Situated in Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula, Atlanta offers glamping opportunities amid pine forests and clear lakes. The area sits at the headwaters of three major river systems—the Thunder Bay, Au Sable, and Black rivers—creating diverse water recreation options. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the mid-70s, making late spring through early fall the primary glamping season.
What to do
Fishing adventures: Black Lake at Onaway State Park Campground offers excellent walleye fishing opportunities. "Black lake is a great lake for boating. The camp ground is nice, quite is enforced. People are nice," reports Chris M.
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution around Atlanta's camping areas creates perfect night sky viewing conditions. "Fall camping here is the best. So quiet, and so dark you can see all the stars!" shares Colleen F. about Elkwood Campground.
Hiking trails: The Atlanta State Forest Area connects to numerous trails. "Butting up to Tomahawk Lake and surrounded by the Atlanta State Forest Area, you are close to Oqueoc Falls, hiking trails, and other natural wonders northern Michigan has to offer," notes James P.
River activities: Several campgrounds provide access to local waterways. "Right on the sturgeon river you get away from the main camps of Burt lake and mullet lake. An easy drive to wolverine and a couple hour float back to camp or drive to Indian River and go to the lakes," explains Chris M. from Haakwood State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Private sites: Haakwood State Forest Campground offers secluded camping spots. "Rustic campground. Most sites are private. Some premium spots back up to river. Stars are amazing," reports Joie V.
Beach access: Direct lake access ranks high among camper preferences. "This hidden gem has large private sites..many with direct lake access. There is a beach/swim area as well as a small trail from the beach to the boat launch," writes Nicole V. about Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Atlanta area provides opportunities to see Michigan wildlife. "You're right by Michigan's only area to view free roaming wild elk! We went and tried, but unfortunately didn't see any elk," shares Ryan L T.
Large campsites: Burt Lake State Park Campground offers spacious areas for setting up camp. "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65! Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area," Myron M. reports.
What you should know
Tick precautions: Ticks are common in the wooded areas around Atlanta. "Chipmunks are fearless, so keep an eye on your food. Ticks are abundant so check yourself and your group frequently," warns James P. about Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground.
Water quality varies: Not all lakes offer the same swimming experience. "This was a nice and quiet spot, but not much to do in the area. The lake has a beach, but it has been covered by water and the water is kinda gross looking, but we still got in," mentions Melissa B. about Big Bear Lake.
Leash requirements: Keep pets secured at campgrounds. "The campground was nice. It needs to be patrolled though. We were walking our dog at night and the campers don't care about keeping there dogs on leashes," cautions Lacie M.
Poison ivy awareness: Watch for poison ivy when glamping around Atlanta. "Watch out for poison ivy. The only downside is that other campers don't know how to behave at night," notes Hatcher from Haakwood State Forest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Onaway State Park Campground provides basic play facilities. "The playground offers two swing sets and a small slide. The bathrooms near playground and boat launch are very old. Main bathrooms are nicer," shares Ann D.
Educational activities: Some parks offer learning opportunities. "The old logging museum is interesting to walk around & check out," mentions Cindy C. about Hartwick Pines State Park.
Child-friendly water areas: Burt Lake offers safe swimming for children. "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," suggests Myron M.
Classic playground equipment: Otsego Lake County Park maintains traditional play structures. "The playground is the classic old playground with swings and slides and some big tires to climb on. The water was mostly sand with some rocks," reports Lydia T.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Gaylord KOA offers full connections for RVs. "While it was pricey at $65 night, we had a very spacious full hookup site within easy walking distance of pool. Shower house was very nice and modern, with 4 shower stalls," shares Kim L.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven ground. "Our site had a fair bit of slope side to side, which I mentioned to the person that led us to our site. He said they'd look into it," notes Ray & Terri F.
Internet considerations: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly across glamping locations near Atlanta. "Unfortunately, the CG WiFi wasn't very usable, less than 1 MB/s, even before the CG filled up," reports Ray & Terri F.
Winter camping options: A few campgrounds remain open year-round. "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here," explains Cindy C. about Hartwick Pines State Park Campground.
