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The best camping in Bay City State Park, MI
50% (3)
Discover Bay City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
50% (3)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bay City State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Bay City State Park
Bay City Campground
1. Bay City Campground
50%
(3)
Ignite your everyday with a spontaneous trip to Bay City State Recreation Area and let the fun lend itself to the night at the Bay City Modern Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Bay City State Park
WaterFront Saginaw Bay
1. WaterFront Saginaw Bay
100%
(22)
15mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site
Waterfront RV Site on the Quanicassee River
(at the mouth of Saginaw Bay)
Enjoy direct riverfront access with a private deck/dock — great for fishing, watching sunsets, and relaxing while spotting wildlife.
NEW, Putting green and DOCK. Bring your boat and keep it tied up beside your campsite. Very cool!!!
Included at no extra cost:
Kayaks - Canoe
Site amenities:
Fire pit
Picnic table
Park grill
50AMP / 30AMP electric
Water hookup
WiFi
Frankenmuth, Bay City, and Saginaw are all within 35 minutes for shopping, dining, and attractions.
A peaceful spot with easy conveniences and plenty of ways to enjoy the water and outdoors.
This standout site combines direct riverfront living, thoughtful amenities, included extras, and a peaceful yet accessible setting – the perfect base for your Michigan adventure or extended stay. Ideal for anglers, nature lovers, sunset chasers, and anyone seeking a serene escape with modern conveniences.
Ready to experience riverside bliss? Book your spot today!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
"Elysium Heritage Farm"
2. "Elysium Heritage Farm"
100%
(184)
15mi from Bay City State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, emu, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property.
The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay.
It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit.
By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
3. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(155)
23mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property.
No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property.
As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest.
We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Footsteps From Frankenmuth
4. Footsteps From Frankenmuth
99%
(43)
23mi from Bay City State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy peace and quiet at this brand new hip camp located just minutes from downtown Frankenmuth. Just off I-75 but far enough to not hear the noise! This property features a blacktop circle driveway for easy in & out access. Our property offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, and solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Location:
Located just 8 miles from downtown Frankenmuth and 10 miles from the Prime Outlets of Birch Run, our campsites are easily accessible yet provides a secluded haven away from the hustle and bustle.
Accommodations:
We offer several types of accommodations to suit your camping style:
Tent Sites: Spacious, grassy areas with plenty of shade, ideal for tents.
RV Sites: Level, grass sites (or even blacktop if you prefer) with easy access for RVs and campers.
Amenities:
Potable Drinking water
Fire pit
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Pet-friendly (with prior approval)
Activities:
Wildlife Watching: Abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer, birds, and more.
Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
Local Attractions:
Frankenmuth: A short drive away, offering things from waterparks, world-famous chicken dinners, one-of-a-kind shopping, and Bavarian charm, 1-800-FUN-TOWN has your plans made.
Birch Run Premium Outlets: Shop until you drop at the largest outlet mall in the Midwestern United States!
Rules:
Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Fires only in designated fire pits.
Pets must be kept on a leash unless otherwise approved.
Please respect our property and other campers by cleaning up after yourself.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Verity acres
5. Verity acres
98%
(22)
25mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
160 acres of private woodland. Pitch your tent, or park your camper under the Pines or under the oaks along a nice ridge.
Enjoy walking camping hiking with no neighbors on private property can also walk to state land for miles and miles of hiking opportunities.
Lots of wildlife to view- deer, raccoons, fox coyotes. Listen to the beautiful coyotes howling at night.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Grassy Woods Edge
6. Grassy Woods Edge
95%
(10)
25mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site
Learn more about this land:🏕 Private quiet camping on maintained grass alongside of 8 acre woods. 🌟 Great night sky View overlooks farm fields. 10 minutes ftom Frankenmuth. 10 minutes from kayak launch to Cass River. 25 minutes from Bay City downtown river front with entertainment and street dining.
Pets
River Daze
7. River Daze
100%
(50)
30mi from Bay City State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Campsites are all riverfront along the Tobacco River. Country feel within blocks of town. Ross Lake/Beach, the remodeled Beaverton Tavern, park, an ice cream shop and splash park are all located within a long walk or short drive. We are close to Gladwin, Ross Lake, ORV trails and the Juicy Bone. The river flows into Wixom Lake which is anticipated to be back in 2025. Sandy beach with river access .
