Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area Camping Guide 2025

If you’re looking for a peaceful, well-maintained campground surrounded by woods and water in southeastern Michigan, we’d definitely suggest considering Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area. It’s not just a typical state park—it has that quiet, scenic charm that makes it feel more remote than it actually is. Whether you’re camping for a weekend escape, a family outing, or just looking to reconnect with nature, this place has a lot to offer.

What makes it stand out is the mix of modern amenities and natural beauty. The park centers around Lake Minnewanna, a 80-acre lake that’s great for swimming, fishing, paddling, or just enjoying the view from your campsite. The trails wind through hardwood forests and quiet meadows, and the campsites offer a mix of shaded privacy and lakefront access. It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy campfires under the stars but still have access to clean restrooms and a picnic table.

We recommend Metamora-Hadley if you enjoy a well-kept campground with options for both relaxation and light recreation. It’s popular but not overwhelming, and it hits that sweet spot for comfort without feeling overly developed.

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How to Get There

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area is located in Lapeer County, Michigan, about 1 hour north of Detroit. It’s close to small towns like Metamora and Hadley, both of which have basic conveniences like gas stations and grocery stops, but you’ll still feel like you’re away from the city once you arrive.

Exact Address:
3871 Herd Road
Metamora, MI 48455

If you’re coming from Detroit, the most direct route is usually via I-75 North to M-59 West, then up M-24 (Lapeer Road) toward Metamora. From there, you’ll head west on Pratt Road and south on Herd Road to reach the park entrance. There are signs posted along the way, and the entrance is well-marked.

Parking is available at the main entrance near the ranger station and also within the campground loops. Each registered campsite comes with space for one vehicle, and additional vehicles can be parked in overflow lots nearby (with an extra fee). If you’re just visiting for the day, there’s a designated day-use area with lakeside parking and picnic access.

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Permits and Fees

As of this year, you’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport to enter the park—this is required for both day use and camping. If you’re a Michigan resident, the easiest way to get it is during your license plate renewal. It costs $14 annually for residents and $40 for non-residents.

For camping, Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area uses the Michigan DNR’s online reservation system. We’d recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re planning to camp during the summer or on weekends. Walk-in availability is very limited and not guaranteed.

Here’s a breakdown of current camping fees:

• Standard sites: $25–$33 per night, depending on the season and location
• Lakefront sites: Slightly higher, around $30–$35 per night
• Electric hookup sites: Available at most loops, no extra charge beyond the site fee
• Reservation fee: $8 (non-refundable)

There are no additional permits required for fires or hiking, but you are expected to follow the park’s posted rules. If you’re fishing in Lake Minnewanna, you’ll also need a valid Michigan fishing license.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping here is designated only within the developed campground loops—dispersed camping is not allowed anywhere in the recreation area. There are about 90 campsites in total, divided among a few loops, each with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and water spigots.

Some key rules to know before you go:

• Group size: One campsite can accommodate up to 6 people and 2 tents (or 1 RV and 1 tent). Larger groups will need to book multiple sites.
• Quiet hours: From 10 PM to 8 AM, enforced by park rangers. Generators must also be turned off during these hours.
• Campfires: Fires are only allowed in the designated fire rings. Firewood is available for sale at the park, and bringing outside firewood is discouraged due to invasive species risks. We recommend buying it locally or at the campground.
• Pets: Allowed on a leash (no longer than 6 feet). Keep them out of the swim area.
• Trash and waste: Pack out or use the provided dumpsters. Please don’t leave trash at the site or in the fire rings.
• Leave No Trace: Even though you’re in a developed campground, it’s still important to respect the natural surroundings. Don’t carve trees, scatter trash, or leave gear behind.

Park staff are on-site during the day and occasionally patrol the area, especially on weekends. Most campers are respectful and the area stays pretty clean, but you can always report any major issues to the ranger station.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

We’ve looked into reviews, maps, and camper feedback to get a sense of where the best sites are—and here’s what we’d recommend if you’re planning a trip:

Lakefront Sites

If you’re looking for views, the sites along Lake Minnewanna are hard to beat. They offer direct access to the water, easy spots to launch a kayak or canoe, and peaceful scenery during sunset. Sites 53–58 and 61–63 are especially popular. Just be aware that these sites tend to book fast, so try to reserve well ahead of time.

Pros: Beautiful views, close to the water, breezy and cooler in summer.
Cons: Less privacy, more foot traffic near the lake.

Wooded Interior Sites

If you prefer shade, quiet, and a bit more space between neighbors, go for the sites tucked into the inner loops—especially around sites 10–20. These offer good tree cover, less wind, and more privacy. They’re also closer to the hiking trails and farther from the beach and day-use areas, which can mean a quieter overall experience.

