Tent camping options near Beaverton, Michigan span across deciduous forest and riverfront terrain throughout central Michigan's Gladwin County. Summer temperatures average 75-82°F with high humidity, while spring camping brings temperatures ranging from 45-65°F with frequent rainfall. Winter camping remains available at several locations with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Trout fishing access: The Spruce Rustic Campground in Rifle River Recreation Area offers direct fishing opportunities with a dedicated access point to Gamble Creek. "Although only one of the sites has a river view this campground is ideal for trout anglers. There's an access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173," notes Jason N., who confirms the area accommodates larger vehicles despite its remote setting.
Kayaking excursions: Russell Canoe Livery & Campground provides both equipment rental and camping facilities in one location. "Everything you need for your river adventure. Rent or bring your own watercraft," writes camper H E., who recommends visiting "later in the season" when water levels are more predictable and crowds have thinned.
Nature hiking: Multiple trails accessible from Deerfield Nature Park allow tent campers to explore unique ecosystems. "Lots of nature, seen a lot of colorful fungas. One of the coolest things... there is a bioluminescent fungas out there. At night we seen some blue chips glowing," reports David F., describing an unusual natural phenomenon visitors might encounter during evening walks.
What campers like
Complete disconnection: Tent campsites often provide genuine isolation from digital distractions. At Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground, campers appreciate the remoteness. "It's more of a peninsula than an island but it's wonderfully cut off. You take a narrow dirt road over a nearly flooded over land bridge to a remote circle plot of campsites," explains Michael W., highlighting the 20 rustic sites available first-come, first-served.
Wildlife encounters: Small mammals frequent many camping areas around Beaverton. Sugar Springs Campground features "spacious and clean" sites according to Michelle S., who observed minimal human presence during her stay: "The campground had 4 other occupied sites (seasonal?). We never saw another person during our visit."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms despite rustic settings. Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground earns praise from campers for its maintenance standards. "Clean bathrooms, easy access to lake, nice beach," writes Brad F., while Angel adds it's "great with kids" and features "quiet at night. Kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow! Lots of shade, clean bathrooms, friendly staff!"
What you should know
Water access varies significantly: Many campgrounds require extensive hoses or water transport planning. At Merrill-Gorrel Campground, Brad F. advises visitors to "make sure to bring extra hose and extension cord as the water and electric can be a ways away from some sites."
Leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the Beaverton camping region often presents difficulties for tent setup. Sugar Springs Campground, while offering spacious sites with "electric only" hookups, is described as "horrifically not leveled" by Michelle S., suggesting campers should bring adequate leveling equipment.
Seasonal planning considerations: Spruce Rustic Campground offers dramatically different experiences depending on timing. D G. reports visiting "on a Thursday and the area was empty," noting "it was super clean and the spots were large," suggesting weekday visits may provide more solitude than weekends, particularly during peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Families seeking water recreation have dedicated swimming areas at certain campgrounds. At Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground, Angel describes it as a "great spot for the family, 2 beaches," with the added benefit that "everyone drives slow" creating a safer environment for children on bicycles.
Boat-in camping with kids: Muskegon River Canoe Camp provides dispersed camping with multiple access types. Just J. calls it "a great place for dispersed camping" but emphasizes the need to "don't forget the bug spray!" while noting its convenient location "only 20 minutes from town" if supplies are needed.
Site selection for families: When camping with children at Spruce Rustic Campground, consider proximity to facilities. D G. shares: "I wish I would have picked a different spot as I was right next to the bathroom but it was fine. Plenty of fire wood around to collect with access to trials and the river."
Tips from RVers
Trailer access considerations: While many sites are described as rustic, some accommodate larger camping vehicles. At Spruce Rustic Campground, Jason N. confirms "I got my 20' trailer back there no problem" despite its designation as a rustic camping area with more limited amenities.
Utility hookup preparation: Electric service exists at several campgrounds but requires planning. Sugar Springs Campground offers electric hookups, but Michelle S. notes "water is shared between 3-4 sites, so you better bring a hundred feet of hose to fill your tank," emphasizing the need for equipment preparation before arrival.
Campsite spacing: RV campers appreciate adequate separation between sites in the Beaverton region. At Spruce Rustic Campground, RJ W. describes "2 loops in this campground with good sized sites that are separated by trees," providing privacy despite the presence of other vehicles.
