Campers near Onsted, Michigan can explore a landscape of glacial hills where elevations range from 900-1,200 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain throughout the area. The region contains over 40 inland lakes within a 15-mile radius, formed by retreating ice sheets approximately 10,000 years ago. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: W. J. Hayes State Park Campground provides access to quality fishing on both Wamplers and Round lakes. "Nice little fishing pier and access to Round lake and Wamplers lake. Decent beach and park," notes Gary R., who visits regularly with family.
Mountain biking trails: Nearby trail networks provide varied terrain for cyclists within short driving distance. "It has a very nice dog run that we took advantage of. There's a nice little mile nature trail through one of those loops," mentions Alex H., who found several accessible recreational options.
Horseback riding: Indian Creek Camp & Conference Center offers equestrian facilities alongside camping. The proximity to farm fields creates a rural camping experience. "I was right next to a cow field. The cows did not moo all night and there was no foul order," reports Djakata S.
Dark sky viewing: Lake Hudson Recreation Area holds official dark sky preserve status, making it ideal for stargazing. "This is a dark sky preserve full of trees, nature and a beautiful lake... We had a beautiful fire and dutch oven dinner," explains Marg B. "DARK SKY PARK designation so enjoy the amazing night star views! They do ask you to keep blinds & drapes closed and exterior lights off or to a minimum," adds Cheryl M.
What campers like
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access for various activities. "Take the kids there and they love it. Nice little fishing pier and access to Round lake and Wamplers lake," mentions Gary R. about W. J. Hayes State Park.
Site privacy: Camp Sequoia offers secluded sites with natural buffers. "We really enjoyed our stay. The hosts were very welcoming and helpful. Delivered our firewood right to our site. Lots of shade trees, beautiful well groomed trails for walking. Even a dog park, which our Golden Retriever really enjoyed," notes Anna D.
Family-focused amenities: Apple Creek Campground & RV Park provides structured activities for children. "Great owners that care about the camping experience and provide activities on the weekend for the kids. Pretty spacious sites," says William D.
Off-season availability: Many local campgrounds remain open into fall and early winter. "November and 74 degrees Fahrenheit! Finally, I got a side booked at Lake Hudson Campground. It is very well sought after, and I tried it earlier in October, but weekends are full. Not so in November!" reports Birgit H.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some locations: Some campgrounds offer rustic experiences with minimal amenities. "The only place to get water is a hand pump right when you enter the campground. The sites are huge and private with tree growth separating each site," explains Michelle M. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential, particularly for lake-view sites. "I love campsites, especially the lakefront. But there are only a few waterfront sites and they are very hard to get," cautions Bob J.
Variable site conditions: Ja Do Park Campground and other local campgrounds have mixed terrain. "Lots of fun activities for the kids, hayrides, slip and slide, playground and a whole rustic area to explore while you search for leprechauns," explains Jenny H., highlighting the diverse recreational options.
Water quality considerations: Some lakes have murky conditions or seasonal algae. "The lake has a little beach with sands. Nice place," notes Raul O. about Portage Lake, though other reviews indicate variable water clarity throughout the season.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers regular scheduled events. "Spent 4 nights and 5 days camping with my husband and 2 kids. We had fun and the kids had a blast. They rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the playground," shares Kim S.
Site selection: Choose sites away from main roads for safety with children. "The property is very well maintained with a nice park and clean bathrooms. The campground has some nice full-grown trees, but isn't extremely wooded," notes Jonah H., who appreciated the balance of shade and open space.
Weekend planning: Expect higher traffic and more children during summer weekends. "This seemed to be a popular campground for families — especially little kids on bikes, so be extra cautious when driving around or even riding your own bike because the kids seemed to have no concept of safely riding around," warns Ari A. about state park campgrounds in the area.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup limitations: Several campgrounds lack full hookups. "The one thing that was a 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 state park from the outside world," notes Ari A., highlighting security considerations at some locations.
Electrical access: Plan for potential distance to hookups at some sites. "Extension or long electrical cords may be needed, as boxes are at back end and halfway to next site over," advises Cheryl M. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for larger rigs. "If your longer than 40ft be aware most sites will not work for you here, they do have some but the wood line, privacy and nature is great," warns Mano P. about W. J. Hayes State Park Campground.
