6 Stunning State Parks Near Detroit Where You Can Camp All Year-Round
No matter what the weather is like, there’s something wonderful about escaping the city for a camping adventure. Whether you’re bringing along the whole family or enjoying a romantic getaway with your sweetheart among nature, a day or two spent in the great outdoors is undoubtedly good for the soul. If you’re looking for year-round options, here are six fantastic state parks (and state recreation areas) within driving distance of Detroit that will satisfy your camping cravings.
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If you’re looking for the most traditional year-round camping experience near Detroit, make the one hour and fifteen minute drive to Algonac State Park, which sits along the shores of the stunning St. Clair River. With options for tent camping, cabins, and RVs available for reservation in any season, there’s something here for everyone. Once you’ve settled into your campsite, take time to watch Great Lakes freighters make their way down the river.
2. Bald Mountain Recreation Area (3361 S Lapeer Road, Orion Charter Township)
While tent and RV camping are off-limits during the chillier months at Bald Mountain, you can still enjoy an overnight stay in one of the park’s two rustic cabins: the Arrowroot Cabin and the Morel Cabin. Both cabins can accommodate up to 20 guests and are rentable for just $90 per night. During your stay, you’ll enjoy 15 miles of trails, opportunities for year-round fishing, and a lovely swimming beach.
3. Proud Lake State Recreation Area (2700 Glengary Road, Commerce Charter Twp)
In addition to a traditional campground that operates between April and November, Proud Lake State Recreation area in Commerce Township features two camper cabins and a modern lodge that can be rented year-round. The Ivy and Trillium camper cabins can accommodate six guests each and offer visitors the chance to enjoy a camping experience regardless of outside conditions. The larger River Hawk Lodge sleeps 24 and features a modern kitchen, a community-style bathroom, and easy park access.
4. Sleepy Hollow State Park (7835 E Price Road, Laingsburg)
When you check out Sleepy Hollow State Park between April and October, you’ll be able to enjoy standard tent camping - but don’t let these dates keep you from dropping by during other seasons. In fact, the park offers year-round camping experiences via two on-site cabins: one modern and one rustic. At a nightly rate of $101, the modern cabin sleeps six guests and will become pet-friendly in November 2021. The rustic cabin also sleeps six and can be reserved for $68 per night.
5. Pinckney State Recreation Area (8555 Silver Hill Road, Pinckney)
Looking for a truly unique camping outing? Head to Pinckney State Recreation Area in Pinckney, which sits just one hour by car from Detroit. Once there, spend the night in the park’s fascinating Glenbrook Yurt, a year-round shelter that sits along Halfmoon Lake and the Portage River. Up to five guests can sleep in the yurt with a nightly rental fee of just $68. Talk about an awesome adventure.
6. Island Lake State Recreation Area (6301 Kensington Road, Brighton)
Get ready for year-round fun at Island State Recreation Area, which offers traditional campsites during the warmer months and access to its two rustic cabins in every season. The Blue Spruce and White Pine cabins house up to 20 guests each and promise an “Up North experience” just 45 minutes from the Motor City. When you’re ready to reconnect with the great outdoors, look no further.
Have you and your family enjoyed a camping outing at one of these pretty state parks or recreation areas near Detroit? Share your memories and photos with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another awesome outdoor destination by filling out our official nomination form here.