Hello,
Thanks for this question!  There are a few ways to regulate the placement of campers on property.  The first is through a zoning ordinance.  A community can choose to regulate campers or not- it is descretionary.  If the do regulate campers, then they can also regulate: 

• The length of stay: 90 to 180 days per calendar year is common for "up north" communities, other communities might restrict to as little as 30 days-- such as in a highly populated area, in road right of way, or highly regulated. 
• The number of campers allowed on a parcel:  5 or more campers is considered a campground falling under the regulation of the District Health Department and EGLE (MDEQ).  As a result many communities limit the total number to 4 or less.  However some ordiances allow a larger number for a temporary period (such as 10 days or less), to accomodate a family reunion, deer opener, etc. 
• Waste disposal:  while a septic field is not required for campers staying on a property, those filling out a temporary permit might be asked to verify that they are disposing of waste properly. 
• Camper ordinances are typically more focused on properties without a main dwelling, but the use of campers long term on properties with a dwelling can also come under the regulation. 

The other way to regulate campers is less common, but that is through a regulatory ordinance (sometimes called police power ordinance).  This is not a zoning ordinance.  The goal is to limit number of campers, lenght of stay, etc. however any existing campers cannot be grandfathered as may be the case under a zoning ordinance. An example of a Camper Ordinance comes from Webber Township in Lake County. 

Good Luck,
Mary Reilly
MSU Extension