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Best Campgrounds near Onsted, MI

594 Reviews

The Irish Hills region surrounding Onsted, Michigan features a variety of lake-oriented camping experiences within a landscape of rolling terrain and numerous inland lakes. W.J. Hayes State Park Campground on Wamplers Lake serves as a central hub for visitors, offering modern amenities including electric hookups, showers, and boat access. Within a 30-minute drive, Lake Hudson Recreation Area provides a more secluded atmosphere with approximately 40 sites separated by young forest growth. The area's campgrounds typically accommodate tents, RVs, and some offer cabin rentals, with several private operations like Ted Ranch Campground supplementing the state-managed facilities.

Michigan state park permits are required for vehicles entering public recreation areas, with non-resident fees around $30 annually. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through October, though some remain open year-round with limited services. Reservations through the Michigan DNR website are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. As one camper noted about Lake Hudson Recreation Area: "Each site is separated from the next by young forest, so it lends to a very private and secluded atmosphere. The lake itself is incredibly quiet without the buzz of people tubing or jet skiing."

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Onsted area, with fishing, kayaking, and boating opportunities available at most locations. Campers frequently mention the spaciousness of sites at state parks compared to more compact private campgrounds. Summer visitors should prepare for mosquitoes, particularly in rustic camping areas near marshlands. Several campgrounds in the region connect to trail systems, including the Waterloo-Pinckney trail network that offers hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Road noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those near highways or the Michigan International Speedway during race weekends. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to towns.

Map showing campgrounds near Onsted, MichiganExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Onsted, Michigan (127)

    1. W. J. Hayes State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Tipton, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 467-7401

    "It has access to Wamplers Lake and there are several other lakes near by. The area is quiet and clean."

    "Very nice, lots to do in surrounding area. Lake is pretty. Nearby MIS. Hidden Lake Gardens are absolutely beautiful to wander around."

    2. Lake Hudson Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Clayton, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 445-2265

    $20 - $150 / night

    "This small campground (about 40 sites) is well off the beaten path, but still easy to access by road. This is the perfect campground to get back to nature."

    "My site has a path right out to the lake. My 2p tent could easily fit on this lakeside spot but it is sadly much too windy on the lake today."

    3. Ted Ranch Campground

    6 Reviews
    Brooklyn, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 592-2434

    $25 / night

    "-My husband and I visit Ted Ranch every year for the NASAR race at Michigan International Speedway. This year, my review is changing a little bit."

    "This place is across the street from Michigan international speedway and sure beats fighting all the people/campers in the infield campgrounds!"

    4. Ja Do Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Tipton, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 431-2111

    "Very friendly and family oriented the do activities right down the street from the lake and they make you feel like one big family :)"

    5. Indian Creek Camp & Conference Center

    6 Reviews
    Tecumseh, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 423-5659

    $38 - $60 / night

    "I was right next to a cow field. The cows did not moo all night and there was no foul order. I needed no amenities so I can't vouch for that"

    "- not close to any stores if your forgot something

    • gravel roads

    Pros:

    • family owned and operated
    • small campground kid friendly
    • free kid activities
    • everyone was very nice"

    6. Apple Creek Campground & RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 522-3467

    "There is also nice walking/hiking trails connected right to the property. Our visit was for 2 days/3 nights.  Over half the sites are seasonal, so despite a lot of RVs, we saw very few people."

    "The group area is circular and surrounded by trees which helped to keep it cool. Each site had electric hook-up and some had water."

    7. Camp Sequoia

    2 Reviews
    Tecumseh, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (517) 264-5531

    $65 - $75 / night

    "Lots of shade trees, beautiful well groomed trails for walking. Even a dog park, which our Golden Retriever really enjoyed."

    8. Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    Chelsea, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "It is usually easy to get multiple sites next to each other with reservations.

    There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net."

    "There is an outside vault toilet behind the cabin. Lots of trails connecting the cabin to the rest of the park. Cheap too! Only $68 per night."

    9. Harrison Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Fayette, OH
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 237-2593

    "Tucked away in NW Ohio, close to the Michigan & Indiana border. 

    We were in the north campground. Sites are all level, many very spacious which is unusual for Ohio SPs."

    "The one thing that was bit unnerving was that throughout both campgrounds, there are sites on the outer edge that are next to a main road with nothing but a small, wooden split-rail fence dividing the"

    10. Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Grass Lake, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach."

    "A few bathrooms are located around the campground. The spaces are generous and the majority have electricity only. The lake has a little beach with sands. Nice place."

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Recent Camping Photos near Onsted, MI

155 Photos of 127 Onsted Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Onsted, MI

594 Reviews of 127 Onsted Campgrounds

  • Elizabeth M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Hidden Lakes RV Resort

    Fantastic RV Park!

