Tent camping near Leonard, Michigan offers multiple rustic experiences within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at the northern edge of Oakland County where rolling hills meet farmland, creating diverse camping landscapes ranging from lakeside sites to wooded retreats. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during camping season, with cooler spring and fall nights requiring additional layers.
What to do
Fishing from docks: At P.L. Graham Park & Campground, visitors can fish along the Black River. As one camper noted, "We did a lil walk around the grounds and saw a few people fishing and they had some catches."
Paddling opportunities: Appleton Lake Campground provides access to paddling on its small lake. A reviewer mentioned, "Appleton lake is perfect for kayaking or very small fishing boats. No real beach area at this lake but Brighton rec is minutes away."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer trail systems for day hikes. At Appleton Lake Campground, campers appreciate the "Great trails - perfect for trail running" and note there are "nice hiking trails around the camp."
Mini-golf and games: For families wanting structured activities, Port Huron KOA offers numerous recreational options. A visitor shared, "The site offers a lot of activities including pools, put put golf and play areas for the kids."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers value the privacy at certain campgrounds. At Appleton Lake Campground, visitors appreciate that "this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other. Each site has a fire ring and ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent."
Affordable camping: Budget-conscious campers find value at several locations. Crystal Creek Christian Campground offers various price points: "Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping! Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget!"
Proximity to urban areas: Many campers value tent sites that feel remote but aren't far from civilization. One camper at Island Lake Recreation Area noted, "Island lake really does feel like you're up north with the hours spent on I-75... Great location without having to drive too far."
Helpful camp hosts: Several campgrounds receive positive feedback about their management. At P.L. Graham Park, visitors find "The Manager was on the tractor and greeted us right away" and note "Walker was very welcoming and super generous!"
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife at tent sites. One camper at Appleton Lake Campground warned, "once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night. Definitely went somewhere else the next night."
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At P.L. Graham Park, "There is a Porta potty available" while a visitor to Appleton Lake Campground complained, "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full."
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds require advance planning. At P.L. Graham Park & Campground, however, "This a first come, first served campground" with only 10 spots available.
Site amenities: Facilities differ widely between campgrounds. One P.L. Graham Park camper advised, "Not every site has a picnic table, so I'd suggest bringing a tiny table for food prep/surface to work on."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for families. At Genesee Otter Lake Campground, families can enjoy various water recreation, though one visitor cautioned about waterfront sites: "We rented for 120 a night a lake front campsite with a boat. We were given a rock and dirt pad that over looked a swamp area."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play structures for children. Camp Agawam offers "a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
Scheduled activities: For structured entertainment, some campgrounds offer organized events. Port Huron KOA features "tons of scheduled activities" and according to one camper, "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!"
First-time camping spots: Appleton Lake Campground works well for introducing children to camping. A visitor shared, "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note varying operating seasons at campgrounds near Leonard. Hilltop Campgrounds operates from "April 15 to October 15," while some locations offer winter camping options. One camper at Hilltop noted, "We are full timers here for the winter into spring. The campground here is simple but the people are so friendly."
Site spacing: RV campers often comment on site proximity issues. At Port Huron KOA, one RVer observed it's "right in town with sparse trees and very small sites" while another noted, "Crowded sites so close to one another it was hard to tell were one started and another ended."
Hook-up options: Various campgrounds offer different utility connections. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, campers can find "$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."
