Tent camping near Baldwin, Michigan offers access to multiple dispersed campsites within Manistee National Forest. Located in west-central Michigan where the Pere Marquette River flows through dense forest, this area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with sandy soil that drains quickly after rain. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with cooler nights even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing access: Elk Canoe Campground provides four riverside tent sites with direct access to the Pere Marquette River. "Elk is a great place to spend the night after a day of paddling or fishing. The pit toilet was decently clean and well away from the sites, so no smell," notes one camper, though they warn "the landing is a steep bank with large rocks on the river bank."
Hiking options: Timber Creek Campground serves as an entrance point to the North Country Trail. "There's an easy-hike walking trail, and the view of the stars at night is truly out of this world," reports one visitor. Sites cost $10/night plus a $5 day pass, with a 14-day maximum stay.
Creek exploration: Bray Creek State Forest Campground features steps leading down to a shallow creek. "A nice rustic campground, it's small but has steps leading to the creek that's perfect for kids to play in and a few trails," shares Ryan M. The campground includes a hand pump for water, two vault toilets, and a dumpster.
What campers like
Lake views: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground divides into two sections on separate lakes. "This is actually one state forest campground split into two units, each on a lake: Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz. Many of the sites are on a hill looking over the lake," explains a visitor. All sites cost $15 per night without reservations.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at many Baldwin-area campgrounds. "The sites are large enough and spaced far enough apart that even if it were full you would not feel crowded in at this campground," notes a Leverentz Lake visitor. Similar spacing exists at Timber Creek, where "each camp is pretty surrounded by trees."
True wilderness feel: Bowman Lake Campground requires walk-in access for tent campers. "Great little camp spot right off the lake. You have to hike in to the camp locations but it's not bad," shares Daniel N. "Theres no amenities except for a table but the spot is free and clean, there's also decent fishing here."
What you should know
Fire pit limitations: Most established campgrounds feature fire rings, but design varies. At Timber Creek, "the fire pits have a higher wall around them with a grill on top you cannot remove. Great for cooking food, but if you're looking to sit by the fire to warm up, you'd probably be better off with a portable heater."
Toilet situations: Vault toilets are common but conditions vary. At Gleasons Landing, "there are two pit toilets for six sites and both were clean." However, at Timber Creek, "vault toilets are available but HOO boy do they smell, so if you have a Luggable Loo or equivalent portable toilet I definitely recommend it."
Water access: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. Leverentz Lake has "a hand pump for water" near the entrance, while Bowman Lake has no water amenities at all. At Condon Lake, one camper advises: "Bring a water filter."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Bray Creek offers an ideal spot for younger campers. "The creek is perfect for kids to play in," notes one reviewer. Similarly, Leverentz Lake provides "a fishing pier" where children can safely access the water.
Rustic requirements: Most family-suitable sites lack modern amenities. "Pricing is $15 per night, and out of state is another $9 per vehicle, in state is $17 per vehicle. Nice wooded campsites. On the lake with a boat launch. One hand pump water source at the entrance, no electric," explains a Leverentz Lake camper.
Spaciousness: Sulak Campground offers tent sites with ample room. "We were looking for dispersed camping and this was perfect. We do have some neighbors but they are far enough away. Each camp is pretty surrounded by trees. Each camp have a fire pit and a picnic table which is very convenient," shares Sarah S.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most campgrounds near Baldwin accommodate small trailers only. At Leverentz Lake, "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
Access challenges: Some sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Condon Lake, one visitor notes you "may need a taller vehicle to access some sights." Spruce Road Pulloff offers free dispersed camping but "access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road."
Reservation considerations: Most Baldwin-area campgrounds operate on a first-come basis. "First come first serve in the fall - we were basically the only ones there," reports a Leverentz Lake visitor, noting its "big spacious sites, lake access and good hikes from the campground."
