About W.J. Hayes State Park
W.J. Hayes State Park sits in the rolling Irish Hills region of southeast Michigan, built around two lakes — Wamplers and Round — about 20 minutes south of Waterloo State Recreation Area near Onsted. At 654 acres, it's a mid-sized park that punches above its weight for lake access and family amenities.
The modern campground has 180 sites with 20/30-amp electric service, and sites 1 through 10 offer full water hookup. Two mini cabins and two tiny houses give non-tent campers a place to stay, and the park operates year-round.
Things to Do
Wamplers Lake has a large swimming area, two boating access sites, and an accessible fishing pier, with kayak and paddleboard rentals available seasonally. Trails wind through the park's hardwoods and along both lakeshores, and two playgrounds keep families with young kids close to camp. Interpretive programs run through the summer season.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is peak season for the swimming beach and lake activities. The Irish Hills region is also known for fall color, making an autumn stay a scenic option once the crowds thin out.
Reservation Tips
Hayes sits close enough to Ann Arbor and Toledo to draw weekend traffic, but it's typically easier to book than its larger neighbor Waterloo. Reserve through MiDNRReservations.com within the 6-month window, especially if you want one of the full-hookup sites.
Getting There
The park is just off US-12 in Onsted, about 45 minutes southwest of Ann Arbor and an easy stop through the Irish Hills tourist corridor.