Stockbridge, Michigan camping options span across 20,000 acres of state recreation areas with lakes, wetlands, and rolling hills. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with distinct seasons that affect camping conditions. Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas contain over 40 miles of interconnected trails for hikers and mountain bikers, with many campsites accessible via both vehicle and trail systems.
What to do
Mountain biking trails for all levels: The extensive trail system at Pinckney Recreation Area offers excellent mountain biking opportunities. "Perfect campasite to explore surroundings with your Mountain Bike! We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" reports Maria G.
Kayaking the chain of lakes: Blind Lake Rustic Campground provides direct access to multiple connected waterways. "We hiked into the blind lake campground and stayed one night. The campsites were very clean and the put toilets were clean. We really appreciated having a water pump near our campsite," notes Bryan T.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round for cold-weather enthusiasts. "We purchased our new rPod 193 late in the fall and have been dying to give it a test camp and Michigan Winter Weather gave us a great opportunity the week after Christmas (2021)," shares one camper at Portage Lake Campground.
Swimming and water recreation: Many campgrounds feature designated beach areas. "We stayed for 4 nights and 5 days camping with my husband and 2 kids. We had fun and the kids had a blast. They rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the the playground," reports Kim S. about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern.
What campers like
Secluded hike-in options: For those seeking quieter camping experiences, Pinckney Blind Lake Rustic offers backcountry sites. "Hiked in here after work on a Monday, 7 mile minimum if you start at silver lake and take the shortcut. Not very secluded, but a nice spot on the lake still," explains Tee Jay M.
Multiple lake access points: Green Lake Rustic Campground features waterfront sites with direct lake access. "We went on both east and west sides of the waterloo-pickney trail, located off the Campground access road. I believe it was the west trail after Cassidy road we experienced some steep inclines," notes one camper.
Variety of accommodation types: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers electric hookups and modern amenities. "The campground is nice with good access to bikes, trails, water, beach. Unfortunately the sites are on top of each other and very loud. Not for me," shares John K. about nearby Bishop Lake Campground.
Yurt options for alternative camping: Several campgrounds offer yurt rentals for those without equipment. "I'd like to go back in the spring and hike around some more! Pro tip for cold nights is to block the back room and sleep in the main area," advises Mike S. about the Southfork Rustic Cabin.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary by season: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak months. "We made our reservations through the DNR website about a month in advance. The campsite was listed as 'full' when we arrived, so I was glad we took the extra step," reports a visitor to Green Lake Rustic Campground.
Noise considerations: Highway noise affects some campgrounds. "The freeway is on the other side of the lake, but it didn't bother us. At night it was like white noise," notes Rebekah J. about Green Lake Rustic Campground.
Water conditions: Lake quality varies considerably between locations. "The lake is not good for swimming as it is very mucky and covered in Lilly pads," says Mike B. about Green Lake, while another camper notes "The lake was amazing to swim at night..must to it" at Blind Lake.
Campsite privacy differences: Site spacing and privacy vary significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are generously sized, with room to stretch out. There isn't much privacy between sites, with a few exceptions, but this campsite is so quiet and well-behaved that it didn't end up mattering much," explains Alaine S.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Bishop Lake Campground offers excellent family amenities. "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" reports Jillian E.
Best bathroom facilities: Families appreciate clean restrooms and showers. "This was a campground that we stayed at on our way to the northern part of the state. This for me, was a place that I would like to come back to for a longer stay. The camp sites were nice, there was a nice swimming area in crystal clear water and a beautiful bathhouse," writes Kevin C.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled children's events. "We usually stay at Bruin Lake in Pickney SRA but take day trips to silver lake and Pickney state park! The parks are clean and there is tons to do!" shares Samantha C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting local wildlife. "We were greeted by a deer crossing our path. Cranes, Swans, Geese, and even a Bald Eagle soared by. I also noticed some coyote tracks in the snow as well," describes Rodger M. from winter camping at Portage Lake.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Hell Creek Ranch & Campground offers premium RV sites. "Great, clean private campground with rustic, elec, water/elec (30 amp), and concrete pad sites. Very clean campground with nice shower house. Owners are very friendly," reports Jason F.
Full hookup options: Several private campgrounds provide complete RV services. "This campground is family owned and very nicely kept up. It is predominantly all season campers but there are plenty of other spots open for short visits. They have expanded sites recently, newer areas have no trees. Older sites have plenty of shade," notes Denise F. about Holiday RV Campground.
RV site leveling: Terrain varies across campgrounds. "The best part of this campsite was the fact that it was paved! It was so easy setting up and tearing down. No mud, muck, or dirt. There were fire pits, picnic tables, and electric," shares Rodger M. about Portage Lake Campground.
Site spacing for larger rigs: Consider neighboring site proximity when booking. "This place is good for short getaways without a ton of kids and loud neighbors. For those that literally want to camp and enjoy the view of nature from their rv who aren't looking for things to do every minute of every day," explains Jennifer C.
