The best waterside campgrounds near Detroit, Michigan

Just a short drive out of bustling Detroit, wild Michigan takes over. Some visitors are surprised to see that just outside the Motor City, the suburbs give way to rolling fields, forests, and inland lakes that sparkle in the sun. Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie are less than an hour from the city, while Lake Huron sits just beyond as well. Campers can hit the beach for boating and fishing, or explore Detroit-area state parks and recreation areas. From beach campsites to RV parks with wifi, this part of Michigan has a campsite for any traveler.

97% (452) • 1 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Detroit

1. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%

(125)

40mi from Detroit · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

LARGE GROUPS - We are hosting events! Graduation parties, small weddings, family reunions, you name it. You can rent the whole campground for a day a night, a weekend, or a whole week if that suits your need. Just send us a message and we can talk about it. We can also accommodate large groups at a single campsite or you can rent several of them. Our primary guideline is that if your event will be held while other campers are here, it cannot disturb them. So, consider renting the whole campground. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please plan to arrive and set up camp between 3 and 9 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 9 PM, please send us a message letting us know. We decide on a case by case basis since we prefer not to have late arrivals. In any event we do not accept arrivals after 11 PM except in an emergency since many campers and your host may have already gone to bed. Overview: Our beautiful 10 acre farm and homestead is situated between Ann Arbor and Dexter not far from the Huron River. The 5 acre area where our campsites are located is wooded with mature oak, maple, walnut, elm, and white pine trees. We're isolated and surrounded by wild areas and natural farm land but just a 10 minute drive to restaurants, groceries, fuel, and other amenities. The Ann Arbor area is home to a huge array of world class events from the Ark music venue to National Champions Michigan home football games and a whole lot more. Downtown Ann Arbor or Dexter or Chelsea is only a 15 minute car drive. White Lotus Farms, which has a wonderful farm market on Saturdays from 9 - 2 and Wednesdays from 9 - 1, is a 10 minute walk down our dirt road. If you forget to bring something that you need, don't hesitate to ask! We've got a growing number of camping essentials for rent or sale for very reasonable prices that can make your stay even more enjoyable: from bug repellants to camp chairs, potable water in 2.5 - 5 gallon containers, and more. NEW IN 2025 we have installed a hose with potable water near the entrance to the campground for your convenience.

Just a short drive out of bustling Detroit, wild Michigan takes over. Some visitors are surprised to see that just outside the Motor City, the suburbs give way to rolling fields, forests, and inland lakes that sparkle in the sun. Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie are less than an hour from the city, while Lake Huron sits just beyond as well. Campers can hit the beach for boating and fishing, or explore Detroit-area state parks and recreation areas. From beach campsites to RV parks with wifi, this part of Michigan has a campsite for any traveler.

97% (452) • 1 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Detroit

1. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%

(125)

40mi from Detroit · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

LARGE GROUPS - We are hosting events! Graduation parties, small weddings, family reunions, you name it. You can rent the whole campground for a day a night, a weekend, or a whole week if that suits your need. Just send us a message and we can talk about it. We can also accommodate large groups at a single campsite or you can rent several of them. Our primary guideline is that if your event will be held while other campers are here, it cannot disturb them. So, consider renting the whole campground. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please plan to arrive and set up camp between 3 and 9 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 9 PM, please send us a message letting us know. We decide on a case by case basis since we prefer not to have late arrivals. In any event we do not accept arrivals after 11 PM except in an emergency since many campers and your host may have already gone to bed. Overview: Our beautiful 10 acre farm and homestead is situated between Ann Arbor and Dexter not far from the Huron River. The 5 acre area where our campsites are located is wooded with mature oak, maple, walnut, elm, and white pine trees. We're isolated and surrounded by wild areas and natural farm land but just a 10 minute drive to restaurants, groceries, fuel, and other amenities. The Ann Arbor area is home to a huge array of world class events from the Ark music venue to National Champions Michigan home football games and a whole lot more. Downtown Ann Arbor or Dexter or Chelsea is only a 15 minute car drive. White Lotus Farms, which has a wonderful farm market on Saturdays from 9 - 2 and Wednesdays from 9 - 1, is a 10 minute walk down our dirt road. If you forget to bring something that you need, don't hesitate to ask! We've got a growing number of camping essentials for rent or sale for very reasonable prices that can make your stay even more enjoyable: from bug repellants to camp chairs, potable water in 2.5 - 5 gallon containers, and more. NEW IN 2025 we have installed a hose with potable water near the entrance to the campground for your convenience.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

I

Ian

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to White Pine Farm HipCamping

Pete was extremely helpful, accommodating, and responsive— and his dog Geddeon (I think that’s how it’s spelled) treated me as if I had known him for years. This place is perfect for a quick getaway that’s only a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Highly recommend staying here. There are several campsites to choose from depending on what you’re looking for and each has its own quirks.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best waterside camping near Detroit guide

Where to go

Detroit River

Don’t underestimate the local river, as it offers a ton of opportunity right in the city. Both the east and west sides have riverfront pathways for walking, biking, and fishing. The east side connects Gabriel Richards Park to the Joe Louis Arena with a ton of green space and views expanding into Canada.

Lake Erie

The Detroit River connects to Lake Erie, where recreation abounds. Bring the kayaks, paddleboards, and outboards to take advantage of the sandy beaches and open space. The Pointe Mouillee State Game Area is just south of the city, not far from the river outlet into the lake. It has opportunities for fishing, paddling and hunting. Continue south to Estral Beach for a boat ramp. A variety of campgrounds and RV resorts with full hookups line the shoreline just south of the city. Other spots for a camping trip include Groveland Oaks County Park and Algonac State Park.

Lakeport State Park

Although just 70 miles from Detroit, Lakeport State Park feels like a different world. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for swimming, and the shady tent sites all come with private picnic tables. Forgot something? The friendly camp store has all of the essentials.

Highland Recreation Area

Multisport campers should head for the tent and RV campsites at the Highland Recreation Area. Hike and bike the trails or bring your horse—the campground is equestrian-friendly! Pack a picnic and head to one of the three day-use areas offering swimming, volleyball, and fishing. In winter, this spot is popular for cross-country skiing.

When to go

The best times to camp near Detroit are in the hot summer and pleasant fall. The lake effect makes for great weather on many summer days, as it keeps temperatures comfortable, and the water is ideal for swimming to cool off. The trend continues into fall with changing colors and a great climate. Spring weather is unpredictable with often muddy or ice-blocked trails, but if you bring warm rain gear, you can camp comfortably. Winter is especially cold but also brings cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and the opportunity for ice skating on local rinks. Stay dry during the occasional snowstorm with a cabin or yurt rental.