Highland Recreation Area Michigan (MI) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Highland Recreation Area is a fantastic spot for RV camping, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a wide range of recreational activities. The area holds cultural significance as it was once inhabited by Native American tribes and later served as a hub for logging and milling operations. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s heritage and provides a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

The unique geological features of Highland Recreation Area are a result of glacial activity that shaped the landscape thousands of years ago. Visitors can marvel at the rolling hills, scenic woodlands, and picturesque lakes that are a testament to the area’s natural splendor.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Highland Recreation Area. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Highland Recreation Area.

Transportation

Visitors to Highland Recreation Area can access the park via private vehicle with multiple entrances providing convenient entry points. The park is easily navigable by car and guests can explore the various areas within the park using their own vehicles. When it comes to rig sizes it’s important to note that there are restrictions on larger vehicles so RV travelers should check the specific limitations to ensure their rigs are suitable for the park’s roadways and campgrounds.

Highland Recreation Area offers designated RV parking areas at its campgrounds providing convenient accommodations for RV campers. Overnight parking outside of designated campsites is not permitted. It’s recommended to camp with an RV within the park and utilize your vehicle for exploration as the park’s layout and attractions are best accessed by private transportation.

Highland Recreation Area does not offer public transportation options such as shuttle buses or walking paths for getting around the park. Visitors are encouraged to use their private vehicles for transportation within the park as this provides the most flexibility for exploring the various attractions and amenities spread throughout the area.

Top Campsites in Highland Recreation Area

1. Highland State Recreation Area Campground

Located within Highland Recreation Area this campground is a popular choice for RV campers. With 265 sites it offers a range of amenities including electric hookups modern restrooms and a camp store. Activities include hiking fishing and picnicking. The campground is pet-friendly and it operates from April to October accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes.

2. Brighton-Howell KOA Holiday

Situated near Highland Recreation Area this KOA offers 200 sites and features full hookups a swimming pool and a dog park. Campers can enjoy activities such as mini-golf hayrides and outdoor movies. The campground is pet-friendly and operates from April to October welcoming RVs and trailers of different sizes.

3. Holly KOA

The Holly KOA located in close proximity to Highland Recreation Area boasts 150 sites with full hookups a fishing pond and a camp store. Campers can partake in activities like gem mining pedal kart rentals and themed weekends. The campground is pet-friendly open from April to October and accommodates various RV and trailer sizes.

4. Bishop Lake Campground

Nestled within Brighton Recreation Area this campground offers 144 sites with modern amenities including electric hookups and a beach area. Activities at the campground include swimming boating and wildlife viewing. Bishop Lake Campground is pet-friendly open from May to September and welcomes RVs and trailers of different sizes.

1. Hickory Ridge Campground

Hickory Ridge Campground offers 50 first-come-first-served campsites providing a rustic camping experience amidst the natural beauty of Highland Recreation Area. The campground is open from May to September and can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes. While the sites do not have electric hookups campers can enjoy the serene surroundings and access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation. Hickory Ridge Campground is pet-friendly allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.

2. Appleton Lake Campground

Appleton Lake Campground features 25 first-come-first-served sites offering a tranquil setting for camping enthusiasts. Open from May to September the campground welcomes RVs and trailers with no electric hookups available. Campers can immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the area and enjoy activities such as fishing hiking and wildlife observation. The campground is pet-friendly allowing guests to bring their pets to share in the outdoor experience.

3. Spring Mill Pond Campground

Spring Mill Pond Campground provides 35 first-come-first-served sites inviting visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat in the heart of Highland Recreation Area. Open from May to September the campground can accommodate RVs and trailers with no electric hookups on-site. Campers can indulge in outdoor activities such as boating fishing and picnicking while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the park. Spring Mill Pond Campground is pet-friendly making it an ideal destination for those traveling with their four-legged companions.

Private Campgrounds

In the event that campsites within Highland Recreation Area are fully booked RV renters can explore private campgrounds in the vicinity. Options such as the KOA campgrounds in Brighton-Howell and Holly offer additional accommodations with various amenities including full hookups recreational facilities and family-friendly activities. These private campgrounds often provide a range of services and conveniences ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for visitors.

