State Says Trailer Rules at Camp Dearborn Must Change

Big changes may be in store for camping trailers at Camp Dearborn this year following a decision by the state.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality recently informed Dearborn city officials that trailers larger than 400 square feet will no longer be allowed at the camp, because the state considers them mobile homes.

The state also prohibits any “permanent structure that requires footings,” or any structure to be fixed in the ground that supports a patio deck or enclosure. The camp will have to address any trailers that have a cabana or covering enclosing the trailer, as well.

Mayor John B. O'Reilly said the city is working with the DEQ to determine a mutually beneficial timeline. If the city doesn’t take care of the problem, however, the state could close the whole campground.

Camp Dearborn is located in Milford, but it is owned and operated by the city of Dearborn. In an effort to capitalize on the summer travel season, the campground recently added several cabins and this year it implemented a designated pet-friendly area.

The trial program will run from Memorial Day to Labor Day and includes 45 campsites. Thirty sites are electric only and 15 are full service. Patrons will pay an extra $2 a day to use the pet friendly areas.


According to the camp's website, animals must be kept on a leash at all times, and up to date on all vaccinations. Dogs cannot be left unattended and are not allowed in buildings, lakes, pools, cabins, or tents. Pets must stay in designated areas of the park.

For more information, visit http://www.campdearborn.com/.