailer. Nice pool. Showers and sitewide wifi," notes Nathan H. Most RV parks near Leonard offer at least basic restroom facilities, with varying levels of maintenance.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Cell coverage varies significantly between campgrounds, with some areas experiencing limited connectivity. "The only downside was the abysmal Verizon signal. I'm talking 3 mbps bad," reports David B. about conditions at Thousand Trails St. Clair. Service generally improves closer to I-75 and major towns.
Seasonal closures: Most rv parks near Leonard, Michigan operate seasonally, closing between November and April. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park shuts down completely from November through March. "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season," reports Mike M.
Reservation requirements: Weekend availability becomes extremely limited from June through August, particularly at state recreation areas. Most private campgrounds accept reservations up to 6 months in advance, with holiday weekends typically booking completely within days of opening.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pine Ridge RV Campground provides basic play equipment, though reviews suggest limited child-focused amenities. "Small park for the kids, no complaints there. Staff was super sweet and pleasant to talk to," explains Kristin T. Most family-oriented campers recommend Holly Recreation Area for its more extensive recreational facilities.
Beach swimming: Several parks offer swimming beaches with varying levels of development and lifeguard supervision. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground features a designated swimming area with gradual entry points suitable for younger children. "Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," Ethan R. notes.
Kid-friendly rentals: Thousand Trails St. Clair provides cabin accommodations as alternatives to tent camping. "We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow," Trevor O. shares. Cabins typically require minimum stays of 2-3 nights with rates averaging $85-125 per night.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds present leveling difficulties due to terrain. Pine Ridge RV Campground receives mixed reviews regarding site conditions. "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff," Mitchell C. mentions. Bringing leveling blocks proves essential at most parks in this region.
Hookup positioning: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park offers full-service RV sites with convenient utility locations. "The staff is pretty helpful. They take you to the campsite and assist guiding you in. Full hook ups are available, as are partial h/I'd and tent spaces," David J. explains. Most rv parks near Leonard require standard 25-foot water and sewer hoses.
Limited pull-through availability: Most campgrounds offer predominantly back-in sites. Pull-through sites remain available but limited, particularly at state recreation areas. RVers note that reservations specifically requesting pull-through sites should be made 3-4 months in advance during peak season.
