Camping options near Livonia, Michigan include 10 established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, ranging from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV parks. Most state recreation areas in this region sit at elevations between 850-950 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Winter camping opportunities expand beyond Proud Lake and Wayne County Fairgrounds, with Holly Recreation Area and Highland Recreation Area maintaining year-round accessibility for cold-weather enthusiasts.
What to do
Kayaking at Proud Lake Recreation Area: The Huron River provides excellent paddling opportunities through the recreation area. "This was my first trip, which I did in a teardrop style micro camper... I loved being able to look out my window to the waterfront," notes one visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking the extensive trail system: Highland Recreation Area offers miles of trails through diverse terrain. "The natural scenery is STUNNING with fields of flowers and trees. We ran up on a group of probably 70 wild turkeys on the trail! There's a quiet lake perfect for unwinding after a long day," shares a camper about their experience at Highland State Recreation Area.
Mountain biking for all skill levels: The trails at Proud Lake Recreation Area accommodate various skill levels. "The trails available here are where I learned to mountain bike, they're not the easiest but they are not so challenging that you won't have fun," writes a regular visitor.
What campers like
Private campsites in wooded settings: Many campers appreciate the secluded feeling at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. "Camp site was nice with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded and could barely see site past truck in parking spot. Great for getting away and seeing the night sky," explains a visitor to Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Modern bathroom facilities: Campgrounds have invested in clean, updated facilities. "The bathhouse is new and very nice. There are a few sites on an incline and that made it hard to get in and out of our fifth wheel," reports a camper from Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Waterfront camping options: Multiple campgrounds offer lakeside sites. "Arrived to a super friendly guy Chris that escorted us to our site. We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway. Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes," shares a reviewer about their stay at Haas Lake Park RV Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park closes seasonally: "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season," reports one visitor who arrived during the off-season.
Spacing between sites: Site proximity differs significantly between campgrounds. "This site was very nicely kept but felt a little like a sardine can. SO many RVs and children EVERYWHERE kind of ruined the relaxed calm one looks for when camping," notes a visitor to Bishop Lake Campground.
Varying levels of shade: Tree cover differs between campgrounds and loops. "Sites were huge and the campground was so clean and beautiful!" shares a camper about Haas Lake Park, while another camper at Bishop Lake notes "Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween-themed weekends: Several campgrounds offer special Halloween events. "We've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere," explains a visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Water activities for kids: Camp Dearborn offers numerous water-based options. "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more," shares a family who visited Camp Dearborn.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play spaces. "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," notes a visitor to Holly Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Uneven site locations: Be prepared for varying site conditions. "Some good spots have some shade to stay out of the sun. The beach is pretty good for swimming. The bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm," explains an RVer at Bishop Lake Campground.
Electrical hookup accessibility: Extension cords may be necessary at some locations. "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," advises a visitor to Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Pull-through site availability: Several campgrounds offer easy-access sites. "Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site," reports an RVer who stayed at Camp Dearborn.