Best Tent Camping near Columbiaville, MI

Public lands surrounding Columbiaville, Michigan offer several tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Crystal Creek Christian Campground, located directly in Columbiaville, provides rustic tent sites with basic amenities. P.L. Graham Park & Campground, a former Boy Scout camp, offers primitive tent-only camping along the Black River with walk-in sites that provide a more secluded experience. Appleton Lake Campground in Brighton and Island Lake Recreation Area also feature tent campsites within reasonable driving distance from Columbiaville.

Most tent campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from May through October. Sites at P.L. Graham Park feature simple dirt pads with fire rings, though not all sites include picnic tables. Crystal Creek offers more developed tent sites with access to drinking water and restroom facilities for $15 per night. Firewood is available for purchase at most locations, with restrictions on bringing outside wood due to invasive species concerns. Vault toilets are standard at the more primitive locations, while Crystal Creek provides shower facilities. Campers should check reservation requirements, as some locations like P.L. Graham operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tent campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere at these locations. According to reviews, P.L. Graham Park offers "ample space between campgrounds" with sites that provide water access along the Black River. The caretaker maintains the grounds and sells firewood to visitors. At Appleton Lake Campground, visitors note the "rustic and mature trees" that create a natural setting "perfect for tents" with "no hookups" needed. Island Lake Recreation Area provides a unique backcountry tent camping experience with boat-in only sites that require paddling in all camping gear. The combination of accessibility and seclusion makes these locations popular for weekend tent camping trips without traveling far from the Columbiaville area.

Best Tent Sites Near Columbiaville, Michigan (10)

    1. Genesee Otter Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Otisville, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 793-2725

    2. Hilltop Campgrounds

    2 Reviews
    Lapeer, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 664-2782

    3. Crystal Creek Christian Campground

    1 Review
    Columbiaville, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 691-4372

    4. D-bar-A Scout Ranch (Boy Scout Use Only)

    1 Review
    Metamora, MI
    16 miles
    Website

    "This is another great scout ing campground with cabins, rustic camping, tent sites, lakes, horses to ride, this is one HUGE camp ground for scouts to enjoy and learn.."

    5. P.L. Graham Park & Campground (Formerly known as Chicagami Boy Scout Camp)

    8 Reviews
    Sandusky, MI
    40 miles
    +1 (810) 712-2867

    $15 / night

    "You drive up the entrance of the park, and on your right there'll be a trailer with a sign that says parking. You will park your car there over night/during the day."

    "Tent sites with water acces. Very nice caretaker!!"

    6. Port Huron KOA

    11 Reviews
    Clyde, MI
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 987-4070

    "Got to watch out for kids buzzing around on banana bikes and golf carts cruising around.

    We stayed a couple times this summer."

    "This is probably the best campground in Michigan. Lots of activities to do. Swimming pools, bicycles for rent, playgrounds, pizza, children's train, etc."

    7. Camp Agawam

    2 Reviews
    Auburn Hills, MI
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (248) 391-0304

    $20 - $30 / night

    "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."

    8. Appleton Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-6566

    "Each site has a fire ring and ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent or small trailer.

    My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full."

    "Picnic table pit ring outside toilets best site was 24 17$ dollars a night 3 parks Brighton recreational is for Rv and electric sites indoor plumbing hot showers Murry is only for weekend visits Appleton"

    9. Island Lake Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-7067

    "Island Lake Recreation Area is home to two Huron River Canoe Camps. The sites are boat-in only (!) meaning you must haul any and all gear in a kayak or canoe for your stay."

    "Island lake really does feel like you’re up north with the hours spent on I-75. There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills."

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Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Columbiaville, MI

422 Reviews of 10 Columbiaville Campgrounds



Guide to Columbiaville

Tent camping near Columbiaville, Michigan offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, with options ranging from rustic sites to family-friendly amenities.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Enjoy fishing and swimming at the scenic Island Lake Recreation Area, which features great trails and a dock for kids to fish.
  • Explore the hiking trails at Appleton Lake Campground, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a rustic camping experience.
  • Participate in various outdoor activities at Crystal Creek Christian Campground, which offers amenities like basketball, volleyball, and swimming in a man-made pond.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Columbiaville

  • Be prepared for wildlife encounters, as campers at Appleton Lake Campground reported dealing with raccoons at night.
  • Bring your own firewood to P.L. Graham Park & Campground, as outside wood is not allowed, but you can purchase it on-site.
  • Make sure to reserve your spot early at D-bar-A Scout Ranch, which is popular among scouting groups and offers a variety of camping options.

Tent Camping Prices in the Area

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Columbiaville, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Columbiaville, MI is Genesee Otter Lake Campground with a 2.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Columbiaville, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Columbiaville, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.