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Best Tent Camping near Higgins Lake, MI

662 Reviews

Tent campsites surrounding Higgins Lake, Michigan range from established campgrounds to more remote walk-in sites in the nearby state forests. Wakeley Lake Campground in the Huron Manistee National Forests offers secluded tent sites accessible via a half-mile hike, while Great Circle Campground provides developed tent camping closer to amenities. Several state forest campgrounds like Keystone Landing and Rainbow Bend accommodate tent campers within 30 miles of Higgins Lake, offering varying levels of primitive camping experiences.

Most primitive tent sites in the region provide basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables, though services vary considerably between locations. Wakeley Lake sites require carrying all gear along a moderate trail but reward campers with lakeside tent spots and excellent catch-and-release fishing. The White Pine Canoe Camp and other river-adjacent sites are accessible primarily by watercraft, requiring additional planning for tent campers. Vault toilets are common at state forest campgrounds, while truly backcountry sites may require carrying out all waste. During peak summer months, reservations are recommended for established tent campgrounds, while dispersed camping follows standard national forest regulations.

Tent-only areas near Higgins Lake provide distinct advantages over developed campgrounds, particularly for those seeking solitude. Areas like 4-Mile Trail Camp offer walk-in tent sites that create separation from busier camping areas. "We only stayed one night but it was very nice, right by the water. One other camper nearby but completely out of earshot," noted one review of Wakeley Lake Campground. The region's mixed forest provides excellent shade for summer tent camping, while fall brings colorful foliage and fewer insects. Muskegon River Canoe Camp represents the more primitive options, with one camper describing it as "a great place for dispersed camping" while recommending bug spray for comfortable tent sleeping. Many backcountry tent sites feature proximity to trails, rivers, and lakes with limited road noise or light pollution.

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Best Tent Sites Near Higgins Lake, Michigan (44)

    1. Great Circle Campground

    4 Reviews
    Higgins Lake, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 821-9486

    "Firefly evening strolls on sandy trails through the woods. Dog friendly. Seasonal family gathering spot. Helpful camp hosts give a friendly wave several times daily."

    2. 4-Mile Trail Camp DNR

    1 Review
    Grayling, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-7068

    "I don’t have horses but I’ve seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it. There’s trails in the surrounding areas."

    3. Keystone Landing State Forest Campground

    2 Reviews
    Grayling, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    "You get the best of both worlds here, camping on the river but close to Grayling. The campsites are fairly secluded and shaded."

    4. Wakeley Lake Campground — Huron Manistee National Forests

    2 Reviews
    Grayling, MI
    17 miles
    +1 (989) 826-3252

    $10 / night

    "One other camper nearby but completely out of earshot."

    "Loved camping on this lake. We hauled our canoe loaded with our tent and amenities on a dolly the half mile or so back to the camp sites."

    5. White Pine Canoe SF Campground

    4 Reviews
    Luzerne, MI
    19 miles
    Website

    "Short backpacking walk to this no-reservations rustic campsite. You need a backcountry permit and there’s usually a small fee. Lovely forested secluded tent sites."

    "After a short mile or so hike over a mostly level sandy trail you'll reach to the campground. It's located in a part of the forest with lots of ridges."

    6. Wakeley Lake Area

    1 Review
    Grayling, MI
    17 miles
    Website

    "By the lake... lots of trails for exploring. Good area for hunting upland game. Can’t wait to go again!"

    7. Muskegon River Canoe Camp

    1 Review
    Prudenville, MI
    19 miles

    8. Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp

    2 Reviews
    Luzerne, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 275-4622

    "If you like to rough it, but be able to drive to your campground, this is your place. Get back to nature here with no running water or electric."

    9. White Pine Canoe Camp

    1 Review
    Luzerne, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    "The site had 2 vault toilets. The water pump was out of commission and there was very limited access to dry wood or dead trees, but fortunately we brought enough water and pre-made foods."

    10. Camp Stonewood Ranch

    1 Review
    South Boardman, MI
    21 miles
    +1 (269) 685-7258

    $20 - $40 / night

    "We want to welcome this partner to our platform. Situated on 40 acres, your tipi site is in the center of it all."

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Higgins Lake, MI

18 Photos of 44 Higgins Lake Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Higgins Lake, MI

662 Reviews of 44 Higgins Lake Campgrounds

  • Ari A.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2019

    Jones Lake State Forest Campground

    Peaceful spot, plenty of room

    Seems much larger than most state forest campgrounds in Michigan. There are 6 loops here with numerous sites on each loop. And yet, you don't feel crowded in and there's decent privacy in many of the sites. Jones Lake is peaceful and offers some great sunsets. Dirt road leading in is in decent shape and navigable by any size rig. Some of the sites may require some tight maneuvering for larger rigs but site size is good overall. Trees offer good shade cover at different times of the day depending on site location.

