Oakland County offers several upscale glamping experiences within a 45-minute drive of Sterling Heights, Michigan. Located in the southeastern part of the state, this region features rolling hills, dense forests, and several lakes and rivers that provide both natural scenery and recreational opportunities. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer averages range from 70-85°F, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to do
Trail exploration: Proud Lake Recreation Area features extensive hiking options with varying terrains. "Nice camp sites with views of the lake. Big bathrooms that are super clean! Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on!" notes Debra B. about Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Water activities: Most parks in the region offer fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities from late spring through early fall. "We stayed on site 118 in the trillium loop. Actually feels like camping with all the trees, not lined up in a farmer's field. Lots of trails and great beach with a dog friendly area," says Zachary S. about Holly State Recreation Area.
Family-oriented events: Many parks host seasonal activities including Halloween-themed weekends in fall. A camper at Port Huron KOA noted, "We come for Halloween camping every year! We love this campground. There is a ton to do for all ages. The kids keep busy all day long!"
Disc golf courses: Several parks including Addison Oaks feature well-maintained courses appropriate for various skill levels. "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept," according to Joe S.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campers consistently mention the updated shower and bathroom facilities at many locations near Sterling Heights. "The bathhouse is new and very nice. There are a few sites on an incline and that made it hard to get in and out of our fifth wheel," reported Stephanie C. about Lakeport State Park.
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer good spacing and privacy compared to more crowded options. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," says David S. about Holly State Recreation Area.
Natural settings close to amenities: The area provides a balance of wooded camping with convenient access to stores and services. One visitor to Proud Lake notes it "has the feel of 'up north' as it is wooded and tucked away in an oasis of water, greens, and wildlife galore."
Swimming options: Most parks feature beaches, lakes, or pools for summer recreation. "My family took our RV camping here for a week. It was very nice, we had so much fun. The bathrooms and showers were clean, there were a lot of activities for the whole family, and the camp site was nice and shaded," said BrianaLynn R. about Bishop Lake Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites and popular campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekends. "Nice park, family friendly, very clean and maintained. Bike and boat rental, children's playground and activities," notes Tim O. about Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Seasonal considerations: Most parks operate from April/May through October, with limited winter options. "The park offers nice holiday activities - we were last there for Halloween camping. Would be nice to have a swimming option," reports a camper at Addison Oaks.
Site selection matters: Different loops or areas within the same park can offer very different experiences. "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees. I think site #1 was one of the roomiest and prettiest," says Jennifer H. about Holly State Recreation Area.
Weekday vs. weekend experiences: Many parks near Sterling Heights have significantly different atmosphere depending on when you visit. "This campground is ALWAYS busy!" notes one Lakeport visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Amenity-rich options: For families seeking glamping close to Sterling Heights, Michigan with numerous activities, consider destinations with structured programming. "It's a giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids. Ideal for families and people who like to camp but aren't into the 'rustic' part," reports Kate K.
Holiday-themed weekends: Many campgrounds host special events throughout the season. "Proud lake is very nice... we've been going to halloween camping for the past 2 years, decorate your site and the kids get dressed up an go trick or treating in camp, theres a costume contest and hay rides, fun family atmosphere," shares Justin G. about Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Water features: Look for campgrounds with beach access or water play areas. "We had a great time at Jump Island!" said Jillian E. about Bishop Lake Campground, referring to the water play structure available during summer months.
Playground access: Most family-friendly sites feature multiple play areas. "The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds," notes a visitor to Groveland Oaks.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Many campgrounds have size limitations or challenging access for larger rigs. "I didn't use all amenities but there was a modern bathroom facility with showers, kayaking, hiking, electric hookup with 50, 30, and 110," shares one RVer about Proud Lake.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with sewer connections are limited in the area. "Liked having full hook ups. But not many trees. We like the small swimming hole, the beach, the parks and putt putt," notes Tammy K. about Groveland Oaks County Park.
Leveling challenges: Some sites in the region require careful setup. "This is the second time staying in these campgrounds in two weeks. Both times stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers," reports Richard T. about Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Seasonal equipment needs: Due to Michigan's variable weather, RVers should prepare for temperature fluctuations even during summer months. "Large campground with lots of trails and activities (although we camped in early May so many activities were not open)," notes a Camp Dearborn visitor.
