Lake Hudson Recreation Area sits on the southern edge of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, just 15 miles from the Ohio border. The relatively flat terrain around Pittsford features mixed hardwood forests interspersed with agricultural fields at approximately 1,100 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with heavy snowfall, while summer camping season brings warm days typically ranging from 70-85°F.
What to Do
Stargazing opportunities: Lake Hudson's designation as a dark sky preserve makes it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "The best part of this campground is the stars at night! This is a dark sky preserve campground and the stars are the show. We stayed here at the end of the perseid meteor showers and saw several of falling meteors," reports Michelle M. of Lake Hudson Recreation Area.
Fishing access: The region's lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake was much bigger then we thought and lots of campers with boats," notes Steven S. about Lake Hudson. At Hayes State Park Campground, campers appreciate "2 lakes with good fishing" according to James C., who adds that the park offers "good access to Wamplers Lake."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts various wildlife species. "Great for fishing, wildlife viewing and swimming," writes Bob J. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area. Another camper at the park, Betsy B., mentions: "The park is in the middle of nowhere and truly is a dark sky area," making it excellent for observing both celestial and terrestrial wildlife.
What Campers Like
Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds near Pittsford feature well-separated camping areas. "Each site is separated from the next by young forest, so it lends to a very private and secluded atmosphere," writes Meghan R. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers frequently mention the peaceful environment. "Peaceful," states Bob J. simply about Lake Hudson, while at Harrison Lake State Park Campground, Carol W. notes it's "very clean and quite. Nice size sites." For those seeking calm surroundings, Birgit H. describes Lake Hudson as "Peacefully, quiet and stars."
Access to water recreation: Multiple water bodies provide swimming, boating and fishing opportunities. "The Lake is beautiful with a sand beach, no wake boating and grills," reports Marg B. at Lake Hudson. Jennie S. appreciates the lakeside access: "My site has a path right out to the lake," and adds, "This is a lovely recreation area. My site is HUGE. It is private!"
What You Should Know
Limited water availability: Several campgrounds have minimal water facilities. At Lake Hudson, "You must bring your water unless you want to hand pump it from the only central pump," advises Bob J. Another camper, Steven S., elaborates: "There was only 1 hand pump that I saw for all the campers to get water from. This mid-evil hand pump should have been scraped years ago and is in need of some major repair work."
Rustic facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "No shower rustic Campground only," states Erika N. about Lake Hudson. Meghan R. explains further: "There are no water or sewer hook ups here. You do have access to drinking water, and there is non-flushing toilet (like a port-o-potty)."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping experiences significantly. At Loveberry's Funny Farm Campground, located partly in Michigan, Kary M. notes: "It rained most of the weekend so we didn't get to see most of the place," showing how weather can affect your stay. November campers at Lake Hudson found unusually warm conditions: "November and 74 degrees Fahrenheit! Finally, I got a side booked at Lake Hudson Campground."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Pittsford offer swimming areas for children. At Harrison Lake, Sherrie W. reports: "The lake is nice for swimming and there are bike rentals which was fun as well. We did not use it, but there is a dog beach as well."
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds provide dedicated children's areas. Gateway Park Campground offers "Pool 3ft-5ft, Air pillow, Large playground (very clean), Half basketball court, Sand Volleyball net, Rec room (small amount of games), Crafts on weekends," according to Melissa M., who adds it's "Kid friendly."
Educational opportunities: Historical attractions complement camping experiences. At Sauder Village Campground, Amanda K. notes: "We stayed with four kiddos in a tent spot across from a cool splash pad, a little lake to fish in and close to running water." Another visitor, Jocelyn C., adds it's a "Fun quiet family campground with historic village, splash pad & hotel pool!"
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV campers should check site dimensions before booking. At Ted Ranch Campground, reviewers note: "Only less than half of the sites are water and electric. Most sites are rustic." Stephanie C. adds: "The campsites are very narrow and plan on your awning almost touching the person's awning next to yours!"
Electric connections: Many campgrounds offer limited electric options. At Lake Hudson, Cheryl M. advises: "Extension or long electrical cords may be needed, as boxes are at back end and halfway to next site over." She also notes: "All are 20/30 amp, no water, no sewer. Several spigots in camp area, no dump station."
Seasonal site availability: For RVers seeking dog-friendly campgrounds near Pittsford, timing matters. Birgit H. observed at Lake Hudson: "It is very well sought after, and I tried it earlier in October, but weekends are full. Not so in November! Only the die hard, hunters and fishermen are here."
