Tent campgrounds around Stockbridge, Michigan provide rustic camping opportunities within the Irish Hills region. The area sits at approximately 950 feet above sea level, with terrain characterized by rolling hills, kettle lakes, and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, with cooler nights in the 50-60°F range, making tent camping particularly pleasant during late spring and early fall.
What to do
Water activities at local lakes: Crooked Lake Rustic Campground offers access to fishing and kayaking opportunities with dedicated lake access points. According to one visitor, "The views of the lake are awesome, it's a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state" (Jordan D.).
Trail exploration: Island Lake Recreation Area features well-maintained hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. A regular visitor notes, "There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills. Signs are well marked throughout the park" (Rachael D.).
Fishing opportunities: Dedicated fishing spots exist at several area lakes, with varied catch possibilities. One camper mentioned, "Nice campground for family and activities. Good dock for the kids to fish" (Mary O.).
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Appleton Lake Campground offers spacious sites that maintain natural separation. A camper observed, "I liked that this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other. Each site has a fire ring and ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent or small trailer" (Mike B.).
Staff assistance: Helpful rangers enhance the experience at Crooked Lake Rustic Campground. One camper reported, "The staff were so kind and helpful. I visited in my off-grid ready camper van, and staff helped us choose a site that had good views and felt private (SITE #22)" (Cathy E.).
Trail connectivity: Several campgrounds feature direct access to trail systems. A visitor to Appleton Lake commented, "Rustic and mature trees. Great trails - perfect for trail running" (Peter).
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active at night in several campgrounds. At Appleton Lake, one camper warned, "The camp site itself was nice, but once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night. Definitely went somewhere else the next night" (Angie H.).
Toilet facilities vary: Most rustic campgrounds have basic vault toilets with varying levels of maintenance. An Appleton Lake visitor noted, "My only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full" (Mike B.).
Site selection matters: PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND offers varying levels of shade. One visitor mentioned, "Campers are very friendly, management is beyond friendly. Would prefer more shade but this is very nice place" (Mike L.).
Tips for camping with families
Select beginner-friendly sites: Some campgrounds are better suited for introducing children to camping. An Appleton Lake camper shared, "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time" (D G.).
Watch for ticks: The wooded areas around Stockbridge contain ticks during warmer months. A visitor cautioned, "Watch out for ticks though" when describing their experience at Appleton Lake (D G.).
Consider showering options: Wheel Inn Campground offers shower facilities unlike most rustic sites in the area. A visitor noted the campground was "Very clean and nice" with management that "don't bother you" (Chris and Shy R.).
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most rustic campgrounds near Stockbridge have limited space for larger vehicles. At Appleton Lake, a visitor specified the area is "Not for RVs and no hook ups" and is "very rustic and perfect for tents" (Melissa M.).
Alternative shower access: Even when staying at rustic sites, showers may be accessible at nearby facilities. A helpful camper at Appleton shared, "You can take a shower and the Main site" referring to the nearby Brighton recreation area with full facilities (Erika N.).
Primitive boat-in options: For the adventurous camper with a small boat, unique experiences await. Island Lake features "Huron River Canoe Camps. The sites are boat-in only (!) meaning you must haul any and all gear in a kayak or canoe for your stay" (Don H.).
