Camping near Plymouth, Michigan features varying terrain with elevations between 700 and 900 feet above sea level throughout Oakland County's recreation areas. Many campsites in the region are situated in mixed hardwood forests with oak, maple, and pine trees providing natural breaks between sites. Winter camping is available year-round at several state recreation areas, though amenities are reduced during cold weather months.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: Highland Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems ideal for day excursions from your Highland State Recreation Area campsite. "Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Lovely little no wake lake perfect for swimming, fishing or paddling," notes Jennifer H. The area features historic sites including remnants of the Ford family's 1930s summer home.
Kayaking on Huron River: Island Lake Recreation Area provides access to paddle-in campsites for a unique overnight experience. "Island Lake Recreation Area is home to two Huron River Canoe Camps. The sites are boat-in only (!) meaning you must haul any and all gear in a kayak or canoe for your stay," explains Don H. These sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and a floating dock at Canoe Camp #1.
Swimming and water activities: Bishop Lake Campground features Jump Island, a floating water park open during summer months. "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons. You can also just swim at the lake- nice area with shade trees beach and nice lake water," reports Beth G. The beach area includes concessions for ice cream and refreshments.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Holly Recreation Area campsites provide natural screening between neighbors. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," shares David S. The Maple loop contains some of the most secluded options with "several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest," according to Jennifer H.
Modern bathroom facilities: Proud Lake Recreation Area features recently renovated shower buildings. "Bath house is newly built with amazing showers including large Family / Handicap showers," writes John F. Other campers confirm this amenity: "The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL. They must have been recently renovated because they are spacious, tiled, well maintained, and very modern feeling for a campground," adds Jennifer O.
Lakes and water access: Haas Lake Park offers multiple water features across its property. "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," Karen C. explains. Sites with water views are particularly valued but may require early reservations, as campers report lakefront sites fill quickly during summer months.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area requires preparation for site features. "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," mentions Renee R. At other campgrounds, hookup placement can present challenges: "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," warns Mary H.
Weather impacts: Seasonal flooding affects many campgrounds in the area, particularly Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA. "When it rains several campsites get very wet! There are a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass. Not paved so a lot of pot holes," Debra B. notes. During heavy rain periods, some campgrounds become significantly compromised with multiple flooded sites.
Wildlife activity: Expect to encounter various wildlife at campsites throughout the region. "At night we did get a visit from a view critters and my daughter thought it was the coolest thing ever," shares Bryce L. at Holly Recreation Area. Raccoons are particularly active, requiring proper food storage practices at night.
Tips for camping with families
Holiday weekend activities: Camp Dearborn offers organized events during seasonal weekends. "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. Similar events occur during other major holiday weekends.
Beach and swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches with varying amenities. "Proud Lake is very nice, some other campers arnt so happy campers an complain, but other than that a nice place," notes Justin G. The swimming areas range from natural lake beaches to developed areas with concessions and play equipment.
Site selection for families: Choosing the right location makes a significant difference. "It has a camp store. Small bathrooms with a few showers. Pretty views of the lake from the lake sites," says Debra B. about Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA. Sites with playground access are typically in high demand for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Haas Lake Park RV Campground accommodates group camping with its unique configuration. "The round area's with the sites on the outside and common area on the inside make for a great group type setup," explains Gary E. This layout works well for multiple RVs traveling together.
Utilities and hookups: Full-service sites are available at select campgrounds. "Waterfront, fire rings, clean water, full hook ups, and a waste removal service at your camp site if needed," notes Joseph S., highlighting conveniences at Haas Lake Park. However, not all sites offer full services, particularly at state recreation areas.
Site surface variations: Paved pads are available at some locations, while others have natural surfaces. "Sites at many locations tend to be close together with limited privacy, particularly at fairground camping areas where open grassy sites are the norm," according to recent visitor reports. This affects RV leveling and outdoor furniture placement.