Backcountry Camping

For those seeking a more adventurous camping experience backcountry camping near Highland Recreation Area is a viable option. Nearby state forests and wilderness areas may offer opportunities for dispersed camping allowing RV renters to find secluded spots amidst nature. It’s important to research and adhere to any regulations or permits required for backcountry camping ensuring a responsible and low-impact experience in these natural settings.

Hiking

Hiking is a beloved activity in Highland Recreation Area offering a network of scenic trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. The Hickory Ridge Trail a popular choice winds through woodlands and meadows providing picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Another favorite is the Spring Mill Pond Trail which meanders along the tranquil shores of the pond offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to the pristine lakes and waterways within Highland Recreation Area. Appleton Lake and Spring Mill Pond are prime fishing spots teeming with bass bluegill and other species. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or take to the water in a canoe or kayak to explore the best fishing holes.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the exhilarating trails within the park such as the challenging Hickory Ridge Bike Trail. This singletrack trail offers a thrilling ride through wooded terrain and hilly landscapes providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for cyclists.

Wildlife Watching

Highland Recreation Area is a haven for wildlife making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species including woodpeckers warblers and waterfowl as well as deer foxes and other woodland creatures amidst the park’s diverse habitats.

Boating and Paddling

The park’s tranquil lakes and ponds beckon boaters and paddlers to embark on leisurely excursions. Whether it’s a relaxing canoe ride on Spring Mill Pond or a peaceful paddle around Appleton Lake the waterways offer a serene setting for aquatic adventures.

Sightseeing and Scenic Drives

For RV campers who prefer a more relaxed way to appreciate the beauty of the park scenic drives offer an excellent alternative. The park’s winding roads provide stunning vistas of rolling hills serene lakes and lush woodlands. Visitors can take in the picturesque landscapes from the comfort of their vehicles making for a leisurely and visually captivating experience.

Nature Watching and Birding

Nature watching and birding are popular pastimes for those who appreciate the tranquility of observing wildlife in their natural habitats. Highland Recreation Area is home to a diverse array of bird species making it an ideal location for birdwatching. The park’s woodlands and wetlands provide opportunities to spot a variety of avian residents offering peaceful moments of connection with nature.

Photography Opportunities

The park’s natural beauty and scenic landscapes present numerous Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. From the vibrant wildflowers in spring to the striking fall foliage there are plenty of picturesque scenes to capture. Visitors can seek out iconic spots such as the shores of Spring Mill Pond or the overlooks along the park’s trails to capture memorable images of their RV camping experience.

Picnicking and Relaxation

For a more laid-back outdoor experience RV campers can enjoy picnicking amidst the serene surroundings of Highland Recreation Area. The park offers designated picnic areas with tables and grills providing a peaceful setting for a leisurely outdoor meal or simply unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.

Nature Interpretation and Educational Programs

Highland Recreation Area may offer nature interpretation programs and educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history. These programs can provide insights into the park’s ecosystems wildlife and conservation efforts offering a deeper understanding of the natural wonders that abound in the area.

Season-specific experiences in Highland Recreation Area

Wildflower Viewing

Spring brings a burst of vibrant wildflowers to Highland Recreation Area adorning the meadows and woodlands with a kaleidoscope of colors. RV campers can take leisurely strolls along the park’s trails to marvel at the blooming trilliums violets and other native wildflowers. Notable locations for wildflower viewing include the Hickory Ridge Trail and the woodlands surrounding Spring Mill Pond.

Nature Photography

Springtime in the park provides photographers with an array of captivating subjects from the delicate blossoms of spring wildflowers to the reawakening of the park’s lush greenery. RV campers can capture stunning images of the seasonal beauty with opportunities for nature photography found throughout the park’s picturesque landscapes.

Historical Sites Exploration

Spring is an ideal time for RV campers to explore the historical sites within Highland Recreation Area. The park’s rich history is showcased through remnants of early settlements logging activities and other cultural landmarks. Visitors can embark on historical walks to discover the park’s heritage including the remnants of old mills and logging operations that offer insights into the area’s past.

Birdwatching

Springtime brings a flurry of avian activity to Highland Recreation Area making it an excellent season for birdwatching. RV campers can observe a variety of migratory birds as they pass through the park or make it their temporary home. The diverse habitats within the park provide ample opportunities for birdwatching with species such as warblers thrushes and waterfowl making appearances.

