Fort Custer Recreation Area and Potawatomi Recreation Area offer a variety of glamping options near Litchfield, Michigan. Both locations sit within the state's southern lake region, an area characterized by glacial kettles and moraines that formed thousands of years ago. The terrain consists primarily of oak-hickory forest interspersed with wetlands, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area maintains over 25 miles of paths through diverse terrain. According to one visitor, "There's an extensive trail system to enjoy that connects with the nearby nature preserve," and another notes the "Plenty of trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do."
Beach activities: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern provides swimming opportunities in clear waters. One camper mentions, "There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net. Also in the park are some small dirt trails for hiking and biking."
Winter recreation: While most glamping options focus on summer, some locations remain open year-round. At Pokagon State Park Campground, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc."
Dog-friendly options: Several sites welcome pets with specific amenities. Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday has "all of the KOA amenities pool, lazy river, jump pillow, playground and dog park. Entire campground was clean and well maintained."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacing at Fort Custer Recreation Area, with one noting, "We just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" Another camper values the "lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Harrison Lake offers accommodations beyond traditional camping. A visitor reports, "We rented a yurt as a local weekend escape. Our kids loved the yurt. It was nice with a little mini fridge and 4 double beds. Campground showers and bathrooms are clean."
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes provide different experiences. One camper at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern mentions, "This was a campground that we stayed at on our way to the northern part of the state. The camp sites were nice, there was a nice swimming area in crystal clear water."
Modern amenities: For those seeking comfort, Holiday RV Campground offers full services. A camper notes, "Nice park for full timers. Large spots to accommodate big rigs and kids. Full hook ups. Cell service great with Verizon hotspot (22u, 20d, 38ms) and AT&T cell(27d, 20u, 27ms)."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping options have limited availability in colder months. At Harrison Lake State Park Campground, "A lake to cool off in that's not too far from the south loop sites. Modern toilets and showers. Open space camping on grass with strip of woods between sites and lake."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially in summer. One camper warns about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "If you are looking for lots of things to do and water fun, this is your place! Only complaint would be that if you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand."
Insect conditions: Be prepared for bugs, particularly in wooded areas. A visitor to Fort Custer noted, "The mosquitos are awful. The site was a decent size and had a lot of shade, which was nice."
Site variations: Not all sites offer the same experience. At Waterloo, "Most of the sites are in the sun, but there are a few sites with more shade and tree cover."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in kid-friendly activities. One parent shares, "Have created a tradition in our family to go to Yogi every year at the end of summer! It's a great place to swim, ride bikes, do crafts, play bingo, and a wide variety of fun activities for the whole family!"
Safety considerations: Some locations require additional supervision. A camper at Harrison Lake warns, "This seemed to be a popular campground for families -- especially little kids on bikes, so be extra cautious when driving around or even riding your own bike because the kids seemed to have no concept of safely riding around."
Budget planning: Activities may require additional fees. A visitor to Jellystone notes, "The extra cost for some of the activities are not terribly overpriced, but is overpriced. The multiple pools are excellent."
Playground access: Multiple sites feature play areas for children. At Holiday RV Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Playgrounds everywhere for the kids. Giant dog park and ponds."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water connections aren't universal. At Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern, a camper notes, "Absolutely love this place. Only downfall is no water hookups on site."
Site dimensions: Some locations have space limitations. At Pokagon State Park, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven. Bike trail, hiking trails, store, beach, inn, nature center."
Dump station logistics: Plan for possible delays at facilities. A camper at Harrison Lake mentioned, "Three minor complaints: vault toilets instead of bathrooms in the non-electric area, only one gray water dump on the entire south side of the lake."
Level sites: Check availability of level parking. At Holiday RV Campground, "Nice and quiet... Nice park for full timers. Large spots to accommodate big rigs and kids. Full hook ups."
