Tent campsites near Hesperia, Michigan sit within the sandy soils of western Michigan, typically at elevations between 800-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with moderate humidity levels from nearby Lake Michigan. Most primitive sites in this region feature mixed hardwood forests of maple, oak and beech trees with occasional pine stands.
What to do
Fishing access: White River Campsite #1 offers direct access to the White River special area within Manistee National Forest. According to Kendra H., "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities. Best access seems to be along 160th avenue south of Arthur road."
Trail exploration: Visitors can hike through extensive forest trails at Bowman Lake Campground, which requires a walk-in approach but rewards with solitude. Josh D. notes, "Very rustic and walk-in only, but great place to get away for a bit. Barely any people as well. Make sure you bring bug spray."
Boat watching: The South Channel Campground provides unique opportunities to observe maritime traffic. Sara G. reports, "Can watch boats go through channel from campsite, loved watching the lake express," making this an interesting option for those who enjoy observing watercraft activity rather than just participating in water sports.
What campers like
Lake access: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers two distinct lake experiences. According to John N., "Big spacious sites, lake access and good hikes from the campground. Gorgeous and quiet. Would go back!" The campground divides between Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz lakes.
Privacy between sites: Spacious camping areas provide a sense of seclusion at many locations. R.B. observes about Leverentz Lake: "the big lake unit has large sites with lake views and 2 vault toilets...the campground was full on a late september weekend but still quiet and didn't feel crowded at all."
River views: Gleasons Landing provides campsites with views of the Pere Marquette River. Benjamin A. notes, "Most sites have direct river access. All sites are walk-in, but not far from the parking area. There are two pit toilets for six sites and both were clean."
What you should know
Vehicle access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. Tom W. warns about Condon Lakes West: "Access road is an unmarked two track that is not suitable for all vehicles. Campground is free and only six sites."
Reservation requirements: Many smaller campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. Jessica V. shares about Gleasons Landing: "Hard to get a reservation on the weekends. Campground is at the end of a canoe/kayak company's trip. Can get loud during the day when the trips come in."
Toilet facilities vary: Oak Knoll Family Campground offers basic but functional restrooms. According to Amanda K., "Bathrooms are close and include showers - clean but worn/outdated showers."
Payment methods: Most rustic sites require self-payment. Ari A. notes about Leverentz Lake: "The campsites cost $15 per night; they are not reservable. Also, there is no DNR staff on site so bring cash or check to drop into the payment pipe."
Tips for camping with families
Small playground options: Oak Knoll Family Campground provides basic recreational facilities for children. Amanda K. mentions, "This was an awesome camping experience with our four kids. Small, fully stocked store with all the necessities. Extremely friendly and welcoming staff. The campground is clean, but very small spaces for each site."
Swimming accessibility: Beaches are available near some campgrounds but may require a short drive. Amanda K. notes about Oak Knoll, "Small playground, a beach for swimming is close but not on the campground."
Canoe trip opportunities: Sites along rivers can coordinate with local outfitters for family paddling experiences. Amy R. explains about Gleasons Landing: "This is also a landing spot for folks that rent kayaks or canoes from Baldwin, which is the closest town."
Wildlife viewing potential: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. Ari A. says that Big Leverentz "makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Woods and Water RV Resort provides ample room between sites. Amie R. reports, "Sites are spacious. Easy to back into. Very quite! Wonderful little swim area with water slide."
Small trailer access: Several rustic sites can accommodate compact RVs. Ari A. mentions about Leverentz Lake: "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Many rustic locations lack hookups. Vegan T. cautions about White River Campsite #1: "There are dispersed options as well as docked site. It's in a forest, so bring a compass if you plan to do some hiking."
Seasonal accessibility: Late September through early October offers less crowded camping with fall colors. Jeff W. observed at Leverentz Lake: "Reviews of the lake and the Fall colors, it really just doesn't get any better than this."