You can access the river from our canoe portage on the property. Good fishing, swimming or just hanging out. You can also canoe, kayak or tube beautiful Tobacco River or sandy Cedar River. Picnic tables and fire pits are located throughout the property. Good music, games, sing a longs. Hike through the trails to get to the the enchanted cedar forest which is all located in the campground. We have an outdoor 250 inch screen where we project movies, concerts, games, interactive dance videos. For kids and adults, everyone leaves with a smile.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Morgan's Place
8. Morgan's Place
92%
(13)
34mi from Bay City State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Morgan's Place is a nonprofit campground serving people who have been injured in traumatic accidents to full recovery. We also offer Hipcamp stays and Airbnb rentals so our visitors who are in recovery do not have to pay out of pocket during their stay if they cannot. We located on 37 beautiful acres outside of Millington, Michigan and only 15 minutes from Frankenmuth and Birch Run. We have hiking trails, little goats, chickens, fishing, kayak rental and/or drop off/pick up at Cass River, and offer yoga classes, karaoke on certain nights, and blacksmithing demonstrations! There is a 4 person camper on site to rent if needed or we offer water/electric and tent sites too just ask.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Boondock Ridge
9. Boondock Ridge
98%
(175)
35mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private.
Beautiful river view and access.
Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity
Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chippewa Henge Camp
10. Chippewa Henge Camp
97%
(60)
36mi from Bay City State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
One acre swimming pond with multiple rustic campsites, common areas include the beach and group firepit. 122 acres with long entrance drive that situates campers next to "Lake Leland" as we refer to the pond. Absolutely no Glass permitted on property! Generators are permitted. A creek crosses the back portion of the property with several trails intersecting.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ruffin It
11. Ruffin It
100%
(11)
40mi from Bay City State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Privacy and freedom,
In between West Branch and Tawas, you’ll be centrally located to choose from many options. Lake Huron 30 minutes away, Au Sable River 15 min away, Rifle River 10 minutes away.
Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, star gazing, hunting, fishing,
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Camp Bear Paw LLC
12. Camp Bear Paw LLC
99%
(94)
43mi from Bay City State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish.
You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early!
Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water.
Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well.
Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking.
There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising.
Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property.
Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon!
Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used.
We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details.
Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Still Waters 10-Acre Bell Tent Camp
13. Still Waters 10-Acre Bell Tent Camp
100%
(16)
43mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site
Enjoy over 10 acres of peaceful woods and open clearings—an authentic Pure Michigan getaway.
Easy access with pull-through spots, making the property suitable for RVs and trailers.
A bell tent is included with your stay, along with a queen-size bed and mattress protector. Guests should bring their own bedding, or they may purchase a bedding add-on that they can take with them when they leave.
Pets are welcome, so bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
This is an off-grid property with no electrical hookups. A Jackery portable power station is available for charging phones, lights, and other small devices. Guests may also bring a generator if additional power is needed.
The cleaning fee helps cover 25 gallons of fresh drinking and cooking water, 50 gallons of hot shower water, one 1-pound propane tank for the outdoor propane shower, one 1-pound propane tank for the propane stove, eco-friendly mosquito treatment, and professional porta potty management fees.
A complimentary first fire is provided—all you need to do is light it. Additional firewood bundles are available for purchase. To support our integrated pest management system and protect the habitat and land, outside firewood is not allowed on the property.
Enjoy peaceful evening walks along the candlelit trails.
A professionally cleaned and maintained porta potty and a convenient handwashing station are provided onsite.
Cell phone signal is limited, making this the perfect place to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature.
Additional add-ons are available, including bug spray, tiki torch fuel, citronella candles, ice, farm-to-table grocery orders, canoe rental, and additional firewood bundles.
Located near beautiful lakes, rivers, public lands, bike trails, and charming small towns.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
B Mo's Hideout
14. B Mo's Hideout
99%
(171)
43mi from Bay City State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
42 private acres for day use or tent camping. This is a clothing optional green space, walk the trails, play horse shoes bean bag toss or just sit back and relax. It's a great place to hang a hammock and chill or explore the woods, pick wild strawberries early summer raspberries mid summer and blueberries mid summer. Can accommodate small pop up trailers less than 20ft. Check in times may very. Car campers welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
15. Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
100%
(16)
48mi from Bay City State Park · 2 sites
Located in Clare county, Harrison is surrounded by 20 lakes within 20 minutes. Harrison is also known for its large amount of state land for recreational activities all year round.
We are across the street from Little Long lake and right up the road from Budd Lake public boat launches. We have deeded lake access to Little Long Lake with use of our paddle boat and kayaks. We can provide parking with a boat, trailer, etc., but will need to be arranged prior to check-in.
There are several restaurants, delivery options, and a grocery store right down the road. There is also a putt putt golf, skiing and snow tubing at Snow Snake, arcade, batting cages, bowling, indoor golf, ax throwing, beaches and Wilson State Park.
