Potawatomie Recreation Area, Union City, MI

For Michiganders, the allure of the outdoors is a constant draw, especially when seeking a retreat from the everyday hustle. Whether it's the peaceful embrace of nature, the thrill of lakeside activities, or the warmth of a community atmosphere, finding the perfect camping spot is key to a memorable getaway. In the picturesque landscape of Southern Michigan, Potawatomie Recreation Area in Union City emerges as a prime destination, offering a delightful blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, all set against the backdrop of tranquil Fox Lake.

Potawatomie Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a family-owned and operated haven that has been welcoming campers for over 50 years. It’s a place that prides itself on offering a "northern Michigan atmosphere" right here in the southern part of the state, blending serene natural beauty with a lively, friendly vibe. The dedicated team behind Potawatomie pours "so much love into the work they do here, and it shows," creating a clean, enjoyable, and well-maintained environment. From its welcoming staff to its vibrant community events, the campground aims to make every visitor feel at home, whether they are staying for a weekend, a week, or an entire season. It’s a place where lasting memories are made, friendships are forged, and the simple joys of camping are truly celebrated.

Potawatomie Recreation Area is conveniently located at 1117 Bell Rd, Union City, MI 49094, USA. This location is particularly advantageous for Michigan residents, offering a serene lakeside setting while remaining accessible from various parts of the state. Union City is a charming river village that provides a peaceful backdrop for the campground.

The accessibility of Potawatomie Recreation Area makes it a popular choice for locals. It's situated on Fox Lake, one of three connected non-motorized lakes (trolling motors only), which ensures a quiet and pristine aquatic environment. The campground is well within driving distance of major Michigan cities: approximately 30 minutes from Battle Creek, 44 minutes from Jackson, and about an hour from Lansing and Kalamazoo. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend escape or a longer vacation for residents across Southern Michigan. While offering a sense of seclusion, the campground is still close enough to Union City and nearby towns to access any necessary supplies or services. The peaceful roads leading to the campground contribute to the feeling of getting away from it all, making the journey part of the relaxing experience.

Potawatomie Recreation Area provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to cater to a diverse range of campers and ensure a comfortable stay.

Campsites: The campground offers 180 campsites, accommodating both seasonal and transient (daily/weekly) campers. Sites range from rustic to those with full hookups (water, electric, and some with sewer).
Camp Store & Office: A well-stocked camp store provides essential supplies including candy, pop, water, caramel corn, groceries, ice, firewood, live bait, camping supplies, and gifts. It's also home to award-winning, super-premium hand-dipped ice cream and homemade waffle cones. The staff is noted for being readily "available on line or at the store."
Clean Facilities: Clean showers and restrooms are available for all campers.
Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities offer convenience for longer stays.
Boat Rentals: For lake enjoyment, the campground offers rentals of fishing boats, paddleboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Campers are also welcome to bring their own non-motorized boats (trolling motors only).
Nature Trails: Extensive nature trails are available for walking, hiking, and exploring the wooded surroundings.
Game Room/Arcade: An arcade room provides indoor entertainment, especially useful on rainy days.
Playground: A large playground ensures children have plenty of space for fun and play.
Fishing Dock: A dedicated fishing dock provides easy access to Fox Lake for anglers.
Basketball Court & Horseshoe Pits: Recreational areas for sports and games are available.

Potawatomie Recreation Area shines with a variety of features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a cherished Michigan camping destination.

Family-Owned & Operated for Over 50 Years: The long-standing family ownership brings a personal touch and a deep commitment to the campground's quality and community feel.
Fox Lake Access (Non-Motorized): Direct access to Fox Lake, part of a three-lake chain, offers a tranquil environment perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding without the noise of large motorboats.
Large Sandy Beach and Swimming Raft: A spacious sandy beach and a swimming raft provide excellent areas for safe and enjoyable water recreation for all ages.
Award-Winning Ice Cream: The exclusive offering of The Chocolate Shoppe's super-premium hand-dipped ice cream, served on homemade waffle cones, is a unique and highly praised highlight.
Dedicated and Friendly Staff: Reviews consistently commend the "amazing" people running the campground, highlighting their availability, helpfulness, and the "love" they put into their work.
Vibrant Community Events: Potawatomie is known for its engaging events, with the "Halloween event" being particularly highlighted as "the best!" These events foster a strong sense of community and fun.
"Northern Michigan Atmosphere" in Southern Michigan: The campground successfully creates a feeling of being further north, offering a quiet, wooded, and serene environment that many Michiganders seek in their outdoor escapes.
Pet-Friendly Environment: Well-behaved pets are welcome, allowing families to enjoy their camping trips with their furry companions.

While specific, detailed public promotions for transient (daily/weekly) stays were not extensively available in the provided information, Potawatomie Recreation Area does clearly outline its seasonal rates, which are often a form of promotion for long-term commitment. For instance, seasonal rates for a full season (April 15 to October 15) are as follows:

Partial Sewer Sites: $2,400.00
Sewer Sites: $2,600.00

These rates are typically based on 2 adults and their children or grandchildren under 6 years old per lot. Additional fees apply for children aged 6-17 ($15 each) and additional adults ($50 each), with a maximum of 8 people per lot. A deposit is usually required in the fall prior to the season. The campground also offers winter camper storage for $150. Given that specific daily or weekly specials can change seasonally, it is highly recommended that prospective campers contact Potawatomie Recreation Area directly. They will be able to provide the most current information on any short-term promotions, package deals, or discounts that might be available for your desired camping period.

For reservations, to inquire about site availability, or to learn more about the amenities and policies at Potawatomie Recreation Area, please use the following contact information:

Address: 1117 Bell Rd, Union City, MI 49094, USA

Phone: (517) 278-4289

Mobile Phone: +1 517-278-4289

You can also contact them via email at potawatomie@yahoo.com. Reaching out directly to the helpful staff will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your visit to this delightful Michigan campground.

For Michigan locals seeking an exceptional camping experience, Potawatomie Recreation Area stands out as an ideal choice, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and a genuinely welcoming community. Its unique "northern Michigan atmosphere" within easy reach of southern population centers makes it a convenient and refreshing escape. The non-motorized Fox Lake provides a serene environment for fishing, swimming, and paddling, appealing to those who cherish peaceful lakeside recreation. The robust array of amenities, including a well-stocked camp store with award-winning ice cream, clean facilities, and various recreational options like playgrounds and nature trails, ensures comfort and entertainment for all ages. What truly sets Potawatomie apart, however, is its dedicated and friendly staff, who are consistently praised for their commitment to making every camper feel at home and for organizing memorable events like the Halloween celebration. Whether you're looking for a short weekend getaway or a seasonal home away from home, Potawatomie Recreation Area offers a safe, fun, and relaxing environment that perfectly captures the spirit of Michigan camping.