Tent campsites near Paris, Michigan offer diverse rustic experiences within the Pere Marquette State Forest. Most locations operate from April through October with seasonal closures during winter months. Tent camping opportunities range from established state forest campgrounds with basic facilities to completely undeveloped dispersed sites requiring self-sufficiency.
What to do
Fishing access: At Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground, both Big and Little Leverentz lakes provide fishing opportunities. "Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc. It has a boat ramp and a fishing pier," notes reviewer Ari A.
Creek exploration: Families with children can enjoy shallow water play at Bray Creek State Forest Campground. "A nice rustic campground, it's small but has steps leading to the creek that's perfect for kids to play in and a few trails," writes Ryan M.
Paddling routes: The Pere Marquette River serves as a popular kayaking and canoeing destination. According to Jessica V., Gleasons Landing "is at the end of a canoe/kayak company's trip. Can get loud during the day when the trips come in. Other than that very quiet."
What campers like
Private lake views: Tent sites at Leverentz Lake offer substantial space between neighbors. "We arrived later in the evening at the campground. There were several sites to choose from. We chose a site on the Big Lake... We had plenty of room between sites," reports Theresa W.
Riverside access: Many campers appreciate direct water access at Bowman Lake Campground. Daniel N. describes it as a "Great little camp spot right off the lake. You have to hike in to the camp locations but its not bad. Theres no amenities except for a table but the spot is free and clean."
Fall season camping: Tent sites are particularly appealing during autumn. Jeff W. notes about Leverentz Lake: "Reviews of the lake and the Fall colors oh, it really just doesn't get any better than this. There are 2 vault toilet and one water pump. The lake offers a fishing pier."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Gleasons Landing requires reservations and can be difficult to secure on weekends. Jessica V. advises, "Hard to get a reservation on the weekends."
Water availability: Hand pumps provide drinking water at most established sites but only during frost-free months. At Condon Lake, Anjel W. suggests to "Bring a water filter" as reliable water sources may be limited.
Seasonal variations: Campground popularity fluctuates throughout the year. John N. comments on Leverentz Lake: "First come first serve in the fall- we were basically the only ones there."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: For swimming opportunities, consider Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground. Angel shares that it's a "Great spot for the family, 2 beaches. Quiet at night. Kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow! Lots of shade, clean bathrooms, friendly staff!"
Protected swimming: Shallow water areas offer safer spaces for children. Brad F. notes that Merrill-Gorrel has "Clean bathrooms, easy access to lake, nice beach."
Site selection: For tent camping with children, look for sites away from boat landings. Amy R. explains that Gleasons Landing "is also a landing spot for folks that rent kayaks or canoes from Baldwin, which is the closest town."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size. At Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground, Michael W. explains: "You take a narrow dirt road over a nearly flooded over land bridge to a remote circle plot of campsites."
Utility considerations: When hookups are available, be prepared with proper equipment. Brad F. advises about Merrill-Gorrel: "Make sure to bring extra hose and extension cord as the water and electric can be a ways away from some sites."
Dispersed options: For those seeking no-frills tent camping near Paris, Michigan, consider forest pulloffs. Linda C. notes about Spruce Road Pulloff: "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Road was very quiet midweek."