Pros: Private, shaded, and good for hammocks or longer stays.
Cons: A bit of a walk to reach the lake or restrooms.

Corner or End Sites

We’ve found that corner sites like 7, 24, or 66 offer a little extra breathing room since they border fewer other sites. These are great if you have young kids who need space to play, or you just want a quieter setup.

Pros: Extra space, less crowding, good airflow.
Cons: Sometimes closer to roads or trails, so expect some occasional foot or vehicle traffic.

In general, weekday visits are the best way to avoid crowds. On summer weekends, the campground does fill up, especially during holidays and peak vacation weeks. If you’re after peace and quiet, we recommend visiting in late spring (May–early June) or early fall (September–mid October)—you’ll still get beautiful weather, and the campgrounds are far less busy.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

One of the things we really like about Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area is how the hiking options give you a taste of Michigan’s rolling terrain without feeling too strenuous. It’s great if you want to take a casual nature walk or get in a bit of cardio without packing full-on backpacking gear.

There are several well-marked trails, mostly moderate in difficulty. The trails loop through forested areas, around wetlands, and along the edge of Lake Minnewanna, so there’s a good mix of scenery. If you’re camping, the trailheads are easy to reach from any of the campground loops.

Here are a few recommended routes:

• Blue Trail Loop (2.5 miles): Probably the most popular hike. It loops through hardwood forest, and there’s a short boardwalk section near the marsh that’s great for spotting birds and frogs.
• Lakeview Trail (1.3 miles): An easier walk with occasional water views, good for families or early morning strolls. It’s mostly flat, so no major effort needed.
• Equestrian Trail (multi-use, 5+ miles): If you’re up for a longer route, this trail loops around the outer edge of the park. Hikers can use it too, but you’ll want sturdy shoes—it can get muddy after rain.

The terrain overall is fairly gentle, with a few sandy patches and some roots and rocks underfoot. Most trails are shaded, which makes summer hiking more comfortable. We recommend grabbing a trail map at the entrance booth or snapping a photo of the large trail board posted near the day-use area, just to keep yourself oriented.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Even though this campground is more developed than backcountry areas, it still pays to pack smart. You don’t need ultra-lightweight gear, but a few thoughtful items will make your trip a lot more comfortable.

Here’s a list we’d recommend for most campers:

Camping Essentials:

• Tent with rainfly (summers can be stormy)
• Ground tarp or footprint (especially helpful during wet spells)
• Sleeping bag rated for 40–50°F (spring/fall nights get chilly)
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Camp chairs or a folding table (sites include picnic tables, but seating is limited)

Cooking and Water:

• Camp stove or charcoal grill (no gas grills on site)
• Refillable water jugs (there are water spigots, but no hookups)
• Water filtration system or tablets, if you plan to get water from natural sources (we’d only recommend this in an emergency)
• Cooler with ice packs (no power at sites unless you bring a generator)

Day Gear:

• Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals
• Small backpack or daypack
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Hat and lightweight clothing for sun protection
• Rain jacket or poncho—especially for summer storms

Storage Tips:
It’s a good idea to store all food in sealed plastic bins or coolers and keep them locked inside your vehicle overnight. While this isn’t deep wilderness, there are still raccoons and other small critters who will go after any food left out. We wouldn’t recommend hanging food like you would in bear country—just lock it up and keep a tidy campsite.

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Water and Food Tips

There are hand-pump water stations and spigots scattered around the campground, but we always suggest you bring your own drinking water if possible. The spigot water is safe and treated, but it can taste a little metallic or earthy depending on the season.

You won’t find potable water at the trailheads or lakefront, so make sure to fill up before any hikes or paddling sessions. For peace of mind, we’d suggest packing a simple water filter bottle or purification tablets just in case—especially if you’re planning to be active and don’t want to hike back to camp just for a refill.

For food storage, stick with sealed, lidded bins and coolers. The temperatures can fluctuate quickly (especially in fall), so you don’t want food spoiling or attracting animals. If you’re bringing fresh produce or raw meat, double-bag and keep ice packs refreshed. There’s no camp store on-site, but small grocery stores are available in Hadley and Metamora, both within a 10–15 minute drive.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

We’d say the sweet spot for camping at Metamora-Hadley is from late May to mid-June, or again in early September through mid-October. These windows give you mild weather, fewer bugs, and less crowding compared to the heart of summer.

Here’s what to expect by season:

• Spring (April–May): Great for hiking and wildflowers. Nights are cold (often in the 30s–40s), and the ground can be soggy. Ticks and mosquitoes start showing up by late May.
• Summer (June–August): Warm, sunny days (highs in the 70s–80s) and humid nights. July can be buggy, especially after rain. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so bring a tarp or rainfly.
• Fall (September–October): Probably our favorite time here. Crisp air, colorful leaves, and fewer bugs. Nights drop into the 40s, so bring warmer layers. The park is less crowded after Labor Day, too.

