Camping options around Afton, Michigan center on the inland waterway chain that includes Burt, Mullett, Pickerel, and Black Lakes. The region features sandy lakeshores and mixed hardwood forests at elevations of 600-800 feet above sea level. Campers can access the 38-mile inland waterway system that connects these lakes through rivers and channels, allowing for multi-day water-based camping trips.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Burt Lake State Park offers diverse fishing experiences with multiple species available. "Great park, we always try to park in the boat bison. Indian River is the best area to cruze on the water," notes Edmund P. about Aloha State Park. Anglers target walleye, pike and trout at various locations throughout the area.
Hiking trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to trail systems. "The Shingle Mill Pathway (a roughly 10 mile loop trail) runs right through the camgrounds which is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking," explains Halie C. about Pigeon River State Forest Campground. The North Central State Trail also runs through parts of the region, accessible from multiple camping locations.
Swimming in inland lakes: The region offers varied swimming options from sandy beaches to more natural settings. "The beach is really nice and the water is very clear and has lots of small colorful pebbles and Petoskey rocks," notes one visitor to Petoskey State Park. Water quality in the inland lakes receives consistently positive reviews across multiple campgrounds.
What campers like
Large campsites: Many campgrounds feature unusually spacious sites. "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65!" exclaims Myron M. about Burt Lake State Park Campground. At Black Lake State Forest Campground, "the upper has HUGE SITES and is shaded better, but cant see the water," according to Sarah L.
Clean facilities: Even rustic campgrounds maintain good standards. "This was also one of the cleanest rustic campgrounds I've been to in a while," notes Kate K. about Black Lake State Forest Campground. Many reviewers specifically mention the cleanliness of vault toilets at the more remote sites.
Quieter alternatives: Less developed forest campgrounds provide peaceful options. "Nice, quiet campground just off of I-75. Sites all seemed private and comfortable. This would be a nice alternative to the busier campgrounds near Indian River, Burt Late, etc.," says Dan T. about Haakwood State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Campsite reservation systems vary: While state parks require advance booking, forest campgrounds operate differently. "This campground is also first come first serve but way more sites," explains Sarah L. about Black Lake State Forest Campground. At peak times, arriving mid-week improves chances of securing first-come sites.
Generator noise at rustic sites: Some rustic campgrounds experience unexpected noise issues. "Camping there was the worst experience I've ever had. I pick rustic campgrounds for a reason. This one was full of RVs & 5th wheels all running on generators," cautions Rachel G. about Black Lake State Forest Campground.
Cell service limitations: Communication capabilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Horrible phone service...but, maybe that's a good thing," notes Brenda M. about Petoskey State Park Campground. Complete service gaps exist at more remote locations like Pigeon River, where one reviewer advises: "Bring a map/gps because there is not cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection criteria: Some lake access points are more child-friendly than others. "If you like the beach, you'll easily get out in the water over 100 yards and still be safe (roughly 3feet or so)," mentions Myron M. about Burt Lake State Park. Water depth and bottom composition vary between lakes.
Playground availability: Only certain campgrounds offer play structures. "The playground offers two swing sets and a small slide," notes Ann D. about Onaway State Park Campground. Camp Petosega also features playground equipment along with a recreation hall.
Wildlife cautions: Parents should be aware of specific concerns. "Gnats and fishflies were bad while we were there," reports Jessica S. about Aloha State Park. Other campers mention ticks at certain locations, particularly in early summer.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electrical service specifications differ between campgrounds. "There is no water or sewer hook up. The lot lines are strange, they run on an angle. Bring extension cords for the electric service," advises Brenda M. about Burt Lake State Park. Some locations offer 50-amp service while others are limited to 30-amp.
Site size considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Lower campsites by beach are in full sun some have trees blocking your view 2 and 3rd and 4th road are wooded," explains Donna J. about Burt Lake State Park. At Indian River RV Resort, "Staff escorts you to your site and lines you up with water/sewer," according to Steve W.
Access to town services: Proximity to supplies varies significantly. For Pigeon River State Forest, one visitor cautions: "Make sure you have all of your supplies before you arrive as the nearest town is 20+ minutes away." In contrast, Indian River RV Resort offers easier access to services, with one reviewer noting it's "centrally located to Mackinac Island and Petoskey."
