Campgrounds surrounding Saline, Michigan are spread across varied terrain including wetlands, mixed oak-hickory forests, and glacial features. The area sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level with gentle rolling hills that were formed by receding glaciers. Most campsites near Saline experience temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night during spring and fall camping seasons, with overnight lows dropping to near freezing in late April and early October.
What to do
Water activities on Wamplers Lake: W. J. Hayes State Park Campground borders this 780-acre lake with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. "The boat launch was big with plenty of parking. We launched kayaks and paddled over to the swim area," explains one visitor. Rental equipment is available for those without their own watercraft: "You can rent kayaks, pedal boats and canoes to go explore around the lake."
Mountain biking on Potawatomi Trail: The trail system through Pinckney Recreation Area offers challenging terrain for cyclists. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" shares one enthusiastic rider. This 17.5-mile trail network includes smaller loops for different skill levels, with the shortest being the Silver Lake Trail at 1.9 miles.
Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail: This 35-mile backcountry trail connects multiple camping areas. A visitor to Blind Lake Rustic Campground notes, "Serious hikers can connect the Potawatomi Trail to the Waterloo-Pinckney Hiking trail to bring their total trip to over 35 miles of back country hiking." For shorter options, "The trail was in great condition and is well marked with numbered posts."
What campers like
Lake swimming access: Many campsites provide beach areas or lake access for cooling off. At Sugarloaf Campground, one camper appreciated "a nice swimming area in crystal clear water and a beautiful bathhouse." Similarly, at Bruin Lake Campground, guests mention "a nice lake to kayak in" and convenient "boat dock, swimming area, play ground."
Proximity to Michigan International Speedway: W. J. Hayes State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for race events. "Close to MIS racetrack," notes one visitor. Another shares practical advice: "We went camping at MIS for NASCAR and this state park is about a 10 minute drive from the track and the campgrounds at the track."
Dark skies for stargazing: The rural setting of some campgrounds creates opportunities for night sky viewing. A camper at Green Lake mentions, "We also were able to see some awesome stars at night." The distance from urban light pollution makes this area suitable for astronomical observation, especially at more remote campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Several campgrounds experience drainage issues after rainfall. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, a visitor observed: "After only a few hours of moderate rainfall, we arrived to a completely flooded park." Another notes, "When it rains several campsites get very wet! There are a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region, with more remote sites having minimal coverage. A camper at Green Lake Campground reports: "This is a quiter campground filled with mtn bikers, day hikers, tent campers, anglers, small craft boaters, and thru hikers."
Road conditions vary widely: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving. "Not paved so a lot of pot holes. I would suggest to come in the park and drive through and pick a spot that you like before making reservations," recommends one Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Indian Creek Camp & Conference Center offers numerous family-friendly features. "This campground had all the fun stuff my kids enjoy. The jumping pillow was popular as they spent most of their time there. We enjoyed visiting the llamas...Yes, they have llamas! And we even got to use the zip line," shares one parent.
Beach day alternatives: When campground beaches become crowded, especially on weekends, consider timing your visits strategically. At Sugarloaf Campground, one visitor noted, "Nice beach but super busy on the weekend." For quieter water access, weekday mornings typically see fewer visitors at most park beaches in the region.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming. At Hayes State Park, "There were activities and a beach/playground for kids. Checkin/out was simple, and coffee/hot coco was provided by the campsite each morning." These scheduled events can help entertain children during longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: At Wilderness Campground, RVers suggest focusing on lake views. "We love camping here every year. They have a beautiful beach and camp sites right on the water," notes one regular visitor. For Hayes State Park, a specific recommendation is: "I suggest sites 93-96 for more private/shaded sites."
Size restrictions: Several campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "If your longer than 40ft be aware most sites will not work for you here, they do have some but the wood line, privacy and nature is great," advises an RVer at Hayes State Park. For tight spots, consider a pull-through site or request assistance with backing in.
Hookup variations: Water access differs between campgrounds. A Sugarloaf Campground visitor points out, "Absolutely love this place. Only downfall is no water hookups on site." Many parks offer electrical connections but require filling water tanks before parking, so plan accordingly when selecting a campsite near Saline.
