Campgrounds near Redford, Michigan range from rustic to full-service facilities with many hidden pockets of natural surroundings in this suburban area. State recreation areas dominate the regional camping landscape, with most sites located within a 30-mile drive of Redford. Despite the proximity to Detroit's metropolitan area, many campgrounds maintain wooded sites with substantial privacy between campers.
What to do
Beach activities and water play: Proud Lake Recreation Area provides waterfront camping with kayaking options on the Huron River. "It's a great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" notes Debra B. The lake is ideal for beginners and families.
Mountain biking trails: Extensive trail networks make this area popular for cyclists of varying abilities. "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," explains Syed M. about Proud Lake Recreation Area. Trails connect many campgrounds to lakes and recreation areas.
Fishing opportunities: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offers shoreline fishing near campsites. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports," says Mary H. Most lakes in the area allow fishing with a Michigan fishing license, available for purchase online or at nearby sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Highland State Recreation Area provides large rustic sites that feel remote despite their proximity to the city. "The sites are very private and spacious in the primitive camping area. The natural scenery is STUNNING with fields of flowers and trees," reports Adrienne C. These sites have minimal facilities but maximum privacy.
Clean, modern facilities: Bishop Lake Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings and restrooms. "The campgrounds restrooms and showers were clean. Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade," mentions Debra B. Many campers appreciate the balance between natural settings and comfortable amenities.
Group camping layouts: Haas Lake Park RV Campground offers unique group camping areas. "Great area to be with friends. The round areas with the sites on the outside and common area on the inside make for a great group type setup," writes Gary E. These circular arrangements create natural gathering spaces for families traveling together.
What you should know
Site selection is crucial: Some campgrounds have significant differences between sites. "There is a severe hill from the back part of the loop towards the lake - at one point I was worried an improperly locked down camper would roll straight through our tents!" warns Jennifer O. about Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Redford area experience heavy mosquito activity from June through August. Weekends book quickly during summer months, with some campgrounds becoming crowded and noisy. "This site was very nicely kept but felt a little like a sardine can. SO many RVs and children EVERYWHERE kind of ruined the relaxed calm one looks for when camping," notes Jennifer O.
Weather impacts: Holly State Recreation Area and other campgrounds can become muddy after rain. "We have state at this campground on and off for roughly 3 weeks staying mostly at the Cedar cabin but we also tent camped as well. The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet," writes Stephanie H.
Tips for camping with families
Lakefront activities: Jump Island at Bishop Lake Campground offers a unique water play experience. "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," advises Beth G.
Halloween camping events: Several campgrounds host special Halloween-themed weekends in September and October. "Proud lake is very nice, some other campers aren't so happy campers and complain, but other than that a nice place, we've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up and go trick or treating in camp," shares Justin G.
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with nature programs during summer months. Many state parks offer junior ranger activities and guided hikes focused on local wildlife. Highland Recreation Area features historical sites like Haven Hill that can be educational for children.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup placement: Be prepared with extension cords at some campgrounds. "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," advises Mary H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region have slight to moderate slopes. Some RV sites at Haas Lake Park RV Campground have pull-through options that make setup easier. "We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway. Nice lake view across the road," reports Karen C.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "There is a dump station on site," notes Ryan S. about Camp Dearborn. Some campers prefer to use the sanitary dump at Proud Lake Recreation Area, which tends to be less crowded than others in the region.
