Rustic and modern campgrounds surround Northville, Michigan with options ranging from tent-only areas to fully equipped RV sites with 50-amp hookups. The region sits at the edge of Michigan's southeastern lake district with elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level. Winter camping is available at several locations, though water systems are typically winterized from November through March.
What to do
Paddle the Huron River: Access excellent kayaking through Proud Lake Recreation Area where the river provides calm stretches ideal for beginners. "When I need a weekend get away but don't want to drive to far this here is the spot! The facilities are kept up quite well and the campgrounds are secluded enough. As for the trails, that's what I love the most. Many types of grounds within a short hike. Tall pines, lakes, creeks. Even a nice canoe/kayak rentals," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking trails: Find trails suitable for various skill levels at Highland State Recreation Area. The extensive trail system accommodates hikers, bikers and horseback riders with routes through meadows and forests. One camper reports: "The sites are very private and spacious in the primitive camping area. The natural scenery is STUNNING with fields of flowers and trees. We ran up on a group of probably 70 wild turkeys on the trail!"
Swimming and water play: Many campgrounds offer swimming beaches, with some featuring additional water attractions. At Holly Recreation Area, "This is a giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids. The campground has it all, electric, cabins, playgrounds, basketball courts, etc..."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds offer private, tree-lined sites. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, "Camp site was nice with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded and could barely see site past truck in parking spot. Great for getting away and seeing the night sky."
Clean, modern facilities: Recent renovations at several recreation areas have improved comfort. As one Proud Lake visitor noted, "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."
Waterfront access: Lakefront camping ranks highly in camper satisfaction. At Haas Lake Park, "I highly recommend Haas Lake campgrounds. It is a very clean, quite, Beautiful campgrounds. Restrooms were very very clean with full running showers and push button sinks. The views of the lake are so pretty, waterfront, fire rings, clean water, full hook ups, and a waste removal service at your camp site if needed."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season (May-September). Sites at popular parks like Bishop Lake and Proud Lake often fill 6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Seasonal flooding: Some campgrounds experience wet conditions after rainfall. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, conditions can deteriorate quickly: "After only a few hours of moderate rainfall, we arrived to a completely flooded park."
Wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. Highland Recreation Area campers report seeing wild turkey flocks, deer, and smaller mammals. "We did get a visit from a view critters and my daughter thought it was the coolest thing ever," notes one Holly Recreation Area visitor.
Recreation Passport requirement: Michigan Recreation Passports ($12 annually for residents when renewing license plates or $17 at park entrances) are required for entry to all state recreation areas.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special Halloween weekends with activities. At Camp Dearborn, "We've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere."
Water activities: Bishop Lake Campground features "Jump Island" water park during summer months. "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons. You can also just swim at the lake- nice area with shade trees beach and nice lake water."
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. At Camp Dearborn, "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Look for paved, level sites at Bishop Lake, Highland Recreation, and Holly Recreation areas. At Haas Lake Park, reviewers note the "sites where huge and the campground was so clean and beautiful!"
Electrical access positioning: Some sites require longer cords. "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," advises one Pontiac Lake visitor.
Dump station locations: Most state recreation areas provide sanitary dump stations near campground entrances. Haas Lake offers "a waste removal service at your camp site if needed," saving RVers from moving their vehicles.
Weekly and monthly rates: For extended stays, some private campgrounds offer discounted weekly or monthly rates. Haas Lake Park offers "very reasonable weekly and monthly rates" according to regular visitors.
