Tent camping Lake Orion, Michigan provides access to the Clinton River watershed, with campsites situated at elevations between 980-1,050 feet above sea level. The region experiences typical Midwest seasonal changes with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August. Most primitive campsites feature flat terrain with sandy-loam soil that drains moderately well after rainfall.
What to do
Trail running access: Appleton Lake Campground offers extensive trails for outdoor fitness. One camper notes the area has "great trails - perfect for trail running" with "mature trees" throughout the rustic sites.
Fishing opportunities: Camp Agawam provides fishing access directly in Lake Orion. As one visitor describes, the park "has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
Kayaking routes: Several campgrounds offer paddling opportunities on local waterways. At Hilltop Campgrounds, campers can launch directly onto Lake Nepessing, which one reviewer calls a "hidden lil local gem" with "the beach right on the sports lake nepessing."
Winter camping options: Unlike most seasonal locations, some sites remain open year-round. At Hilltop Campgrounds, a winter visitor shares that "the campground here is simple but the people are so friendly it will be difficult to leave when our season here is over."
What campers like
Proximity to outdoor recreation: Many campers appreciate the variety of activities available. At Camp Agawam, a visitor mentions 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!"
Budget-friendly options: Several locations offer cost-effective camping. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, sites range from "$30 a night 30/50 amp full hook up... or as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only! Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping!"
Community atmosphere: P.L. Graham Park offers a welcoming environment where "the locals are friendly." Another camper enthusiastically shared: "If I could give this camp ground 10000000 stars, I would," specifically noting the helpfulness of the caretaker.
Wooded seclusion: Campers seeking a natural setting appreciate Appleton Lake Campground, which has "sites that are fairly secluded from each other" and offers a "quiet campground tucked in the woods."
What you should know
First-come sites: P.L. Graham Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper notes "There are 10 spots. This is a first come, first served campground. There is ample space between campgrounds."
Fire ring variations: Fire pits differ between locations. At P.L. Graham Park & Campground, "It's not a constructed firepit, rather one in the dirt surrounded by rocks."
Facilities limitations: Most tent camping areas have basic amenities. One P.L. Graham visitor advises, "Not every site has a picnic table, so I'd suggest bringing a tiny table for food prep/surface to work on."
Campsite selection considerations: At Appleton Lake Campground, a camper shares that "The sites were not as secluded as I'd prefer but we made do. Nice hiking trails around the camp. Watch out for ticks though."
Weather impacts: Tent camping near Lake Orion requires weather awareness. During summer, temperatures range from 70-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall bring temperature fluctuations between 40-65°F.
Tips for camping with families
Starter campgrounds: For families new to tent camping, certain locations offer beginner-friendly experiences. A visitor to Appleton Lake Campground describes it as a "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for wildlife encounters at various sites. One Appleton Lake camper warns, "once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. At P.L. Graham Park, "There is a pavilion and a small swing set for kids."
Activity planning: Many locations offer structured recreation. Genesee Otter Lake Campground has "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
Solar power options: Some campers utilize alternative power sources. At Port Huron KOA, one visitor noted they traveled from Toronto thanks to "a solar company at [website] who installed solar panels on our RV. We were able to camp from Toronto to Orion Twp and had a great time."
Site spacing: RV campers should check site dimensions and layout. A Port Huron KOA visitor 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 considerations: Some RV sites remain open during winter months. A Hilltop Campgrounds guest shared, "We are full timers here for the winter into spring. The campground here is simple but the people are so friendly."
Hookup variations: Electric options differ between locations. Crystal Creek offers varying amperage options: "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."
