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Best Campgrounds near White Lake, MI

555 Reviews

Campgrounds near White Lake, Michigan range from modern facilities to rustic sites across several state recreation areas. Highland State Recreation Area in White Lake offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with basic amenities including toilets and picnic tables, though without electric hookups or showers. Nearby options include Holly Recreation Area, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, and Proud Lake Recreation Area, all providing year-round camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter.

Access to campgrounds in the White Lake area generally requires a Michigan Recreation Passport or daily entrance fee. Most sites can be reserved through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reservation system, with bookings available up to six months in advance. The camping season peaks from late spring through early fall, though many sites remain open year-round. Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering modern amenities like showers and electric hookups while others maintain a more rustic experience. According to one visitor at Highland Recreation Area, "Definitely would go back when ready for a 'rustic' camping event! Great time to unplug and just enjoy our surroundings."

Campers frequently mention the region's lakes and trails as primary attractions. Seven Lakes State Park Campground features lake access with a beach area that visitors describe as having "clear and warm water, perfect for swimming." Many campgrounds connect to hiking and biking trail systems, providing recreational opportunities beyond the camping experience. Holly Recreation Area receives praise for its heavily wooded campsites that offer privacy, while Proud Lake Recreation Area stands out for its "spacious" sites and "wonderful hiking/biking trails." Visitors to these areas often note the surprising tranquility despite proximity to urban areas. One camper at Proud Lake commented, "I was pretty skeptical about camping in the metro area. Color me surprised! This place is pretty impressive!" Cell service varies throughout the region, with some areas offering limited connectivity—a feature some campers appreciate for "unplugging."

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Best Camping Sites Near White Lake, Michigan (94)

    1. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area

    33 Reviews
    Ortonville, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-8811

    $27 - $30 / night

    "Group area is away from the main area. Kayak lakes are nice. Excellent hike/bike trails. Park is located just down the road from the Holly Oaks Off road park."

    "I love to come here when I want a quick get away from home because it is only 30min away. The campsites are big,secluded, wooded, and clean."

    2. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 666-1020

    $22 / night

    "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive."

    "Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk."

    3. Groveland Oaks County Park

    19 Reviews
    Holly, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-9811

    $28 - $48 / night

    "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."

    "Large campground with lots of trails and activities (although we camped in early May so many activities were not open)."

    4. Proud Lake Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    Wolverine Lake, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 685-2433

    "I had no clue what to expect when booking so close to a few major cities in Michigan. I love feeling secluded while camping and was nervous this would feel like parking lot camping."

    "First, I'd like to say that I was born and raised in Northern Michigan. That's where I'm used to camping and hiking. I moved to the metro Detroit area a few years ago."

    5. Camp Dearborn

    16 Reviews
    Milford, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 684-6000

    $3 / night

    "Booked a two week stay at Pontiac Lake Rec. area in Whitelak, MI. Huge sites not stacked on top of one another. They have electric hookups, but only 30 amp."

    "Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site."

    6. The Holly Campground

    15 Reviews
    Holly, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-0803

    "Thank you for having an abundance of tent space that was nice and grassy with lots of shade trees the price tag for what we got was it’s only shortfall and it was loud at night being that close to I-75"

    7. Haas Lake Park RV Campground

    17 Reviews
    New Hudson, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 437-0900

    "Nice lake view across the road. This location has 4 lakes. There is plenty of nature. Lots of trees along a nature trail. Cranes and ducks in the water . The first night was super quiet!"

    "I highly recommend Hass Lake campgrounds. It is a very clean, quite, Beautiful campgrounds."

    8. Seven Lakes State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Holly, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 634-7271

    "There are over 20 sites, about half of which are located lake side (not directly on the lake, but there are little paths that lead you there and you can somewhat see the water from these sites.)"

    "Wish there was a few additional water filling points and that the dumpsters were all located near the camp entrance/exit. But really nothing to complain about. "

    9. Bishop Lake Campground

    28 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-6566

    $17 - $90 / night

    "Campground Review: Bishop Lake is a great campground located in the middle of the Brighton Rec Area. The upper and lower campgrounds are both modern, with every site including electric."

    "Great family place with paved and dirt biking/hiking trails. Very nice beach with grass and sand. There are 2 areas of inflatables, one of them is for the little kids 48 in. and under."

    10. Highland State Recreation Area — Highland Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 889-3750

    "Great time to unplug and just enjoy our surroundings and begin to learn our own creativity!"

