Tent camping around Troy, Michigan offers access to several recreation areas within a 30-mile radius. The region sits on mostly flat terrain with elevations between 700-900 feet and features a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and wetlands. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with camping season running April through October at most sites.
What to do
Water activities at nearby lakes: Island Lake Recreation Area provides multiple water-based recreation options. "Island lake really does feel like you're up north with the hours spent on I-75. There are great hiking trails that give novice and Intermediate hikers a chance to sharpen their skills," notes Rachael D. about the Island Lake Recreation Area.
Fishing with kids: Several campgrounds offer fishing access for younger campers. "Nice campground for family and activities. Good dock for the kids to fish," shares Mary O. about her experience at Island Lake Recreation Area.
Disc golf outings: Some campgrounds feature disc golf courses among their recreation options. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!" says James P. about Camp Agawam.
Trail running opportunities: For active campers, several areas offer running trails through wooded terrain. One camper at Appleton Lake Campground noted: "Rustic and mature trees. Great trails - perfect for trail running."
What campers like
Canoe-in camping options: For those seeking a more remote experience without driving far, some campers appreciate the boat-access sites. "Island Lake Recreation Area is home to two 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," describes Don H.
Rustic tent sites with privacy: Many tent campers near Troy value the secluded options available. "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," explains Mike B. about Appleton Lake Campground.
Sites with lake views: Some campgrounds offer tent sites with water views. "The views of the lake are awesome, it's a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state," reports Jordan D. about Crooked Lake Rustic Campground.
Urban camping accessibility: Campers appreciate options close to suburban areas. "This is another great scouting campground with cabins, rustic camping, tent sites, lakes, horses to ride, this is one HUGE camp ground for scouts to enjoy and learn," notes Walker L. about D-bar-A Scout Ranch.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife at more rustic campsites. "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," warns Angie H. from her stay at Appleton Lake.
Campsite selection tips: When tent camping near Troy, research site specifics before booking. "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," suggests Alex H. at Port Huron KOA.
Seasonal operation: Most tent camping options close during winter months. Hilltop Campgrounds operates from "April 15 to October 15," while Port Huron KOA runs from "Apr 25 to Oct 26." Plan accordingly.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend visits. "The sites, Canoe Camp #1 and #2, can be only be reserved by calling or visiting the main office," explains Don H. about Island Lake's canoe-in sites.
Tips for camping with families
Starter campgrounds for first-timers: Some sites near Troy work well for introducing children to tent camping. "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time," shares D G. about Appleton Lake Campground.
Tick prevention: When tent camping with children, take precautions against ticks. "Watch out for ticks though," warns D G. after camping at Appleton Lake with a young child.
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Troy provide play areas for younger campers. "This park is great! It has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!" notes James P. about Camp Agawam.
Halloween camping events: Some campgrounds offer seasonal activities for families. "We come for Halloween camping every year! We love this campground. There is a ton to do for all ages. The kids keep busy all day long!" explains Wendy K. from Genesee Otter Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: For RVers seeking more affordable tent camping near Troy, multiple price points exist. "Want the full camping ambiance $15 a night for rustic tent camping! Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget!" shares Tammy P. about Crystal Creek Christian Campground.
Site leveling considerations: Some sites require leveling equipment. "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). It was a little slanted, but it didn't bother me," mentions Cathy E. about Crooked Lake Rustic Campground.
Solar power usage: For tent campers using minimal electronics or RVers with solar setups, most campgrounds permit solar charging. "This was the first year we started our trip in Toronto, thanks to a solar company who installed solar panels on our RV. We were able to camp from Toronto to Orion Twp and had a great time," shares Tyler C. about his stay at Camp Agawam.