    We stayed here last weekend. It was quiet and relaxing. Easy parking for the 33ft RV. Camp store is well stocked. Staff were fantastic. You need yo camp here!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Mary Jane Thurston State Park Campground

    Lots to do here

    The camp sites on the river are excellent. Some sights are by the highway. They are still nice, but lots of road noise. There is no water at the camp sites, but water is available. There are no shower facilities. There are great hiking trails and a nice frisbee golf course.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA

    First KOA

    Nice campground, gravel semi level spot. Full hookup but sewer connection was at very back of spot. We used dump station.

  • Noel L.
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Harbortown RV Resort

    Great kid campground

    This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... Just a one night stay to visit A friend. If you have kids it is perfect! Staff was nice and very helpful

  • Shelly The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    Had a good time, a little crowded

    We stayed for the weekend tent camping, getting to the site was a little crowded (alot of kids on bikes) our site was pavement but had some space to set the tent on the grass. I seen alot of sites with trees for shade. The vista walkway was across from us, it led right to the beach concessions. The beach walkway is handicap accessible. The fishing pier is new, has two benches and tables for your stuff. It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach. The park workers walk around and tell you about the activities they have that day. We enjoyed our stay there is alot to do

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Camp Dearborn

    Great for all ages!

    Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more. Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site.

Guide to Onsted

Camping near Onsted, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Pokagon State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "They have good hiking trails, nice refreshing waters, good food options at certain places."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy fishing or a swim at Maumee Bay State Park Campground. A camper shared, "Nice park very clean. Nice bike trails and large campsites."
  • Disc Golf: If you're into disc golf, check out the activities at Proud Lake Recreation Area. One reviewer noted, "Had a great time. Clean campground, and activities to do."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor at Harrison Lake State Park Campground said, "The shower house was nice but no benches in the stall and only had curtains. They were very clean and the camp hosts were friendly."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Bishop Lake Campground. One camper mentioned, "The sites were spacious, flat, and fairly private."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Sterling State Park Campground are great for families. A reviewer noted, "Lots of electric scooters, dogs, and bikes around."

What you should know:

  • Mayflies: Be prepared for mayflies at Maumee Bay State Park Campground. One camper warned, "There are sooooo many mayflies around - flying, landing on you & your gear."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Blind Lake Rustic Campground, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "You must hunt for the wood you want to burn in the pit."
  • Site Variability: Sites can vary in size and level. A camper at Pokagon State Park Campground advised, "Some sites are level, some aren't. Some can accommodate larger rigs, most can't."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Harrison Lake State Park Campground, which is noted for its family-friendly vibe. One camper said, "Clean restrooms. Lots of young children running around."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities planned, like swimming or biking. A visitor at Maumee Bay State Park Campground mentioned, "There are miles of paved bike paths throughout the campsite."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Bishop Lake Campground suggested, "Avoid the vending machines."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should check site sizes carefully. A camper at Pokagon State Park Campground warned, "If you have a big rig, be aware that the road to the 100 campsites branches into one way."
  • Fill Water Tanks Before Arrival: Make sure to fill your fresh water tank before setting up. A visitor at Maumee Bay State Park Campground noted, "If you are looking to stay more than two nights keep in mind that there are only electric hook ups."
  • Watch for Dump Stations: Be aware of dump station locations. A camper at Sterling State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station is at the first buildings."

Camping near Onsted, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and activities are available at Hayes State Park near Onsted?

W. J. Hayes State Park Campground offers a variety of amenities for campers, including reservable sites, water access, restroom facilities, and sites that accommodate big rigs. The park is situated on Wamplers Lake, providing excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails through scenic woodlands and open areas. The park features a sandy beach area, playground equipment, and picnic facilities. In addition to water recreation, campers can take advantage of nature programs during peak season and explore nearby attractions like Hidden Lake Gardens.

What campgrounds are available near Onsted, Michigan?

The Onsted area offers several camping options. Lake Hudson Recreation Area is a small, secluded campground with about 40 sites separated by young forest, providing privacy while still being accessible by road. It's perfect for nature lovers. Ja Do Park Campground near Tipton offers drive-in sites with basic amenities. Other nearby options include W.J. Hayes State Park, Indian Creek Camp & Conference Center, and several campgrounds in the Waterloo Recreation Area. Most locations provide water access, toilet facilities, and varying levels of privacy and amenities.

When is the best time to camp around Onsted and nearby Hidden Lake Gardens?

The best time to camp around Onsted and visit Hidden Lake Gardens is late spring through early fall (May-September) when weather conditions are most favorable. Brighton Recreation Area campers note that spring and fall can bring rain and muddy conditions, particularly in rustic camping areas, so be prepared if camping during these shoulder seasons. Waterloo Portage Lake Modern is popular during summer months but offers a more tranquil experience in early fall when the leaves begin changing. Consider weekday visits during summer to avoid crowds, as Hidden Lake Gardens and area campgrounds are busiest on weekends during peak season.

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