Glamping sites near Smiths Creek, Michigan offer elevated accommodations across Oakland County and the Port Huron region. Situated in the eastern part of the state, this area features both sandy beaches along Lake Huron and wooded inland terrain with elevation changes of 100-200 feet. Weather typically allows for comfortable camping from late April through October, with summer temperatures averaging between 70-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Rock hunting along Lake Huron: Lakeport State Park Campground provides access to Lake Huron's shoreline where visitors can search for unique stones. "I have found the most beautiful Petoskey Stones at Lakeport. I have also found a large pudding stone. My husband brings his chair down to the water and I walk the short shore for hours and hours looking for rocks," notes one enthusiast.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: Oakland County Addison Oaks features extensive trail systems for cycling enthusiasts. "Addison Oaks is a campground that features hiking and mountain biking trails, campground, cabins, disc golf course, and a lake for boating. The trails are well maintained and heavily trafficked," explains a regular visitor.
Water recreation on small lakes: Multiple campgrounds offer lake access for swimming and boating. "The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course. Mountain biking seems to be very popular there are dirt trails off the paved hiking loop," reports one camper at Addison Oaks.
What campers like
Clean facilities: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "The bathrooms and showers were clean, there were a lot of activities for the whole family, and the camp site was nice and shaded," mentions one camper who visited with their family.
Wooded camping sites: Many visitors appreciate the natural setting of sites. "I love this place and so do my 3 dogs. 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 that often," reports a satisfied camper.
Variety of accommodation options: Groveland Oaks County Park offers multiple lodging styles. One visitor notes, "We have only ever stayed in the south section, but we always ride our bikes to the north section. The south section has more of a woodsy outdoor feel while the north section has more of an open space, smaller lots, crowded feel."
What you should know
Beach conditions vary: While glamping near Smiths Creek provides lake access, shoreline quality differs between locations. At Lakeport State Park, "The beach is mostly rocks and I have to say that I have found the most Petoskey stones and pudding stones," mentions one visitor who enjoys rock hunting.
Reservation timing: Peak season books quickly at popular sites. "My suggestion is to book six months in advance because it is extremely hard to get into this campground on the weekends," advises a regular at Lakeport State Park.
Campground sections have different vibes: Ruby Campground offers a quieter experience than some larger facilities. "Ruby is a fitting name for this gem. This is the most wholesome cute campground I've ever been to. It has a family owned summer camp vibe and the owners are very kind and helpful," explains one visitor who appreciated the peaceful setting.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Covenant Hills Camp provides numerous options for children. "Lots of things to do: climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing a lot of pike, wooded lots very friendly," notes a family who enjoyed the variety of recreation options.
Consider noise levels: Campgrounds have varying sound environments. "If you have kids or do not mind kids running around everywhere, this is the side for you! If you want peace and quiet, stay in the south section!" advises one camper about section differences at Lakeport State Park.
Pack water shoes: Some beaches require protective footwear. "A nice state operated campground on lake huron, the beach is awesome, the one drawback is the rocks that extend about 20 yards from the waters edge, but if you have water shoes its not so bad," recommends a visitor to Lakeport.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Port Huron KOA offers various site configurations. "We stayed a couple times this summer. First time was site 74, it was a grassy site that wasn't bad but had no shade. Second time we stayed in site 54 which was great. If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space," advises an experienced RVer.
Electrical capacity issues: Be aware of potential power limitations. "They have to upgrade the electrical system this fall on the southern side and they have closed some campsites in the south in order to help with the electricity issue. Apparently, some sites were losing power because there wasn't enough energy to support all of the lots," notes a camper at Lakeport State Park.
Dump station logistics: Consider timing for waste disposal. "The dump station is at the north campground and to get to it, you have to enter the north campground and drive all the way through it, come back out, and then go to the dump station! It is the weirdest set up ever."
