Oxford's surrounding area offers campgrounds nestled within terrain that transitions from moraine hills to flat wetlands. Most campsites sit at elevations between 950-1,050 feet above sea level, with tree cover ranging from dense oak and maple forests to more open meadow settings. Sites in Maple Loop at Holly Recreation Area remain popular for their shade during summer months when temperatures regularly climb into the 80s.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Proud Lake Recreation Area provides extensive trail systems for day hiking. "Many types of grounds within a short hike. Tall pines, lakes, creeks," explains Jessika A., who appreciates the diverse terrain. The park maintains multiple trail difficulty levels suitable for beginners through advanced hikers.
Mountain biking on established paths: Trail networks around Oxford offer varying difficulty levels for cyclists. "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," notes Syed M. about Proud Lake's trail system. Bikes can be brought in or sometimes rented at recreation areas.
Disc golf courses: Addison Oaks County Park maintains a full disc golf course adjacent to camping areas. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff!" reports Joe S. The course winds through wooded areas with clear signage for each hole.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Boating options range from kayaking to fishing on several lakes. "There is a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site," John F. mentions about Proud Lake. Rentals typically cost $10-15 per hour with many parks requiring Michigan fishing licenses for anglers.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground at Holly Recreation Area offers sites with natural screening. "Actually feels like camping with all the trees, not lined up in a farmer's field," explains Zachary S. Sites in the Trillium loop feature more tree cover than other sections of the campground.
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds have recently renovated bathroom buildings. "The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," Jennifer O. reports about Proud Lake facilities. Most shower areas require quarters for operation.
Diverse wildlife viewing: Wooded sites increase chances for animal sightings. "We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," shares Stephanie H. about her stay at Holly Recreation Area. Dawn and dusk offer the best viewing times, particularly for deer and waterfowl.
Accessibility options: Parks increasingly accommodate visitors with mobility concerns. Jennifer H. notes that at Holly Recreation Area, "The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair." Reservations for these specialized sites should be made well in advance.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right site matters significantly. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," says David S. about Holly Recreation Area. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, Mary H. advises, "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."
Weather preparedness: Spring camping often means dealing with cold nights and possible precipitation. "If it's rainy or muddy, you might want to think twice about entering with a small car," cautions one camper about accessing sites after rain.
Insect protection: Bug populations peak during summer months. "We've been to sites before that must have sprayed for pests because we have never experienced the amount of mosquitoes we did here," reports a visitor. Ticks also appear frequently in wooded areas, especially during warmer months.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning. "Summer weekends see high occupancy rates, making advance reservations essential, particularly for lakeside sites." Weekend spots at popular parks fill 3-6 months in advance for summer dates.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Groveland Oaks County Park caters specifically to families with children. "There were a lot of activities for the whole family, and the camp site was nice and shaded," BrianaLynn R. shares. The park maintains multiple play structures suitable for different age groups.
Swimming beaches: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas. "The beach is nice, a little small, but clean and fun," notes Jennifer O. about one recreation area. Most swimming areas operate without lifeguards, requiring parental supervision.
Weekend activities: Organized events happen regularly during peak season. "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," Justin G. explains about Proud Lake's special events.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide an easier entry point. Andrea K. reports about The Holly Campground: "We went here during the Renaissance Festival and stayed 3 nights in one of the air conditioned cabins. Three kids, two adults and two dogs. Lots of amenities, friendly staff."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs significantly between parks. "No water hookup- but you can fill up and dump at the front of the campground," Ashley F. explains about Holly Recreation Area. Many sites provide 30-50 amp service but require adaptors.
Site leveling challenges: Topography affects RV setup at certain campgrounds. "Some are pretty secluded. Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart," notes Ethan R. about Holly Recreation Area. Several campgrounds require blocks or levelers due to sloped sites.
Campground layouts: Understanding the organization of camping loops helps with site selection. Ron E. explains about Addison Oaks: "Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees." Most parks separate tent-only and RV sections with different amenities.
