115 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Midland, Michigan range from state parks to private recreational areas, with tent, RV, and cabin camping available throughout central Michigan. Several campgrounds near Midland offer electrical hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities within 30 miles, with options spanning rustic forest settings to family-oriented lakeside destinations typically operating from May through October.
The camping season in this region typically runs from mid-May through September, with some facilities extending operations through October. Most campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. "Sites are very well kept and toilets were nice and clean. Easy to get in and out but doesn't really feel like camping with all the traffic noise," noted one visitor about Black Creek State Forest Campground. Accessibility varies significantly between locations, with state forest campgrounds offering more rustic accommodations while private campgrounds and state parks provide electrical hookups, water access, and shower facilities. Recreation passports are required for entry into Michigan state parks, available at park entrances for an additional fee if not already included with Michigan vehicle registration.
Family-friendly amenities distinguish many campgrounds in the Midland area, with several locations featuring swimming areas, playgrounds, and organized activities. A visitor at Bay City State Park Campground reported it was "one of the best campgrounds for kids that I've ever visited" with "a huge playground, hiking trails, fishing in the lagoon, and touristy attractions right down the road." River access represents another popular feature, with River Ridge Campground offering kayak rentals and riverside sites. Campground environments range from densely wooded areas providing shade and privacy to more open settings with community-focused facilities. Most developed campgrounds maintain clean restroom facilities, with many offering shower access. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly at locations near water features like Saginaw Bay and local rivers.
"It's a typical Michigan state campground, not much different. Nice bathrooms and big lots."
"The near by nature preserve is a great place to take a hike or bike ride. There are a couple restaurants right outside the park entrance."
from $35 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Put one portion of it on the clip at the spot number market, keep another portion then return the completed envelope and $20 cash or check per night plus $19 for Michigan recreation passport (if you don"
"New Senior Center closeby. Easy to get attached to."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"I brought my own electric scooters to ride around site but the campground is walkable! The store up front has almost everything you’d need in an emergency or an “oops I forgot XYZ” situation."
from $30 - $600 / night
Check Availability"Nice campground with great access to the Saginaw Bay for boaters/kayakers/etc with a small beach. Some campsites are better than others, like most campgrounds but all have some perks."
"Lots of fisherman.water and electric only.great access to Saginaw Bay."
"The office where payment is made is a few miles away from the actual campground. There is a dump station and water at the fairgrounds. "
from $15 / night
Check Availability"This is a really good family campground in the middle of Michigan. Campsites are spacious and wooded. There is a lake for swimming ability to fish and put in a kayak."
"Near the cabins) The rest are in pine stands and really is a nice place to be. As per the normal, pines bring sap, so expect that.
Day use is across the street. Playground, beach, etc."
from $45 - $2735 / night
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ScoutIf you're looking for a family oriented campground, look no further. From the park to play in for the kids and the heated pool, to the large fields and trails, you'll find entertainment to fill your days. Visit the wishing tree or porcupine tree. Swing on your trail adventure. The owners are delightful.
GuideThis was our overall third visit in the last 4 years to this campground. The last visit was 2 years ago and we had friends visit and do the 6hr tubing ride with us and that ultimately got them into camping and willing to spend the weekend with us at this campground.
We've always been in the "rustic" area more towards the "adult/party" side of the campground, but not to scare anyone there was NOT an over abundance of loud music, or shenanigans. Everyone was pretty calmed down by 11-12.
Some of the upgrades from years past included shelving, hooks, small benches in the public shower areas (don't have to pay for shower access) water was always warm and the showers were always clean.
The store contained anything you'd need if you forget something at home, including water shoes for tubing, firewood, ice, etc.
We did the 6hr tubing trip, left at 11am and got back to the campground around 4:30. Theres more than enough locations along the tubing trip to stop and eat off to the side. The river is very shallow at some points, id say ankle deep and deep at some points, maybe 8+ ft in spots, but most of the time it was knee deep.
The staff is great, they drive around periodically and pick up trash if you leave it in bags along the driving paths, theres a security team at all hours, etc.
Cell service isn't the best, however they do offer wifi ($20 for multiple devices/week). The wifi would go in/out at times though
Overall this is one of my favorite campsites and will return next year.
