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Best Tent Camping near Pentwater, MI

795 Reviews

State parks and national forests surrounding Pentwater, Michigan provide diverse options for tent camping enthusiasts. Jackpine Hike-In Campground in Ludington State Park offers eight walk-in tent sites accessible via a one-mile flat trail from the parking area. Manistee National Forest's Sulak Campground provides primitive tent campsites with first-come, first-served availability. For water-oriented camping, Whelan Lake Campground and Enchanted Pebawma Lake Campground feature tent sites with lake access, while White River Campsite #1 offers free tent camping with minimal amenities.

Sites throughout the region vary in surface conditions, with many featuring sandy tent pads typical of Michigan's western shoreline. Jackpine's tent sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to clean vault toilets, though water availability may be seasonal. Timber Creek Campground in Manistee National Forest provides basic amenities for $10 per night with a 14-day stay limit. Most primitive tent campgrounds require campers to bring their own water or use hand pumps located at central locations. Vault toilets are standard at established sites, while backcountry tent camping areas may have no facilities. Tick activity has been reported at some locations, particularly in spring and early summer.

Areas farther from developed campgrounds offer deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking quiet experiences. According to reviews, Jackpine Hike-In Campground provides spacious sites with "plenty of trees in between" and access to Lake Michigan "just up and over a sand dune." One camper noted that while the campground requires carrying gear one mile, "it feels like backwoods camping, but you get some nice amenities." Timber Creek Campground has been described as "probably the least used campsite I have ever been to," making it ideal for tent campers seeking solitude. Many walk-in tent sites throughout the region feature good hammocking options with sufficient tree cover, though site selection matters as some locations have trees that are either too small or improperly spaced for hammocks.

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Best Tent Sites Near Pentwater, Michigan (34)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pentwater, MI

26 Photos of 34 Pentwater Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Pentwater, MI

795 Reviews of 34 Pentwater Campgrounds

  • Kate K.
    Jul. 7, 2019

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

    Kinda overcrowded these days

    2-3 mile hike-in backcountry camping on the dunes of Lake Michigan. This is a gorgeous area that has unfortunately gotten a little overpopulated. The over night area used to be a quiet and peaceful place to unplug and unwind, but now it feels more like a party beach. Very crowded and loud. Also, too many inexperienced campers come out carrying too much stuff and leave there garbage and unwanted items all over the dunes rather than practicing “leave no trace”

  • Amanda L.
    Aug. 9, 2018

    Brower Park Campground

    Large Family Fun Campground

    There is something for everyone here. Tent, camper, or RV and fun for all ages with everything from 3 playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and tennis courts, to a boat launch, fishing pier, and fish cleaning station. There is also a fairly large swimming area. The showers are actually nice and clean! The restrooms were surprisingly clean and modern as well. Firewood is available in bundles or loose and you stack it yourself. There are numerous picnic areas throughout the campground. There are picnic tables and fire rings at every site and hook up such as electric and water vary. Kids are riding their bikes all over, fishing, playing at playgrounds, the beach, everywhere. Everyone was very friendly. You probably don’t necessarily need a sleeping pad or air mat if you’re in a tent, but they’re always nice. The mosquitos weren’t bad at all! We stayed at site #226. You do need a county park pass, $6/day until 10pm or $25/year.

  • Steph K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

    Quiet, off-grid, close to the dunes

    The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness is dispersed camping, and nearby is Lake Michigan Campground with tent and dry rv camping. We stayed there and almost had the whole place to ourselves.

    Be warned- there is no cell service or wifi, so plan ahead and let people know you won’t be reachable. And then enjoy being disconnected :)

    The campsites were big and beneath mature trees for max shade and privacy. There’s a small bath house with flushing toilets. No hook ups or electricity of any sort. Camp hosts sold ice and firewood and there was potable water.

    The dunes are a quick walk and well worth it. There is a trail from the campground right down to the beach. We hiked all day and lounged on the beach. Dogs are welcome on-leash.

  • Emily M.
    Jul. 7, 2021

    Mears State Park Campground

    Not worth it

    Go to the beach for the day, but don't camp here. The sites were on top of each other and there was no privacy. There was only one bathroom for the entire campground meaning that only 3 stalls were offered for all of the women. Because there is only one bathroom and it isn't in the middle of the campground, it is a long walk for most of the campers. The showers were nice, but the bathroom could use an upgrade.

    All of the sites were sandy with no shade. Traveling on bike meant having few comfort items. We really could have used a tree or some other shade after a long day of touring, but there was no shade at the site or anywhere nearby. Most folks had awnings on their campers. I could see how having a camper or RV (or even a car) would make the experience more enjoyable, but still I would not choose to return here.