One tip we’d offer is to check the forecast daily while you’re there. Storms can come through quickly, especially in July and August. Always stake your tent well and don’t leave gear out when you head to the lake or trails.

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Safety and Navigation

Metamora-Hadley isn’t backcountry wilderness, but it’s still smart to prepare and be aware of your surroundings. The trail system is simple, but it’s easy to miss a turn if you’re distracted or hiking at dusk.

Here are a few tips we’d recommend:

• Download or carry a paper map. Cell service is decent for most of the park, but there are occasional dead zones, especially near the far trails.
• Stick to marked trails. There are unofficial side paths and game trails—avoid these unless you know the area well.
• Tell someone your plans. If you’re hiking solo or leaving camp for a long stretch, just let someone in your group know where you’re heading and when you plan to return.
• Pack a basic first aid kit. Blisters, bug bites, and minor scrapes happen more often than you’d think.
• Check for ticks. Especially if you’ve been in grassy or brushy areas. Light-colored clothing helps spot them early.

There are park rangers and DNR staff onsite most days, especially on weekends. In case of emergencies, the closest medical center is in Lapeer, about 20 minutes away by car. If you’re out hiking and something goes wrong, call 911 and provide the park name and your approximate location.

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Leave No Trace Principles

Camping at Metamora-Hadley is a chance to enjoy quiet woods, lake views, and peaceful trails—but it’s also on us to keep the place clean and thriving for everyone else who comes after. We always recommend following Leave No Trace principles, even in more developed campgrounds like this one.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Pack out all trash, even food scraps. Don’t leave anything behind—not even fruit peels or eggshells. They attract wildlife and don’t break down as quickly as you’d think.
• Use designated fire rings only. Don’t build new ones or leave hot coals behind. Fully extinguish fires before you go to bed or leave camp.
• Stay on marked trails. Wandering off-trail damages the vegetation, especially in marshy or sandy areas.
• Respect wildlife. Don’t feed animals or leave food out overnight. Even small critters can get aggressive or dependent on human food.
• Keep noise low. Quiet hours at the campground are typically from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m., but even during the day, keeping your volume down helps preserve the natural feel of the area.

It’s simple stuff, but doing it right makes a huge difference. If we all clean up after ourselves and treat the place with care, it’ll stay beautiful and welcoming year after year.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re camping for more than a night or just want to explore the area, there are a few nice spots within driving distance that are worth checking out.

• Seven Ponds Nature Center (about 10 minutes away): A peaceful place for birding, walking trails, or just learning a bit more about the local ecosystem.
• Historic Downtown Lapeer (20 minutes away): Good for a lunch stop, small shops, or picking up supplies if you forgot something.
• Ortonville State Recreation Area (25 minutes away): If you’re up for more hiking, this spot has less-developed trails and fewer crowds.
• Lake Orion and Oxford (both under 30 minutes): These small towns offer restaurants, coffee shops, and casual shopping if you’re looking for a break from camp life.

We’d recommend keeping a flexible schedule. Whether you’re escaping for solitude or mixing nature with a bit of town exploring, this area gives you both.

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Suggested Itineraries

We’ve got a couple of easy trip ideas to help you plan, depending on how much time you have.

1-Night Quick Trip (Great for Beginners or Locals)

What to Pack:

• Tent and basic bedding
• Lightweight stove or pre-prepped meals
• Water jugs and snacks
• Camp chairs and flashlight

Campground Tip:
Reserve a site close to the main restroom building (like in Loop A) for convenience.

What to Do:

• Arrive mid-afternoon, check in, and set up camp
• Take a sunset walk along the Lakeview Trail
• Cook dinner, enjoy the fire ring, and stargaze
• Pack up after breakfast the next day and maybe swing by Seven Ponds Nature Center before heading home

2-3 Night Adventure (For a More Relaxed Trip)

What to Pack:

• All the basics plus extra layers for cool evenings
• A trail map and small first aid kit
• Bug spray and sun protection
• Books or games for downtime

Where to Camp:
Sites in Loop B offer a nice balance of shade and privacy. Try to reserve early for weekends.

What to Do:

• Day 1: Settle in, enjoy a lakeside picnic, and walk the Blue Trail before sunset.
• Day 2: Do a full hike around the Equestrian Trail loop, then relax at the beach or go fishing.
• Day 3: Explore nearby towns or have a lazy morning with coffee at your site before heading out.

It’s a pretty flexible spot, so whether you’re camping solo, as a couple, or with kids, you can easily tailor it to your vibe.

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Frequently Asked Questions