Tent campsites near Big Rapids, Michigan scatter across state forests, game areas and a mix of established and dispersed sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while spring and fall camping experiences cooler 40-60°F conditions. Most forest campsites remain open April through October, with a few year-round dispersed options available.
What to do
Paddle the Pere Marquette River: Access the river directly from Gleasons Landing where tent campers can enjoy riverside camping. "Overlooks the Pere Marquette river and has a small sandy shore where you can get into the water to cool off or do some fishing. This is also a landing spot for folks that rent kayaks or canoes from Baldwin," notes reviewer Amy R.
Fish multiple lakes: The Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground provides easy lake access for anglers. Campers appreciate that it's "Great with kids, 2 beaches. Quiet at night. Kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow!" according to Angel's review. Most fishing sites are within 100 feet of campsites.
Wildlife viewing: Fall brings excellent wildlife watching opportunities at tent camping areas. "Big and Little Leverentz make a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc. It has a boat ramp and a fishing pier," reports one camper who visited during autumn months.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Haymarsh State Game Area receives high marks for its secluded waterfront sites. "This is a hidden gem in northern Michigan, our campsite was right on the lake where we were able to pull our boat right up to, plenty of private space, and so fun to fish," writes Danielle C. who camped there during Memorial Day weekend.
Shoulder season solitude: Fall camping brings fewer crowds and brilliant colors. One visitor notes, "First come first serve in the fall- we were basically the only ones there. Big spacious sites, lake access and good hikes from the campground. Gorgeous and quiet. Would go back!"
Peninsula camping: Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground offers a unique peninsula camping experience. "You take a narrow dirt road over a nearly flooded over land bridge to a remote circle plot of campsites," explains Michael W., who recommends getting there early as the approximately 20 rustic sites fill quickly on weekends.
What you should know
Road noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. At Bray Creek, one camper mentions "some noise from the road" and that "sites feel cramped and not very private," important factors when selecting your tent site location.
Amenities vary widely: Most state forest campgrounds have vault toilets and water pumps, but dispersed sites like Spruce Road Pulloff require complete self-sufficiency. A visitor reports, "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present. Road was very quiet midweek."
Water access logistics: Many sites require specific planning for water activities. Gleasons Landing features "All sites are 'walk to' from the parking lot" according to Amy R., with Jessica V. adding it "Can get loud during the day when the trips come in" due to commercial kayak operations.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety considerations: Shallow water entry points make some locations better for children. "A great spot for the family, 2 beaches. Quiet at night. Kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow!" mentions Angel about Merrill-Gorrel Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds feature special attractions for children. At Pine Meadows, "There is a spot among the pine trees with a large fairy display and little hide-aways for kids," making it particularly appealing for families with younger children.
Accessible water play: Creek access provides safe water play options. Ryan M. mentions that Bray Creek has "steps leading to the creek that's perfect for kids to play in and a few trails," creating natural entertainment for children without deep water concerns.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many tent camping areas near Big Rapids have size restrictions for RVs. "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 Ari A. about Leverentz Lake, adding that sites "could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
Extension cords needed: Electric hookup access varies widely between sites. Brad F. advises at Merrill-Gorrel to "Make sure to bring extra hose and extension cord as the water and electric can be a ways away from some sites," something critical for RV campers requiring consistent power.
Access road conditions: Vehicle clearance matters at certain locations. Condon Lake requires visitors to "May need a taller vehicle to access some sights," according to Anjel W., making this an important consideration for larger rigs.