    It is not a tent friendly site because the tent gets blown off the sand. Sandy sites make it difficult to stake down a tent. We went on a particularly windy day and the gear we had was not enough to hold down the tent. I ended up going to bed at 7:30pm just to keep the tent from blowing away. 

    There was wifi, but it hardly worked at the site. The beach was decent, but nothing any more impressive than anywhere else on the lake. If you have the opportunity to stay somewhere other than here, go there instead. I was shocked that so many people would pay so much for such a pathetic campground. If you are paying to stay at a Michigan State Park, find yourself a better one!

    I intended on taking pictures, but was so unimpressed I completely forgot.

  • Cody M.
    May. 13, 2022

    Jackpine Hike-In Campground — Ludington State Park

    Quality Primitive Camping

    An easy walk from the designated parking spots by the maintenance area, but I chose to bike. The road was sandy in spots but manageable. Sites contain a fire ring and picnic table. Two clean vault toilets. Signs said the well was closed; not sure if that was seasonal or permanent. Site F was good for hammocking. Walked to the lighthouse for sunset and was not disappointed. There’s a trail from the campground up over a dune to Lake Michigan.

  • N
    Jul. 19, 2016

    South Channel Campground

    Close to the beach, but very very cramped

    There are two campgrounds in the park - The Channel Campground & the Lake Michigan campground. We stayed at the Channel Campground two years ago. It's right on the channel from Muskegon Lake to Lake Michigan, so you have walking access to both lakes. The campsites were VERY close together. It was actually the first thing we noticed as soon as we pulled through the gate. Campsites have a paved parking pad, fire ring, electrical hookup, and picnic table. Restroom & shower facilities were relatively clean & well maintained. You'll probably have to wait for the showers, but that's pretty typical.

    Overall, the campground was just average. If you don't like being close to your neighbors, I'd recommend staying at the Lake Michigan campground in the same park. Larger sites & tons of shade.

  • Jeff B.
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Jackpine Hike-In Campground — Ludington State Park

    Jack Pine Had Everything

    Ludington State Park - Jack Pine camp had everything. A very pleasant drive into the state park - with many places to access the beach.

    Check-in and parking for camping was easy and the price was reasonable. Easy hike to Jack Pine and it was easy to find my campsite.

    Campsite has well designated corner marker boundaries with plenty of room to pitch a tent and several hammock options. Each site has a solid fire pit and picnic table. Plenty of tree cover for shade. Toilets are close and clean.

    The hike to the lighthouse was easy and the lighthouse was picturesque. Great access to the beach and again toilets were close and clean.

  • s
    Jul. 4, 2020

    Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park Campground

    Campground steps away from Lake Michigan

    Clean, shady campground with easy access to Lake Michigan beach. We stayed at site 50A right across from the steps down to the beach. There was no privacy, but it was a large corner lot with both water and trash steps away. Bath house had nice, clean individual showers and seperate multi stall restrooms. We have t mobile and had cell service at our site, but there is no wifi.

  • Mike B.
    Sep. 17, 2020

    Silver Creek State Forest Campground

    Very nice campground with a small hiking trail from the sites

    I stayed here for two nights recently.  The campground is not too large with 18 or 19 sites if I remember correctly.  Most of the sites are pretty private and a few are along the river that runs along the campground.  The water is very peaceful to listen to while falling asleep.

    There are ample vault toilets and enough parking for one or two vehicles on most sites.  The sites are not that large, so large RVs will not fit.

    Plenty of space for a tent or two per site.  Each site has a fire ring and a picnic table.  Finding firewood in the campground is near impossible, so plan to bring some or buy some before you arrive.

Guide to Pentwater

Tent camping near Pentwater, Michigan offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the area. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Jackpine Hike-In Campground features well-defined campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable camping experience surrounded by nature.
  • Timber Creek Campground offers spacious sites and a water pump, making it a convenient choice for campers looking for basic amenities in a serene setting.
  • Whelan Lake Campground provides picnic tables and toilets, perfect for those who want a blend of rustic camping with essential facilities.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

  • At Jackpine Hike-In Campground, enjoy easy access to hiking trails that lead to stunning views of Lake Michigan and a picturesque lighthouse.
  • Elk Canoe Campground is ideal for paddling and fishing, offering a peaceful retreat after a day on the water.
  • Explore the North Country Trail from Timber Creek Campground, which provides a great opportunity for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Tent campers should check out unique features

  • White River Campsite #1 offers a dispersed camping experience with no amenities, perfect for those seeking solitude and a true back-to-nature vibe.
  • Manistee National Forest Sulak Campground features secluded sites surrounded by trees, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and campfire gatherings.
  • Logmark Rest Stop is a unique canoe-in camping spot, ideal for those looking to fish or enjoy a refreshing swim in the nearby waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pentwater, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pentwater, MI is Jackpine Hike-In Campground — Ludington State Park with a 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pentwater, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Pentwater, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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