Tent campsites near Burt, Michigan sit within the Thumb region where gently rolling terrain transitions between agricultural land and forested areas. Most sites experience moderate summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The region receives approximately 30-32 inches of annual precipitation, with summer thunderstorms common between May and September.
What to do
Water recreation access: Hilltop Campgrounds provides direct access to Lake Nepessing, offering swimming and boating opportunities for tent campers. A visitor noted this campground is "mostly seasonal campers but still sites available for those nightly/weekender campers" with "the beach right on the sports lake nepessing."
Disc golf courses: Camp Agawam features disc golf alongside other recreational activities within its grounds. A camper described it as having "campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
Organized camp activities: Genesee Otter Lake Campground schedules regular events for visitors throughout the camping season. According to a reviewer, there are "plenty of activities planned and structured thru the grounds to keep the whole family entertained including PUTT PUTT Golf, Arcade, Saturday Night Adult Bingo weekly, and tons more!!"
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Tent camping costs vary significantly across the region, with rustic sites offering the most economical choices. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, visitors appreciate the affordability, noting "for all the amenities it is extremely affordable! $30 a night 30/50 amp full hook up ... or as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only! Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping!"
Natural settings in developed areas: Camp Agawam receives positive feedback for maintaining natural camping areas despite proximity to suburban environments. A Canadian visitor reported, "I come down to Detroit from Windsor every year to camp in Michigan with friends and this year we went to this very nice campsite in Orion Twp and I loved it."
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds near Burt remain open during colder months, expanding seasonal possibilities. At Hilltop Campgrounds, a full-time winter camper shared, "We are full timers here for the winter into spring. The campground here is simple but the people are so friendly it will be difficult to leave when our season here is over."
What you should know
Waterfront site availability: Lakefront sites at certain campgrounds may have limited availability due to seasonal occupancy. A Genesee Otter Lake camper cautioned, "If you are looking to stay here, all of the decent waterfront sites have seasonal campers in them."
Specialized campground policies: Crystal Creek Christian Campground prohibits alcohol consumption on premises. A visitor explained, "No alcohol allowed as this is a Christian campground" while noting the range of amenities available.
Location verification: Some listed campgrounds in the region may no longer operate as described. Regarding Moon Lake Campground, a local resident clarified, "Grew up here. I believe the campground area was shut down in 2012-2015," while another noted, "There is a Moon Lake near this location but I haven't ever heard of a campground here."
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: When camping with children, prioritize campgrounds offering multiple recreational options. One camper described D-bar-A Scout Ranch as "another great scouting campground with cabins, rustic camping, tent sites, lakes, horses to ride, this is one HUGE camp ground for scouts to enjoy and learn."
Convenience services: Select campgrounds with on-site stores to minimize travel for forgotten items. According to a Genesee Otter Lake visitor, "Forget to pack something?! No Worries...they have you covered at their general store anywhere from a toothbrush, table cloth, soda, Lg homemade Pizzas, Subs and the best Ice Cream ever in their homemade waffle cones!!"
Amenity access: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Some visitors report cleanliness issues, with one camper at Genesee Otter Lake noting "bathrooms were dirty and extremely outdated" in contrast to the campground's other features.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service: Power options vary between campgrounds, with important distinctions in amperage. At Hilltop Campgrounds, "All sites are 50 amp full hook ups" according to one reviewer, making this location suitable for equipment requiring higher electrical capacity.
Winter camping preparation: For cold-weather camping near Burt, prepare for seasonal conditions and limited services. Hilltop Campgrounds offers year-round options described as a "Perfect, Quiet Winter Spot" by one full-time RVer who appreciated the simple amenities and community atmosphere during colder months.
