Campgrounds near Washington, Michigan offer RV camping in a region characterized by rolling hills and glacial terrain at approximately 800-900 feet above sea level. Weather patterns fluctuate significantly with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter dropping to 20-30°F. Most campgrounds in Oakland and Macomb counties maintain wooded areas with mixed hardwoods creating partial shade conditions.
What to do
Miniature golf and activities: Thousand Trails St. Clair offers family-friendly amenities beyond just camping. "We really enjoyed our cabin. The people were very nice. I like the putt putt course and the bouncing pillow," noted Trevor O. The recreation area includes organized activities during peak season.
Trail hiking: Holly Recreation Area maintains several well-marked trails through wooded areas. A reviewer mentioned, "Pretty park with several well marked trails. We stayed in the Maple loop which had several semi-private sites screened from neighbors by trees." The trail system connects different sections of the park with moderate difficulty levels.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes at Haas Lake Park RV Campground provide fishing access. "This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water," reported Karen C. Shore fishing requires no special permits beyond a Michigan fishing license.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many campers appreciate secluded sites at Holly Recreation Area. "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," wrote Zachary S. The Maple loop section typically offers the most private sites.
Lakefront views: Campers value waterfront sites at Haas Lake Park. A camper shared, "I highly recommend Hass Lake campgrounds. It is a very clean, quiet, Beautiful campgrounds. The views of the lake are so pretty, waterfront, fire rings, clean water, full hook ups." Lakefront sites typically cost $5-10 more per night than standard sites.
Cleanliness standards: Reviews frequently mention facility maintenance at Port Huron Township RV Park. "The campground is very simple and still has all the basic features needed for your camping needs," according to Craig W. Bathrooms receive daily cleaning, though older facilities show some wear.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds near Washington operate limited schedules. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park received this note: "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season." Most area campgrounds close between October and April.
Cell service limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between locations. "The only downside was the abysmal Verizon signal. I'm talking 3 mbps bad," reported one camper about connectivity at Thousand Trails St. Clair. AT&T generally performs better in the area than Verizon.
Site layout considerations: When selecting sites, review the camp map carefully. "Arrived to a super friendly guy Chris that escorted us to our site. We have a pull thru that was very spacious with a long driveway," noted a Haas Lake Park visitor. Some campgrounds use "buddy sites" where camping units face each other.
Tips for camping with families
Children's amenities: Groveland Oaks County Park provides extensive recreational options for younger campers. "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," explained one reviewer. The water slide operates weekends only during peak season.
Beach access: Swimming areas vary in quality and facilities. At Groveland Oaks, a visitor mentioned, "Large campground with lots of trails and activities. The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds." Most beaches open Memorial Day through Labor Day with limited or no lifeguard supervision.
Holiday programming: Seasonal events enhance family camping experiences. "We joined a group site and meet up every major holiday at Groveland. We feel like we went up North without the driving four hours. The park is well laid out and includes a ton of fun activities for young and old," wrote Mike N. Holiday weekends typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies considerably between campgrounds and even within the same park. About Holly Recreation Area, one reviewer shared, "Nice campground. Paved sites. Some are pretty secluded. Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart. Bring a bike or drive." Sites numbered above 80 tend to be on hillier terrain.
Hookup configurations: RV campgrounds near Washington, Michigan offer different utility setups. At Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA, a reviewer noted, "We could definitely spend many weekends away here. Site was across the small road from the lake. Plenty of trees all around." Most campgrounds provide 30/50-amp service, though water pressure can fluctuate during peak usage.
Long-term options: Some RV parks accommodate extended stays. "The lady that runs this place is hands down the reason this park is so great. I come here every year for the past 6 years an for the 2020 season i plan on a 3 month lot rental," shared a Port Huron Township RV Park camper. Monthly rates typically run $450-850 depending on hookups and season.
