Glamping near Willis, Michigan balances comfort with outdoor recreation across multiple state parks and recreation areas within a 40-mile radius. The region transitions from urban environments to natural settings with interconnected lake systems and hiking trails ranging from novice paths to challenging 35-mile routes. Most glamping accommodations remain accessible during spring through fall seasons, though several sites close during winter months from November through March.
What to do
Kayak the Huron River: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers boat launch facilities for accessing the waterway. According to a camper, "There is a boat launch and a canoe/kayak livery on site," making it easy to start your paddling adventure without hauling personal equipment.
Hike through wetlands: Maumee Bay State Park Campground features an extensive boardwalk through protected marshland. A visitor noted, "A beautiful and extensive boardwalk constructed by the Ohio Civilian Conservation Corps is available only for foot traffic," providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mountain bike on dedicated trails: The Pinckney Recreation Area maintains trail systems suitable for various skill levels. One reviewer mentioned, "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" allowing visitors to experience technical riding without traveling to remote locations.
Family entertainment complexes: Harbortown RV Resort provides on-site access to numerous recreational facilities. As one visitor shared, "Next door to putt putt go karts batting cages and arcade," though they also noted these attractions were "pricey but fun."
What campers like
Lake swimming access: Bishop Lake Campground maintains swimming areas with beach facilities. A visitor explained, "Nice lake water. We brought a cooler and ordered ice cream from concessions," highlighting the combination of natural swimming and convenience services.
Multiple water recreation options: Sterling State Park offers both large lake and smaller water bodies for different activities. A camper reported, "It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie. Also has a smaller lake good for kayaking and fishing," providing diverse water experiences at one location.
Modern bathroom facilities: Many glamping sites feature updated restrooms. At Camp Dearborn, a reviewer mentioned, "The sites were very nice, and so were the bathrooms," though they also noted, "Quite the walk to the showers if you're staying up on the hill," indicating facility distribution may require planning.
Community gardens: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park offers unusual agricultural amenities. A visitor appreciated that "they had a community garden that you were welcome to pick from. We got tomatoes, Swiss chard, peppers, broccoli, and more," providing fresh produce during camping stays.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Most glamping sites operate from April through October with specific opening dates. According to a Wayne County Fairgrounds visitor, "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season," highlighting the importance of verifying operational dates.
Insect presence: Lakeside locations experience seasonal insect activity. A Sterling State Park camper warned, "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid june) and covered everything," indicating that timing affects comfort levels.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campsites have different vegetation buffers. At Proud Lake, a visitor observed, "This site was very nicely kept but felt a little like a sardine can," while at Maumee Bay, another noted, "your spots are close together which is great for safety, however with the bushes and brush, it feels super private."
Noise considerations: Proximity to infrastructure affects sound levels at certain locations. One Harbortown RV Resort camper mentioned, "Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night... they blew the horn for 5+ minutes at 4:30am."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Camp Dearborn offers multiple water recreation options. A visitor reported, "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Paddle boats, mini golf, golf, and more," providing continuous entertainment.
Halloween-themed camping: Several parks offer special seasonal programming. A visitor to Proud Lake Recreation Area shared, "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."
Consider proximity to bathrooms: With young children, bathroom location matters. At Camp Dearborn, a camper noted, "Very large campgrounds... Quite the walk to the showers if you're staying up on the hill," which could be challenging for families with small children.
Inflatable water parks: Bishop Lake features commercial water attractions during summer. A visitor mentioned, "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" though another added, "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Harbortown RV Resort accommodates larger rigs with dedicated sites. A camper stated, "All concrete roads and pads. Very friendly staff and knowledgeable of the area," making navigation easier for larger vehicles.
Electric options vary: Different parks offer various hookup configurations. At Sterling State Park, "Everything from back ins with only electrical to pull throughs with full hook-ups," provides options based on need and preference.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain affects parking ease at some locations. One visitor to Proud Lake reported, "Theres a severe hill from the back part of the loop towards the lake - at one point I was worried an improperly locked down camper would roll straight through our tents!" indicating the importance of proper stabilization.
Reservation planning: Many glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park advised, "We arrived without a reservation and the women in the office was very helpful providing a map with all available sites during our stay and letting us choose which one we wanted."