If you have side-by-sides, quads, jeeps, snowmobiles, or dirt bikes, there are endless options with groomed trails in the area for you to ride all day long.
Our property has two cabins on property, the Harrison Hideaway cabin and Wanderer's Hideaway that can be rented together for larger groups or rented separately. Please message me if you would like to rent both cabins for you and your guests.
We are new to this process and want to make you and your guest feel accommodated with a 5 Star stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Rustic Escapes
16. Rustic Escapes
100%
(10)
49mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site
Currently only 1 site available. Enjoy a peaceful rustic site, away from the chaos of the city. Located in the northern lower peninsula, a beautiful secluded space tucked in the woods.
Located near thousands of miles of riding trails for any outdoor enthusiast, dirt bikes, quads, SXS, and even horse back riding! If you enjoy fishing or swimming, we are centrally located between Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Lake St Helen with public beaches and boat launches within a quick driving distance.
Need something to eat? We have a bunch of great family owned restaurants in town only about 3 miles away!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Sweet Nectar in the Woods Campground
17. Sweet Nectar in the Woods Campground
100%
(22)
47mi from Bay City State Park
Our rustic campground has six camping cabins available in twelve heavily wooded acres. Our community is known for 20 lakes in 20 minutes! We have lots of acres of state land locally for adventures also. This is a private campground available for single campers or groups. Come enjoy nature at its finest!Learn more about this land:Rustic camping cabins nestled in the woods. Bring your friends and family and take all five cabins or come alone and experience our campground. Enjoy a camping experience with basic accommodations, port a john’s & an outdoor shower. We live on site and will be happy to help if you need anything.
Twin pines on Elevator
18. Twin pines on Elevator
100%
(1)
4mi from Bay City State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
The Elevator House
Saginaw Bay, Michigan
Just one mile from the shores of Saginaw Bay and Linwood Marina and Campground, The Elevator House is your laid-back basecamp for exploring Michigan’s Great Lakes coast.
Whether you're here for fishing, kayaking, sunsets over the bay, or simply unplugging in the fresh air, you'll find yourself right where you need to be.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Country Rest Stop
19. Country Rest Stop
100%
(1)
17mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are located in the Tri-City area. Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland are all about 10 miles from our location.
Our site is quiet and spacious and can easily accommodate a big rig with a tow vehicle, if needed. There is easy access for backing in.
The campsite is located on our Centennial Farm, surrounded by farmland and a large yard. A fire pit with firewood is provided if you let us know in advance.
Dow Gardens and the nearby Canopy Walk are just a short drive away.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Wixom Lake RV Lot, on Anderson Dr.
20. Wixom Lake RV Lot, on Anderson Dr.
100%
(3)
23mi from Bay City State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Discover the charm of this delightful lot situated on a canal of Wixom Lake. Boasting full hookups for your convenience, this location offers a cozy retreat, with the only exception being that water access is temporarily unavailable during the winter months.
Positioned near ATV trails and a scenic hiking area, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. The convenience of being close to Midland, Michigan adds to the appeal, providing easy access to additional amenities and attractions.
While the lake is anticipated to make a comeback in the next year, in the meantime, this lot serves as an affordable and inviting camping spot for both RVs and tents. Experience the tranquility and simplicity of camping in this picturesque setting, where outdoor adventures and relaxation await. Should you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out. Your perfect camping getaway is just a question away!
Please bring freshwater hose, sewer hose, and 30 or 50 amp cord for hookup.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jason
2 days ago
22 ft campervan
We had a great time exploring this campsite. There is plenty of room for a sprinter van or camper. Kim was a delight and we hope to be back!
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J
Josh
2 days ago
26 ft travel trailer
Fantastic spot for privacy and quiet. Kim is a perfect host as well. Very cool property that we will absolutely be using again for a getaway!
See more
G
Geri
5 days ago
32 ft Class A
With pets
Was a fantastic relaxing time. Enjoyed fishing on the new dock. Very quiet and perfect for rejuvenation. Kim went out of her way to take of our needs. Will visit again
See more
K
Kristin
1 week ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
We love staying at Boondock Ridge! It’s our fourth year visiting and always clean, private, and very relaxing. The hosts are always available and accommodating!
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C
Crystal
1 week ago
26 ft pop-up camper
Group trip
Amazing as always! Great group of campers for 4th of July weekend! We had such a grounding, peaceful time! Coming back very soon!
See moreI
Ian
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Very nice place to camp. Its quite peaceful and very well taken care of.
