River Park Campground

We stayed in this park 2 times, September 2018 &amp; May 2019. We were given the same spot both times, site 53. The first time we were in our 34' ft 5er with a diesel dually truck and the spot was tight. The second time we had a 24'  class C and we had plenty of room. Both times the park was near empty. The park is well kept and the bathrooms are super clean.( they have individual showers with locking doors). Our last stay in May, it was very rainy and the water level was extremely high, but the park did not flood. There also were a lot of Canadian geese, so to say the least, there was goose poop everywhere. Shopping, Restaurants &amp; bars are all within walking distance. I think we paid $30/night, both stays. Includes W,E,S and our dish satellite came in great, but we were by the water. There's  a lot trees throughout the park, which I'm sure would be nice shade in the warmer months but may impede satellite reception. Each site does have a firepit, be be aware they do not sell firewood, so make sure you pick some up! If you forget, the Holiday gas station is the only place that sells firewood. We will continue to stay at this park, whenever we're in the area.

Nice City Park

Located in Grayling, MI, it is just down the road from Hartwick Pines State Park, tucked back in the woods, away from the highway. It is cheaper, and more layed back than the state park. There's also a small catch and release fishing pond. Our group of friends have been going here for 5-10 years now. There are residents in motor homes that live here all year round, so the facilities are well maintained, especially under the new manager, since he bought the family run company a year ago. He has cleaned up the grounds, opening more room for campers, and has opened up a second bathhouse facility. The original bathhouse comes equipped with hot showers, and there is a place outside for motor homes do empty their refuse. The tent lot is one big open area, and there is no limited space like most other camp sites. There is also water access on them. Some lots have electrical access as well for campers who want to bring there motor homes.  There is a small store for supplies for things you might want during your stay, like some groceries, bug spray, sunscreen, and other things. There is also an ice freezer with bags of ice.  The grounds aren't that from from town, so if you needed anything else, it'd be a quick trip. It's a good location near both the Manistee and AuSable rivers if you want to go on a canoe/kayak/tubing trip too. I recommend this place to anyone looking to stay in the area.

Don't go to the state park, go here!

I wish I could report how awesome this campground is, but it just missed the mark :(   It is situated very near to a sewage treatment plant which we drove past upon entering the campground.  It was definitely a noticeable smell, but not overwhelming.  The location was just strange- behind some large stores and near a sewage treatment plant :/  I am a fan of more woodsy settings, so this campground was a bit out of my comfort zone. 

  

It was located near a boat launch/little fishing area which was neat.  You would see some (I think) military ships across the river. And there were a lot of birds to observe. 

  

\*I recommend checking out the lighthouse in Menominee!  I had no idea until we walked out to it that you can climb up inside and check out the whole thing :) Super friendly staff to explain it's history as well.  

  

\*One more insight- I was unaware of how thick the bugs (bayflies) can be! yikes... next time I will check before hand if they are going to be an issue.  Not a deal breaker, but would have been nice to be prepared.