Rochester-area RV campgrounds range from lake-side parks to wooded recreation areas within 25 miles of the city. Several camping options remain open year-round, while others operate seasonally between April and October. Most campsites throughout the region require recreation passports for entry, with electric-only sites typically starting around $25-35 per night and full-hookup sites ranging from $35-50.
What to do
Hiking trails: Proud Lake Recreation Area features multiple trail types within a short distance. According to one camper, "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." The park maintains both easy walking paths and more technical biking trails that connect to the waterfront.
Canoeing and kayaking: Proud Lake Recreation Area provides direct water access with rental options. "It has a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site," notes a visitor. The Huron River offers calm paddling conditions suitable for beginners and families.
Swimming and splash pad: Children can enjoy water activities at Holly Recreation Area during summer months. The park includes both traditional swimming areas and recreational water features. "Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake," reports one visitor, making this an excellent option for families seeking water-based activities near Rochester.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground at Holly Recreation Area offers tree-covered sites that create natural boundaries between campers. "We got a secluded campsite, and it's gorgeous- tucked into the woods and was easy to back into. You're far enough from people to where you don't really see a lot of them or hear them," reports one visitor.
Clean facilities: Many Rochester-area campgrounds maintain high standards for restroom cleanliness. As one camper at Proud Lake notes, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable." Another adds, "Bath house is newly built with amazing showers including large Family/Handicap showers."
Lake views: Waterfront camping provides scenic advantages at several parks. "Nice camp sites with views of the lake. Big bathrooms that are super clean! Great lake to kayak on," writes one Proud Lake visitor. Similarly, at Haas Lake Park RV Campground, a camper reports, "We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway. Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Many RV sites near Rochester, Michigan close for winter. "We stayed at this KOA because we couldn't find any available campsites at any other campgrounds in the area," notes one camper, highlighting summer demand. Exceptions include Holly Recreation Area, which maintains year-round operations.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park, "The sites are level but some lack grassy making the patio pretty dusty or muddy. Unfortunately, where we were was pretty muddy just after a light rain."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at St. Clair RV Resort reports, "This place is beautiful and we'll absolutely be back! The entire facility was clean and staff couldn't have been friendlier. The only downside was the abysmal Verizon signal. I'm talking 3 mbps bad."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Several parks offer special fall weekend activities. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, "We've been here a few times. Very close to our house just a nice little getaway. We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!" These themed weekends typically include trick-or-treating, costume contests, and decorated campsites.
Playground access: Recreation areas provide various play equipment options. At Holly Recreation Area, "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."
Community gardens: Unique amenities enhance family stays. Wayne County Fairgrounds features an unexpected bonus: "My favorite aspect of this campground is that they had a community garden that you were welcome to pick from. We got tomatoes, Swiss chard, peppers, broccoli, and more."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Pine Ridge RV Campground provides full-service options for extended stays. "We enjoyed this very quiet campground. It is not a family 'resort' style campground. There is a playground, no pool. Each site has full hook-ups and are a good size. Nice shade trees at most sites," reports one RVer.
Site selection strategy: For maximum comfort, inspect sites before committing. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, one camper recommends, "I would suggest to come in the park and drive through and pick a spot that you like before making reservations." This approach helps identify potential drainage issues during rainy periods.
Dump station alternatives: When primary facilities close, have backup options. At Haas Lake Park, "Full store in campgrounds. Love it here. Started with only 3 days and extended 3 more nights," notes a satisfied camper who appreciated having onsite services. Some parks also offer waste removal service directly at your campsite for an additional fee.