ScoutThis was our first camping trip as a family and our son choked made it a memorable one. He choked on a breadstick, threw it up and had piece stuck in his throat. The park ranger ( female, maybe 5'5 light brown hair, white. Because I cant remember her name) was amazing. She was calm, asked my son questions to help distract him and her overall kindness in her all was great. The rest of the team in there was amazing as well. Next day she stopped by to see how he was doing! I loved that. The camp ground itself it very nice, the bathrooms and showers were really clean. For sure worth the stay!
GuideStayed a few nights here. Great site right in the river. Rented tubes and floated the river down to our campsite. All of the amenities. Definitely a busy place on weekends but a little calmer through the week.
ScoutNice campground pretty quiet very well shaded lots. Some lots would be a bit difficult to get a camper in due to the amount of trees but nice for tent camping. Bathrooms are a bit dated is only downfall. Could use some maintance and upgrades
TravelerWoohoo! What a campground! I’m currently camping here attempting to stay long term. It’s a bit packed of long term-ers but there are a few openings. As far as the daily hookup sites/regular tent sites are absolutely darling. Plenty of space for whatever you need plus a vehicle! There’s a huge pond in the center of the campground with an inflatable slide that the kids absolutely love. The pond gets fairly deep which makes it perfect for all ages. Including the little beach front it has making it perfect for the lounging parents or the toddlers to play in puddles of water. I brought my own electric scooters to ride around site but the campground is walkable! The store up front has almost everything you’d need in an emergency or an “oops I forgot XYZ” situation. There is a small cafe as well on site which is awesome for a quick bite! Laundry on site has 2 washers and 2 dryers.. which I think is fair! The bathrooms/showers are clean and plentiful. Staff is fairly friendly as well. I do feel the employees need proper training based on the campground itself (like the price of propane or the ability to book sites without management assistance) which are all an easy fix for such an awesome place.
ScoutQuite area not to much of anything to do but it work's.
ScoutGary is one of the nicest people…campground very clean nice and quiet just a hop and a skip to the downtown area
TravelerClean, quiet, great service. Bathrooms and showers were fine. They have firewood for $5/bundle on-site that they’ll deliver to your site. We would stay here again.
Camping options near Midland, Michigan include both county-managed and state forest campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Located in Michigan's central Lower Peninsula at an elevation of 636 feet, this area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 80°F in July and August. The regional camping season typically runs from May through mid-October with high humidity during summer months.
Hiking trails and boardwalks: At Pinconning County Park, visitors can explore the extensive boardwalk system through marsh areas. "Nice campground with great walking trail back to the bay through the marsh," notes Andrea B. The park features multiple observation platforms overlooking wetland habitats.
Beach and water activities: Waterfront access is available at several campgrounds in the region. Bay City State Park Campground offers "a long paved bike path we had a dear pass within 6 feet of us and enjoyed hiking out to the watch towers. The water at the beach is pretty murky with a lot of green algae," according to Jennifer H.
Biking opportunities: Paved pathways in many area campgrounds are ideal for cycling. "The drive around the campground is all paved and very long, so be sure to bring your bikes!!" recommends Sarah S. The Pier-Marquette Rail Trail is accessible about 1.5 miles from Herrick Recreation Area, providing additional biking options.
Fishing access: Multiple locations offer fishing opportunities in lakes, rivers and Saginaw Bay. "There is a lake for swimming ability to fish and put in a kayak," writes Sue B. about Herrick Recreation Area. Ponds at this location are popular for casual fishing.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms and showers are very clean. They are closed an hour a day for thorough cleaning and restocked and wiped down in the late evening," reports one visitor to Bay City State Park Campground.
Family activities: Organized events at campgrounds receive positive reviews. "They have campground hosts that facilitate free activities organized by the park. We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," shares a Bay City visitor.
Site privacy and layout: River Ridge Campground receives praise for its riverside sites. "This is a great family campground. There are Sites right on the river, kayak rentals, pool and hot tub, and a separate swimming hole with sandy beach and inflatable toys!" notes Katie J.
Nature viewing opportunities: Wildlife observation is frequently mentioned in reviews. "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets blue heron, sand pipers and their babies," writes Jennifer H. about Bay City State Park Campground.
Campsite variations: Many campgrounds feature a mix of site types and conditions. At Lake of Dreams Campground, "Roads are in great condition, dry, no potholes. Restrooms are clean. Campsites are big," according to William L.
Reservation requirements: Most locations require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "Can book day of until 8pm online. Easy to get into late at night. Big lots. Fire pit. Sites are electric only," explains Tanner G. about Bay City.