Fishing Excursions

As the weather warms up RV campers can indulge in fishing excursions at the park’s lakes and ponds. Spring offers prime conditions for angling with the opportunity to catch bass bluegill and other fish species. Whether casting a line from the shore or venturing out on the water in a boat fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the park’s aquatic landscapes.

summer Highland Recreation Area offers a plethora of recreational activities for RV campers to enjoy.

Swimming and Beach Relaxation

The summer warmth beckons visitors to the park’s beaches particularly at Spring Mill Pond and Bishop Lake. RV campers can bask in the sun take refreshing dips in the clear waters and unwind on the sandy shores creating memorable moments of lakeside relaxation.

Boating and Water Recreation

The summer season is perfect for boating and water-based recreation at Highland Recreation Area. Whether it’s leisurely paddling in a kayak or canoe or cruising across the serene waters in a motorized boat the park’s lakes and ponds provide an idyllic setting for aquatic adventures.

Family Picnics and Outdoor Gatherings

Summer invites RV campers to partake in leisurely picnics and outdoor gatherings amidst the park’s scenic beauty. Designated picnic areas offer the perfect setting for families and friends to come together enjoy alfresco meals and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

Wildlife Observation

Summer provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation in Highland Recreation Area. RV campers can keep a lookout for a variety of bird species as well as observe the park’s resident mammals and other wildlife amidst the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.

Interpretive Programs and Guided Tours

The summer season may offer interpretive programs and guided tours for visitors to delve into the park’s natural and cultural heritage. These educational opportunities can provide insights into the area’s ecosystems history and conservation efforts offering a deeper understanding of the park’s unique attributes.

Fall Foliage Viewing

The park’s woodlands and scenic trails come alive with the brilliant hues of autumn foliage making it an ideal time for RV campers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the changing seasons. Visitors can embark on leisurely hikes or drives to witness the breathtaking spectacle of golden red and orange leaves adorning the landscape.

Photography Opportunities

Fall presents photographers with an array of captivating subjects from the striking colors of fall foliage to the serene beauty of the park’s lakes and woodlands. RV campers can capture stunning images of the seasonal landscapes with opportunities for nature photography found throughout the park’s picturesque settings.

Bird Migration Observation

Fall brings migratory bird activity to Highland Recreation Area offering birdwatching enthusiasts the chance to witness the spectacle of avian migration. RV campers can observe the diverse bird species as they pass through the park or make it a temporary stopover providing captivating moments of wildlife observation.

Nature Walks and Scenic Strolls

The crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage create an inviting atmosphere for leisurely nature walks and scenic strolls. RV campers can explore the park’s trails taking in the sights and sounds of the season while reveling in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

Wildlife Watching

Fall provides opportunities for wildlife watching as the park’s inhabitants prepare for the seasonal changes. RV campers can keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife including deer birds and other woodland creatures adding an element of natural discovery to their outdoor experience.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

The park’s snow-covered landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. RV campers can traverse the snowy trails and woodlands immersing themselves in the peaceful winter scenery while engaging in invigorating outdoor recreation.

Winter Wildlife Observation

Winter provides unique opportunities for wildlife observation as the park’s resident animals navigate the snowy terrain. RV campers can keep a lookout for signs of wildlife activity and capture glimpses of the park’s winter-adapted inhabitants adding a sense of natural discovery to their winter outdoor experience.

Scenic Winter Photography

The winter wonderland of Highland Recreation Area offers captivating scenes for photographers to capture the beauty of the season. RV campers can take advantage of the park’s snow-draped landscapes and tranquil vistas creating stunning images that showcase the serene charm of winter in the great outdoors.

Cozy Campfire Gatherings

Winter evenings at the park provide opportunities for cozy campfire gatherings where RV campers can gather around the warmth of a crackling fire share stories and savor the peaceful ambiance of the winter nights.

Winter Hiking and Nature Walks

RV campers can embark on winter hikes and nature walks to explore the park’s snow-laden trails and witness the enchanting beauty of the winter scenery. The quietude of the winter landscape offers a unique perspective for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience amidst nature’s wintry embrace.

(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*