You’ll Never Forget Your Stay At Sterling State Park, A Waterfront Campground In Michigan
By Jack Springgate|Published December 21, 2023
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Jack Springgate
Author
I'm proud to be from the great state of Michigan. I've lived in the Mitten several different times throughout my life spending time in all corners of it. My journeys took me up and down the Lake Michigan coast, out east to explore Detroit and Ann Arbor, and to the dense forests of the UP.
Before writing with Only In Your State, I worked as a local TV news reporter and anchor, most recently in South Bend. Many of the stories I covered took place in Southwest Michigan. My roots are even deeper in the Wolverine State as I often head to Kalamazoo to visit family.
When I'm not out exploring nature, I'm avidly watching sports. I specifically have a deep love for the Michigan Wolverines (my alma mater), and I get to write about them and several other Big Ten teams as and editor for Athlon Sports. I also love to enjoy the great outdoors with my wife and our dog, Piper.
I'm excited to share all my favorite Michigan destinations with you. Keep exploring.
There’s no shortage of opportunities to get out and explore in the state of Michigan. I was thrilled when I saw our list of The 22 Best Campgrounds in Michigan so I can keep track of them all. The first one on the list is unique. Sterling State Park in Monroe, Michigan is the only one in Michigan that offers access to Lake Erie.
It’s not alone in being on the water, but it stands out in Southeast Michigan. It’s one of the closest state parks to Detroit, and it’s only a few miles north of Ohio. Here are some of the other features that make this state park a great escape to the outdoors.
Officially named William C. Sterling State Park, this is the only state park in the state with access to Lake Erie. It’s located a few miles north of the Ohio state line and is roughly an hour away from Detroit.
This park protects more than 500 acres of Great Lakes marshlands that are home to a variety of native plant and animal species. The park as a whole takes up approximately 1,300 acres.
The Lake Erie shoreline extends about a mile within the park's borders. This is one of the most popular attractions among those who stay at Sterling State Park.
Even if you’re planning a day trip, the beach and lake provide hours of family-friendly options. Some of my favorite memories growing up involve playing in the sand on a beach in Michigan.
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Camping spots are plentiful and designed for modern campers. Each of their 256 camping spots comes with hookups for RVs and 76 of them have hookups rated at 50 amps. All of their campsites sit directly on Lake Erie providing amazing views.
The RV sites cost roughly $30-42 per night. The park is open year round offering access in the winter. There are a number of trails where visitors can cross-country ski during the colder months.
Being the only park on our list of The 22 Best Campgrounds in Michigan that on Lake Erie, that also means it’s the only one where you can see this amazing sunrise. I’m used to watching the sunset over Lake Michigan, but this side of the state is for the early risers.
Due to the location of the camping spots, everyone will be able to see this beautiful view looking east.
This area is known for great fishing along with close wildlife encounters. Walley is one of the most popular fish people try to catch out of Lake Erie.
During the summer months, guests can rent boats on-site. Perch is also one more common fish people angle for. You can even make your catch dinner with a fish cleaning station located near the park’s boat launch.
Visitors can also rent out one of ten cottages that come with the same excellent views. They come with full amenities and cost $185 per night.
Each cottage comes with a full bathroom, kitchen and sleeping area. If you’re looking for a more private experience, this might be your best option.
I can’t imagine a better camping ground to kick off our list of The 22 Best Campgrounds in Michigan than Sterling State Park in Monroe. It caters to all sorts of interests at all times of the year. Whether you’re someone who loves the beach, is passionate about connecting to nature, or is an early riser who loves to watch the sunrise, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at this state park.
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