    "This is one of our family's favorite close to home sites. Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around. Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding."

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Recent Camping Photos near White Lake, MI

149 Photos of 94 White Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near White Lake, MI

555 Reviews of 94 White Lake Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    Great Spot!

    Because it’s a state park, they have fresh drinking water, would for bonfires in private spots. This is one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming.

  • Vee H.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    KOA Campground Emmett

    Bed bugs in cabins

    Avoid this KOA at all costs– bed bugs and dishonest management. Our stay at the Emmett KOA was a nightmare. The cabin we rented was infested with bed bugs. When we brought it up, the owner flat-out lied and told us they hadn’t had bed bugs in“over 13 years.” That was absolutely false. There are multiple reviews on here already citing bed bug issues, and staff members themselves admitted to us that it has been an ongoing problem. Even the pest control company they claimed to use confirmed they’ve been battling bed bugs here. Instead of taking responsibility, management hid behind their ridiculous 14-day cancellation policy and refused to refund our second night(which we didn’t stay for obvious reasons). Their“solution” was insulting: a 20% discount for a future stay(as if anyone would want to come back!) and a handful of quarters so we could attempt to kill the bugs in our belongings using their dryer. The dishonesty from Toni and her father is appalling. Any business that knowingly lies to its customers about a health and cleanliness issue this serious has no integrity. Bed bugs are not a minor inconvenience– they spread, they infest, and they follow you home. We left disgusted and disappointed, and I strongly recommend avoiding this campground if you value your health, honesty, or basic respect as a paying customer.

  • Dan H.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    KOA Campground Emmett

    Avoid this KOA at all costs – bed bugs and dishonest management.

    Our stay at the Emmett KOA was a nightmare. The cabin we rented was infested with bed bugs. When we brought it up, the owner flat-out lied and told us they hadn’t had bed bugs in“over 13 years.” That was absolutely false. There are multiple reviews already citing bed bug issues, and staff members themselves admitted to us that it has been an ongoing problem. Even the pest control company they claimed to use confirmed they’ve been battling bed bugs here. Instead of taking responsibility, management hid behind their ridiculous 14-day cancellation policy and refused to refund our second night(which we didn’t stay for obvious reasons). Their“solution” was insulting: a 20% discount for a future stay(as if anyone would want to come back!) and a handful of quarters so we could attempt to kill the bugs in our belongings using their dryer. The dishonesty from Toni and her father is appalling. Any business that knowingly lies to its customers about a health and cleanliness issue this serious has no integrity. Bed bugs are not a minor inconvenience– they spread, they infest, and they follow you home. We left disgusted and disappointed, and I strongly recommend avoiding this campground if you value your health, honesty, or basic respect as a paying customer.

  • Edward C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Seven Lakes State Park Campground

    Beautiful park

    Very pretty park. Sites and facilities are well maintained.

    Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you.

  • Elizabeth M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Hidden Lakes RV Resort

    Fantastic RV Park!

    We stayed here last weekend. It was quiet and relaxing. Easy parking for the 33ft RV. Camp store is well stocked. Staff were fantastic. You need yo camp here!

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Proud Lake Recreation Area

    Amazing

    You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable. It is true we were there in the middle of the week, but I’ve stayed at plenty of places during the week where things have been less than desirable. Everyone was most pleasant and helpful and the view of the lake was beautiful. If the campground had been full we probably would not have been able to see the lake from our site.

  • Ethan R.
    Aug. 13, 2025

    McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area

    In the woods

    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. Beach is nice. Has a water park on the lake.

  • Shelly The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Waterloo Portage Lake Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    Had a good time, a little crowded

    We stayed for the weekend tent camping, getting to the site was a little crowded (alot of kids on bikes) our site was pavement but had some space to set the tent on the grass. I seen alot of sites with trees for shade. The vista walkway was across from us, it led right to the beach concessions. The beach walkway is handicap accessible. The fishing pier is new, has two benches and tables for your stuff. It is a bit of a walk to get to but is handicap accessible.
    There are two bathrooms throughout the loop and one at the beach. The park workers walk around and tell you about the activities they have that day. We enjoyed our stay there is alot to do

Guide to White Lake

Camping near White Lake, Michigan, offers a great mix of nature, fun activities, and family-friendly spots. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Holly Recreation Area. One camper mentioned, "We did a 7-mile loop hike and then went to Battle Alley Brewing in Holly (10 min away)."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Bishop Lake Campground is a great spot. A visitor shared, "I've been here quite a few times to fish. Great fishing spot."
  • Swimming: Spend a day at the beach near Bruin Lake Campground. One reviewer noted, "The lake was very warm and the swimming area had a nice depth gradient to satisfy good and not-so-good swimmers."

