Tent camping near Burton, Michigan offers both rustic and modern site options within an hour's drive. The area sits on the eastern edge of Michigan's lake country where rolling woodland terrain meets small inland lakes. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs averaging in the low 80s F.
What to do
Trail running and hiking: Appleton Lake Campground provides access to well-marked trails that vary in difficulty. "There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills. Signs are well marked throughout the park," notes one visitor to Island Lake Recreation Area.
Fishing from docks: At several locations, younger anglers can easily access fishing spots. A visitor to Island Lake Recreation Area mentioned the "Good dock for the kids to fish" making it accessible for families.
Kayaking and canoeing: For paddlers seeking solitude, some campgrounds offer unique water access. The Huron River Canoe Camps at Island Lake feature "a backcountry, boat-in camping experience very close to town" with amenities including "a floating dock to tie up boats."
Disc golf: For campers seeking additional recreation, Camp Agawam combines multiple activities in one location. "It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!" according to one reviewer at Camp Agawam.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate natural separation at more rustic sites. A reviewer at Appleton Lake Campground noted, "I liked that this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other. Each site has a fire ring and ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent or small trailer."
Mature forest settings: The established tree cover at certain campgrounds creates an authentic woodland experience. One camper described Appleton Lake simply as "Rustic and mature trees. Great trails - perfect for trail running."
Variety of accommodation options: Some campgrounds cater to different camping preferences. At Genesee Otter Lake Campground, visitors "can stay as simply in a tent rustic style, accommodations for almost any style camper along with (2) Cottages for rent as well!"
Boat-in camping: For a more secluded experience, Island Lake Recreation Area offers canoe camps that can "only be reserved by calling or visiting the main office" and feature amenities like "a fire ring and picnic table" with "firewood provided."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. For example, Hilltop Campgrounds operates from "April 15 to October 15" while Crystal Creek Christian Campground runs from "May 1 to October."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife visits after dark. At Appleton Lake, one camper reported, "once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night. Definitely went somewhere else the next night."
Bathroom conditions vary: Vault toilets at rustic sites may not be maintained regularly. A camper at Appleton Lake noted, "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full."
Alcohol policies differ: Some campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, "No alcohol allowed as this is a Christian campground" according to a reviewer who still found it "extremely affordable."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Some sites offer low rates for basic camping. Crystal Creek Christian Campground charges "as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only" or "$15 a night for rustic tent camping," making it "Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget!"
Beginner-friendly campgrounds: For first camping trips, certain locations provide good introductions. "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time," reported one visitor to Appleton Lake.
Activity-focused campgrounds: Seek out campgrounds with structured recreation. According to a camper at Genesee Otter Lake, they have "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!!"
Tick awareness: Parents should conduct tick checks after outdoor activities. One camper at Appleton Lake warned, "Watch out for ticks though" after taking a child camping there.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds accommodate year-round visitors. One full-time RVer at Hilltop Campgrounds 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."
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores can save trips into town. At Genesee Otter Lake, if you "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!!"
Site selection caution: At popular locations, verify what you're actually booking. One disappointed camper at Genesee Otter Lake warned, "We rented for 120 a night a lake front campsite with a boat. We were given a rock and dirt pad that over looked a swamp area."
