Best Campgrounds near Johannesburg, MI

Camping near Johannesburg, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Explore the beaches: Many campers love the sandy shores and swimming areas. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, one visitor said, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area." This makes it a great spot for families with kids.
• Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the area. A reviewer at Young State Park Campground mentioned, "The beach is long and sandy and there are lots of hiking and biking trails," making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Fishing and boating: Many lakes in the region are great for fishing. One camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground noted, "Otsego Lake is a pretty big lake and there is a beach area," ideal for those who enjoy water activities.

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground said, "Bath house facilities were very clean," which is a big plus for many.
• Privacy and space: Many campgrounds offer decent spacing between sites. A reviewer at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites were nice and level and reasonably large," making it a comfortable experience.
• Friendly atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One camper at Young State Park Campground shared, "Very friendly staff and clean park," highlighting the community feel.

What you should know

• Road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground noted, "A lot of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night."
• Site proximity: Many sites can be close together, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "When the campground is full, you are quite close to your neighbors."
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive facilities. A reviewer at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground pointed out, "There are kayak rentals, a boat launch, and activities that the host organizes," but noted the rustic nature of the campground.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and swimming areas. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground said, "Has a beautiful sand beach with a shallower swim area for younger kids."
• Plan for activities: Bring bikes for the trails. A visitor at Young State Park Campground mentioned, "There are lots of hiking and biking trails," which can keep kids entertained.
• Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A camper at Petoskey State Park Campground noted, "Nice bathroom facilities," which can be a relief when traveling with kids.

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Some sites can be tight for larger RVs. A reviewer at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is very close to the main road and you can hear the traffic."
• Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground appreciated the "large sites and most with plenty of trees surrounding the sites."
• Be mindful of the weather: Some campgrounds can get muddy after rain. A visitor at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground noted, "The campground is rustic with outhouses and hand pump for water," so prepare accordingly.

Camping near Johannesburg, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.