Campgrounds near Ypsilanti, Michigan cluster around several lakes and wooded areas within the Huron River watershed. Located at 719 feet above sea level, this region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping options remain limited as several sites close from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking on connected waterways: Waterloo Recreation Area offers access to multiple connected lakes for paddling. "The lake was amazing to swim at night..must to it," notes a visitor to Blind Lake Rustic Campground, which sits directly on the Potawatomi Trail. The 7-mile hike-in location provides both water access and trail connections.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Pinckney Recreation Area maintains extensive mountain biking routes ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. "We loved the trails for Mountain Bikes that are close to the Campsite! They are super fun!!" reports a camper at Bruin Lake Campground, where riders can access trails directly from their sites.
Fishing from docks and shorelines: Multiple lakes throughout the area offer fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. At Sterling State Park, "It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie. Also has a smaller lake good for kayaking and fishing," according to a recent camper. The park provides both lakefront and inland fishing spots.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds have updated their facilities in recent years. At Proud Lake Recreation Area, a camper noted, "You need to know that this place is so so clean! The grounds, the sites, the bathrooms and the showers are all impeccable." These updated bathrooms include family shower rooms and accessible options.
Swimming beaches with clear water: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas separate from boat launches. "Nice, well maintained park. The shower house is clean and in good condition. Sandy beach on Lake Erie is very nice," reports a camper at Sterling State Park, where the swimming area includes a gradual entry point suitable for children.
Fall and winter camping options: While most glamping facilities near Ypsilanti close seasonally, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "Had the pleasure of visiting first weekend in February, on the coldest weekend of the year! Nice little cabin set in about 800' from where you park," writes a winter camper at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern.
What you should know
Limited shade at certain campgrounds: Many sites offer minimal tree coverage. "Sites are nice and large paved slabs, most trees are immature offering little shade. Beach is kept fairly clean and raked often," explains a camper at Sterling State Park. Consider bringing portable shade structures during summer months.
Insects vary by season and location: Bug activity peaks from May through September, particularly near wetlands. Green Lake Campground reviews mention "I took one star off for the dense population of ground bees that were in front of all 3 vault toilets, and along the main path to the yurt and water pump."
Reservation confusion between campgrounds: The state park reservation system sometimes creates confusion between similarly named sites. A camper at Green Lake Rustic Campground explained: "When I booked this camp site... The app brought me to the state park site... Upon arrival, it leads us to this absolutely packed campground... We ended up talking to the office attendant, and booked at Green Lake Campground... having to switch between 2 campsites over the weekend due to bookings."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment for children. "It has a very nice play area for the children and clean bathrooms," notes a camper at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern, where the playground sits adjacent to the beach area, allowing parents to supervise both swimming and play areas simultaneously.
Kid-friendly trail options: Look for shorter trail segments suitable for younger hikers. "The Potawatomi Trail features numerous loops for any skill level. The shortest loop is the Silver Lake Trail at 1.9 miles. Next, the Crooked Lake Trail at 5.1 miles," explains a visitor to Blind Lake Rustic Campground.
Special event camping: Seasonal events provide additional activities for families. At Camp Dearborn, "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, fun family atmosphere," shares a repeat visitor. The campground hosts these themed weekends during October.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Look for level areas and avoid buddy sites when possible. At Wayne County Fairgrounds, "A number of the campsites are 'buddy' sites meaning your patio opens to your neighbors so be careful which one you pick. This is pretty undesirable when the neighbor is a total stranger."
Hookup availability: Water and electricity access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Only downfall is no water hookups on site," notes a camper at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern, which offers electrical connections but requires campers to fill water tanks before parking.
Big rig accessibility: Some campgrounds have size limitations or challenging access roads. "Long, level sites that will fit any RV," notes a review of the Wayne County Fairgrounds, making it suitable for larger vehicles that might struggle at more rustic locations.
