Tent camping near White Cloud, Michigan offers both developed campgrounds and dispersed sites within the Huron-Manistee National Forest. The Pere Marquette River runs through the region, providing water recreation opportunities alongside diverse forest terrain. White Cloud sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping season and cooler nights that dip into the 50s.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: Gleasons Landing provides direct river access for anglers targeting steelhead and brown trout in the Pere Marquette River. "Most sites have direct river access. All sites are walk-in, but not far from the parking area," notes Benjamin A., who camped there recently.
Hiking forest trails: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground connects to several trail systems through the surrounding forest. "Nearby trails to walk and access to drinking water," reports R.B., highlighting the opportunities beyond the campground itself.
Kayaking opportunities: White River Campsite #1 serves as both a camping destination and river access point. "There are dispersed options as well as docked site. It's in a forest, so bring a compass if you plan to do some hiking," advises camper Vegan T.
Lake swimming: Woods and Water RV Resort offers a swimming area with additional amenities. "Wonderful little swim area with water slide. Wonderful trails for hiking. Lots of activities," reports Amie R., highlighting the resort's recreational facilities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacious layout at many area campgrounds provides solitude even during busy periods. "The sites are large, but fairly open, not much between the sites," explains Benjamin A. about Gleasons Landing's riverside camping area.
Multiple lake options: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground provides access to both Big and Little Leverentz lakes. "The big lake unit has large sites with lake views and 2 vault toilets. The little lake unit has small sites, 1 vault toilet, some lake views, some views of nearby houses," notes R.B., comparing the two sections.
Affordable camping: State forest campgrounds offer economical options with basic amenities. "This is a nice campground. Its $15 per night, and out of state is another $9 per vehicle, in state is $17 per vehicle. Nice wooded campsites. On the lake with a boat launch," reports Chels about Leverentz Lake.
Uncrowded wilderness: First-come, first-served sites often remain available even during peak season. "First come first serve in the fall- we were basically the only ones there. Big spacious sites, lake access and good hikes from the campground. Gorgeous and quiet," shares John N. about his experience at Leverentz Lake.
What you should know
Access road challenges: Some dispersed sites require careful navigation. "Access road is an unmarked two track that is not suitable for all vehicles," warns Tom W. about Condon Lakes West, suggesting higher clearance vehicles for certain areas.
Limited facilities: Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed offers true primitive camping with minimal development. "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present. Road was very quiet midweek," reports Linda C. about this free camping option.
Seasonal considerations: Water access points change with seasonal water levels, particularly in spring and fall. "Clean out houses, very large and private lots with nice pits, and tables. No swimming area, but lots of fishing spots and docks," explains Nicole C. about facilities at Leverentz Lake.
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds allow advance booking, others operate on first-come terms. "Hard to get a reservation on the weekends. Campground is at the end of a canoe/kayak company's trip. Can get loud during the day when the trips come in," advises Jessica V. about Gleasons Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families appreciate campgrounds with swimming areas during summer months. "Great staff! Sites are spacious. Easy to back into. Very quiet! Wonderful little swim area with water slide," shares Amie R. about Woods and Water RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Leverentz Lake provides chances to observe forest and aquatic species. "Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc," explains a recent visitor.
Public lands exploration: White River Campsite #1 serves as a base for exploring the broader Manistee National Forest. "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities. This is more suitable for tents or maybe small campers," advises Kendra H.
Shaded sites available: Several campgrounds offer tree cover for hot summer days. "Very small, somewhat remote campground. I was there during the week of 4th of July and there were only a few spots occupied. All sites are 'walk to' from the parking lot," reports Amy R. about Gleasons Landing.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. "Scenic and rustic. Has everything you need for the night. Bring a water filter. May need a taller vehicle to access some sights," notes Anjel W. about Condon Lake.
Hookup availability: Woods and Water RV Resort provides full services for larger rigs. "Sites are spacious. Easy to back into. Very quiet!" reports a camper who stayed with their RV.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal, as many forest campgrounds lack these facilities. "This is actually one state forest campground split into two units, each on a lake: Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz. All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents," explains a visitor to Leverentz Lake.
Generator policies: Confirm rules before arrival as they vary by campground. "Tent camping only. Four family sites and two group sites. Hard to get a reservation on the weekends," notes Jessica V. about Gleasons Landing, which does not permit generators.
