Tent camping options within a 25-mile radius of Walled Lake provide access to both rustic and developed campsites. The region features a mix of state recreation areas and privately managed campgrounds located near small lakes and forest patches. Most campgrounds in this suburban area remain open from April through October, though some offer limited winter camping.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated docks: Island Lake Recreation Area offers good fishing access for families. According to Mary O., the park has a "Good dock for the kids to fish" making it ideal for introducing children to fishing without needing a boat.
Trail running on maintained paths: Appleton Lake Campground features several trails ideal for exercise. Peter notes the campground has "Great trails - perfect for trail running" through wooded areas with moderate terrain.
Paddling the connected waterways: For kayakers, the lakes around Crooked Lake Rustic Campground provide scenic water routes. Jordan D. describes it as "a great slice of wilderness in this part of the state" with excellent lake views from campsites.
Mini golf and arcade games: Families looking for structured activities beyond nature can find entertainment at Genesee Otter Lake Campground. Tammy P. mentions they have "PUTT PUTT Golf, Arcade, Saturday Night Adult Bingo weekly, and tons more!"
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: Island Lake Recreation Area allows campers to experience nature without long drives. Rachael D. appreciates that "Island lake really does feel like you're up north without the hours spent on I-75" and notes it's a "Great location without having to drive too far."
Lake views from campsites: At Crooked Lake, campsites positioned along the shoreline provide direct water access. Cathy E. selected "SITE #22" and mentions "We could see the lake and had an outhouse right nearby," though notes the site was "a little slanted."
Well-stocked camp store: When supplies run low, several campgrounds offer on-site shopping. One visitor to Genesee Otter Lake mentions their general store carries "anywhere from a toothbrush, table cloth, soda, Lg homemade Pizzas, Subs and the best Ice Cream ever in their homemade waffle cones!"
Urban green space: Camp Agawam offers surprisingly diverse activities despite its suburban location. James P. calls it "A great little park in the middle of suburbia" that includes "swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons frequently visit campsites in the area. At Appleton Lake, Angie H. reports "once it got dark, we were fighting off about 10 raccoons all night," suggesting secure food storage is essential at this location.
Toilet conditions vary: Vault toilets at rustic campgrounds may not receive frequent maintenance. Mike B. notes that at Appleton Lake "the vault toilets were not clean and very full," an important consideration for longer stays.
Tick prevention needed: When hiking trails around campgrounds, take precautions against ticks. D G. warns specifically to "Watch out for ticks" when visiting Appleton Lake Campground, especially when walking through grassy areas.
Seasonal rental availability: PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND offers 90 sites but may fill quickly during summer weekends. The campground provides basic amenities including drinking water, showers, and firewood for purchase.
Tips for camping with families
Schedule around park activities: Many campgrounds host regular weekend events. At Genesee Otter Lake, Tammy P. explains they have "Plenty of activities planned and structured thru the grounds to keep the whole family entertained."
Consider alternative accommodation: For families not ready for tent camping, some parks offer rental options. Tammy P. notes Genesee Otter Lake has options to "stay as simply in a tent rustic style, accommodations for almost any style camper along with (2) Cottages for rent."
Site selection matters: Finding private sites helps manage noise between family groups. At Appleton Lake, Mike B. appreciated that "this campground had sites that were fairly secluded from each other" with "ample space to park your vehicle and set up a tent."
Find beginner-friendly options: Some locations specifically cater to first-time campers. D G. calls Appleton "Great starter campground which is just what we wanted - my buddy and I took his 6 year old camping for the first time."
Tips from RVers
Solar power extends options: Wheel Inn Campground accommodates RVs year-round with water and electric hookups. Tyler C. notes that solar panels allowed his group to camp comfortably: "We were able to camp from Toronto to Orion Twp and had a great time."
Winter camping available: Some parks remain open for cold-weather camping. Alicia A. reports Hilltop Campgrounds is a "Perfect, Quiet Winter Spot" adding "We are full timers here for the winter into spring."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services at reasonable rates. According to Tammy P., Hilltop provides "All sites are 50 amp full hook ups" at "only $40 a night" which makes it "very economically friendly" for RVers needing full services.
