Tent campsites near Belmont, Michigan feature a mix of seasonal operations running April through October, with most sites situated on flat terrain. The area's small lakes and rivers provide water access opportunities at multiple camping locations, while wooded areas offer natural shade at many sites. Summers bring average temperatures in the mid-70s to 80s with higher humidity levels, making waterfront sites particularly desirable.
What to do
Water activities at lake beaches: Camp Clear Sky offers water access with basic facilities. A recent visitor noted, "Outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet were unexpected amenities. Not to mention the chickens keeping us company!"
Boat watching along channels: South Channel Campground provides unique boating observation opportunities. A camper shared, "Can watch boats go through channel from campsite, loved watching the lake express." Another mentioned it's "Great for boat watching."
Hiking trail exploration: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths through wooded areas and along waterways. At WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite, a camper reported, "It also has great trails for walking," while another praised the "friendly, peaceful, relaxing" atmosphere.
What campers like
Privacy at small-capacity sites: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite maintains just three tent sites, creating a secluded experience. One camper described it as a "Little slice of heaven" that's "close to the river but set back far enough so that during a downpour you won't be worrying."
Clean facilities despite rustic settings: Basic but well-maintained amenities are common. At East Lake Camping, visitors appreciated that "Bathrooms were clean and functional. Sites were clean, kids loved the beach and play area."
National forest dispersed options: White River Campsite #1 in Manistee National Forest offers primitive camping with numbered sites. A camper explained, "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities."
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Most tent camping in the Belmont region operates only during warm months. Drews Country Camping runs "Apr 1 to Oct 31" according to their listing, while East Lake Camping operates "May 1 to Oct 1."
Early arrival policies vary: Some campgrounds charge for early check-in. At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, one camper warned, "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee."
Vehicle access considerations: While many sites are drive-in accessible, some have specific access requirements. For White River Campsite #1, a reviewer advised, "Best access seems to be along 160th avenue south of Arthur road. The road seems a bit sketchy but should be okay for most vehicles."
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions for kids: Children often enjoy the animal features at some campgrounds. At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, a visitor mentioned, "We love this little KOA and camp here often with family who stay in the cabins... My nephew loves the goats more than anything!"
Swimming options vary widely: Water access quality differs between locations. East Lake Camping offers a beach area, but one visitor noted they "took away some of the water toys they used to have like water slide and float which was disappointing for the older kids."
Play areas beyond water: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play facilities. A visitor to Allendale KOA appreciated the "large field and play area, which offered ample space for our kids to run around and enjoy themselves."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many tent sites in the region aren't suitable for larger RVs. At Drews Country Camping, a camper described it as having "about 30 grassy sites that feel more like someone's big backyard than an actual campground."
Seasonal camper dominance: Several campgrounds have mostly permanent seasonal residents. At East Lake Camping, a visitor observed, "Most people here are seasonal, occupying almost all the lakefront sites. We may have seen one lakefront available for renters."
Basic hookup availability: Hookup options vary between campgrounds. Woods and Water RV Resort offers full-service sites, while others are more basic. A camper at Drews Country Camping described it as "Very retro, quiet and peaceful... Don't look for lots to do, just sit back and relax."
