Walled Lake's camping options extend through Michigan's Oakland and Livingston counties, where mixed hardwood forests meet small inland lakes at elevations between 900-1,000 feet. While resort-style glamping dominates near Walled Lake itself, more traditional camping experiences can be found within 30-minute drives. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with winter camping available at select locations where heated accommodations and plowed access remain operational year-round.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Holly Recreation Area offers varied terrain options for riders of all skill levels. "The trails available here are where I learned to mountain bike, they're not the easiest but they are not so challenging that you won't have fun," notes one visitor at Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple chain lakes provide paddling opportunities with rentals available seasonally. According to a camper at Bishop Lake Campground, "The lake is pretty good for swimming. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking."
Water park access: Bishop Lake features Jump Island, an inflatable water park during summer months. "Jump Island is connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons. You can also just swim at the lake," explains a visitor who appreciated the additional recreation option.
Hiking through forests: Trails connect multiple recreation areas with options for day hikes or overnight treks. A visitor at Proud Lake Recreation Area shared, "When I need a weekend get away but don't want to drive to far this here is the spot! Many types of grounds within a short hike. Tall pines, lakes, creeks."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers cite recently renovated shower buildings as a highlight. At Holly State Recreation Area, visitors appreciate the maintenance standards: "The bathrooms and showers were clean, there were a lot of activities for the whole family, and the camp site was nice and shaded."
Lake swimming: Natural swimming areas provide alternatives to crowded pools. A Camp Dearborn visitor noted, "They have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line. Options for camping range from tent sites to luxury cabins."
Halloween festivities: Seasonal themed weekends extend the camping season into fall. As one camper at Groveland Oaks County Park described: "We had a great weekend even with out Truck or treating. Due to Covid-19. But still able to have a great weekend with family."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hours offer opportunities to spot deer, waterfowl, and other animals. According to an Addison Oaks County Park visitor: "We stayed in one of the group sites and it was beautiful... The beach is nice, a little small, but clean and fun."
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Many campgrounds feature a mix of open and secluded sites. At Holly State Recreation Area, a camper advised: "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."
Reservation requirements: Premium glamping sites near Walled Lake book 6-9 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends. Most campgrounds implement a rolling reservation window allowing bookings 6 months before arrival date.
Urban proximity: Despite natural settings, many campgrounds remain close to civilization. A visitor at Camp Dearborn explained this dual nature: "This campground is very clean, well-manicured and is vast. There is a TON of things to do: swimming, zip-lining, mini-golf, fishing, paddle boats, basketball."
Bug intensity: Mosquito activity increases near marshy areas, particularly after rain. "The biggest problem was mosquito activity. The camping area sits on an inaccessible lake with a marsh area. When we rolled in the first thing we noticed was that everyone had screen houses set up," warns a Brighton Recreation Area visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playgrounds: Multiple recreation areas feature updated play structures. At Groveland Oaks County Park, families appreciate the variety: "This campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds."
Activity programming: Organized events keep children engaged, especially weekends. A Camp Dearborn camper shared: "Camp Dearborn has a lot for the kids, outdoor fun, night dance parties, cement for bike rides or rollerblading. Our family had been coming here for years."
Glamping options: Platform tents provide entry-level glamping near Walled Lake. "We usually get a platform tent, which sleeps six people and comes with a kitchen cabana," explained a Camp Dearborn visitor who appreciated the convenience for family camping.
Weekend noise levels: Busier campgrounds become crowded Friday-Sunday. "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," noted one Bishop Lake Modern Campground visitor seeking a quieter experience.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. At Groveland Oaks County Park, RVers appreciate the convenience: "Liked having full hook ups. But not many trees. We like the small swimming hole, the beach, the parks and putt putt."
Site leveling: Uneven terrain affects some campgrounds in the area. As one Addison Oaks County Park visitor mentioned, "Nice quick weekend retreat campground. Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees."
Accessibility routes: Some campgrounds provide specific accommodations. "The ADA sites had pavement surrounding the fire rings and space at the picnic tables for a wheel chair," noted a visitor at Holly State Recreation Area who appreciated the accessibility features.
Off-season availability: Limited year-round options exist for RVers near Walled Lake. Most water hookups winterize by late October, with electric-only hookups remaining available at select campgrounds through winter months when glamping cabins become the primary heated accommodation option.
