Tent camping options near Columbus, Michigan extend beyond the immediate town limits, with sites available throughout Lapeer and St. Clair counties. The region features low-lying terrain interspersed with small lakes and the Black River watershed, creating natural borders between camping areas. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Water activities at Genesee Otter Lake Campground: Campers can enjoy fishing and boating at this established campground. One visitor noted that while boat rentals are advertised, availability can be limited: "We were told we could leave our ID at the office and take one of the rental boats back to our site temporarily. We were not allowed to keep the boat at our site though because they didn't have enough boats for everyone."
Mini-golf and arcade games at Port Huron KOA: This family-friendly campground offers structured recreation facilities. According to a camper, "There is go karting and more with the connected fun park. Reserve well in advance!"
Disc golf at Camp Agawam: This multi-use recreation area features a disc golf course among other amenities. A visitor explained, "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
What campers like
Secluded tent sites at P.L. Graham Park & Campground: The wooded campsites offer more privacy than open field locations. One recent camper shared, "My boyfriend and I only reserved one night and it was wonderful. Our site was in the woods and just what we needed. Walker was very welcoming and super generous!"
Swimming options at Genesee Otter Lake Campground: Despite some management issues, the lake access remains popular. A visitor explained the campground offers "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!!"
Scheduled activities at Port Huron KOA: Regular programmed events make this campground popular for longer stays. A returning visitor mentioned, "We come for Halloween camping every year! We love this campground. There is a ton to do for all ages. The kids keep busy all day long!"
What you should know
Pricing structure at Crystal Creek Christian Campground: The campground offers tiered pricing based on hookup needs. A camper explained, "$30 a night 30/50 amp full hook up... don't need 30+ amp but want sewer as well only $25 a night 15 amp full hook up or as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only! Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping!"
Fire restrictions and wood policies: Most campgrounds near Columbus prohibit outside firewood to prevent invasive species spread. At P.L. Graham Park, a visitor noted the caretaker "sold us a great bundle of wood for 10$!!! You can NOT bring your own wood in."
Limited cell coverage: Tent campers should expect minimal connectivity at most rustic sites. At P.L. Graham Park, a camper advised, "Cell service is pretty low so just prepare for that."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities at Port Huron KOA: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained. One family camper shared, "Tons to for kids, multiple pools including a zero entry, jumping pillow, ice cream stores, old west town hayrides, train rides($), multiple parks, and next to small water park."
Space considerations at Hilltop Campgrounds: Sites vary in size and privacy. A visitor noted the economics of staying here: "All while allowing daily, weekly and monthly visitors at a very reasonable price! For a full hook up campground this place is very economically friendly at only $40 a night!"
Playground access at Camp Agawam: Children can use dedicated play areas between camping activities. A visitor described it as "A great little park in the middle of suburbia."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Most campgrounds near Columbus offer various electrical service levels. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, service ranges from 15-amp rustic connections to 30/50 amp full hookups.
Seasonal sites at Genesee Otter Lake: Long-term campers occupy many prime locations. One RVer cautioned, "If you are looking to stay here, all of the decent waterfront sites have seasonal campers in them."
Winter camping options at Hilltop Campgrounds: For those camping year-round near Columbus, limited winter camping exists. A full-timer reported, "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 is over."
