Best Tent Camping near Conway, MI
Tent campsites near Conway, Michigan include several rustic options in the surrounding state forests and parks. Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground offers tent camping along the Ocqueoc River with 14 first-come, first-served sites. Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground provides walk-in tent sites requiring a 700-yard hike from the parking area, with the campground situated 50 feet higher in elevation than the parking lot.
Most tent campgrounds in the region feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, with vault toilets available at established campgrounds. Ocqueoc Falls provides hand-pump drinking water, while more remote areas require campers to bring their own water supply. The Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to state forest campgrounds, with most charging around $20 per night on an honor system. Seasonal access varies, with many sites open from April through October, though some areas like Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground remain accessible year-round.
The tent camping experience in this region offers genuine seclusion and natural surroundings. Sites at Ocqueoc Falls provide direct access to hiking trails that follow the river through varied terrain and ecosystems. According to one visitor, "These are rustic campsites with no facilities or park ranger on duty," highlighting the primitive nature of the experience. Pigeon River State Forest offers dispersed tent camping opportunities for those seeking deeper backcountry experiences. Many tent sites feature wooded settings with shade coverage and proximity to water features. The area's relative remoteness means limited cell service at most locations, with Verizon offering minimal coverage at some campgrounds while other carriers may have no service at all. Fall camping is particularly scenic with colorful foliage and fewer crowds at popular sites.
