Addison Oaks County Park and Oakland County Addison Oaks feature elevated camping accommodations in Leonard, Michigan with modern amenities. These sites provide an upscale outdoor experience with water and electric hookups in wooded settings. Both parks offer yurt and cabin options that maintain a connection to nature while providing more comfort than traditional tent camping. The sites are approximately 30 miles north of Utica, Michigan, making them accessible for weekend getaways.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Holly State Recreation Area, visitors can access multiple well-marked trails for biking and hiking. "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees," notes Jennifer H.
Kayaking and boating: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers water activities on the Huron River. "Nice camp sites with views of the lake. Big bathrooms that are super clean! Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" says Debra B. The park includes boat rentals for those who don't bring their own equipment.
Rock collecting: Beaches at Lakeport State Park Campground provide opportunities for rock hunting, especially Petoskey stones. According to Cole G., "The beach was rocky so don't forget to pack some water shoes but the rocky beach comes with finding cool rocks to either paint or just collect! (We left with a whole cooler filled)."
Disc golf course: Multiple parks in the area feature disc golf, including Oakland County Addison Oaks. Richard T. mentions, "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."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers consistently mention site privacy as a benefit at Bishop Lake Campground. "The campground is nice with good access to bikes, trails, water, beach," notes a visitor, though they also mention that some sections can be crowded.
Family-friendly activities: Many parks offer organized events, especially during holidays. Tim & Nancy C. describe their experience: "We stayed in area A in a water/electric site. It was a Boo Fest weekend. Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt (finding clues on signs in park to solve a mystery)."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the maintenance standards. At Port Huron KOA, Laura M. observed, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable."
Swimming options: Many sites feature lakes or pools. At Groveland Oaks County Park, Andrea K. notes, "There were many activities for everyone to do, especially for the kids. I don't believe the cabins are pet friendly though."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Utica require advance booking, especially during peak season from late spring through early fall. The most popular weekends often fill six months in advance.
Campsite differences: Some campgrounds have distinct sections with different atmospheres. At Lakeport State Park, the northern section tends to be more lively while the southern section offers a quieter experience.
Limited privacy at some locations: Several reviews mention proximity to other campers. At KOA Campground Emmett, while there are many amenities, some sites offer limited separation from neighbors.
Water access varies: Not all glamping accommodations include immediate water access. At Bishop Lake Campground, Debra B. notes: "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive."
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-rich parks: Groveland Oaks County Park offers numerous child-friendly features. According to Jack R., it's "Good for families with young children, lots of activities for children."
Consider Halloween camping events: Multiple parks in the area host special Halloween activities. Gary E. mentions, "We had a great weekend even without Truck or treating. Due to Covid-19. But still able to have a great weekend with family."
Look for playgrounds and beaches: Many parks have multiple recreational areas. At Holly State Recreation Area, Jennifer H. observed, "There were several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court. The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair."
Check cabin pet policies: Not all glamping accommodations allow pets. Andrea K. notes about Groveland Oaks, "I don't believe the cabins are pet friendly though. It's probably the only reason we haven't been back."
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: At Oakland County Addison Oaks, Richard T. advises, "Both times stayed in the more wilderness area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers. Sites have electricity and water and are well spaced out."
Electric hookup availability: Most glamping sites near Utica, Michigan provide electricity, but amperage varies. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, D K. notes, "Had to back in the RV as the site was not pull-through... electric hookup with 50, 30, and 110."
Dump station location: Some parks have unique arrangements for waste disposal. Carol W. from Groveland Oaks County Park suggests: "We travel in a 42 ft motorhome and suggest if you are traveling in a large rig, drive through the park to find an appropriate site. We had called ahead but the site they had reserved for us would not have worked."
Site selection for large rigs: For those with bigger RVs, pre-checking sites is recommended. Ron E. notes about Addison Oaks County Park: "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees."
