Sterling State Park Campground offers a balance between nature and accessibility for glamping near Trenton, Michigan. Located along Lake Erie's shoreline, this campground provides RV sites with electric hookups and a lakefront setting with both natural and urban elements. The park's landscape features open, mostly unshaded sites on asphalt pads, with direct access to Lake Erie beaches and an inland lake for diverse water recreation.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: At Sterling State Park Campground, visitors have multiple water recreation options. "There is a boat launch which is extremely popular and the bass and walleye fishing can't be beat. No boat, no problem. The park has several fishing piers as well as a kayak launch into a small inlet which is navigatable all the way to the beach, approximately two miles," notes Frances V.
Biking trails: The extensive trail system connects to surrounding areas. "There is a bike path that will take you all the way to the Historic Rasin River Battlefield and then to downtown Monroe," explains one camper. These paved trails make for easy riding regardless of skill level.
Seasonal wildlife watching: The East Harbor State Park Campground offers excellent nature observation opportunities. "The wild life in the area was abundant making hikes in the afternoon great especially near sunset when the deer in the area started to come out," reports Elijah G., who found the park's trails ideal for wildlife spotting.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacious camping areas at Harbortown RV Resort. "All concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance," shares Bill B. The resort's infrastructure makes setup easy for even large rigs.
Modern shower facilities: Campgrounds in this region often feature well-maintained bathroom facilities. At Bishop Lake Campground, "The bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm," according to Mike B., making the camping experience more comfortable.
Fishing access: Multiple water bodies provide fishing opportunities. "Nice state park with clean bathrooms. Bike and walking trails. Also has a smaller lake good for kayaking and fishing. It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie," mentions Debra B. about Sterling State Park, highlighting how the diverse water features support multiple activities.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Plan for potential mayfly hatches when visiting lakeside areas. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid june) and covered everything. Good size sites, friendly staff, great beach and boat launch," warns Kourtney D. about her experience at Sterling State Park.
Seasonal availability: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park has specific operating dates. "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season," reports Mike M., noting the park closes from November through March.
Water conditions: Lake Erie beaches may have variable conditions. At Maumee Bay, "The beach is kept fairly clean and raked often," according to Nicole A., but other reviews mention rocky shorelines at certain parks, requiring water shoes for comfortable swimming.
Tips for camping with families
Inflatable water features: Some parks offer special water attractions for children. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, families find kid-friendly water activities. "The beach is nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," shares one visitor.
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Large playground and nice bathrooms," notes Mary O. about Bishop Lake Campground, providing important information for families looking to keep children entertained.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds organize special events for children. "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," explains Justin G. about seasonal activities at Proud Lake.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: For larger rigs, site configuration matters. "Larger pull thru sites, laundry, pool, firewood, lots of convenience. Monroe is minutes away with every food, and convenience option needed," shares Gordon D. about Harbortown RV Resort.
Hookup options: Electric capabilities vary by campground. "Sites are nice and large paved slabs, most trees are immature offering little shade," reports Nicole A. about Sterling State Park, noting the open sites provide easy access for larger vehicles despite limited shade.
Dump station locations: RVers should note the availability of sanitation services. "Have waste water stations and a potable water station. Plenty of park area and sites were spaced average apart. 2 dump stations are well graded so everything drains well," explains Timothy G. about facilities at Kelleys Island State Park.
