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Michigan (MI)
Howell
Howell Attractions
Brighton Recreation Area
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Brighton Recreation Area

See all things to do
See all things to do
Brighton Recreation Area
4.5
38 reviews
#6 of 20 things to do in Howell
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
4.5
38 reviews
Excellent
24
Very good
10
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
3
JD D
1 contribution
not fun
Jun 2021
If you are a RVer then during hot weather you need to avoid camping in this park. The electrical grid can not handle the power usage during hot weather. Low voltage will burn out many expensive appliances. This has gotten worse over the years and they will not fix it. So stay away if you own an RV, unless you are confident with only useless excuses.
Written 18 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Douglas A
Brighton, MI130 contributions
Wonderful Park for Canoeing & Kayaking
Oct 2020
This is our favorite place for canoeing. There are several lakes with easy boat ramp access, ranging from the relatively small Chilson Pond (only suitable early in the season - too choked with water weeds as the summer progresses) to the charming and less used Appleton Lake, up to the whole Bishop Lake complex which itself is in two parts connected by a pair of fun, narrow channels, and a further, longer channel connects to Caroga Lake. The run from Bishop Lake ramp to Caroga Lake and back is a very pleasant way to spend an hour or two on the water.

While the lakes are frozen in the winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn each have their unique charms. Bird watching is always great - we have seen flocks of Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Herons and other waterfowl, and many, many kinds of songbirds. We like to get out on the water early in the morning before the summer crowds arrive and the water is still. Later in the day, you may have to wait a bit for your turn at the boat ramp, particularly at the popular Bishop Lake. For kayakers, the Bishop Lake boat launch features a self-launch apparatus.

While we have not used the other features of the park, it has three campgrounds, cabins for rent, an equestrian area, archery course, picnic grounds, and a beach and waterfront that also contains Jump Island, a set of large, inflated floats of various shapes that appear to be great fun for kids.

Finally, the park is crisscrossed with numerous trails - it is a very popular mountain biking destination.

The park does require a State Recreation Pass, but if you enjoy the outdoors, it is well worth the investment, particularly to visit such a wonderful park so close to civilization.
Written 6 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jllm3919
Howell, MI64 contributions
Nature Hikes
Oct 2019
Over the past couple months I made several hikes oh the trails available in the park.
During the summer, the dense trees, well maintained trails and beautiful scenery mad for a peaceful, meditative walk.
In the last couple weeks I was able to return for an Autumn Colors hike with the Sierra Club. The changes were incredible and breathtaking. The bright reds, deep oranges and mellow browns truly make you believe in the existence of a greater power.
Come for a visit and appreciate the beauty of Livingston County.
Written 2 December 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Matt S
Brighton, MI2,167 contributions
Great state park
Aug 2018 • Family
Great modern camp sites, a great lake (Bishop Lake) with good beach and water sports, fantastic biking and walking trails, a fantastic group camp site, and an overall beautiful grounds makes Brighton Rec area a go-to place for us for both day trips and overnight camping. There is a lot to do here for the whole family!
Written 13 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Justin W
Highland, MI674 contributions
Great campground
Oct 2018 • Family
Wonderful gem close to home. Kids love the trick or treating the campground does in late September. Clean restrooms and shower area. Lots of things for kids to do. Nice lake.
Written 23 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tomvpsr
Howell, MI21 contributions
Halloween Weekend was great --- Next year you could do it.
Oct 2018 • Family
Each Year the Park sponsors 3 weekends of Halloween. Complete with Pumpkin Carving, Costumes and Trick or Treating too. Hunts and dances as well. Only Trick, You have to make Reservations 6 months ahead. Upon Leaving the nasty job of Dark Tank Emptying is made easier because the Park provides Clean-out Hoses. They try hard!
Written 15 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Scott130
Livonia, MI576 contributions
"Delightful"
Aug 2018 • Couples
A wealth of activities are waiting for You: swimming, camping, hiking & horseback riding, just to name a few. The water is crystal clear!
Written 9 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
john b
Northville, MI250 contributions
Day out
Jul 2018 • Friends
Brighton recreational areas offer a lot , Such things as picnicking, horseback riding Lakes for fishing and kayaking and sailing. There’s also golf courses and Woods in hiking trails there’s an endless number of things to do in the Brighton area in the recreational areas
Written 16 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rafael H
Howell, MI28 contributions
Fun place
May 2018 • Solo
Haven't been here for a long time, forgot how fun and mind clearing this place can be. Will definitely be back with family and friends.
Written 18 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Annette Y
1 contribution
Dog Feces and Loud
Jun 2018 • Friends
Bishop Lake was once a beautiful beach to take children. Today a worker was not picking up after her dog that she brought with her. The same worker had a megaphone and was being loud and rude to the guest. The experience was unpleasant and I will not be returning in the future. I would give zero stars if it were possible. Beaches are supposed to offer a relaxing experience enjoying nature.
Written 13 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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BRIGHTON RECREATION AREA (Howell) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Frequently Asked Questions about Brighton Recreation Area