The best river, stream, or creek camping near Pontiac

·

Looking for a camping adventure near Pontiac, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 175 options for you to choose from, all with river access. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, there's something for everyone. With top campsites like Riverside Camping (87 reviews), Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), and Rusty's Loft (74 reviews), you can trust the recommendations of fellow campers. Enjoy popular amenities like pets, campfires, and trash disposal, and make the most of your stay with activities such as snow sports, paddling, and horseback riding. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average of $45 per night. So pack your gear and get ready for a memorable camping experience in the great outdoors!

93% (354)

Top-rated campgrounds

Thousand S.’s Land

1. Thousand S.’s Land

94%
(77)
27mi from Pontiac · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lapeer, MI
Welcome to Thousand Suns – an 84-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of nature, lovingly cultivated to support healing, reflection, and connection. This isn’t your typical campground. Here, the land is vibrantly alive and holds space for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies, as well as moments of quiet solitude or joyful gathering. Wander scenic forest trails, swim in spring-fed waters, or sit beside the flowing river — all part of a landscape that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to yourself. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or reconnect, Thousand Suns offers a grounded, heart-centered experience. Throughout the month, we host community events and offer private sessions in yoga, bodywork, breathwork, and other holistic practices designed to nourish the body and spirit. Fresh eggs are available from our chickens and turkeys, and you’ll likely spot our friendly goats during your stay. Guests are welcome to use the community kitchen — a shared space where you can store your food and prepare meals with ease. Thousand Suns is the perfect retreat for solo travelers, families, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or journeying inward, our land provides a supportive and sacred backdrop. Please note: a train passes by the front of the property several times a day. While some find it grounding and nostalgic, others may wish to bring earplugs if they’re sensitive to sound. Bring your fishing pole, your swim trunks, and an open heart. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
White Pine Farm HipCamping

2. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%
(125)
39mi from Pontiac · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Ann Arbor, MI
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Combination of sun/shade at Site 1

7. Tom and Julie's Place

100%
(104)
34mi from Pontiac · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · MI
10/12/25 The camping season in Michigan is coming to a close. We'll be open through October with full closure starting Nov. 1 through mid-March 2026. If the weather is kind, 2 sites will open, followed by the other 2 beginning May 1. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you again next year! Thank you to all who chose to stay this year. ***For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs & posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. Please see the site rules for current max time for check-in. (With changing daylight hours, this time limit will change throughout the season.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, & Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill water tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed (cats & dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max). *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites & for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES: *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES: *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door. Free wagon rides on the weekends and a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, and other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away beginning around mid-September for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night
Water Cabin Queen Bed

8. EarthWell Retreat Center

95%
(32)
49mi from Pontiac · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chelsea, MI
EarthWell Retreat Center boasts a spring-fed swimming pond situated on forty acres of rolling prairie, forest and wetland, surrounded by one hundred acres of Washtenaw County Nature Preserve. Six off-grid sleeping cabins dot the landscape, all within a short walk to our Common House, that includes a large gathering space, community kitchen/dining and bathrooms/shower. EarthWell offers Yoga and Meditation classes and weekend retreats year-round. Located in Southeastern Michigan, just 30 minutes west of Ann Arbor, and near the towns of Grasslake, Chelsea, Manchester. (All downtowns are 7-10 miles away). EarthWell allows hiking, wildlife watching (amazing sandhill cranes), swimming and canoeing/kayaking/paddleboating in our pond. East of Chelsea is the expansive Pinckney and Waterloo State Recreation areas, with over 20 lakes and trails for hikers, bikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. There are two households (the families of Ari Wakeman and Emily Adama) that live permanently on the property. (one in the lower level of the common house, and one in a cabin 200 yards from the common house.) During your rental they will maintain quiet and privacy for your group, but will remain on the property for the duration of your stay and will be available should any issues arise. SWIMMING AT YOUR OWN RISK + Paddle board, Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboat and life jackets/floaties available in the green shed by the pond. *Please note the common house is unavailable between 9:30-5:30pm on the following 2024 dates due to day long retreats. * July 28 * Aug 6 * Aug 10 * Aug 18 * Sept. 14 * Oct 19 * Nov 9 * Nov 16 * Dec 7
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

9. Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

39mi from Pontiac · 107 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durand, MI
Discover the unique charm of Walnut Hills Family Campground, where our short drive time, diverse activities, and efficient no-wait check-in process allow you to maximize your fun and minimize your time on the road. Spanning 45 acres and featuring 203 spacious grassy sites, our campground is beautifully situated along the Shiawassee River, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. At Walnut Hills, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable experiences for families and friends. Our extensive amenities and engaging activities are designed to foster lasting memories. One of the highlights of our campground is the exhilarating Wibit Water Park. This exciting aquatic attraction features a variety of inflatable obstacles, slides, and platforms, ensuring endless entertainment for guests of all ages. Whether you’re ready to tackle the floating challenges or simply relax in the sun, the Wibit Water Park adds a splash of adventure to your camping experience. Join us at Walnut Hills Family Campground, where outdoor adventures and aquatic thrills come together to create the perfect getaway. Explore the natural beauty surrounding our park, enjoy nearby swimming holes, and take advantage of local restaurants and shops. Your unforgettable camping experience awaits!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Full Circle Farms and Sanctuary

12. Full Circle Farms and Sanctuary

41mi from Pontiac · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Willis, MI
Welcome to Full Circle Farms & Sanctuary – Your Sacred Resting Place Under the Stars Tucked in the wild heart of Michigan, Full Circle Farms & Sanctuary is more than just a campsite—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Here, nature breathes deeply. You’ll find yourself surrounded by open meadows, forest whispers, and the quiet call of the land, inviting you to slow down, reconnect, and remember your place in the great circle. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the stars or joining one of our seasonal rituals, this is a space where community, creativity, and spirit meet. We host wellness workshops, fire ceremonies, and holistic gatherings, but you’re just as welcome to simply sit by the river, watch the sky, and just be. Campers have access to the fire circle, community kitchen, and shared sacred spaces built with intention. Our land is a living altar—honoring Earth, balance, and all beings that walk, crawl, or fly. Come as you are. Leave more whole.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

Looking for a camping adventure near Pontiac, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 175 options for you to choose from, all with river access. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, there's something for everyone. With top campsites like Riverside Camping (87 reviews), Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), and Rusty's Loft (74 reviews), you can trust the recommendations of fellow campers. Enjoy popular amenities like pets, campfires, and trash disposal, and make the most of your stay with activities such as snow sports, paddling, and horseback riding. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average of $45 per night. So pack your gear and get ready for a memorable camping experience in the great outdoors!

93% (354)

Top-rated campgrounds

Thousand S.’s Land

1. Thousand S.’s Land

94%
(77)
27mi from Pontiac · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lapeer, MI
Welcome to Thousand Suns – an 84-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of nature, lovingly cultivated to support healing, reflection, and connection. This isn’t your typical campground. Here, the land is vibrantly alive and holds space for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies, as well as moments of quiet solitude or joyful gathering. Wander scenic forest trails, swim in spring-fed waters, or sit beside the flowing river — all part of a landscape that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to yourself. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or reconnect, Thousand Suns offers a grounded, heart-centered experience. Throughout the month, we host community events and offer private sessions in yoga, bodywork, breathwork, and other holistic practices designed to nourish the body and spirit. Fresh eggs are available from our chickens and turkeys, and you’ll likely spot our friendly goats during your stay. Guests are welcome to use the community kitchen — a shared space where you can store your food and prepare meals with ease. Thousand Suns is the perfect retreat for solo travelers, families, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or journeying inward, our land provides a supportive and sacred backdrop. Please note: a train passes by the front of the property several times a day. While some find it grounding and nostalgic, others may wish to bring earplugs if they’re sensitive to sound. Bring your fishing pole, your swim trunks, and an open heart. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
White Pine Farm HipCamping

2. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%
(125)
39mi from Pontiac · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Ann Arbor, MI
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Combination of sun/shade at Site 1

