Clearwater Campground

ortonville campground

Introduction / Overview

For Michiganders seeking that coveted "up north feel" without the long drive, Clearwater Campground in Ortonville, MI, presents an ideal solution. This isn't just another place to camp; it's a cherished local secret, described by a long-time visitor as a place they "hope to continue to keep coming back each year." Situated on a generous 131-acre property that includes a 35-acre spring-fed lake, Clearwater Campground is a family-owned and operated destination that has been dedicated to providing a unique escape since 2001. It offers a park-like atmosphere designed for relaxation and adventure, making it perfect for both seasoned RVers and those who prefer rustic tent camping. The strong emphasis on cleanliness, friendly service, and a welcoming environment sets it apart, ensuring that every stay is enjoyable and creates lasting memories for families across Michigan. It's truly a "hidden gem" that makes you feel like you are genuinely getting away, even though you’re conveniently close to home.

Location and Accessibility

Clearwater Campground is conveniently located at 1140 S Ortonville Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462, USA. This prime address places it in northern Oakland County, offering excellent accessibility for residents throughout Southeast and Mid-Michigan, including those from the greater Detroit metropolitan area, Flint, and surrounding communities. Ortonville itself provides a charming backdrop, offering a rural setting that immediately transports you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, yet maintains convenient access to necessary amenities. The campground is easily reachable via well-maintained roads, making the drive stress-free for all types of vehicles, from cars pulling pop-ups to large RVs. Despite its "secluded" feel, the presence of a gas station within walking distance and a Meijer just a short drive away ensures that you're never too far from essentials, striking a perfect balance between getting away and having convenient access. This combination of natural seclusion and easy accessibility makes Clearwater Campground a highly practical and desirable destination for Michigan locals looking for a quick and rewarding escape into nature.

Services Offered

• Full Hookup RV Sites: Offers 100 full hookup sites with 30 & 50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections, accommodating various RV sizes, including big rigs. Many sites feature paved roads.
• Primitive Tent Sites: Provides 15 dedicated primitive tent sites for campers who prefer a more rustic experience without water or electric hookups directly at the site. Porta-johns are available in this area.
• Cabin Rentals: Features 2 Amish-built cabins (small and large) available for rent, offering a more comfortable camping alternative.
• Park Model Rentals: Fully furnished park models are available for rent, typically for a minimum of 3 months, providing longer-term stay options.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: "The bathrooms are always clean with great warm water for showering," a highlight for many campers, ensuring comfort and hygiene.
• Coin Laundry: A 24-hour coin-operated laundromat is available on-site for convenience.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is provided for RVs, including for non-campers at a fee.
• Propane Exchange: Offers propane exchange services on-site.
• DNR Certified Firewood Sales: Sells DNR certified firewood to prevent the spread of disease, as outside wood is not permitted.
• On-site Store: While not "stocked," it offers ice, some groceries, ice cream, candy, RV supplies, clothing, and gifts.
• Wi-Fi: Available throughout the park, supporting mobile devices and streaming, though sometimes better for basic activities like email.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed (with some restrictions and fees for extra pets), ensuring furry family members can join the fun. Note: No pets allowed in cabins.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Staff and Management: A recurring highlight from visitor reviews is the "amazing" staff who "goes above and beyond in making sure your stay is enjoyable." This dedication to customer service fosters a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere, making campers feel valued and well-cared for during their stay. The family-owned and operated nature of the campground contributes to this personal touch.
• Immaculate Facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms, noting they are "always clean with great warm water for showering." This attention to hygiene significantly enhances the comfort and overall experience, making even rustic camping feel more luxurious.
• "Up North Feel" Close to Home: For many Michiganders, the ability to experience a genuine "up north feel" without the extended drive is a huge advantage. Clearwater Campground's wooded, serene environment successfully creates this illusion, making it a perfect quick getaway for those craving nature but limited on travel time. It’s truly a "great hidden gem to make you feel like you are getting away!"
• Private Lake Access: The campground boasts a 35-acre spring-fed lake, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (catch and release), swimming from a sandy beach, and small boating. The clean water provides a refreshing experience and a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and recreation.
• Abundance of Family-Friendly Activities: Clearwater Campground is designed with families in mind. It features two playgrounds, a baseball field, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, mini-golf, and a gaga ball pit. There's also a petting zoo with various farm animals, including peacocks and a burro, which is a particular delight for children. Planned activities on special weekends, like dances and games, further enhance the family fun.
• Diverse Site Options: With 100 full hookup RV sites and 15 primitive tent sites, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences. Many RV sites are spacious, paved, and offer 30 & 50 amp service, while tenters can enjoy a more traditional, rugged experience. The availability of cabins and park models provides even more flexibility for different comfort levels.
• Secluded Yet Convenient: While offering a secluded, natural environment, the campground maintains easy accessibility to local conveniences. Being within walking distance to a gas station and a short drive to a Meijer means campers have access to supplies without sacrificing the feeling of being away from it all.

Contact Information

Address: 1140 S Ortonville Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462, USA

Phone: (248) 627-3820

Mobile Phone: +1 248-627-3820

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability, cabin or park model rentals, or details on current rates and events, contacting Clearwater Campground directly via the provided phone numbers is the most efficient method. You can also visit their official website by searching "Clearwater Campground Ortonville MI" online, which often provides more comprehensive information, including a detailed list of amenities and rules. It's always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak season (April 15th to October 15th), to ensure a smooth booking and enjoyable stay.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michiganders, Clearwater Campground in Ortonville truly stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable destination for their next outdoor adventure. Its prime location offers the best of both worlds: a genuine "up north feel" with ample seclusion, yet conveniently close to home for residents across Southeast Michigan. This proximity means less travel time and more precious hours spent enjoying the beautiful outdoors. The consistent praise for its "amazing staff" who "goes above and beyond" ensures a welcoming and well-managed experience, making it a place where many, like one reviewer, "hope to continue to keep coming back each year." The dedication to cleanliness, particularly in the "always clean bathrooms with great warm water for showering," sets a high standard for comfort in a camping environment. Clearwater Campground is a haven for families, offering an impressive array of activities from a private lake for swimming and fishing to playgrounds, sports courts, and a charming petting zoo with farm animals. The diverse range of sites, including full hookup RV spots and rustic tent areas, caters to every camping style. For locals, this "hidden gem" provides an accessible, amenity-rich, and genuinely friendly environment where they can escape, recharge, and create lasting family memories without the long journey. It embodies the essence of Michigan's outdoor charm, making it an indispensable part of the local camping scene.

Clearwater Campground

1140 S Ortonville Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462, USA