Pet friendly camping near New Boston, Michigan offers diverse options within southeast Michigan's flat terrain and temperate climate. Campgrounds in this area lie at elevations around 600-650 feet above sea level, with many sites featuring full hookups for RVs and water access on Lake Erie or smaller inland lakes. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October, closing during Michigan's snowy winter months.
What to do
Water activities at lakefront sites: Sterling State Park Campground provides beach access on Lake Erie for swimming and water recreation. "The beach is a short walk from any site, mostly sandy with small rocks occasionally. There is a boat launch which is extremely popular and the bass and walleye fishing can't be beat," notes Frances V.
Hiking with pets: Several campgrounds offer walking trails suitable for dogs. At Haas Lake Park RV Campground, there are "plenty of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," according to Karen C. This provides natural scenery for both you and your pet to enjoy.
Fishing opportunities: Many sites allow fishing with your pets nearby. At Wilderness Campground, there's a "cute catch and release pond" according to Shawn C., while Sterling State Park offers multiple fishing options. "No boat, no problem. The park has several fishing piers as well as a kayak launch into a small inlet which is navigatable all the way to the beach," mentions Frances V.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Harbortown RV Resort receives praise for its maintenance. "Showers and restrooms are updated and always clean," mentions Mano P. This makes traveling with pets more convenient when you need to clean up after outdoor activities.
Lake views: Campers appreciate waterfront sites for their pets. At Haas Lake Park, one reviewer noted their "lakefront full hookup" and mentioned "the entire campground was well kept; the bathrooms, the grounds, and the laundry facility were all in great condition." This creates a pleasant environment for pet owners.
Family activities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds offer additional recreation. At Monroe-Toledo North KOA, there's "a sandy beach, small lake, water slide, and plenty of family activities," according to Cheryl H., giving both pets and their owners entertainment options.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "The seasonal nature of these campgrounds affects availability, with most operating between April and October," with some like Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park closed from November through March. One camper noted, "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At Harbortown RV Resort, a camper mentioned that "how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night." This may affect pets sensitive to sounds.
Bug considerations: Seasonal insects can impact camping with pets. At Sterling State Park, "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," according to Kourtney D. These insects can create discomfort for both humans and animals.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: River Raisin Canoe Livery & Campground offers multiple activities. "They also have a playset and sandbox onsite as well as canoes/kayaks for rental," says Alec H. These amenities provide entertainment for children while allowing pets to remain with the family.
Site selection: Choose sites that offer space for children and pets. At River Raisin, site 16 was noted as having "Lots of shade, very flat, best spot for people that like to spread but want shade," according to Phillip S., creating comfort for both pets and kids.
Halloween events: Many campgrounds offer special fall activities. At Monroe-Toledo North KOA, one camper mentioned, "I've been going to this campground for years, but mainly for the Halloween camping. It's a fun time of the year to go and the kids always have a blast. Most sites decorate and some site go all out with haunted houses."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: RV campers should be aware of site proximity at some locations. At Monroe-Toledo North KOA, one RVer noted, "The only down side was they pack in the campers super tight. I would guess 22 feet wide and I only had 5 feet behind my 30 foot camper until you reach the next camper." This affects pets that need space to move around.
Pull-through availability: Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA and other campgrounds offer convenient sites for larger rigs. "Site was across the small road from the lake. Plenty of trees all around. Good for shade and natural comforts of the day. A bit unsettling for parking a trailer or RV for newer folks to these adventures," notes Jennifer C.
Size accommodations: Some parks accommodate all RV sizes. At Sterling State Park, "This park will accommodate any size travel trailer, fifth wheel camper of any kind, the pull throughs are huge." This makes traveling with pets and large vehicles more manageable.