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roomy and well-spaced sites at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground. A reviewer said, "It's a very nice campground with lots of trees and the sites are spaced out nicely."
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Bishop Lake Campground remarked, "Well maintained and up kept with some neat features and trails."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Haas Lake Park RV Campground noted, "Haas Lake is quiet, clean and has friendly staff who are ready to help anytime."

What you should know:

  • Wildlife: Be cautious of raccoons at McGinnis Lake Modern Campground. One camper warned, "Raccoons run this place! Don’t leave any food or garbage out ever or you will be robbed by a gang of raccoons who are not afraid of people."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Blind Lake Rustic Campground, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There is a decently clean outhouse, and each site has its own fire pit."
  • Noise levels: Campers at Bishop Lake Campground have noted that noise can be an issue. One reviewer said, "Our neighbors across from us had 30 kids using one fire pit... were up past midnight running around."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. Groveland Oaks County Park has mini-golf and playgrounds. A camper shared, "There are lots of family activities like mini golf, kids bike courses, and playgrounds."
  • Safety: Keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. A parent at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "The sites are spread out and only 2 vehicles per site are allowed."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Haas Lake Park RV Campground suggested, "Plan on wearing shoes the entire time."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site conditions: Before booking, check the site conditions. A reviewer at Auburn Hills Holly KOA warned, "The sites do not have any type of lane which causes the lots to be soggy and muddy."
  • Leveling challenges: Some sites may be unlevel. A camper at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area noted, "Leveling would be more of the challenge."
  • WiFi availability: If you need WiFi, check availability before you go. A visitor at Auburn Hills Holly KOA mentioned, "I contacted the office... never sent anyone that we were aware of and never called me to confirm."

Camping near White Lake, Michigan, has something for everyone. From beautiful campgrounds to fun activities, it's a great place to enjoy the outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are visitors saying in reviews about White Lake Campground?

Visitors to the White Lake area have shared positive experiences about Michigan campgrounds in the region. Campers at Groveland Oaks County Park appreciate the abundant recreational opportunities, including a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails, fishing, and playgrounds—making it especially family-friendly. Other reviewers have noted that Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground is quietly tucked away yet easily accessible, offering a large lake with various fish species and fishing docks. Many campers comment on the peaceful atmosphere of campgrounds in the White Lake region despite their proximity to urban areas, providing a true escape into nature.

Can I bring my RV to White Lake Campground?

Yes, many campgrounds in the White Lake area accommodate RVs with varying levels of service. Haas Lake Park RV Campground near New Hudson is specifically designed for RVs with drive-in access, water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites. For overnight parking needs, Cabela's Dundee offers a large parking lot behind the store that accommodates RVs, with clearly marked signage for overnight visitors. When planning your RV trip, verify electrical post availability as some campgrounds have sites designed to accommodate multiple hookups. Most campgrounds in the area have specific RV sections with appropriate facilities, though reservation requirements and site sizes vary by location.

How much does it cost to camp at White Lake in Michigan?

Camping costs in the White Lake area of Michigan vary by campground type and amenities. State parks like Brighton Recreation Area typically charge around $20-25 per night for rustic sites and $25-35 for sites with electrical hookups, plus the required Recreation Passport for Michigan state parks ($12 annually for residents, $9 daily for non-residents). County parks such as Pleasant Lake may have similar pricing structures but often with different entrance fee requirements. Private campgrounds generally have higher rates, especially for premium sites with full hookups. For budget options, some locations like Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offer more affordable rustic camping options. Always check the specific campground's website for current pricing.

What amenities are available at White Lake Campground in Michigan?

White Lake area campgrounds in Michigan typically offer a range of amenities for campers. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, you'll find clean bathrooms, well-maintained hiking trails, spacious campsites, and lake views. Many White Lake area campgrounds provide water access, with some featuring beaches, fishing docks, and boat rentals. Holly Recreation Area offers heavily wooded campsites for a more secluded camping experience. Depending on the specific campground, you may find electrical hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, modern restrooms, and shower facilities. Some campgrounds also have playgrounds, hiking trails, and recreational activities like mini-golf or arcade games.

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