Best Campgrounds near Brethren, MI

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. The region includes both developed sites with full hookups and more primitive options, with many campgrounds situated along scenic waterways or near glaciers. Several locations support boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in camping, creating opportunities for visitors to experience Alaska's remote landscapes.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most developed campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during the peak summer season when tourism increases. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and campers should prepare for mosquitoes, which are mentioned in multiple reviews. A visitor noted, "In mid August the little nats were horrible but that's camping in Alaska!"

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds offering views of lakes, rivers, or ocean shorelines. Mendenhall Lake Campground provides views of its namesake glacier, while Seward City Campgrounds offers oceanfront RV sites. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with bears frequently mentioned in reviews. Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities at many locations, though some note highway noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds. Public lands throughout the state provide both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options, giving visitors flexibility based on their desired level of amenities and solitude. According to one camper reviewing Tangle Lakes Campground, "Tangle lakes campground has nice clean sites, lots of hiking (some a small drive) boat launch, bathrooms can be a bit of a walk from some sites."

Best Camping Sites Near Brethren, Michigan (244)

    1. Orchard Beach State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Manistee, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 723-7422

    "Pretty standard Michigan State Park campground. Nice staff. Park maintenance is currently building a wood fence to keep folks away from steep bluff edge. Views of Lake Michigan fairly limited."

    "Clean park with beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Unfortunately no access to beach because of erosion. Typical site sizes for Michigan State Park. Walk across the road for a 2 mile hike in the woods."

    2. Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Mesick, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 885-1199

    $30 - $45 / night

    "We asked to be away from the lake because of our young kids but the lake lots looked beautiful. We will be back."

    "I love having a view from my campsite that has a lake on it! Not many big boats on it so there was no motor noise constantly like how it is on most inland lake campgrounds."

    3. Tippy Dam State Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 848-4880

    $20 - $78 / night

    "Campsites are very clean and big, with nice trails to explore. Just a heads up, the sites with "lake access" don't actually have lake access - it's a steep drop to the water. Tumble at your own risk."

    "Steps go right down to the river. Good fishing. When we were there the toilets were In need of a pump out desperately."

    4. Twin Oaks RV Campground and Cabins

    7 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 848-4124

    $11 - $90 / night

    "Nice private campground with good access to ATV trails as well as good proximity to big M for mountain biking. Sites are nice and spaced out as well."

    "And while I will say it's not very hidden away from the other sites it was still plenty relaxing and served the purpose of somewhere to hang my hat at the end of the day."

    5. Seaton Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mesick, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 723-0141

    $30 - $80 / night

    "It's right by the second largest suspension bridge in Michigan. Great please to stay before you canoe or kayak the Manistee river."

    "You are surrounded by beautiful pines. I wasn't able to explore as much as I liked to but hear there are great trails and you are in walking distance of water."

    6. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups."

    "I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan."

    7. Manistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground

    5 Reviews
    Manistee, MI
    9 miles
    Website

    "I wish we had a place to dump our grey water, but otherwise it was an easy drive in and had fresh water."

    8. Sand Lake Campground — Manistee National Forest

    6 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 723-0141

    $40 - $105 / night

    "Sand Lake is a really nice, well kept campground. Beautiful area, nice beach on a clean lake, and spacious campsites."

    "Sand Lake is a quiet wooded campground. Most of the sites have a good amount of trees between them, but there is a loop with fewer trees that is ideal for a group/family camp trip."

    9. Government Landing Campground

    4 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "I hear it’s darn near impossible to find an open site During June-August. Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails a d routes are in close proximity."

    "This was a very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."

    10. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."

    "Lots of campsites 30 to 50 feet away from the roadway offering appropriate privacy. Woods and bushes separating campsites. Shower houses in excellent condition and clean. Pads for tents in place."

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Recent Reviews near Brethren, MI

1029 Reviews of 244 Brethren Campgrounds



Guide to Brethren

Camping near Brethren, Michigan, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or something more modern, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes that lead to stunning views. One visitor mentioned, "The trails were a nice combination of sunny sand dunes and shaded forest," highlighting the diverse landscapes you can experience.
  • Fishing: The local lakes and rivers are perfect for fishing. A reviewer noted, "Good pan and bass fishing," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Beach Access: While some campgrounds may not have direct beach access, nearby beaches are just a short drive away. One camper shared, "A short drive up the road leads to a wonderful local beach," ensuring you can still enjoy the water.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Platte River Campground said, "Bathrooms were very clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have staff that go above and beyond. One reviewer at Betsie River Campsite mentioned, "They went above and beyond to accommodate our last minute arrival," showcasing the welcoming atmosphere.
  • Secluded Sites: Campers enjoy having some privacy. A visitor at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness remarked, "The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy," making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Cedar Campground advised, "Reservations were in Pine," indicating the importance of planning ahead.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups or extensive amenities. A visitor at Lake Michigan Recreation Area noted, "No showers though," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Northern Exposure Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers were extremely clean," but also noted the need to hang food to avoid attracting animals.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby activities for kids. A reviewer at Orchard Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "The beach is clean with a playground in eyesight," making it a great spot for families.
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A visitor at Indigo Bluffs RV Park said, "Tons of trees, large sites, well maintained," which is perfect for families needing space.
  • Plan for Bathroom Breaks: Some campgrounds have bathrooms that are a bit of a walk. A camper at Orchard Beach State Park Campground noted, "The bathroom is a pretty distant walk," so plan accordingly.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Cedar Campground mentioned, "There are some large rigs," so it's good to confirm before you arrive.
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. A visitor at Northern Exposure Campground appreciated the "electric and water ONLY," which is essential for many RVers.
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a dump station nearby. A camper at Betsie River Campsite noted, "Off premise dump station- approximately 3 miles away," which is helpful to know for RV travelers.

Camping near Brethren, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Brethren, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Brethren, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 244 campgrounds and RV parks near Brethren, MI and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Brethren, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Brethren, MI is Orchard Beach State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 30 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Brethren, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Brethren, MI.

What parks are near Brethren, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Brethren, MI that allow camping, notably Huron-Manistee National Forests and Sleeping Bear Dunes.