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T
Terri
1 week ago
23 ft travel trailer
We were looking for a one night stop over camp and interested in visiting Frankenmuth. This site met all the requirements. The host, Robert, met us upon arrival and was helpful in making sure we had everything we needed.
See moreC
Caroline
1 week ago
24 ft Class C
Our hosts were wonderful and accommodating.
Checked all the boxes
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K
Kayla
1 week ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
The view is unbeatable! Loved being right on the water and having the canoe available to use. The area was really peaceful and more private than a regular campground. The hosts were friendly and helped us get backed in. We had a great time and would recommend the site for anyone looking to stay in the Saginaw Bay area.
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Brian
2 weeks ago
15 ft pop-up camper
We were in site 1. We had the most amazing time we have ever had camping.
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S
Steve
2 weeks ago
Tent
What can I say once again an excellent, time on Bryan's land. No matter how many times you walk the trails you'll have a different experience . Can't wait to get back.
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T
Tara
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
I absolutely love this property! Sheila and Jeff had everything there that you could have needed and are the nicest people! The woods were absolutely beautiful and it was so peaceful. Great way to relax and let your mind rest. I will definitely be back!
See moreD
Daria
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Peaceful and private spot, beautiful surroundings. We were a quick overnight stay and back out in the early am, driving to the UP. I wish we could have stayed to enjoy the surroundings. Everything was very clean and as advertised, and a short hop off 75. Highly recommend.
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Faith
2 weeks ago
38 ft travel trailer
We loved our stay on this beautiful farm just outside of Midland. Augie met us as we pulled in, and showed us where to park. We appreciated that the parking pad was well graded to stay dry despite the recent rain. Kelly came out to tell us some good places to eat in Midland. After that first day they left us in peace for our three day stay.
We loved the views across the fields in all directions, and the fireflies rising up from the lawn in the evenings. The spot is on a side road , so not a lot of privacy, but also not much going on this farm road out in the country.
Loved Midland, so much to do! We rode bikes on the Pere Marquette rail trail, visited Dow Gardens and the canopy walk, enjoyed the Chippewa Nature Preserve, and of course The Tridge!
They were lovely hosts, and we would absolutely love to come back to stay again, if we come back through Midland area again.
See moreG
Gary
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
We loved everything about this place! We were welcomed by beautiful lights along the boardwalk that led right to The Crow’s Nest. Sheila has everything you could need in this amazing little cabin.
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F
Frank
3 weeks ago
Tent
Excellent campsite, private, lots of room, quiet and clean. Perfect for a relaxing weekend
See moreM
Mikayla
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
This was a lovely place! Extremely secluded, very peaceful. The hosts were very kind! The farm was cool, the walking paths were so nice to be able to explore. We brought our 2 jack russells and it was just a perfect trip! I would happily stay here again
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Valerie
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The view is amazing. When we needed fire wood, Nick and Theresa were there to deliver it within 30 mins. We had a bit of rain but still had an amazing time. Thank you for sharing your little piece of paradise with us!
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D
Dawn
3 weeks ago
22 ft Class B
With pets
I’m so happy we were able to stay here. Kim was wonderful - very welcoming and helpful! The views are amazing and the environment is quiet and relaxing. They have everything you need to enjoy your stay - from canoes and kayaks to fire pits and grills. Make sure you are sitting on the deck to watch the spectacular sunset!
See moreA
Ashlee
3 weeks ago
30 ft Class A
With pets
Great host!!! Beautiful site. Would definitely recommend quite and serene
See moreBay City State Park camping guide
Overview
About
To start with, Bay City State Recreation Area is a prime location for glimpsing migratory birds, so grab your binoculars and hit the trails! Home to Tobico Marsh, one of the biggest wetlands along the Great Lakes, and covering over 2,000 acres that vary between wetland woods, meadow, marshlands, beach and prairie, this park truly has something for everyone. If you’re not the walking-around-looking-at-stuff type, there’s more than a thousand feet of sandy beach for you to lie on, make into castles, or scour for buried treasure. Jump into Lake Huron for an afternoon dip, or take off on a hunting or fishing journey. With both modern and rustic camping options, plus miles of wilderness to explore, this place has your name on it. Seize the bay!
When to go
The ideal time to visit Bay City State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the lake is perfect for swimming. Fall also offers a spectacular display of changing leaves. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, making some activities less accessible.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the sun and bugs.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and exploring the trails.
- Be aware of park hours, which may vary by season, and plan your visit accordingly.
- Don't forget to bring your Recreation Passport for park entry.
Reviews for Bay City State Park Campgrounds
50%
3 ratings · 0 reviews
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