Riverview, Michigan campgrounds operate within a continental climate zone with cold winters and warm summers, averaging 175 camping days annually. The area sits at approximately 590 feet above sea level along the Detroit River, with mostly level terrain. Local campgrounds typically open from April through October, though some remain accessible year-round for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Biking and walking trails: Sterling State Park Campground offers well-maintained trails for outdoor recreation. "There is a bike path that will take you all the way to the Historic Rasin River Battlefield and then to downtown Monroe," notes one camper about Sterling State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Access to both Lake Erie and smaller inland waters creates diverse fishing experiences. "It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie. Not a lot of shade on the sites," shares a visitor at Sterling State Park. Another camper at Haas Lake Park RV Campground mentions, "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water."
Water recreation: Several parks offer water access beyond just fishing. "The park also has several public access areas and beaches. Hiking and biking trails are also present," notes a camper at Sterling State Park. At Haas Lake Park, visitors can enjoy multiple lakes with waterfront camping options.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample room for setup. "Larger pull thru sites, laundry, pool, firewood, full hookup," reports one visitor at Haas Lake Park RV Campground. The campground features "Sites where huge and the campground was so clean and beautiful!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and amenities rank high for campers. At Harbortown RV Resort, one reviewer notes it's "The best, cleanest, well maintained, under control campground we've ever been to." Another mentions, "Bath houses were very clean. Everything well kept up."
Seasonal activities: Holiday weekends feature special events at many campgrounds. "We stay memorial day weekend and the last weekend of the season which is the harvest festival. My grandchildren always have a blast as well as grandma and Papa!" says a visitor to Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Closed 11/1 thru 4/1," warns a reviewer about Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park, who "arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season."
Site conditions: Shade varies significantly between parks. "Not a lot of shade on the sites!" notes a Sterling State Park visitor. Another camper mentions, "Sites are nice and large paved slabs, most trees are immature offering little shade."
Weather considerations: The Lake Erie shoreline experiences unique weather patterns. A Sterling State Park visitor notes, "I've never been to this park when it wasn't very windy." Another mentions seasonal insect issues: "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid june) and covered everything."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. At Harbortown RV Resort, a visitor notes, "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... If you have kids it is perfect! Staff was nice and very helpful."
Family-focused events: Holiday weekends often feature additional family programming. "Mother's day activities were great and were free!" shares a Harbortown RV Resort visitor. Another notes, "nice campground- clean with many pull through sites. Nice size pool with enough lounge chairs. Sites feel a bit small but still very nice. Right next to camping is go karts, putt putt and arcade. We had a blast!"
Nature opportunities: Several parks offer wildlife viewing alongside amenities. "Cranes and ducks in the water. The first night was super quiet!" says a Haas Lake visitor. This balance of natural experiences with facilities makes for comfortable family camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV campers should verify specific electrical connections. At Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground, "Lots are gravel" and a visitor notes it's a "peaceful friendly environment with seasonal and experienced campers."
Big rig access: Larger RVs require careful site selection. "Although we only stayed one night, we will be back. All concrete roads and pads," says a Harbortown RV Resort visitor, adding it's "Very Nice Big Rig Friendly."
Site privacy considerations: At Wayne County Fairgrounds, "A number of the campsites are 'buddy' sites meaning your patio opens to your neighbors so be careful which one you pick. This is pretty undesirable when the neighbor is a total stranger."