Tent camping near Carp Lake, Michigan includes rustic sites nestled in northern Michigan's mixed forest environments. The area sits at the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, with a continental climate that brings warm summers around 75°F and cold winters with lake effect snow. Several state forest campgrounds operate on 14-day maximum stays with recreation passports required for entry to state-managed properties.
What to do
Water sports access: Sturgeon Valley Campground provides direct river access for kayaking, with camper Sue R. noting, "River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak." The campground's proximity to multiple water systems makes it ideal for paddlers exploring northern Michigan's waterways.
Wildlife viewing: Garnet Lake State Forest Campground offers opportunities for wildlife spotting along the shoreline. Sites ring the lake with spacing that creates privacy, allowing campers to observe local fauna. One camper mentions the "decent fishing on the lake" making it a productive spot for anglers.
Horseback riding trails: The Pigeon River Country State Forest area provides extensive bridle paths accessible from Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground. Equestrian campers appreciate the specialized facilities, with reviewer Devora D. stating it has "Pump water and river for horses. Manuer bunkers and solid poles for highline tying."
What campers like
Waterside accommodations: Many campgrounds feature lakefront or riverside sites. At Garnet Lake State Forest Campground, Mike K. highlights that "A few campsites on the water. Sites are spaced out decent and plenty of privacy," offering tent campers direct water access.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. The "clean outhouses" at Beaver Island Bill Wagner Memorial Campground receive positive mentions, with camper GoWhereYouAreDraw noting the "nice fire rings, and a water pump" that provide basic necessities in a remote setting.
Nature immersion: Small, limited-capacity campgrounds create more intimate camping experiences. C3 Farm Trust offers just three designated tent sites on private land, making it ideal for those seeking seclusion. The property is described as providing "Private tent camping in rural michigan" according to reviewer Jake C.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most tent sites in the region close for winter, generally operating April through October. Weather conditions can affect early spring and late fall camping, with variable temperatures possible.
Wind exposure: Coastal and island camping locations experience significant wind. At Beaver Island, campers should "prepare by packing the right gear" as the reviewer notes it's "Very windy" along the shoreline sites.
Variable cell service: Stoney Creek Trail Camp and surrounding campgrounds have limited connectivity. Christopher P. describes Stoney Creek as a "Nice little metro park for tent camping" where "most sites are dispersed," but campers should expect minimal cell coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: When camping with children or mobility-limited family members, consider sites with easy access. Christopher P. notes that at Stoney Creek Trail Camp "You can pull your car up to the site for unpacking," making it easier to transport family gear.
Recreation options: Choose campgrounds with diverse activities for different ages. Stoney Creek offers "kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals. Also paddle boards. Disc golf and regular golf available," providing varied recreation without leaving the camping area.
Swimming safety: Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground provides water play appropriate for families. Sarah B. highlights the "private swimming hole in the river" while Amber A. notes the "Multilevel falls where you can swim" that are generally more manageable for supervised children than open water.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Tent campers converting to RVs should note ground conditions. Joshua M. at Ocqueoc Falls mentions "We fit our small travel trailer easily into a fairly level lot," but cautions the campground has a "lack of big rigs" due to site limitations.
Rustic expectations: RV campers accustomed to full hookups should adjust expectations. Eddie N. notes that at Garnet Lake, there are "No hookups but there are widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake. It was a pleasant place to spend a night for $10," highlighting the value despite minimal amenities.
Privacy considerations: Tent campgrounds that accommodate small RVs often provide better spacing than dedicated RV parks. Joshua M. observes there is "adequate space between sites and ample shade, but you can still certainly tell if you have neighbors" at Ocqueoc Falls, making it suitable for campers preferring a middle ground between isolation and community.