    Rustic campground, so no water or electric are available, but there are vault toilets, as well as trash and recycling receptacles.

    Each site has a picnic table and fire ring.

    We had a very pleasant stay.

    Deecnt cell coverage -- 2 bars LTE on Verizon, 2-3 bars LTE on Google Fi.

  • Gemma G.
    Apr. 24, 2019

    Scheck's Place State Forest Campground

    Schecks Place-TRAIL CAMP enjoy privacy, the river, horse trails

    There are 2 sections of Schecks Place. One is a campground with picnic tables and site numbers.

    The other is the trail camp. You drop your money in the box pick a spot of as much space as you want (there is hardly ever a lot of people).

    The last 2 times we went there was maybe one or two people with their horses or just passing thru.

    There are bathrooms and a well for water. No showers No electric.

    The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down.

    There are trails that go through so if you are an equestrian this spot is perfect.

  • J
    Jun. 9, 2019

    Mud Lake State Forest Campground

    Small campground, big ambiance

    This campground has the feel of a hike-in campground while being accessible by vehicle. It is located off the beaten path in the middle of nowhere, down a couple of well-marked dirt roads about 20 miles from the highway. There are only 8 sites, but each site is spacious. Sites are divided by small stands of trees providing some privacy from neighboring sites. 4 of the sites are facing the lake. Fire ring, picnic table, vault toilets and hand pump water. Surprisingly good cell reception. There is a dirt boat ramp, but only for trolling motor, canoes and kayaks. Very quiet campground.

  • Emily V.
    Aug. 17, 2018

    Pickerel Lake (Otsego) State Forest Campground

    Great getaway and lots of space!

    Great state forest campground. $15 per night can’t be beat. Sites are great for tents and RVs but no electricity. Hand pump wells for drinking water and vault toilets that are well kept. About 40 spots. All with picnic table and fire ring. Some are closer to the lake than others but good trails to get to the lake. Lake is perfect for swimming.

  • Lexi G.
    Jul. 30, 2020

    4-Mile Trail Camp DNR

    Cheap horse camp

    It’s never busy here. I don’t have horses but I’ve seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it. There’s trails in the surrounding areas. Also water pump and vault toilets. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided as well.

  • Kate K.
    Sep. 3, 2019

    Avery Lake State Forest Campground

    Little Rustic Campground

    This place was really nice and not very busy. It’s on a beautiful lake that is great for swimming and boating. It has a few walk in sites that have beach access. All sites include picnic table and fire pit. Shared rustic vault toilets available. There is a nice boat launch located within the campground as well.

  • Janessa L.
    Jun. 23, 2020

    River Country Campground and Livery

    Weekend Getaway

    A friend and I stayed two nights in a tent. The campground is on the smaller side. You mostly see campers and RVs, many who stay seasonally. It felt like a community where everyone knows each other well. The couple on the neighboring campsite were incredibly friendly, offering help with fire starters and a hammer to pound down the stakes on our tent.

    Our site had a fire pit, picnic table and electric hookup we used to charge cell phones. There wasn’t much shade but there are other shady sites in the campground.

    While the river site was scenic, mosquitoes were of course having a feast! There was a play area for the kids, volleyball net and horseshoe pit. The camp store had the basics with hard pack ice cream for sale. There’s also a game room off the camp store with pool, ping pong and laundry room for longer visits.

    You’re able to rent a tube, kayak or canoe to cruise down the Muskegon River. They were kind enough to shuttle us to the drop off point a couple of miles away.

    There is a restroom/shower building that’s kept quite clean. The ladies room had three separate showers and I never had to wait for a turn during my stay.

    It’s definitely a family campground so if you’re looking for a quiet camping trip, this place is perfect. It’s a bit far from the Detroit area for a weekend but I’d definitely return for a longer stay.

  • Christopher P.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Spring Lake State Forest Campground

    Nice, very rustic, campground

    Nice park with dispersed sites. Hand pump for potable water and out houses for bathrooms. On a cute little lake ideal for kayaking or small boats. Not really set up for large TT, but people brought one in anyway. Close to US 131 and you can hear the traffic.

    Sites have fire rings and picnic tables.

  • Chris M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Pickerel Lake (Kalkaska) State Forest Campground

    Ok for a mid week getaway

    I scouted this campground over a holiday weekend and found all the sites that could accomodate RVs were occupied, while all the tent sites were available.  Returning on the Monday after the holiday with my tent, I was the only camper on site for all three nights I was there.  

