Camping options near Brethren, Michigan range across several Michigan counties including Manistee, Grand Traverse, and Wexford. The area sits within the Manistee National Forest region at approximately 900 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F, with cool nights dropping to 50-60°F even in July and August. Fall camping season starts in September with temperatures ranging from 65-75°F during the day.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Billings RV Park provides direct lake access for anglers. "The lake is beautiful for swimming. Nothing to do in and around Manton," notes one camper, pointing out that on-site recreation can compensate for limited nearby attractions.
ATV trail riding: Manton Trails RV Park offers direct off-road vehicle trail access from campsites. "Great campground. Booked two nights and had to request a third it was so perfect. We went up because it advertised orv access right from campsite. It's really handy to not have to trailer over to the trailheads," reports a recent visitor.
Canoeing: Manton Trails campground serves as an ideal base for river trips. "We used it as a base camp for canoeing on the Manistee River and it served us well. Plenty of pull-through sites and lots of grass," according to one reviewer, highlighting the convenience for water recreation enthusiasts.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Kampvilla Park earns consistent praise for maintenance. "Very clean bathrooms, a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do," writes one tent camper, emphasizing that despite being primarily an RV park, it welcomes tent campers with suitable sites.
Pool amenities: Multiple rv sites near Brethren feature swimming pools for campers. "The kids loved the pool! We will definitely stay here again," reports a camper at Kampvilla Park, highlighting its family-friendly environment.
Live entertainment: Manton Trails RV Park offers unique social activities. "Over the weekend they a concert! Live band and food truck....free to all campers and their friends! It was a great time and the owners and manager are very friendly," shares one reviewer about their holiday weekend experience.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in Brethren area fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays. "We had a family, socially distant reunion with 6 sites. We rented a extra site, so nobody could rent near us, sooo nice!" mentions a Manton Trails visitor, suggesting booking adjacent sites for groups.
Internet access: Cell service varies significantly between camping facilities near Brethren. "Internet worked well using our hotspots, but, like all campgrounds, if you like being 'in the woods;' internet is always a challenge. Most of our group had AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint, the best service seemed to be Verizon in the morning and Sprint at night," notes one Manton Trails reviewer.
Garbage procedures: Vista Green RV Resort requires campers to handle their own trash disposal. "They do not provide garbage service at your site so you must walk to garbage dumpster. This can be a long distance for some," explains a camper, recommending golf carts or e-bikes to navigate the large property.
Tips for camping with families
Indoor recreation options: Poncho's Pond RV Park offers protected play areas for rainy days. "There is a game room for kids, playground, shuffleboard, and a clubhouse. There is a stocked pond on the property but it is only for kids (17 and under) to fish in," describes a visitor.
Halloween weekends: Special themed weekends create memorable experiences. "We stay during their Halloween weekend. They had all kinds of activities going on including haunted hayrides, trick-or-treating, and site decorating contest," shares a Poncho's Pond camper about their fall visit.
Facilities for young children: Splash areas provide safe recreation. "They have a very nice swimming/play area for small children. Great WiFi connection," notes a Lake Billings RV Park reviewer, highlighting features particularly useful for families with toddlers.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort accommodates larger rigs with specialized sites. "My husband loved this place because most of the sites are pull-through ones. The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long," explains one camper, noting the practical site design.
Site selection strategies: RV parks near Brethren offer varied site options based on privacy needs. "The spaces are tight unless you get into the back rows set back sites. This is a terrific way to solve the tight spacing," advises a visitor to Indigo Bluffs RV Park, suggesting requesting specific areas for more space.
Campground transportation: Electric transportation helps navigate larger properties. "You are allowed to ride personal golf carts. They also allow you to rent golf carts. It is beneficial to have a golf cart to get around since it is a large campground. We have our own e-bikes which helped," recommends a Vista Green visitor for exploring RV resorts near Brethren, Michigan.
