Tent camping near Lowell, Michigan offers diverse options within a 25-mile radius of this small town situated along the Flat River. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with most tent sites closing earlier in fall when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area feature a mix of wooded and open terrain, with elevation changes ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level creating varied camping experiences.
What to do
Water activities along the Kalamazoo River: Paddlers can take advantage of the WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite, where one camper noted they "kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for." The campground features direct river access with three tent-only sites.
Hiking woodland trails: Woods and Water RV Resort, located 40 miles north of Lowell, offers "wonderful trails for hiking" according to reviewer Amie R., who also mentioned the park's "very quiet" atmosphere. The resort maintains several miles of nature trails through Michigan woodlands.
Swimming in natural settings: East Lake Camping provides a swimming beach that's particularly popular with families. A recent visitor mentioned the "beach and play area" that their kids loved, though noted that "they took away some of the water toys they used to have like water slide and float."
What campers like
Private swimming areas: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite earns praise for its secluded water access, with one camper describing "a private beach with great swimming in a very private area." This small campground offers a more intimate setting than larger facilities.
Outdoor kitchen facilities: Camp Clear Sky provides unexpected amenities for tent campers, with one reviewer highlighting the "outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet" as standout features. The campground also offers the unique experience of "chickens keeping us company."
Clean bathroom facilities: Many tent campers prioritize clean restrooms, and Drews Country Camping delivers with "fairly clean restrooms" despite the vintage feel of facilities "in a building that looks like it was built in the 1930s" according to a recent reviewer.
What you should know
Winter closures: Most tent sites around Lowell operate seasonally. East Lake Camping runs from May 1 to October 1, while Drews Country Camping extends slightly longer from April 1 to October 31, giving fall campers additional options.
Early arrival policies: Some campgrounds have strict check-in policies. One reviewer at Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA warned: "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee. If you decide not to pay, you'll be directed to overflow parking."
Site size variations: Tent sites vary significantly between properties. At East Lake Camping, a visitor noted that "sites are very small, not much privacy" while mentioning "more spacious sites available on the upper grassy loop."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA offers numerous activities for children. As one parent shared: "We have two girls of the age of five so the pool, the hayride, the night hayride, two parks, jump pad, and feeding the goats kept them busy."
Consider playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for younger campers. Drews Country Camping includes "a small playground where the boys burned off energy" according to a family who visited, making it suitable for families seeking basic recreation.
Check pet policies: Many Lowell area campgrounds allow dogs but have specific rules. At Allendale KOA, one camper appreciated that "pets are welcome here with two fenced dog runs and trails to keep the owners exercised."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: East Lake Camping offers both tent and RV options with varying accessibility. A camper traveling with a 34-foot RV noted they stayed in an "inner lakefront" site and mentioned that "most people here are seasonal, occupying almost all the lakefront sites."
Off-grid preparation: For RVers who also tent camp, Camp Clear Sky offers a unique experience with no RV hookups but tent sites that provide unexpected comforts. The outdoor kitchen facilities mean tent campers don't need to bring as much cooking equipment.
Proximity to attractions: When selecting a campground near Lowell, consider distance to destinations. Drews Country Camping puts you close to Holland where families can enjoy "cones at the Polka Dot Ice Cream Parlor and a sunset walk along 8th Street" after a day of camping.
