Best Campgrounds near Clay, MI

The eastern Michigan landscape surrounding Clay Township features a mix of waterfront and wooded camping options, with Algonac State Park Campground serving as the area's primary destination. Located directly on the St. Clair River, this year-round park offers both tent and RV camping with views of passing freighters. Within an hour's drive, campers find additional options ranging from full-service private campgrounds like Port Huron KOA to more secluded state recreation areas including Holly Recreation Area and Pontiac Lake. The region balances developed sites with basic amenities against more remote locations, particularly along Lake Huron's shoreline where Lakeport State Park provides beach access and water recreation.

Most campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, especially during the peak summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Campsites at popular waterfront locations like Algonac State Park often book six months ahead for weekend stays. As one camper noted, "This place has amazing views along the St. Clair River. The freighter traffic did not disappoint." Weather conditions remain relatively mild during camping season, though spring brings occasional heavy rainfall that can affect site conditions. Mosquitoes and ticks become prevalent in wooded areas by mid-summer, particularly in the inland recreation areas. Cell service varies significantly, with stronger coverage near Port Huron and diminishing reception in more remote camping areas.

Water access represents a defining feature of camping in this region, with several campgrounds offering views of Lake Huron or the St. Clair River. "You're right close to the water, so you can watch the ships," notes one Algonac State Park visitor. Facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with state parks typically offering basic amenities while private campgrounds provide more extensive services. Family-friendly options include Groveland Oaks County Park, which features "mini golf, kids bike courses and playgrounds" according to recent visitors. Wildlife sightings commonly include deer, rabbits, and raccoons, with the latter being particularly bold at some campgrounds. Campers seeking quieter experiences should consider weekday visits or the less-developed sections of larger campgrounds, as summer weekends bring significant crowds to the more popular waterfront sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Clay, Michigan (30)

    1. Algonac State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Algonac, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 765-5605

    "I've stayed all over michigan, and this is one of the best. Your right close to the water, so you can watch the ships. I was very comfortable here, and I had my dog."

    "Great campground with access to the beautiful St. Clair River as it runs between Lake Huron and Lake St. Clair."

    2. Port Huron KOA

    11 Reviews
    Clyde, MI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 987-4070

    "This is probably the best campground in Michigan. Lots of activities to do. Swimming pools, bicycles for rent, playgrounds, pizza, children's train, etc."

    "Tons to for kids, multiple pools including a zero entry, jumping pillow, ice cream stores, old west town hayrides, train rides($), multiple parks, and next to small water park."

    3. Thousand Trails St. Clair

    2 Reviews
    St. Clair, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    4. Addison Oaks County Park

    13 Reviews
    Lakeville, MI
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 858-1400

    "The park has a beautiful 2.5 mile trail around the lake that makes this campground great. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats. We saw deer and rabbit."

    "Cell phone tower is close by. We especially enjoy the intermediate level mountain bike trails. Showers are hot. Lots of deer to see at dusk."

    5. Lakeport State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Clyde, MI
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 327-6224

    $30 - $34 / night

    "Right off Lake Michigan. Great trails for easy bike riding. Helpful, friendly staff"

    "Lakeport is one of the hidden gems in Michigan. We all have heard that you can find Petoskey Stones in Northern Michigan, well.... look no further!!!!!"

    6. Ridgewood Campground

    2 Reviews
    Washington, MI
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (586) 781-4242

    $25 - $50 / night

    "The site was a larger site (#12) tucked nicely away in a corner.

    Picnic Table and Nice Fire Ring onsite. Port-a-potty, dumpster near site."

    7. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Ortonville, MI
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-8811

    $27 - $30 / night

    "Group area is away from the main area. Kayak lakes are nice. Excellent hike/bike trails. Park is located just down the road from the Holly Oaks Off road park."

    "I love to come here when I want a quick get away from home because it is only 30min away.

    The campsites are big,secluded, wooded, and clean."

    8. KOA Campground Emmett

    7 Reviews
    Avoca, MI
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 395-7042

    "The drive is short and there are plenty of amenities to keep the kiddos busy all day."

    "We will definitely come back when it is warm enough to swim in the lake!"

    9. Port Huron Township RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Port Huron, MI
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 982-6765

    10. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 666-1020

    $22 / night

    "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive."

    "Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk."

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Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Clay, MI

245 Reviews of 30 Clay Campgrounds



Guide to Clay

Camping near Clay, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Beach Time: Enjoy the sandy shores at Lakeport State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The beach was rocky so don’t forget to pack some water shoes but the rocky beach comes with finding cool rocks to either paint or just collect!"
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails are available at Algonac State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "There’s a decent amount of trails on the property and also a bike trail that leads into Algonac."
  • Family Activities: At Addison Oaks County Park, families can enjoy planned activities on weekends. One reviewer noted, "Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Lakeport State Park Campground. A happy camper said, "The bathrooms were kept up well and the showers were squeaky clean with warm water running the whole shower."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Algonac State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Large lots, so relaxing watching the ships."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpful staff at Addison Oaks County Park. A reviewer stated, "Park was clean, guests well behaved, staff helpful. We will be back."

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: If you're seeking peace, be aware that Lakeport State Park Campground can get noisy. One camper noted, "This is a noisy, crowded, smokey RV park with no privacy."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at Algonac State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The mosquitoes were extremely bad this year so I don’t fault the campground for that."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Algonac State Park Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper mentioned, "No electric hookups, but you can choose to stay in the wagon wheel or in the other area."

Tips for camping with families

  • Pack Water Shoes: The rocky beach at Lakeport State Park Campground makes water shoes a must. One camper advised, "Don’t forget to pack some water shoes."
  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Addison Oaks County Park. A reviewer mentioned, "There are 26 miles of bike trails and hiking."
  • Check for Playground Availability: Make sure the campground has playgrounds for kids. A visitor at Addison Oaks County Park said, "Nice updated playgrounds for the kids."

Tips from RVers

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with large sites, like Algonac State Park Campground. A camper noted, "The sites are to close together and no regulations on the amount of cars parked around the sites."
  • Be Cautious of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds may have rough roads. A visitor at Algonac State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads were inexcusable for a campground."
  • Check for Electric Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Algonac State Park Campground said, "You get electric, period."

Camping near Clay, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Clay, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clay, MI is Algonac State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 23 reviews.

What parks are near Clay, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Clay, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.