About Lake Hudson State Recreation Area
Lake Hudson State Recreation Area sits near Clayton in Lenawee County, close to the Ohio border in south-central Michigan. It's a quiet, semi-modern campground on a no-wake lake, notable for its designated dark sky preserve — one of the better stargazing spots in the southern Lower Peninsula, far enough from major cities to see a genuinely dark sky.
The campground has 48 large, private sites with some shade and lake views, plus electrical service at some sites (though pedestals are often located between campsites, so a 50-foot extension cord helps). Potable water comes from a hand pump at the entrance rather than site-by-site plumbing, and vault toilets serve the campground rather than modern restrooms. Two cabin options — a Lakeview Cabin (sleeps 3) and an ADA-accessible Bear Creek Tiny House (sleeps 4) — give non-tent campers a place to stay.
Things to Do
The no-wake lake is well suited to quiet paddling and fishing without the noise of powerboats, and the dark sky preserve designation makes clear-night stargazing the park's real specialty. It's a low-key destination overall — more about unplugging than checking off a long activity list.
Best Time to Visit
Clear nights any time of year are worth planning around for stargazing, though summer brings the most comfortable camping temperatures. The campground typically operates April through November.
Reservation Tips
Lake Hudson is one of the easier southern Michigan parks to book, with far less pressure than the Irish Hills parks to the north. Reserve through MiDNRReservations.com within the 6-month window, and bring an extension cord if you want an electric site.
Getting There
The park is just off M-34 near Clayton, about 15 minutes from the Ohio border and 45 minutes south of Ann Arbor.