Tent camping near Pellston, Michigan centers around the forested regions of northern Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The area sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with heavily wooded terrain featuring mixed hardwood forests and small waterways. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with significant snowfall, while summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with higher humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Paddle the Sturgeon River: Access the water directly from Sturgeon Valley Campground, which offers convenient river entry points for kayakers. "Judy is lovely. River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak," notes Sue R., who frequently visits for water recreation.
Explore accessible waterfalls: Ocqueoc Falls features Michigan's only universally accessible waterfall with designated swimming areas. "This is one spectacular place, and a very familiar campground for us. We've been there many times," writes Maria L., adding that "the campground itself is about 100 yards further down the road from the entrance to the falls."
Trail riding opportunities: The Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground provides dedicated facilities for horse camping. "This is a great horse camp. Have camped here many times. Pump water and river for horses. Manuer bunkers and solid poles for highline tying," reports Devora D., highlighting the equestrian-specific amenities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation between camping spots. "What's not to love? Only a few sites, but this campground has it all. Lots of space and wooded areas around you, good spots for hanging out in hammocks," writes Sarah B.
River access: Multiple sites along the Ocqueoc River provide immediate water access. Laura notes the campground has "amazing rustic" qualities with options to "walk along the Ocqueoc River to the falls, walk the path through the campground or park at the site and take a short trip to the falls."
Seasonal variations: Beaver Island Bill Wagner Memorial Campground offers waterfront camping with changing seasonal conditions. "Private, quiet, and easy access to the beach (pebbly). Clean outhouses, nice fire rings, and a water pump. Very windy so prepare by packing the right gear," advises one camper who appreciates the lack of crowds.
What you should know
First-come, first-served system: Most rustic sites cannot be reserved in advance. At Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground, Laura explains the operation as "first come first serve sites, a well with pump for water and clean vault toilets."
Limited amenities: C3 Farm Trust provides primitive camping experiences with minimal facilities. Jake C. describes it as "private tent camping in rural Michigan" where visitors should expect a back-to-basics experience.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground, Devora D. mentions there's "some cell phone reception but spotty," which is typical for the region.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds have proximity to highways. Joshua M. notes about Ocqueoc Falls, "you can hear road noise from M-68" despite the camp being "semi-isolated" with "adequate space between sites and ample shade."
Tips for camping with families
Appropriate trail selection: Hiking trails at Ocqueoc Falls are family-friendly and manageable. "It's not a difficult trail, and circles altogether about 7 miles or so with various loops for shorter hikes," says Maria L., making it suitable for most ability levels.
Swimming opportunities: Stoney Creek Trail Camp offers family-oriented water recreation beyond just hiking. Christopher P. notes the park "offers kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals. Also paddle boards. Nice sandy beaches," making it versatile for families with children of different ages.
Poison ivy awareness: Some camping areas contain common irritants. At Ocqueoc Falls, Amber A. warns visitors to "watch your kids" as there was "some poison ivy near our site a few years ago," though she still rates the experience highly with "beautiful overall with nice wooded campsites."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many sites cannot accommodate larger vehicles. Joshua M. reports about Ocqueoc Falls, "We fit our small travel trailer easily into a fairly level lot. The lack of big rigs makes for a generally laid back and quiet atmosphere - a certain plus."
Basic facilities only: Even RV-accessible sites typically offer rustic amenities. Rachel K. describes Ocqueoc Falls as having "picnic table, hand pump water, and a clean outhouse. It's got what you need," indicating campers should prepare for self-sufficient camping.
