Brighton Recreation Area offers more than just glamping, with a variety of rustic to modern campsites spread across 4,947 acres in southeastern Michigan. The park's camping options include basic tent sites, yurt accommodations, and cabin rentals situated near multiple inland lakes. Temperatures typically range from the high 70s°F in summer to below freezing in winter, with the main camping season running April through October.
What to do
Kayaking on lakes and rivers: At Bishop Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy paddling in calm waters. "The lake was amazing to swim at night..must to it," shares one visitor at Blind Lake Rustic Campground, highlighting the area's water activities after dark.
Hiking trail networks: The Potawatomi Trail system connects several recreation areas. "Trails are well maintained and offer varied terrain," notes Jason H. about Blind Lake Rustic Campground, which is accessible via a 4-7 mile hike depending on your starting point.
Jump Island water activities: The inflatable water park on Bishop Lake operates during summer months. "We had a blast at Jump Island!" says Jillian E., while another visitor explains, "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
Mountain biking: Dedicated biking trails are available throughout the region. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" says Maria G. about the Pinckney Recreation Area trail system, which features routes for all skill levels.
What campers like
Secluded yurt camping: Brighton Recreation Area offers yurt accommodations that provide a unique overnight experience. "Large campsite with trees, lit path to the bathroom, and easy access to hiking trails and raft/boat launch," notes Brianna S., highlighting the convenience of these sites.
Rustic camping options: Several rustic camping areas provide more traditional experiences. "We stayed at lot M18 of the rustic site, Murray Lake. The site was large and had a picnic table and fire pit," explains Rebecca M., though she cautions to "bring bug spray" due to mosquitoes.
Clean, modern facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable," states Laura M. about Proud Lake Recreation Area, which features newly renovated bathroom facilities.
Multiple lake access points: The region has numerous lakes for recreation. "The bathrooms were clean and the put toilets were clean. We really appreciated having a water pump near our campsite," mentions Bryan T. about access to water at Blind Lake Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: The terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Our site wasn't level, so we were rolling around a bit. If I went there again I'd try to find a spot towards the end of the loop by the exit," advises Ryan F. about Lake Murray Rustic Sites at Brighton Recreation Area.
Reservation systems: During peak season, reservations are essential. At Green Lake Rustic Campground, "I would recommend getting a reservation before showing up. They have laminated signs posted on the campsites to let you know which ones are taken," suggests Rob.
Mosquito preparation: Low-lying areas can have significant insect activity. "The biggest problem was mosquito activity. The camping area sits on an inaccessible lake with a marsh area," warns a camper at Brighton Recreation Area, who noted that "everyone had screen houses set up."
Traffic noise: Some sites experience noise from nearby roads. At Green Lake Rustic Campground, "A major roadway passes along the other side of the lake making lake front sites noise until about 12am," explains Jordan B., though he adds this problem isn't terrible with proper planning.
Tips for camping with families
Explore camp activities: Groveland Oaks County Park offers dedicated family programming. "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," shares Debbie H.
Consider yurt camping for beginners: Yurts in Brighton provide a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. "Stayed here one night on my way from Ohio up north. Decently clean showers with hot water and lots of kids on bikes," notes Christina A. about Brighton Recreation Area's family-friendly environment.
Look for themed events: Many parks host special weekends. "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," explains Justin G. about Proud Lake Recreation Area's seasonal activities.
Choose sites near facilities: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. "Quite the walk to the showers if you're staying up on the hill," warns Mary W. about the layout at Camp Dearborn, suggesting families select sites closer to amenities.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger rigs. "We hiked into the blind lake campground and stayed one night. The campsites were very clean and the put toilets were clean," explains Bryan T., noting this location isn't suitable for RVs since it's hike-in only.
Hookup availability varies: Camp Dearborn offers full-service sites. "Lots of beach area and water to fish or swim. Activities almost every night. Pull behind sites were easy to access. Staff are very helpful and responsive. There is a dump station on site," reports Ryan S.
Site spacing and privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly. "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," shares John K. about Bishop Lake Modern Campground, highlighting the trade-off between amenities and spacing.
Early arrival recommended: Popular yurt camping locations fill quickly. At Hell Creek Ranch & Campground, sites are described as "Very clean campground with rustic, elec, water/elec (30 amp), and concrete pad sites," according to Jason F., who recommends making reservations well in advance for premium spots.
