Tent camping near Elmira, Michigan features several notable campgrounds within the vast northern Michigan forests at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures typically between 70-85°F and cool nights dropping into the 50s. Most camping areas in the region require a Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry, which costs $12 for Michigan residents or $9 for non-residents when purchased with license plate renewal.
What to do
Kayaking on local rivers: Sturgeon Valley Campground provides excellent river access for paddlers. According to one visitor, "Judy is lovely. River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak" (Sue R.). The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring multiple waterways in the region.
Fish multiple lakes: Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers exceptional fishing opportunities across several connected lakes. One camper reported, "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast" (Dan K.). The area features clear waters and minimal fishing pressure.
Explore equestrian trails: Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground caters specifically to horse enthusiasts with dedicated facilities. A regular visitor noted, "This is a great horse camp. Have camped here many times. Pump water and river for horses. Manuer bunkers and solid poles for highline tying" (Devora D.). The campground connects to extensive trail networks throughout Pigeon River State Forest.
What campers like
Secluded lakeside spots: Keystone Landing State Forest Campground provides peaceful riverside sites with good spacing. One camper shared, "The campsites are fairly secluded and shaded. Perfect for trout fishing as there are three access spots to the river" (Walt S.). The campground sees minimal traffic even during peak season.
Complete solitude: For those seeking true isolation, the dispersed camping areas in Pigeon River State Forest offer primitive sites away from crowds. These sites require self-sufficiency but reward campers with genuine wilderness experiences and opportunities to spot elk and other wildlife.
Rural privacy: C3 farm trust provides private tent camping on farmland near Elmira. A reviewer noted it offers "Private tent camping in rural Michigan" with amenities including fire rings and picnic tables but maintains a rustic, uncrowded atmosphere (Jake C.). The farm has only three designated sites, ensuring ample space between campers.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding some of the best tent camping near Elmira requires preparation. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, a camper reported, "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible... You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!" (Rachael T.). Downloading offline maps is recommended.
Physical requirements: Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground demands physical fitness from campers. As one visitor noted, "This campground is hike in/walk in only. The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground" (Doug B.). Pack accordingly with lightweight gear if planning to stay here.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Elmira operate seasonally from April through October, though some like Graves Crossing State Forest Campground remain open year-round. Spring brings more precipitation and mud, while fall offers colorful foliage but requires warmer sleeping gear for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 30s.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Keystone Landing provides family-friendly amenities with less hiking required than other locations. A visitor mentioned, "You get the best of both worlds here, camping on the river but close to Grayling" (Walt S.), making supply runs and emergency exits easier with children.
Check for insects: Tick awareness is essential when camping with kids near Elmira. One camper at Sand Lakes Quiet Area noted, "Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of tics though so we avoided the trails" (Katana H.). Daily tick checks and appropriate repellents are necessary, especially from May through August.
Look for recreational variety: Torch Grove Campground offers amenities that appeal to families. A visitor reported, "A clean, private campground located near orv trails. Most sites were full hook up but they had some rustic sites too. There was a small playground also" (Lydia T.). This provides entertainment options for children during downtime at camp.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: The Elmira area offers few developed RV sites with full hookups. At Torch Grove Campground, RVers will find electric, water and sewer connections, with one camper noting it's "located in Rapid City" with convenient access to nearby attractions (Lydia T.).
Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds near Elmira cannot accommodate larger rigs. While places like Sturgeon Valley Campground are marked as big-rig friendly, forest roads leading to most sites have low clearance and tight turns that limit accessibility for vehicles over 25 feet in length.
