Tent campsites near New Hudson, Michigan offer diverse camping experiences within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at elevations between 850-950 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. While many campgrounds close during winter months, several locations like Wheel Inn Campground operate year-round with modified services during colder seasons.
What to do
Paddling access points: At Island Lake Recreation Area, campers can enjoy direct water access for kayaking and canoeing. "Island lake really does feel like you're up north with the hours spent on I-75," notes Rachael D. "There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills."
Trail running opportunities: The mature forest at Appleton Lake Campground provides excellent terrain for trail runners. "Great trails - perfect for trail running," confirms Peter in his review. Sites here are rustic and suitable for tent camping only, with no RV facilities available.
Swimming options: Family-friendly water activities are available at Camp Agawam. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!" writes James P., highlighting the variety of recreational opportunities at this suburban park.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Tent campers appreciate privacy at Crooked Lake Rustic Campground where many sites offer lake views. "The staff were so kind and helpful. I visited in my off-grid ready camper van, and staff helped us choose a site that had good views and felt private (SITE #22)," reports Cathy E.
Urban escape without long drives: Many local outdoor enthusiasts value camping close to home. "This is an awesome place to stay, especially if you live in the area, as it provides a backcountry, boat-in camping experience very close to town," notes Don H. about Island Lake Recreation Area's canoe camps.
Cost-effective camping: Full-service campgrounds in the region offer good value. "For a full hook up campground this place is very economically friendly at only $40 a night!" states Tammy P. about Hilltop Campgrounds, noting its reasonable prices for the amenities provided.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary significantly: Vault toilets at some locations receive mixed reviews. "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full," notes Mike B. about Appleton Lake Campground. Check recent reviews before booking.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interactions, especially at night. "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 Angie H. about her stay at Appleton Lake Campground.
Seasonal operations and conditions: Many campgrounds in the New Hudson area have limited seasonal availability. "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," shares Alicia A. about Hilltop Campgrounds, one of the few year-round options.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: First-time campers with children should consider less remote locations. "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time," shares D.G. about their experience at Appleton Lake Campground.
Look for family amenities: Choose campgrounds with kid-focused facilities. "Nice campground for family and activities. Good dock for the kids to fish," recommends Mary O. about her stay at Island Lake Recreation Area.
Check for tick activity: Take precautions in wooded areas, especially during spring and summer. "Watch out for ticks though," cautions D.G. after camping at PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND, where the wooded environment can harbor ticks during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for winter stays: RVers planning extended winter camping should research appropriate locations. "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," warns Tara W. about her disappointing experience at Genesee Otter Lake Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming site details when booking.
International campers: Canadian visitors frequently cross the border to camp in this region. "I come down to Detroit from Windsor every year to camp in Michigan with friends and this year we went to this very nice campsite in Orion Twp and I loved it," shares Tyler C. about his experience at Camp Agawam, noting its accessibility for international travelers.
Site grading varies: Be aware of uneven terrain when selecting sites. "It was a little slanted, but it didn't bother me," mentions Cathy E. about her site at Crooked Lake Rustic Campground, a consideration more important for RVers than tent campers.
