Belleville camping areas sit at approximately 700 feet above sea level in Southeast Michigan's rolling terrain. Located near the Huron River watershed, the region experiences warm summers with highs around 82°F and cold winters with lows near 16°F. Camping season typically runs April through October, with several locations offering alternative accommodations during shoulder seasons when nighttime temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: The Potawatomi Trail at Pinckney Recreation Area offers multiple route options for cyclists. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" notes Maria G. The trail system includes loops for various skill levels, from the 1.9-mile Silver Lake Trail to the full 17.5-mile Potawatomi.
Kayaking calm waters: Proud Lake Recreation Area provides excellent paddling opportunities on the Huron River. "Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" says Debra B. The recreation area includes a boat launch and canoe/kayak livery on site for those without personal watercraft.
Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail: This long-distance path connects through multiple recreation areas and offers backpacking opportunities. "We hiked the 7.5 mile loop and stayed one night. The best part is that there are no campgrounds so no loud groups of people/signs of humans everywhere. Just nature!" writes Megan C., adding that hikers should "Watch out for the bikers though. They go very fast."
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds feature swimming beaches with designated areas. At Sterling State Park, "Sandy beach on Lake Erie is very nice," according to Joe S. Other parks offer inland lake swimming options, sometimes with floating water attractions during summer months.
What campers like
Spacious pull-through sites: Harbortown RV Resort offers concrete pads with ample room. "All concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance," writes Bill B. The level sites accommodate larger RVs with full hookup options.
Modern bathroom facilities: Bishop Lake Campground maintains clean restrooms and showers. "The bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm," notes Mike B. Campers appreciate these facilities after long days of outdoor activities, especially those staying in tents.
Waterfront camping options: Many campers value lakeside sites for the views and easy water access. "I loved being able to look out my window to the waterfront," explains D K. about Proud Lake Recreation Area. Waterfront sites typically book quickly during peak summer months, so advance reservations are recommended.
Family-friendly activities: Scheduled events keep younger campers engaged. "The park is very well maintained. This park is close to Toledo and within spitting distance of several refineries although you'd never know it!" reports Lee D. about Maumee Bay State Park Campground. Weekend programming often includes nature walks, crafts, and outdoor games.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during winter. At Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park, one camper noted, "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season." Most parks operate April through October, with reduced services during shoulder seasons.
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "The campground is nice with good access to bikes, trails, water, beach. Unfortunately the sites are on top of each other and very loud," reports John K. about Bishop Lake Campground. Request sites along perimeters or with natural barriers for more privacy.
May flies in June: These seasonal insects can impact camping experiences near Lake Erie. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," shares Kourtney D. about Sterling State Park Campground, despite giving the location a 5-star rating overall.
Urban proximity: Some campgrounds balance wilderness feel with nearby amenities. "This campground works best for RV's and not tents. For tenters there is a designated section that is set in a corner of the park with large trees for shade but not much privacy between you and others," explains Nancy W. about the Wayne County Fairgrounds location, noting it's "close to interstate for easy access."
Tips for camping with families
Go-kart and entertainment options: Camp Dearborn offers numerous activities beyond standard camping. "Camp Dearborn has a lot for the kids, outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading," shares Melissa M. The recreation options make this location popular despite some maintenance concerns.
Beach alternatives: When looking for swimming options, consider parks with multiple water features. "Lots to do! Swimming, zip-lining, mini-golf, fishing, paddle boats, basketball - I'm sure I'm missing something. It's impossible to be bored," notes Janessa L. about Camp Dearborn.
Weekend programming: Many parks offer scheduled activities, particularly on weekends. "We've been going to Camp Dearborn for five years now, and our friend's family has been going for nearly sixty! They have activities for both children and adults," writes Teresa B., highlighting the multi-generational appeal.
Tent site selection: When tent camping with children, prioritize proximity to bathrooms and play areas. "Sites 4, 5, 6 and 7 are right along the trail. Avoid 1 and 2 which are narrow, gravelly and at the top of the hill," advises Pat W. regarding the rustic camping options at Blind Lake.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups, but full-service sites are limited. "They offer 50 amp full hook-up sites, 50 amp/water, and 30 amp/water sites with pull-thru and back-in options," explains Nancy W. about Wayne County Fairgrounds, making it practical for extended stays.
Dump station access: Check for dump station locations before arrival. "There is a dump station located in the middle of the park which is easy to get to. The roads are wide and a lack of trees makes this campground accessible for any size RV," notes one reviewer about Wayne County Fairgrounds.
Urban noise considerations: Some campgrounds near Belleville experience road and rail noise. "Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night. There must be a few crossings near by because they blew the horn for 5+ minutes at 4:30am," reports Trent T. about Harbortown RV Resort.
Reservation timing: For glamping in Belleville, Michigan area, secure reservations well in advance. "Tough to get in but we love it," mentions Beth G. about Camp Dearborn, where specialized accommodations like yurts and platform tents book quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
