The camping areas near Litchfield, Michigan sit within gently rolling farmland that transitions into small woodlands and lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons often see overnight temperatures dip into the 40s. The area's lakes offer good fishing opportunities with bass, bluegill, and pike being common catches in the connected chain of lakes.
What to do
Water activities: At Twin Pines Campground & Canoe Livery, visitors can enjoy kayaking along the river, though water levels may affect navigation. "The river was a joy to kayak, although the water level was extremely low, making it hard to maneuver through certain parts," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: Pokagon State Park provides an extensive trail system connecting to a nearby nature preserve. A visitor mentioned, "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," making it ideal for those seeking varied outdoor activities within walking distance of camp.
Fishing opportunities: Marble Lake offers fishing access, though campers should note specific rules. As one visitor to Marble Springs Campground observed, "Fishing but is catch and release. It is not posted any where in the rules or at the fishing spots."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas of varying quality. At Potawatomie Recreation Area, "There were people swimming although it looks very inviting with the amount of weeds in the water," according to one camper who appreciated having water access despite imperfect conditions.
What campers like
Lake access: Waffle Farm Campground receives praise for its waterfront sites. One camper noted, "Friendly and clean campground with lake sites," though they also mentioned sites can be busy with "cars and golf carts driving by till midnight."
Clean facilities: Gateway Park Campground maintains well-kept grounds and facilities. A visitor commented, "The sites are all paved with plenty of space and with grass and shade. The owners are friendly and helpful."
Family activities: Many campgrounds provide organized events for children. One camper at Gateway Park noted the abundance of options: "Pool 3ft-5ft, Air pillow, Large playground (very clean), Half basketball court, Sand Volleyball net, Rec room, Crafts on weekends."
Rental options: Several locations offer equipment rentals. Twin Pines provides kayak and canoe rentals, with one visitor recommending: "They rent out kayaks and canoo's. I personally would recommend the kayaks."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-April through mid-October. Pokagon State Park Campground is an exception, operating year-round with winter activities available.
Site spacing: Campsite density varies significantly between locations. At Pokagon State Park, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded," while Waffle Farm features sites that are "packed with very little space between campsites."
Permanent campers: Several campgrounds host mostly seasonal residents. At Potawatomie Recreation Area, "This is a campground of largely seasonal campers," which affects the overall atmosphere and availability for short-term stays.
Amenities variation: Bathroom and shower quality varies widely. A Pokagon visitor noted, "The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and updated," while other campgrounds may offer more basic facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family activities with extensive facilities. "Great family campground. We came for Halloween weekend so water parks were closed but looked to be a lot of fun. Very well maintained park with good size spots," shared one visitor.
Budget planning: Family activities often come with additional costs. At Jellystone, a camper advised, "The extra cost for some of the activities are not terribly overpriced, but is overpriced. The multiple pools are excellent."
Booking timing: Reserve well in advance for peak season family camping. As one Jellystone visitor warned, "If you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand."
Age-appropriate areas: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's spaces. Gateway Park features "a playground area for the kids, and good site sizes," though one Twin Pines visitor cautioned about water areas: "the fact that my boyfriend's mother had to pull off leeches various different times after being in the water!"
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Potawatomi Rec Area offers electric sites with good access. "A modern campsite with plumbing, showers, power, small store for firewood, even wifi and ice cream. Not the best for a wilderness experience but overall a nice place to bring people who aren't as into roughing it."
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites can be limited at some campgrounds. At Lighthouse Village RV Resort, "full hookups are scarce and don't have the perfect angle and view of the W/E sites. If you want the best sites, forego the 'full hookup', pay less for the best and closest view."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. One camper at Pokagon State Park observed, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," which may require additional leveling equipment for larger RVs.
Dump station access: For camping sites near Litchfield without sewer hookups, Quincy-Marble Lake Campground offers an alternative: "We didn't stay here. But there is a good dump station that you can pay $5 to use. Helpful if you're staying at one of the nearby state parks that don't have a dump station."
