Glamping and upscale camping options abound within a 30-mile radius of Ray, Michigan. The region features a mix of state parks, county facilities, and private campgrounds nestled among the wooded terrain of eastern Michigan. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler camping conditions and fewer crowds at most locations.
What to do
Paddle on calm waters: Addison Oaks County Park offers multiple water recreation options on its private lake. "Our spot #18 I felt was spacious and not too close to the people next to us and trees behind us. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats. We saw deer and rabbit," notes Karen C.
Mountain biking trails: The region has extensive trail networks for cyclists of various skill levels. "Addison Oaks is a campground that features hiking and mountain biking trails, campground, cabins, disc golf course, and a lake for boating. The trails are well maintained and heavily trafficked," reports Kate K.
Rock hunting adventures: Lakeport State Park provides unique geological exploration opportunities along Lake Huron. "I have found the most beautiful Petoskey Stones at Lakeport. I have also found a large pudding stone. My husband brings his chair down to the water and I walk the short shore for hours looking for rocks," shares Stephanie C.
Winter recreation options: Many area parks remain open year-round with seasonal activities. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," says Joe S. about Addison Oaks.
What campers like
Electric sites with paved pads: Multiple campgrounds offer improved camping surfaces that stay dry during wet weather. "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees," notes Ron E. about Addison Oaks County Park.
Clean shower facilities: Holly State Recreation Area receives consistent praise for its bathroom maintenance. "The bathrooms were clean. There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair," reports Jennifer H.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer wooded separation between camping areas. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," David S. notes about Holly State Recreation Area. Another camper mentions, "Actually feels like camping with all the trees, not lined up in a farmer's field."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report animal sightings during their stays. "We stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers. The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course," explains Richard T. about Oakland County Addison Oaks.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Secure sites well in advance for summer weekends. "We love coming to Addison Oaks. It is a quick drive from home. But a great little get away spot. Very convenient now also with online booking," shares Gary E.
Site selection considerations: Oakland County Addison Oaks has distinct camping sections with different characteristics. "This is the second time staying in these campgrounds in two weeks. Both times stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers," notes Richard T.
Beach conditions: Water access areas vary significantly between locations. "The beach was rocky so don't forget to pack some water shoes but the rocky beach comes with finding cool rocks to either paint or just collect! (We left with a whole cooler filled)," advises Cole G. about Lakeport State Park.
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities operate on limited schedules. "The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds. Most of the activities (IE beach and rentals) open Memorial Day," explains Carol W.
Tips for camping with families
Weekend activity schedules: Groveland Oaks County Park runs organized events for children during peak season. "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland. We feel like we went up North without the driving four hours. The park is well laid out and includes a ton of fun activities for young and old," shares Mike N.
Kid-friendly water features: Several parks include splash zones and swimming areas designed for children. "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds," notes Debbie H.
Halloween camping events: Multiple parks host special fall weekend activities. "We go to Proud Lake for halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, there's a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere," explains Justin G.
Site privacy considerations: Choose camping areas based on desired atmosphere. "If you like this type of camping then this theme park camping is for you. It's right in town with sparse trees and very small sites," advises Keith K. about more developed options.
Tips from RVers
Dump station logistics: Port Huron KOA provides full hookup sites for longer stays. "We stayed a couple times this summer. First time was site 74, it was a grassy site that wasn't bad but had no shade. Second time we stayed in site 54 which was great. If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space," advises Alex H.
Big rig accessibility: Several campgrounds accommodate larger recreational vehicles with specific site recommendations. "The smallest KOA we have been to but it was a nice change. The new owner helped us back into our site - he was very nice and enthusiastic," shares Chris M.
Electrical capacity issues: Some campgrounds have power limitations during peak periods. "Sites have electricity and water and are well spaced out," notes Richard T. about Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Level site selection: Not all camping pads are created equal for larger vehicles. "A good number of sites are not level," cautions Cheryl K. about Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, a factor particularly important for larger RVs.
