Tent campsites near Posen, Michigan offer secluded wilderness experiences in the northeastern region of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The area features mixed hardwood forests with sandy, well-draining soil common to this glacial terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cooler nights around 55-60°F, making adequate sleeping gear necessary even during warm months.
What to do
Trail exploration at Hoist/Reid Lake Areas: The 8-mile loop trail system offers multiple backcountry camping options with varying difficulty levels. Kate K. notes, "Not heavily trafficked, and most of the campsites have a pretty decent set up from past campers. Depending on your route, you can make this hike long or short." Winter hiking is also popular, with one camper reporting, "Beautiful loop that I can't wait to stay at for a night or so! Went 3 years back for a mid day hike in the winter and it was gorgeous with snow and ice!"
Kayaking at Stoney Creek Trail Camp: Located about 30 miles from Posen, this camping area offers equipment rentals during summer months. According to Christopher P., "Park offers kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals. Also paddle boards." The site also features "disc golf and regular golf available" with "nice sandy beaches" for swimming.
Wildlife viewing at De Cheau Lake: This dispersed camping area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. A recent visitor mentioned, "Blessed by the Elk bugles nearby," suggesting fall camping coincides with elk rutting season. This remote site "feels more remote than it really is" while still being accessible by vehicle.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The backcountry tent sites at Negwegon State Park Campground are widely spaced for maximum privacy. Angelia R. explains, "The campsites are spaced enough so that even if they are all booked you wouldn't know it. Each site is about a half mile from each other." Another camper appreciates that "site number one is big, spacious and almost right off the trail in. It has a wonderful beach view and a rustic toilet."
Water access from campsites: Many campers value having water access directly from their site. At Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground, Sarah B. describes having "a private swimming hole in the river" and states "I could have used this as a base of operations for a week." The campground offers "swimming and hiking in your backyard."
Minimal light pollution: The region offers excellent stargazing opportunities. Negwegon State Park is specifically designated as a dark sky preserve, with Michael S. calling it a "great spot to get kids out in the Backcountry. Also a dark sky preserve." The minimal development and remote nature of most campsites contribute to exceptional night sky viewing.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: While many state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, others require advance planning. For Reid Lake Foot Travel Area, no reservations are needed, but popularity varies by season. Dan N. explains, "I've only been in the fall when the leaves are perfect and no one is there, but I don't expect it'd be crowded any other time of year either."
Water sources are limited: Most tent camping areas have minimal water infrastructure. For backcountry sites at Negwegon, Margaret W. advises: "Water filter is a MUST unless you want to walk to the parking lot every time you need potable water. None of us ever got sick drinking the filtered lake water."
Access varies by campground: Some sites require substantial hiking while others allow drive-up access. At De Cheau Lake Camping, a visitor noted the area has "lots of room for multiple vehicles/sites" but is "very near a handful of private residences." For hike-in locations like Hoist/Reid Lake Areas, plan accordingly as "most sites are a decent hike to get to."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Elk Hill Equestrian River Trail Campground provides facilities that make wilderness camping more accessible for families. While primarily designed for equestrian use, the campground offers "pump water and river for horses" which can benefit family campers as well. Cell reception is described as "spotty" but present, providing a safety net for families with children.
Short hike options: For families introducing children to backpacking, Reid Lake offers graduated difficulty levels. Kevin T. reports, "The hike wasn't too hard and is perfect for everyone. It was only 4 miles for the whole thing." Another camper adds that "the sites closest to parking lots are only about a mile and the furthest are still under about 4 miles."
Protected swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming options with varying levels of current and depth. At Ocqueoc Falls, Amber A. describes "multilevel falls where you can swim" and recommends watching for "poison ivy near our site a few years ago, watch your kids." The falls area provides a natural swimming experience with varying water depths appropriate for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have restrictions on RV size and amenities. At Colemans, electrical hookups are available but the area is not big-rig friendly. This private campground offers only three sites, making advance reservations essential for RV campers seeking electrical connections.
Level site availability: Finding level ground for RVs can be challenging but possible at select locations. At Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground, Joshua M. reports, "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."
Limited hook-ups: Most tent campsites near Posen lack traditional RV amenities. RVers should prepare for primitive camping conditions. One visitor to Ocqueoc Falls notes the campground is "rustic with outhouses and hand pump for water," indicating the need for self-contained systems and conservative water usage when visiting with an RV.
