Tent camping opportunities near Mayfield, Michigan include several small, rustic sites within a 40-minute drive. The area features multiple lakes and the Black River, making water activities common during the May through October camping season. Local elevation ranges from 750 to 850 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: P.L. Graham Park & Campground offers direct river entry points. "Compact Camp with open sites. Nice place to bring a kayak & canoe. Worn in dock area but still accessible," notes one camper at P.L. Graham Park & Campground. Another mentions, "We did a lil walk around the grounds and saw a few people fishing and they had some catches."
Hiking opportunities: The best tent camping near Mayfield includes access to local trails. "Great trails - perfect for trail running," says a reviewer about Appleton Lake Campground. Another notes, "There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills. Signs are well marked throughout the park."
Water recreation: Swim or fish at several nearby lakes. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf," reports a camper at Camp Agawam. For families wanting more amenities, "There is go karting and more with the connected fun park" at Port Huron KOA.
What campers like
Rustic seclusion: The best camping spots near Mayfield include secluded options away from crowds. "I liked 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 or small trailer," writes a camper about Appleton Lake Campground.
Attentive caretakers: Tent campers consistently praise the staff at smaller campgrounds. "Walker was very welcoming and super generous! We did a lil walk around the grounds and saw a few people fishing and they had some catches. Walker brought us wood for our fire and it was well worth the fee for the amount he gave us," shares a visitor at P.L. Graham Park.
Local accessibility: Camping areas provide a wilderness feel without long drives. "Island lake really does feel like you're up north without the hours spent on I-75," says a visitor at Island Lake Recreation Area. Another camper agrees: "Close by but up north feel."
What you should know
Site selection matters: The most desirable spots fill quickly. "There are only 2 campsites located nestled in the woods, the others are located in a rather flat, open area with trees around one side, and the lake on the other," notes a camper at P.L. Graham Park.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife visitors. "The camp site itself was nice, but once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night. Definitely went somewhere else the next night," warns an Appleton Lake camper.
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies significantly across camping areas near Mayfield. "Cell service is pretty low so just prepare for that," advises a camper at P.L. Graham Park. Others note that at busier campgrounds, "WiFi is slow but stable. You probably won't be able to watch Netflix. AT&T service is terrible."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities range from basic to primitive. "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full," reports an Appleton Lake visitor. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, campers note that amenities include "horse shoes, swimming (man dug pond) hiking, basketball, volleyball and etc."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Family camping costs vary widely near Mayfield. "No alcohol allowed as this is a Christian campground but for all the amenities it is extremely affordable! $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," reports a Crystal Creek Christian Campground visitor.
Activity planning: Schedule visits around organized events. "Plenty of friendly staff. The site offers a lot of activities including pools, put put golf and play areas for the kids," notes a reviewer about Port Huron KOA.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are noisier than others. "It tends to get a little rowdy and is not a quiet campground by any means but there's something fun about that sometimes. Got to watch out for kids buzzing around on banana bikes and golf carts cruising around," warns a Port Huron KOA camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Find spots with natural separation. "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," suggests a Port Huron KOA visitor with specific site recommendations.
Seasonal options: Year-round camping is available for extended stays. "We are full timers here for the winter into spring. The campground here is simple but the people are so friendly it will be difficult to leave when our season here is over," notes a camper at Hilltop Campgrounds.
Utility hookups: RVers should check available connections. "All sites are 50 amp full hook ups. The beach is right on the sports lake nepessing," reports a Hilltop Campgrounds visitor. "For a full hook up campground this place is very economically friendly at only $40 a night!"
