Tent campsites near Fremont, Michigan are nestled within the Manistee National Forest region, where mixed hardwood forests and small inland lakes create distinct camping environments. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms. Fall camping offers cooler conditions with temperatures dropping to 40-60°F alongside vibrant foliage displays from mid-September through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers accessible fishing from multiple vantage points including a dedicated pier. "The lake offers a fishing pier" notes reviewer Jeff W. The campground is split between Big and Little Leverentz lakes, with one camper reporting that Big Leverentz "makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc."
Wildlife observation: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground provides natural habitat for spotting various wildlife. A visitor mentioned, "Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc."
Hiking access: Several campgrounds offer direct trail access for day hiking. At Muskegon State Park, a camper shared: "Miles of trails through the dunes and woods. A few lookout points scattered throughout." Another camper at Leverentz noted, "lake access and good hikes from the campground."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many forest campgrounds in the region provide larger campsites with natural separation. At Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA, campers appreciate that "Sites are fairly wooded (lots of pine trees) and not too crowded." Similarly, at Leverentz Lake, a reviewer noted, "The sites are large enough and spaced far enough apart that even if it were full you would not feel crowded."
Lakefront access: Multiple tent campsites near Fremont provide direct water access. One camper at Enchanted Pebawma Lake Campground described it as offering "Water view with a small beach. Only 35 mins from Silver Lake Sand Dunes." The campground maintains its rustic character while providing some modern amenities like electrical hookups.
Off-season solitude: Fall camping offers increased privacy at many locations. A Leverentz Lake visitor reported, "First come first serve in the fall- we were basically the only ones there." Another camper noted, "the campground was full on a late september weekend but still quiet and didn't feel crowded at all."
What you should know
Variable amenities: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Condon Lake provides minimal facilities with one camper describing it as "Scenic and rustic. Has everything you need for the night. Bring a water filter." By contrast, KOA campgrounds offer more amenities including "clean restrooms and full-service showers."
Payment systems: Many forest campgrounds lack on-site staff. At Leverentz Lake, "there is no DNR staff on site so bring cash or check to drop into the payment pipe." Sites typically cost $15-17 per night plus vehicle fees at state-managed properties.
Seasonal access considerations: Road conditions can vary by season. A visitor to Condon Lake advised, "May need a taller vehicle to access some sights." Most rustic campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, closing during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer child-specific activities. Oak Knoll Family Campground provides "Small playground, a beach for swimming is close but not on the campground." One family reported, "This was an awesome camping experience with our four kids. Small, fully stocked store with all the necessities."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. Oak Knoll offers beach access nearby, while Allendale KOA features a pool that visitors describe as "a nice size for the kids."
Activity variety: Select campgrounds with multiple recreation options. At Allendale KOA, families appreciate that "the hayride, the night hayride, two parks, jump pad, and feeding the goats kept them busy." Another parent noted it has "activities for young and old and everyone in between."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many rustic campgrounds accommodate only smaller RVs. While tent campers have numerous options, RVers should note that at White River special area, sites are "more suitable for tents or maybe small campers." Similarly, Leverentz Lake sites "could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
Early arrival recommendations: Some campgrounds implement strict arrival policies. A camper at Allendale KOA warned, "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee. if you decide not to pay, you'll be directed to overflow parking where you can loiter until 2:00."
Hook-up availability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. Enchanted Pebawma Lake Campground provides "power available at sites" despite its overall rustic nature, while many forest service campgrounds offer no hookups whatsoever.
