Tent camping around Sanford, Michigan offers several options within the Gladwin State Forest Area and surrounding counties. The region consists primarily of mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 600-850 feet above sea level. Sites are typically nestled among oak, maple and pine trees, with seasonal access influenced by Michigan's varied climate conditions. Winter camping is limited to specific locations due to snow accumulation averaging 40-50 inches annually.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: House Lake State Campground provides direct access to a 42-acre lake stocked with panfish and bass. According to a camper, "There is no cell service within 20 minutes of the campground, and the closest restaurants are 30 minutes away, but if you prepare it is an excellent location!"
Water activities: Tubbs Lake Island State Forest Campground offers unique camping on a peninsula. A visitor notes, "Tubbs island was gorgeous! There is Tubbs mainland and Tubbs island and both you're welcome to but I recommenced staying on the island. It's more of a peninsula then an island but it's wonderfully cut off."
River excursions: Russell Canoe Livery & Campground provides equipment rentals and riverside camping. "Great place to pull off the river and camp. Everything you need for your river adventure. Rent or bring your own watercraft. I've camped here on and off for many years. I prefer later in the season," reports one regular visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campsites near Sanford feature natural barriers and adequate spacing. At Merrill-Gorrel Park Campground, campers appreciate the layout: "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!"
Lakefront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Haymarsh State Game Area, a camper reports, "I went camping here for my Birthday over Memorial Day weekend. This is a hidden gem in northern Michigan, our campsite was right on the lake where we were able to pull our boat right up to, plenty of private space, and so fun to fish."
Wildlife viewing: The best tent camping near Sanford, Michigan often includes wildlife encounters. Sugar Springs Campground provides spacious sites in a natural setting. A visitor notes, "The sites are spacious and clean. The campground had 4 other occupied sites (seasonal?). We never saw another person during our visit."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. At Sugar Springs, "The sites have electric only. Water is shared between 3-4 sites, so you better bring a hundred feet of hose to fill your tank. The sites have a picnic table and large fire-pit. Most sites are wooded & grass covered. Downside: horrifically not leveled."
Limited services: The Sanford area features primarily rustic camping. Muskegon River Canoe Camp offers free dispersed camping with minimal amenities. A camper advises: "A great place for dispersed camping. Don't forget the bug spray! Only 20 minutes from town if you did! Great two weeks here!"
First-come availability: Many campgrounds don't accept reservations. At Tubbs Lake, campers should "plan to get there early because it fills up" as "there are about 20 rustic sites on the island and all first come first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple beaches: Haymarsh State Game Area provides family-friendly water access. A reviewer shared their experience: "This is a hidden gem in northern Michigan, our campsite was right on the lake where we were able to pull our boat right up to, plenty of private space, and so fun to fish."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly riding paths. Merrill-Gorrel Campground is noted for this feature: "Kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow! Lots of shade, clean bathrooms, friendly staff! A great little campground."
Wildlife encounters: Families often enjoy the abundant small animals. At House Lake State Campground, "they are overrun with chipmunks which was adorably magical! They have vault toilets available, a water spigot, and a self serve firewood station as well as a picnic table and fire pit at every site."
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Bring extra equipment for hookups. At Merrill-Gorrel, campers advise to "Make sure to bring extra hose and extension cord as the water and electric can be a ways away from some sites."
Limited full-hookup options: Most campgrounds near Sanford offer electric-only or no hookups. At Sugar Springs Campground, "The sites have electric only. Water is shared between 3-4 sites, so you better bring a hundred feet of hose to fill your tank."
Dump station availability: Only select campgrounds provide dump stations. Sugar Springs Campground offers a sanitary dump station, while more rustic options like House Lake State Campground have none, requiring planning for longer stays.
