The Smiths Creek area of Michigan sits along the Black River watershed, creating a distinctive camping environment with mixed hardwood forests and water access points. Tent campers find options from rustic sites to more developed grounds throughout St. Clair County, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Water levels in local streams fluctuate seasonally, affecting fishing and paddling conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Black River: Black River access points at P.L. Graham Park & Campground make it popular for paddlers. One camper notes, "Compact Camp with open sites. Nice place to bring a kayak & canoe. Worn in dock area but still accessible."
Swimming options: For families seeking swimming activities, Genesee Otter Lake Campground provides a man-made swimming area. While boating options are limited, other activities compensate as one reviewer mentioned: "Plenty of activities planned and structured thru the grounds to keep the whole family entertained including PUTT PUTT Golf, Arcade, Saturday Night Adult Bingo weekly."
Outdoor activities: Crystal Creek Christian Campground offers multiple recreation options within the campground property. A visitor explains, "Amenities including but not limited to horse shoes, swimming (man dug pond) hiking, basketball, volleyball and etc."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate generous site spacing at Camp Agawam, with one reviewer stating: "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers find value at several area campgrounds. At Crystal Creek Christian Campground, a visitor pointed out: "Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget! $30 a night 30/50 amp full hook up... or as low as $20 for 15 amp water n electric only! Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping!"
Helpful staff: On-site managers receive positive mentions across campgrounds. At P.L. Graham Park, a camper recently shared: "Walker was very welcoming and super generous! We did a lil walk around the grounds and saw a few people fishing and they had some catches. Walker brought us wood for our fire and it was well worth the fee for the amount he gave us."
What you should know
Firewood restrictions: Most campgrounds prohibit outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. At P.L. Graham Park, one camper explained: "He sold us a great bundle of wood for 10$!!! You can NOT bring your own wood in."
Limited cell service: Prepare for spotty connectivity at Hilltop Campgrounds and throughout rural St. Clair County. Pack offline maps and entertainment.
Seasonal camper presence: Many campgrounds host predominantly seasonal campers. A Hilltop visitor noted: "Mostly seasonal campers but still sites available for those nightly/weekender campers. All sites are 50 amp full hook ups."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Family-oriented activities vary by campground. At Port Huron KOA, one reviewer shared: "There is go karting and more with the connected fun park. Reserve well in advance!"
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: Consider timing your visit for quieter experiences. A Port Huron KOA camper observed: "Campground is peaceful during week - due to cabins can be very roudy and crowded on weekends."
Weather preparedness: Spring camping near Smiths Creek often brings variable conditions. Pack layers and rain gear for best tent camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Port Huron KOA, experienced RVers recommend specific locations: "If you're in a camper I'd recommend sites 54,179,180. Those sites have a bit of a backyard to them and more space."
Seasonal timing: The best tent camping near Smiths Creek, Michigan typically runs April through October, with most campgrounds closing for winter. Early fall offers cooler nights with fewer bugs.
Utilities considerations: For RVers requiring full hookups, verify amperage before booking. A Hilltop Campgrounds visitor mentioned: "For a full hook up campground this place is very economically friendly at only $40 a night!"
