Tent camping options near Goodrich, Michigan range from rustic lakeside sites to more developed recreation areas. Most sites are within a 45-minute drive of Goodrich, with camping season typically running April through October at most locations. Winter camping is available at select sites like Island Lake Recreation Area, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Most locations require reservations, especially during peak summer weekends.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hilltop Campgrounds, campers have direct access to Lake Nepessing for fishing. One camper notes, "The beach is right on the sports lake nepessing" making it convenient for anglers staying at the campground.
Disc golf and other activities: Camp Agawam offers numerous recreational opportunities beyond just camping. A visitor describes, "It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf! Not to mention Oakland Paintball is in the middle of it!"
Hiking trails: Island Lake Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems for hikers of various skill levels. A reviewer mentions, "There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills. Signs are well marked throughout the park."
Water activities: Paddling experiences vary across locations, with Appleton Lake Campground offering "a lake access" that's "perfect for kayaking or very small fishing boats," according to visitor reviews.
What campers like
Family-friendly atmosphere: Port Huron KOA receives praise for its extensive family activities. One camper shares, "Jumping pillow, tons of scheduled activities, equipment rentals, trails nearby. There is a movie theater, old one room schoolhouse, camp store, pools, number boats and putt putt."
Natural surroundings: Despite suburban locations, many campgrounds maintain a natural feel. A camper at Island Lake Recreation Area appreciates that it "really does feel like you're up north without the hours spent on I-75."
Lake views: Crooked Lake Rustic Campground offers scenic water views. A visitor notes, "The views of the lake are awesome, it's a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state."
Quiet camping experiences: PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND offers a more peaceful environment. A visitor mentions, "Campers are very friendly, management is beyond friendly."
What you should know
Campsite conditions: Sites vary significantly across locations. At Appleton Lake Campground, expect basic accommodations as described by a camper: "Appleton has a few sites, very rustic and perfect for tents. Not for RVs and no hook ups."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get busy and loud, especially on weekends. At Crooked Lake, a visitor wished "there were better noise restrictions and the campgrounds were more separated."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife at rustic sites. One Appleton Lake camper reported, "The camp site itself was nice, but once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. Crystal Creek Christian Campground operates "May 1 to October" while others have different schedules.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with planned activities: Port Huron KOA offers extensive programming. A visitor notes, "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!"
Select sites with amenities: Camp Agawam is described as "a great little park in the middle of suburbia" making it convenient for families who want outdoor experiences without remote locations.
Consider noise levels: Family expectations matter when choosing locations. Some campers appreciate busy atmospheres, noting Port Huron KOA "tends to get a little rowdy and is not a quiet campground by any means but there's something fun about that sometimes."
Budget considerations: Genesee Otter Lake Campground offers various family activities, with a visitor noting "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!!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Crystal Creek Christian Campground offers various hookup options at different price points. A visitor notes, "$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!"
Site selection: At Port Huron KOA, certain sites offer more space. One RVer recommends, "If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space."
Seasonal options: Hilltop Campgrounds welcomes long-term campers. As one visitor observed, "Mostly seasonal campers but still sites available for those nightly/weekender campers. All sites are 50 amp full hook ups."
