Tent camping near Algonac, Michigan provides access to the extensive waterways of the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair. Located at the southern end of Michigan's thumb region, the area features flat terrain with sandy soil suitable for tent stakes and setup. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day with cooler evenings, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature variations and occasional precipitation.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Campers at P.L. Graham Park & Campground can launch canoes and kayaks directly from the property into the Black River. According to a camper, "This is a great place to bring a kayak & canoe. Worn in dock area but still accessible."
Fishing access: The Black River offers productive fishing spots right from the campground shoreline. One visitor noted, "We saw a few people fishing and they had some catches."
Family recreation: Port Huron KOA offers extensive recreational facilities beyond just camping. A reviewer mentions, "Jumping pillow, tons of scheduled activities, equipment rentals, trails nearby. There is a movie theater, old one room schoolhouse, camp store, pools, number boats and putt putt."
What campers like
Natural setting: P.L. Graham Park & Campground offers spacious tent sites with good separation between campers. As one reviewer states, "There is ample space between campgrounds. A fire pit is located at each of the sites."
Water proximity: Sites at P.L. Graham Park offer direct waterfront access or wooded seclusion. A camper describes the layout: "There are only 2 campsites located nestled in the woods, the others are located in a rather flat, open area with trees around one side, and the lake on the other."
Urban accessibility: Camp Agawam provides a surprising natural retreat despite its suburban location. A reviewer notes, "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
What you should know
Site selection: At P.L. Graham Park, campsite amenities vary by location. A reviewer advises, "Not every site has a picnic table, so I'd suggest bringing a tiny table for food prep/surface to work on."
Technology limitations: Cell service at many tent camping areas near Algonac is limited. One camper at P.L. Graham Park & Campground warns, "Cell service is pretty low so just prepare for that."
Firewood restrictions: Local campgrounds enforce firewood regulations to prevent pest spread. A recent camper at P.L. Graham reports, "He sold us a great bundle of wood for $10!!! You can NOT bring your own wood in."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Consider the noise and activity level that suits your family. At Port Huron KOA, one camper observes, "It tends to get a little rowdy and is not a quiet campground by any means but there's something fun about that sometimes."
Space considerations: Look for sites with room for children to play safely. A parent camping at P.L. Graham Park mentioned, "You can fish and there is a lot of room for kids to run around."
Holiday awareness: Holiday weekends bring increased crowds to all campgrounds. A Port Huron KOA visitor noted, "Campground was very busy, as you would expect on a holiday weekend. Overall, a very nice campground and would definitely go back again!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RVers seeking more secluded camping should target specific site numbers. A camper at Port Huron KOA recommends, "If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space."
Traffic awareness: Be prepared for busy roadways within larger campgrounds. One reviewer cautions about Port Huron KOA, "Got to watch out for kids buzzing around on banana bikes and golf carts cruising around."
Weather planning: Michigan weather can be unpredictable, with potential for rapid changes. At P.L. Graham Park, a camper notes a practical feature: "There is a small shelter in the event of rain with bunk beds. There is a pavilion and a small swing set for kids."
