Tent camping options near Hillsdale, Michigan include primitive sites, partial hookup areas, and established grounds across southern Michigan and northern Ohio. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet above sea level with sandy to loamy soil composition that provides good drainage at many campsites. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, though seasonal accessibility varies with Michigan's variable weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking trails access: White Oak Campground provides direct access to the 15.5-mile Scout Trail loop. "I camped at this campground after completing the 15.5 mile Scout Trail loop (aka 'Hiking Trail' and Yellow trail) that runs through Oak Openings. I was able to park my car here in the morning, hop on the trail (which runs right through the campground), and return later in the day," notes one visitor.
Water recreation: Circle B RV Park offers water-based activities within the campground. "Great campground, very well maintained, lots to do, great atmosphere," reports Jeffrey Y. The campground provides structured recreational opportunities throughout the summer season.
Sand dunes exploration: Oak Openings area near White Oak Campground features unique sand dune formations for family exploration. "We loved the hiking, bike trails, playground at Mallard lake area, and the kids liked exploring the sand dune area," reports Kevin K., highlighting the diverse natural features beyond standard camping activities.
What campers like
Free amenities: White Oak Campground provides complimentary firewood and clean facilities. "The firewood is free, which is amazing. There is also a dish washing station near the restrooms, with a huge sink and hot water," notes Cassandra C., highlighting uncommon free services not available at most area campgrounds.
Campsite spacing: The tent sites at White Oak offer good separation between campers. "The sites are very nicely spaced and shaded, and not right on the parking lot," reports a camper, with another noting "Site was spacious, sandy, and well suited for both tent and hammock." This creates a more natural camping experience compared to tightly packed campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Multiple campers note the well-maintained bathrooms at White Oak Campground. "Bathrooms were clean (and prepared to follow social distancing guideline)," mentions Sherrie W., while another camper observed "Very clean facilities (bathroom, wash station, pavilion)."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: White Oak Campground requires advanced online booking with specific cutoff times. "MUST RESERVE ONLINE BEFORE 4PM. There is no walk-up service, and online site goes down after employees go home at night," warns Lisa T., highlighting a critical logistical requirement.
Environmental noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise disruption from nearby infrastructure. At White Oak, "there was still a bit of road noise from the state highway a couple hundred yards away, as well as the large airplane taking off early in the morning at the nearby Toledo airport which woke us," reports Aaron.
Limited tent sites: Many Hillsdale area campgrounds have restricted tent-specific camping areas. While Funny Farm Campground offers tent sites, capacity is limited compared to RV spaces, making early reservations advisable during peak summer months.
Site selection considerations: Specific site numbers offer different advantages at various campgrounds. At White Oak, "Sites 2 and 8 seemed to be the most flat," advises Abby B., while another camper noted "Site number three looks at the most secluded to me while site number four was pretty much in the open beside the bathrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide designated play areas for children. Near White Oak Campground, "we loved the hiking, bike trails, playground at Mallard lake area," reports Kevin K., mentioning specific recreation options beyond the campsite.
Multi-activity options: Circle B RV Park and Cabins provides structured activities for families with children. The "great atmosphere" mentioned by Jeffrey Y. includes organized recreation suitable for various age groups during summer camping season.
Park exploration: Oak Openings provides diverse ecosystems within walking distance of campsites. "Oak openings has everything from pine tree forests to sand dunes," notes Sherrie W., highlighting the educational opportunities for children to experience different natural environments within a single park.
Tips from RVers
Campground atmosphere: Some Hillsdale area campgrounds specifically cater to tent campers seeking quieter environments. As Sherrie W. notes about the Toledo Metroparks camping initiative: "Prior to this initiative the only local campsites were loud party campgrounds filled with RVs." This helps tent campers identify which locations might better suit their preference for a more natural experience.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should verify operation dates when planning trips to Way Back In Campground, as seasonal availability varies. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, but has received mixed reviews regarding management and maintenance issues that affect all camper types.
Hookup availability: For RVers needing partial hookups, 6 Lakes Campground provides water and electric connections in select sites. This campground combines boat access with RV camping opportunities from May through November, though tent campers should verify site suitability before booking.
