Oxford, Michigan has several campgrounds spread across Oakland County where visitors can stay at varying elevation points from 982 to 1,060 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer camping typically running from late April through October when average temperatures range between 70-85°F. Winter camping options remain limited due to the continental climate bringing freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall to the region.
What to do
Hiking trails and mountain biking: At Holly Recreation Area, visitors can explore multiple well-marked trails. "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees," notes Jennifer H. The McGinnis Lake campground area provides easy access to these routes.
Disc golf: Addison Oaks County Park offers a disc golf course alongside its glamping options. According to Gary E., "Always been a great trip. Good sites I have stayed in both area B and C. Great hiking trails easy access. Friendly staff." The course provides an alternative activity between glamping stays.
Beach and water activities: The Bishop Lake Campground features swimming areas and water recreation. "The beach is nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," shares Debra B. The lake provides paddling opportunities without requiring visitors to bring their own equipment.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the tree coverage at Proud Lake Recreation Area. Laura M. emphasizes, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable." This cleanliness extends to all facilities at the recreation area.
Modern bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms receive consistent praise across the region. At Holly Recreation Area, BrianaLynn R. shares, "The bathrooms and showers were clean, there were a lot of activities for the whole family, and the camp site was nice and shaded." These facilities remain open throughout the camping season.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds near Oxford feature numerous recreational options. Richard T. says about Oakland County Addison Oaks, "The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course. Sites have electricity and water and are well spaced out." These amenities complement the glamping opportunities in the area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, Mandy B. advises, "We camped here in our Coleman Lantern over Labor Day Weekend 2023. It was busy but everyone was respectful of one another. The community restrooms, dump station, and dumpsters were well maintained throughout the weekend."
Seasonal availability: Most camping and glamping facilities operate from late April through October. Addison Oaks campground specifically runs "May 1 - Oct 17" according to the campground information, with limited options during colder months.
Site conditions: Campsite terrain varies across locations. At Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, campers note, "The park is extremely sandy so be prepared." This natural terrain affects both tent camping and glamping experiences throughout the area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated playgrounds: Family-friendly campgrounds typically include play areas. At Covenant Hills Camp, Carol M. reports, "They take very good care of this campground.. Lots to do for kids!" The campground maintains multiple activity zones designed for children.
Consider weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer structured events. "They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," says Wendy K. about Addison Oaks County Park. These scheduled programs enhance the glamping experience for families with children.
Check beach access: Swimming areas provide relief during summer months. At Bishop Lake Campground, Beth G. mentions, "Nice place pretty full. Nice bathrooms. Great Lake." Some locations offer designated swimming zones separate from boating areas for safety.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV campers should research site specifics before booking. Ron E. advises about Addison Oaks County Park, "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees." These concrete pads provide level surfaces for RVs of various sizes.
Hookup availability: Utility options vary by campground and loop. Tim & Nancy C. note, "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." Understanding the available hookups helps RVers prepare accordingly.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide sanitation facilities. At Holly Recreation Area, one camper explains, "There is no water hookup- but you can fill up and dump at the front of the campground. No store- but you can stop and get firewood when you check in." This information helps RVers plan their arrival and departure procedures.
