The area around White Lake offers tent camping options amid Michigan's second-growth forests where elevations range from 900-1,100 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds operate seasonally with prime sites available May through September. Winter camping remains limited to a few year-round facilities that maintain plowed access roads during snowy months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Island Lake Recreation Area provides shore fishing for families. According to one visitor, the recreation area has a "good dock for the kids to fish" making it an accessible spot for young anglers.
Trail running: Appleton Lake Campground features maintained paths for active campers. A reviewer notes the area has "great trails - perfect for trail running" with routes suitable for beginners and intermediate runners.
Kayaking: Crooked Lake Rustic Campground offers direct water access for paddlers. "The views of the lake are awesome," explains one camper, making this a popular spot for day trips on the water.
Disc golf: Camp Agawam features a full course among its amenities. A visitor mentioned the park "has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing, an outdoor amphitheater (with concerts!), pavilion rentals, and disc golf!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate secluded spaces at Appleton Lake Campground. One camper noted the "sites were not as secluded as I'd prefer but we made do," showing the campground offers some separation between groups.
Lake views: Island Lake Recreation Area receives praise for its water scenery. A camper shared: "Island lake really does feel like you're up north with the hours spent on I-75," highlighting its accessibility despite feeling remote.
Outdoor entertainment: Some campgrounds feature structured activities. At Genesee Otter Lake Campground, a visitor noted they have "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."
Urban proximity: Tent sites near White Lake balance natural settings with convenience. One visitor to Appleton Lake Campground summed it up as providing a "close by but up north feel," highlighting this key advantage for weekend trips.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons actively visit some camping areas. At Appleton Lake Campground, one camper reported: "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."
Toilet conditions: Vault toilets require maintenance that varies by season. A camper at Appleton Lake noted "my only complaint is the vault toilets were not clean and very full," suggesting checking facilities upon arrival.
Site selection: Not all waterfront sites match online descriptions. At Genesee Otter Lake, a reviewer warned: "We rented for 120 a night a lake front campsite with a boat. We were given a rock and dirt pad that over looked a swamp area."
Tick awareness: Inspect yourself after hiking trails. A visitor to Appleton Lake advised: "Watch out for ticks though," after using the campground's hiking system.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Choose less remote sites for first-time campers. A visitor to PINCKNEY RAILS-TO-TRAIL CAMPGROUND noted: "Campers are very friendly, management is beyond friendly. Would prefer more shade but this is very nice place."
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. At Camp Agawam, a reviewer highlighted it "has campsites, a playground, swimming, fishing," making it suitable for families with children.
Budget considerations: Christian campgrounds often offer lower rates. Crystal Creek Christian Campground provides affordable options as "Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget!" with rates starting at $15 per night for rustic tent sites.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include play structures. Camp Agawam features a "playground, swimming, fishing" according to reviews, offering recreational options beyond hiking.
Tips from RVers
Solar power compatibility: Off-grid setups work well at many area campgrounds. A camper at Camp Agawam mentioned: "We were able to camp from Toronto to Orion Twp and had a great time" using solar panels installed on their RV.
Winter camping options: A few campgrounds remain open year-round. At Hilltop Campgrounds, one full-timer shared: "We are full timers here for the winter into spring. The campground here is simple but the people are so friendly."
Amenity access: Tent campers can sometimes use RV area facilities. A visitor to Appleton Lake Campground noted: "You can take a shower and the Main site," referring to accessing facilities at the nearby Brighton recreational area when staying at rustic sites.