Seasonal considerations: Weather and insects affect camping experiences. "There were quite a few May Flies. According to the park office they're pretty much there all summer," notes a Bay City visitor. Water levels at some parks vary seasonally.
Accessibility options: Some campgrounds provide accessible features. "There is wheelchair access for the back and the water spigots in the campground has wheelchair access. I am impressed and happy with this park," writes Jennifer H. about Bay City State Park.
Look for specialized children's amenities: The best places to camp near Midland for families often feature dedicated play areas. At Black Creek State Forest Campground, "Campsites are pretty close together and you can hear traffic nearby most of the day. Sites are well kept and toilets were nice and clean," notes Justin N.
Consider water activities: Water features rank highly with children. "We took a group of 6 adults and 3 kids to Bay City which was a pretty good drive for us. We had a lot of fun! Park was clean and located across from the lake. There was a splash pad area for the kids which they begged to go to every day!" shares Samantha C.
Check for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. Bay City provides a calendar of activities each month, including crafts in the morning and games in the evening. "The high lights are the large blow up toys in the lake! The kids love them! Be sure you bring extra money, there is a charge and it's not cheap!" advises Karen P. about Lake of Dreams Campground.
Extension cord needs: Electric hookup locations vary significantly between sites. "Lots of moving around to get your electric hooked up to the shared and oddly placed power poles. Make sure to come with an extension cord," advises Deb M. from Bay City State Park.
Site selection considerations: Calhoun City Campground receives positive reviews for its site quality. "Very nice and quiet campground, the managers take pride in what they do and it shows. Not a lot to do for children but great if you like it quiet," notes Clinton E.
Dump station access: At Herrick Recreation Area, "One septic station, enter it from the pines side as the hole is on the East side," advises DJ W., providing a practical tip for RVers.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require some adjustment. "We stayed on site 78. It's slightly sloped but leveling is easy. Biiiig sites here," notes DJ W. about Herrick Recreation Area, adding that the pine stands provide nice shade but bring sap to expect on your equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities do campgrounds near Midland, Michigan offer?
Campgrounds near Midland offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Herrick Recreation Area provides spacious, wooded campsites with electrical hookups and shared water access. The recreation area features a lake for swimming, fishing opportunities, and kayak launching points. At Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground, you'll find clean bathrooms, easy lake access, and a nice beach area. Be prepared with extra hose and extension cord as utilities can be some distance from certain sites. Many area campgrounds offer vault toilets, water pumps, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some facilities include shower houses, while others maintain a more rustic experience with basic amenities. The level of services varies from primitive sites to fully-developed campgrounds with modern facilities.
Is tent camping available near Midland, Michigan?
Yes, tent camping is widely available near Midland. Spring Lake State Forest Campground offers primitive tent camping with large, spacious sites. The campground features clean vault toilets and a water pump but no electricity. For a unique experience, Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground provides tent sites with access to a large lake (Lake Ovid) for fishing. The park is easily accessible and relatively close to shopping centers. Most state forest campgrounds in the area cater well to tent campers with rustic sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Many of these campgrounds are situated in wooded settings providing natural shade and privacy, making them ideal for traditional tent camping experiences.
Are there RV camping facilities around Midland, MI?
Holiday Shores RV Park offers dedicated RV facilities with helpful staff who are understanding of novice campers. Their informative website provides great details, though reservations must be made by phone. Pine Ridge RV Campground features nice pull-through sites that accommodate RVs of various sizes. While some sites may be tight, all are manageable with friendly, knowledgeable staff to assist. For those seeking more options, Outdoor Adventures Mount Pleasant Resort near Mount Pleasant provides full-service RV sites with water, electric, and sewer hookups. Wilson State Park Campground also accommodates RVs, though note it's located near busy roads. Most RV parks in the area offer clean facilities, with many providing full hookups and big-rig friendly sites.
What are the best campgrounds in Midland, MI?
Black Creek State Forest Campground stands out with its huge, shaded sites offering a mix of sun and shade. This quiet campground features clean vault toilets, creek views, and is located about 10 miles from the Chippewa Nature Center. Another excellent option is Bay City State Park Campground, a large park with extensive biking opportunities. For a more intimate setting, consider the rustic Mud Lake State Forest Campground with only eight non-reservable sites spaced well apart. Several sites offer lake views or direct lake access via small paths. For RV enthusiasts, Pine Ridge RV Campground provides pull-through sites with knowledgeable staff and clean facilities.
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