    I camped in Site 2, as it was close to the lake and fishing was my purpose in being there.  The campground is small (15 sites) and the cost is $20/night.  The vault toilets (2) were clean and well supplied with toilet paper.  The hand pump well takes a bit of priming to get going, but don't give up.  You will get water.  There is a small beach area next to a well maintained boat dock and concrete boat launch.  Everything at my site, fire ring and picnic table was in good condition.  As others have mentioned, this campground is right on a paved road.  For some reason, this road is popular with noisy motorcycles and pickup trucks.  Fortunately, the traffic almost completely stops by 9PM.  

    The fishing was just ok.  Although rumor has it the lake is stocked with Walleye, my take was limited to abundant Bluegills, Pumpkinseeds, and Largemouth bass, many of which were on the larger size.  Waterskiing and jetskiing is prohibited on the lake before 11AM, but they come out in numbers after that time.  

    All in all, being the sole camper at the site made for a pleasant stay.  I would not venture to stay there on a weekend or holiday.

Guide to Higgins Lake

Tent camping options near Higgins Lake, Michigan include both accessible drive-in sites and more remote canoe-access locations. The area encompasses the Huron-Manistee National Forests and state forest lands with established rustic campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Winter camping options remain available at select locations like 4-Mile Trail Camp, which stays open year-round for cold-weather adventures.

What to do

Fishing from shore: Keystone Landing State Forest Campground provides direct access to the AuSable River with three river entry points for anglers. "Perfect for trout fishing as there are three access spots to the river. Watch out for ticks in the spring," notes camper Walt S.

Paddle the waterways: The White Pine Canoe Camp serves as a convenient stop during multi-day paddling excursions. "1st night of 3 night river trip with second night at rainbow bend third and final stop at parmalee," explains Jessica, highlighting the camp's role in longer river journeys.

Hiking area trails: Wakeley Lake Area offers excellent opportunities for walkers and hunters. According to Mariah R., the area has "lots of trails for exploring. Good area for hunting upland game."

What campers like

Secluded river camping: Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground receives praise for its peaceful riverside setting. Camper Heidi S. notes it feels like backcountry despite vehicle access: "If you like to rough it, but be able to drive to your campground, this is your place. Get back to nature here with no running water or electric."

Limited crowds: Many sites around Higgins Lake see minimal traffic even during peak seasons. At Keystone Landing State Forest Campground, camper Susan F. reports "Spent a week here with only two other campers. Rustic. Maintained Gravel Road. Variety of trees."

Lakeside proximity: Wakeley Lake Area delivers true waterfront camping. "By the lake... lots of trails for exploring," explains Mariah R., highlighting the combination of water access and land-based recreation opportunities.

What you should know

Water access varies: At White Pine Canoe Camp, Sean G. found that "The water pump was out of commission and there was very limited access to dry wood or dead trees," requiring self-sufficiency with water and food supplies.

Bug protection essential: Muskegon River Canoe Camp requires insect preparation according to Just J.: "A great place for dispersed camping. Don't forget the bug spray! Only 20 minutes from town if you did!"

Ownership changes impact experience: Great Circle Campground has experienced management transitions affecting visitor satisfaction. Camper John H. warns, "Been camping here for years and new ownership has ruined the experience."

Tips for camping with families

Flat, spacious sites: Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground accommodates families with practical campsites. Tiffany M. mentions it's a "Great, quiet, cozy place to take kids or anyone for that matter. Right on the river and clean, flat lots."

Pack-in camping practice: For families wanting to introduce children to backcountry skills without major commitment, 4-Mile Trail Camp offers an accessible option. Lexi G. notes it's "never busy here," making it ideal for families seeking space and privacy.

Water safety considerations: With many sites situated on rivers and lakes, families should prepare for water safety. The canoe camps lack lifeguards, and currents can be challenging for young swimmers during spring runoff periods.

Tips for RVers

Limited RV options: Keystone Landing State Forest Campground accommodates smaller RVs but lacks hookups or designated RV pads. The gravel access road remains maintained but may challenge larger vehicles during wet conditions.

Dump station planning: No onsite dump facilities exist at most rustic campgrounds near Higgins Lake. RVers should plan to use sanitary stations in nearby towns or at larger state park campgrounds before arriving at forest sites.

Alternative accommodations: For those wanting unique non-tent experiences without an RV, Camp Stonewood Ranch offers tipi camping. Ashley F. describes it as "Situated on 40 acres, your tipi site is in the center of it all. Close to town, you'll have access to amenities, while still feeling like you're secluded from it all."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Higgins Lake, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Higgins Lake, MI is Great Circle Campground with a 1.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Higgins Lake, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 44 tent camping locations near Higgins Lake, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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