Camping near Afton, Michigan offers visitors a mix of rustic and modern options along the shores of several northern Michigan lakes. The region sits within the Inland Waterway, a 38-mile chain of rivers and lakes connecting Lake Huron to Crooked Lake. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through March, while summer days typically reach 70-85°F with cooler evenings requiring an extra layer.
What to do
Kayaking excursions: Launch from Burt Lake State Park Campground where shallow swimming areas provide safe entry points for beginners. "The sites vary is size - some are close together. We stayed at site 145 which was large but there is a path to the beach right next to it so it's not very private," notes Don B.
Fishing opportunities: Access multiple lakes for different fishing experiences throughout the region. "I stayed here several times and have enjoyed each time. Many nice people to hang out with. I grew up in the area. The lakes and rivers are full of fish and the hunting is great!!" shares Wesley R. about his experiences at Cheboygan State Park.
Winter recreation: Several sites remain accessible during snowy months for cold-weather glamping. Black Lake State Forest Upper ORV Campground offers year-round access. "Fall camping here is the best. So quiet, and so dark you can see all the stars! Elk were bugling and it was wild!!!" reports Colleen F. from her stay at Elkwood Campground.
Biking trail access: Pedal along paved shoreline paths connecting multiple lakefront communities. "This campground is right on the north central bike path and I came to this here for that easy access. However, it is right next to the road and there is a lot of road noise during the day and early evening," mentions David C. about Haakwood State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campgrounds feature spacious campsites separated by natural barriers. "Lots were easy to back into. Lot sizes are huge! Nearly every lot down the hill (west loop) has a nice view of the lake. Some lots are a little off to themselves in a corner, if you want more privacy or peace and quiet," explains Kerry P. from Burt Lake State Park Campground.
Waterfront accessibility: Direct lake access ranks high among visitor preferences. "Right on Mullett Lake, close to town for easy access to food, but really enjoyed kayaking lake," shares Margaret M. about her stay at Aloha State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to see native species in natural habitats. "You can't beat $15 a night, each rustic site is fairly secluded with privacy, and you're right by Michigan's only area to view free roaming wild elk!" notes Ryan L.T. from Haakwood State Forest Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive consistent positive mentions. "Staff was helpful, neighbors were friendly, bathrooms were clean, and it's right on the lake! Very pet-friendly, very busy. Reserve in advance," advises Anna E. about Burt Lake.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "This was our first time staying here and it was one of the best camping experiences we have ever had. The campground is well laid out and they have sites for anything from a tent to big rigs. Be sure when you book that you put down the correct size of your rig as they have site management down to a science," advises Chris R. from Petoskey KOA.
Site variations: Campsite quality and privacy differ significantly within the same campground. "The campground itself was gorgeous, well maintained and spacious. 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. There is no peace here," warns Rachel G. about Black Lake State Forest Upper ORV Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Bug populations increase dramatically during certain periods. "Gnats and fishflies were bad while we were there. Fishing was nice off the pier. The sites along the canal tend to have a good amount of goose poop by them as the geese were there daily," notes Jessica S. from Aloha State Park Campground.
Cell coverage limitations: Signal strength varies widely throughout the region. "Horrible phone service...but, maybe that's a good thing ;)" mentions Brenda M. about Burt Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Choose locations with gradual water entry for safer swimming. "If you like the beach, you'll easily get out in the water over 100 yards and still be safe (roughly 3feet or so). Bring your kayaks too," recommends Myron M. from Burt Lake State Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: Plan activities around animal viewing areas. "This was a really awesome campground we found kind of last minute when things didn't work out at the other place we were trying to camp. We went and tried, but unfortunately didn't see any elk. I think it was mostly due to my 7 and 10 year old talking too much, and being too loud, but we're just glad they enjoy the hike!" shares Ryan L.T. about his family experience at Haakwood State Forest Campground.
Dog-friendly beaches: Several parks offer designated pet swimming areas. "Good state park camp ground. Lots of people, lots of dogs. People don't pick up the dog crap though which is unfortunate. Have great paths, boat launch, and beaches. Have a dog beach too," notes Chris M. from Burt Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Carefully research electrical access requirements. "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.
Off-season advantages: Consider spring or fall visits for less crowded conditions. "We were here for the halloween weekend. They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest. Since we were camping in the fall the pool was closed and there were plenty of back in sites available," reports Craig F. from Petoskey KOA.
Lakefront positioning: Choose specific campground sections for best water views. "There are 3 different sections, the first 2 being older with mostly "no camping pad" electric sites, and the 3rd is newer with gravel full hookup sites. The lake is easily accessible and wonderful. There are no bathrooms or showers in the new section," explains Deb M. about Aloha State Park Campground.
