Amazon's RV Store 
   

Notice: Click on the Disclaimer button prior to taking any action shown on this website.

Special Notice for European Union (EU) viewers. Due to the GDPR, you are NOT AUTHORIZED to access this website for any purpose whatsoever. Continued use is a violation of US LAW.
See the disclaimer for more information.

Pinckney State Recreation Area, Pinckney, Mi.


Camping at the Pinckney State Recreation Area, Pinckney, Mi.

 

Passport America, Save 50% on Campsites

 

The Pinckney State Recreation Area consists of several lakes within the larger Waterloo Recreation Area, which is around 60sq miles with several campgrounds and miles of bicycle and hiking trails.

Bruin Lake, which is the main modern campsite within the Pinckney area, consists of 139 well maintained campsites. The lake is located about 20 miles northwest of Ann Arbor, Mi., and around 60 miles from the Detroit metro area.

A quaint town of Hell is located nearby, which is the typical tourist trap. However, you can get your postage stamped here, and it is a popular mailing location on Apr 15th (tax day) by some residents.

There are no convenience stores nearby, so bring what you need with you if you have limited transportation. There is firewood and ice available at the campground.

The closest town is Chelsea, where Actor/Singer Jeff Daniels (Dumb and Dumber) lives. Jeff is a big-time RV'er, and there is a nice RV dealership in town (Lloyd Bridges RV). You will not likely see Jeff at the state park though.

However, if you have time, be sure to take in the Purple Rose Theater in Chelsea, which was founded by Jeff Daniels.

There is no sandy beach, however, the water bottom is sandy at least for the first 50ft or so out into the lake. The lake itself is rather shallow, and many fishing holes can be found here. You can also fish off a 100ft pier on the state park property. A Yurt is also available for rent if you do not have any camping gear.


Campsite.

 

Bruin Lake.

Asphalt Paved Campsite.

 


Bruin Lake Campground - Pinckney State Park Review.
 

 

Websites:
Hell, Michigan
Lloyd Bridges Traveland
Purple Rose Theater Company

 

Passport America, Save 50% on Campsites

 

 


Last reviewed and/or updated May 10, 2026