Michigan is a premier destination for camping and being outdoors, but many times it feels like the great spots to camp are all up north. For those who want to spend some time in nature, but don’t want to spend hours driving north, we put together a list of 7 great spots for camping in southern Michigan.
Whether you are looking to take a solo camping trip, you want to get out with the guys/gals, or you want to have a getaway with the family, Michigan has campgrounds perfect for your needs. Below is a list of said campgrounds, with brief descriptions as well as links to their website, so you can look further into what each has to offer.
Waterloo Recreation Area: Waterloo Recreation Area, located off of I-94 and south of Lansing, is the largest state park in the Lower Peninsula. The recreation area has over 21,000 acres of land, and features 4 campgrounds, 11 lakes, a nature center, and over 50 miles of trails. Between the 4 campgrounds, there are 434 campsites for you to reserve. This is a great location for camping, no matter what you are looking for. It is known to be a popular family campground, but with so many campsites you can also find more isolation if that is what you are looking for. Hunting for small game and deer is allowed in most of the park, except for established safety zones around the campgrounds.
Twin Pines Campground: Twin Pines Campground is located off of M-60, and just north of Jonesville. The campground sits on 50 acres of land along the Kalamazoo River, and provides amenities such as: modern restrooms with hot showers, picnic tables and fire rings at each site, and canoe and kayak rentals. Great for fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature, Twin Pines Campground is a great option to consider for your next camping trip.
Taylor’s Beach Campground: Taylor’s Beach Campground is located in Howell, MI. Though it might not be as large in size as some of the other options on this list, Taylor’s might be the perfect spot for you, especially if you are camping with the family. Taylor’s has amenities such as putt putt golf, an arcade room, kids indoor/outdoor movies, paddle boats, fishing boats, basketball and volleyball courts, and of course trails and fishing spots. Again, if you are trying to get out with the family and enjoy the outdoors, you might want to give Taylor’s some consideration.
Pinckney Recreation Area: Located just northeast of Waterloo Recreation Area is Pinckney Recreation Area. 11,000 Acres in size, with over 40 miles of multi-use trails, there are 186 modern campsites, as well as 22 rustic camping sites. Among other features is Silver Lake, which includes a swimming beach and other activities. Pinckney Recreation Area is a great place to unplug, and enjoy nature.
Ortonville Recreation Area: With over 5,400 acres of land, Ortonville Recreation Area is another great choice for camping in southern Michigan. Located off of M-15, and southeast of Flint, this is a great spot for those who are looking for some remote adventures in the Oakland or Lapeer county area. Featured on the land are several lakes, an equestrian campground, a shooting range, and trails open to hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. But, you should know that the campground is only open to non-equestrian campers July 1st - August 31st. Otherwise, it’s dedicated to those camping with horses.
Fort Custer Recreation Area: For those looking for a campground located in western Michigan, Fort Custer Recreation Area is located off I-94, in between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. It is seated on over 3,000 acres featuring three lakes, the Kalamazoo River, both a modern and equestrian campground, a swimming beach, and more than 40 miles of trails. Fort Custer Recreation Area is a popular destination for many activities like hunting, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.
Dune Lake Campground: Right off I-196, in Coloma, sits Dune Lake Campground. At this campground, fishing and other similar activities are not permitted, so if that is your goal you are better suited looking elsewhere. In terms of activities, they have a beach, putt putt golf, trails, a playground, and basketball and volleyball courts. This is a good campsite if you want to be on the west coast of Michigan, and visit surrounding cities, but want to enjoy spending nights in nature with your family.
Additional Campgrounds to check out:
Found your spot? Make sure you have anything you need.
Once you find the perfect spot for your next camping trip, you’re going to want to make sure you have everything you need for a great time. Depending on the type of camping you are taking part in, we put together a basic checklist of things you might want to bring with you:
If you find yourself missing any of this gear, or anything else you want to bring, download our app to rent the gear you need for your next trip! From stovetops, to kayaks, to tents, to outdoor games, we’ve got exactly what you need, and you won’t need to break the bank!
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