Campers visiting the New Haven, Michigan area have access to multiple county and state park options within a 45-minute drive. The region features both inland lakes and Lake Huron shoreline camping opportunities with varying levels of privacy and amenities. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from late April through October due to Michigan's winter climate, with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during peak summer camping months.
What to do
Hike scenic trails: Addison Oaks County Park offers 2.5 miles of paved hiking paths around its lake where campers can spot local wildlife. "Tons of trails for hiking and biking. They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," notes Wendy K. in her review of Addison Oaks County Park.
Rock hunting on Lake Huron: The rocky shoreline at Lakeport State Park creates ideal conditions for rock collectors. "I have found the most beautiful Petoskey Stones at Lakeport. I have also found a large pudding stone. My husband brings his chair down to the water and I walk the short shore for hours and hours looking for rocks," shares Stephanie C. from Lakeport State Park.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer lakes for swimming, fishing, and boating. At Ruby Campground, campers appreciate the riverside setting. "Ruby is a fitting name for this gem. This is the most wholesome cute campground I've ever been to. It has a family owned summer camp vibe and the owners are very kind and helpful. The grounds are very well managed it's right on a river," says Sean H.
Mountain biking: The region offers varied terrain for bikers of all 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," explains Syed M. about Proud Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites for those seeking quiet. "We stayed in area A in a water/electric site. It was a Boo Fest weekend. Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt. There 26 miles of bike trails and hiking. Many in park are paved. Also a disc golf course. Sites in our area were spacious," notes Tim & Nancy C. at Addison Oaks County Park.
Modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain updated bathhouses and shower facilities. "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable. Everyone was most pleasant and helpful and the view of the lake was beautiful," reports Laura M. about Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Seasonal activities: Halloween-themed camping weekends are popular at several parks. "We come for Halloween camping every year! We love this campground. There is a ton to do for all ages. The kids keep busy all day long!" shares Wendy K. about Port Huron KOA.
Concrete pads: For RV campers seeking stability, several parks offer solid foundations. "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees," says Ron E. about his stay at Addison Oaks.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have distinct camping sections with different experiences. "The northern section seems to be the louder section and the southern section seems to be the more laid back quiet section. We have only ever stayed in the south section, but we always ride our bikes to the north section," explains a Lakeport camper.
Beach conditions: Lake Huron shorelines often feature rocky beaches rather than sandy swimming areas. "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! (We left with a whole cooler filled)," advises Cole G. from Lakeport State Park.
Reservation requirements: The most popular glamping close to New Haven, Michigan requires booking well in advance, especially for summer weekends. "Reserve well in advance!" warns Wendy K. about Port Huron KOA, which offers premium glamping accommodations.
Varied campground atmospheres: Some campgrounds are designed for social interaction while others offer more natural settings. "If what you're looking for is family fun, you can find it here! However, if you are like me and like more rustic camping, this is not the place for you. The sites are very close together and you can see all of your neighbors," cautions Sarah P. about Addison Oaks.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Several parks organize special events for children. "Plenty of friendly staff. The site offers a lot of activities including pools, put put golf and play areas for the kids. The grounds are well kept," explains Joe S. about Port Huron KOA.
Consider glamping options for new campers: Family-friendly glamping near New Haven provides comfort for hesitant outdoor adventurers. "The sites were very nice, and so were the bathrooms. Lots of fun activities for the kids for halloween. Lots of rules to follow, but the place has a nice atmosphere overall," says Mary W. about Camp Dearborn.
Choose sites with room to play: Some campgrounds offer more spacious sites for families. "We stayed in one of the group sites and it was beautiful. Less tree cover than we would have liked, you're basically in a giant grassy field, but it was perfect for a large group," shares Jennifer O. about her experience at Addison Oaks County Park.
Check swimming options: Not all campgrounds have swimming beaches or pools. "Would be nice to have a swimming option - I understand beach was permanently closed a few yrs ago," notes Barb L. about Addison Oaks, indicating families should verify water recreation availability before booking.
Tips from RVers
Site layouts vary significantly: Some campgrounds have challenging site arrangements. "This was site #18 I felt was spacious and not too close to the people next to us and trees behind us. We had privacy and it was quiet," shares Karen C. about her experience at Addison Oaks.
Full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer connections. "Liked having full hook ups. But not many trees. We like the small swimming hole, the beach, the parks and putt putt," comments Tammy K. about Groveland Oaks County Park.
Dump station access: Some parks have unusual dump station configurations. "The dump station is at the north campground and to get to it, you have to enter the north campground and drive all the way through it, come back out, and then go to the dump station! It is the weirdest set up ever," warns one Lakeport State Park visitor.
Big rig considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "We travel in a 42 ft motorhome and suggest if you are traveling in a large rig, drive through the park to find an appropriate site. We had called ahead but the site they had reserved for us would not have worked," advises Carol W. about her stay at Groveland Oaks.