7. Tom and Julie's Place

100%
(104)
34mi from Pontiac · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · MI
10/12/25 The camping season in Michigan is coming to a close. We'll be open through October with full closure starting Nov. 1 through mid-March 2026. If the weather is kind, 2 sites will open, followed by the other 2 beginning May 1. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you again next year! Thank you to all who chose to stay this year. ***For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs & posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. Please see the site rules for current max time for check-in. (With changing daylight hours, this time limit will change throughout the season.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, & Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill water tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed (cats & dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max). *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites & for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES: *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES: *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door. Free wagon rides on the weekends and a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, and other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away beginning around mid-September for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night
Water Cabin Queen Bed

8. EarthWell Retreat Center

95%
(32)
49mi from Pontiac · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chelsea, MI
EarthWell Retreat Center boasts a spring-fed swimming pond situated on forty acres of rolling prairie, forest and wetland, surrounded by one hundred acres of Washtenaw County Nature Preserve. Six off-grid sleeping cabins dot the landscape, all within a short walk to our Common House, that includes a large gathering space, community kitchen/dining and bathrooms/shower. EarthWell offers Yoga and Meditation classes and weekend retreats year-round. Located in Southeastern Michigan, just 30 minutes west of Ann Arbor, and near the towns of Grasslake, Chelsea, Manchester. (All downtowns are 7-10 miles away). EarthWell allows hiking, wildlife watching (amazing sandhill cranes), swimming and canoeing/kayaking/paddleboating in our pond. East of Chelsea is the expansive Pinckney and Waterloo State Recreation areas, with over 20 lakes and trails for hikers, bikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. There are two households (the families of Ari Wakeman and Emily Adama) that live permanently on the property. (one in the lower level of the common house, and one in a cabin 200 yards from the common house.) During your rental they will maintain quiet and privacy for your group, but will remain on the property for the duration of your stay and will be available should any issues arise. SWIMMING AT YOUR OWN RISK + Paddle board, Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboat and life jackets/floaties available in the green shed by the pond. *Please note the common house is unavailable between 9:30-5:30pm on the following 2024 dates due to day long retreats. * July 28 * Aug 6 * Aug 10 * Aug 18 * Sept. 14 * Oct 19 * Nov 9 * Nov 16 * Dec 7
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

9. Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

39mi from Pontiac · 107 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durand, MI
Discover the unique charm of Walnut Hills Family Campground, where our short drive time, diverse activities, and efficient no-wait check-in process allow you to maximize your fun and minimize your time on the road. Spanning 45 acres and featuring 203 spacious grassy sites, our campground is beautifully situated along the Shiawassee River, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. At Walnut Hills, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable experiences for families and friends. Our extensive amenities and engaging activities are designed to foster lasting memories. One of the highlights of our campground is the exhilarating Wibit Water Park. This exciting aquatic attraction features a variety of inflatable obstacles, slides, and platforms, ensuring endless entertainment for guests of all ages. Whether you’re ready to tackle the floating challenges or simply relax in the sun, the Wibit Water Park adds a splash of adventure to your camping experience. Join us at Walnut Hills Family Campground, where outdoor adventures and aquatic thrills come together to create the perfect getaway. Explore the natural beauty surrounding our park, enjoy nearby swimming holes, and take advantage of local restaurants and shops. Your unforgettable camping experience awaits!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Full Circle Farms and Sanctuary

12. Full Circle Farms and Sanctuary

41mi from Pontiac · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Willis, MI
Welcome to Full Circle Farms & Sanctuary – Your Sacred Resting Place Under the Stars Tucked in the wild heart of Michigan, Full Circle Farms & Sanctuary is more than just a campsite—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Here, nature breathes deeply. You’ll find yourself surrounded by open meadows, forest whispers, and the quiet call of the land, inviting you to slow down, reconnect, and remember your place in the great circle. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the stars or joining one of our seasonal rituals, this is a space where community, creativity, and spirit meet. We host wellness workshops, fire ceremonies, and holistic gatherings, but you’re just as welcome to simply sit by the river, watch the sky, and just be. Campers have access to the fire circle, community kitchen, and shared sacred spaces built with intention. Our land is a living altar—honoring Earth, balance, and all beings that walk, crawl, or fly. Come as you are. Leave more whole.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

Camper favorites near Pontiac

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field