Camping options near Mason, Michigan range from rustic lakeside sites to modern facilities with electric hookups. Mason sits at an elevation of 889 feet above sea level in an area characterized by inland lakes, wetlands, and hardwood forests. Winter camping remains available at select sites where temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing access: Blind Lake Rustic Campground in Pinckney Recreation Area offers both boat access and shoreline fishing opportunities with bass and bluegill. "The lake was amazing to swim at night..must to it," notes a camper who appreciated the water access.
Mountain biking: The trails near Bruin Lake Campground attract riders of various skill levels. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" A 35-mile hiking trail connects through the recreation area with smaller day trails branching to points of interest.
Paddling: Green Lake at Waterloo Recreation Area accommodates kayaks and canoes with a small boat dock and launch area. "I loved this quiet little campground! I stayed at #6 and had a beautiful view of the lake. There is muddy lake access on that site and I paddled from there in my kayak," shares one visitor about their experience.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Green Lake Rustic Campground offers larger camping areas compared to other nearby options. "Both sites seemed larger then most suburban house lots. Site 5 had a decent view of the lake, Site 3 had odd fire pit placement under 2 trees," reports one camper detailing the generous site dimensions.
Wildlife viewing: Night skies and natural sounds add to the camping experience around Mason. "We were able to see some awesome stars at night," notes a Green Lake camper. Another mentions, "There are a lot of wildlife noises, owls, frogs, crickets, etc. and you can hear some of the highway traffic but the nature sounds kind of drown it out."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathrooms. At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are well spaced between the campsites, and have showers along with some vending machines outside of them. Spigots are scattered throughout and are very accessible."
What you should know
Campground differences: The various recreation areas contain multiple campgrounds with different amenities. "This campground was what we needed for squirrel hunting, however, it is very open and not very private. It is another one of those 'parking lot campgrounds' where you can see all of your neighbors at all times," explains a camper about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "I would recommend getting a reservation before showing up. They have laminated signs posted on the campsites to let you know which ones are taken," advises a Green Lake visitor.
Site selection challenges: Proximity to noise sources varies by campsite. "A major roadway passes along the other side of the lake making lake front sites noise until about 12am and rear sites sit near a wetland aka the border of the mosquito kingdom; neither of these problems are terrible if you plan accordingly," notes a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers dedicated play areas for children. "Spent 4 nights and 5 days camping with my husband and 2 kids. We had fun and the kids had a blast. They rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the playground," reports one family.
Shallow swimming: When choosing a swimming location, water clarity varies considerably. "The beach is pretty good for swimming," notes a visitor to Bishop Lake Campground, while another warns, "Seaweed just flats around and gets tangled around your legs and arms all the time," about Portage Lake.
Activities schedule: Check for ranger-led programs. "The park workers walk around and tell you about the activities they have that day," mentions a camper at Portage Lake, while another notes, "There are 'host' activities for kids and adults also, the schedules are posted in the showers."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, electrical access can be challenging. "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for larger vehicles. "Our site was small and we were sitting very close to a not so nice set up, maybe a seasonal? No one was there," reports a visitor to Lansing Cottonwood Campground, while another mentioned, "Uneven sloped site so come prepared."
Power considerations: During heat waves, electrical capacity becomes important. "Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan. We were in the midst of a heat-wave though and it was much appreciated. The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment."
