The Indian River camping area provides access to Michigan's extensive inland waterway system with connections between Burt Lake, Mullett Lake and several rivers. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from late April through mid-October, with rustic sites generally priced between $15-25 per night and full-service sites ranging from $30-50. Weather conditions include frequent summer thunderstorms that can arise quickly on the large inland lakes, requiring campers to monitor forecasts daily.
What to do
Boat navigation between lakes: Campers staying at Aloha State Park Campground can explore multiple connected waterways. "There's LOTS of sites at this state park. There's 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," notes a visitor.
Bike trail access: The North Central State Trail provides paved riding opportunities. According to one camper at Haakwood State Forest Campground, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to see native Michigan wildlife. A Haakwood State Forest Campground visitor explains, "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. I think it was mostly due to my 7 and 10 year old talking too much."
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campgrounds feature spacious, well-separated camping areas. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65! Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area," shares one camper. Another adds, "Easy to find. 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."
Walkable swimming access: Proximity to clean, swimmable water ranks highly in camper reviews. A Wilderness State Park visitor reports, "I enjoyed my stay in the Lakeshore section. I had electric only. It was a short walk from my campsite to the beach."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers enhance the camping experience. "The bathroom and shower facilities were great. The park is very quiet at night. Good trails to walk," reports a visitor to Camp Petosega.
What you should know
Waterfront site considerations: Lakeside sites often require advanced planning. At Maple Bay State Forest Campground, "There are approximately 32-38 campsites on a first come first serve basis. You can moor your boat right at the campground. The public launch was redone a few years ago and its a great one. The view from the front sites overlooking Maple Bay are some of the best I've seen."
Seasonal pest issues: Insects can be problematic during certain times. A camper at Maple Bay notes, "Had a great time, except the mosquitos were horrible," while another at Burt Lake states, "The lake is beautiful! If you have a boat, travel through the channel to Mullet Lake. Great location. Park store is nice, or grocery store is 1 mile away. Horrible phone service...but, maybe that's a good thing."
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning. "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 a Burt Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety considerations: Shallow water entry areas provide safer swimming for children. At Burt Lake, "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."
Playground options: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. At Petoskey KOA, "The KOA campground is close to Petoskey, but outside town enough to be a bit quiet. A short drive to breweries, wineries, and dinner. There are amenities that would be good for a family and also big enough for a peaceful weekend for couples."
Educational opportunities: Natural features provide learning experiences. A Camp Petosega visitor reported, "We stayed in the newer section of the park. The bathroom and shower facilities were great. The park is very quiet at night. Good trails to walk."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds feature varying site designs for different equipment. At Indian River RV Resort, "Nice campground with even better service. Location is central to several activities; Mackinac Island, Petosky, Burt Lake, Mullet Lake etc.. 55 gallon trash bins throughout campground so you don't have to go all the way to front of campground for dumpsters and they collect regularly."
Hookup variations: Electric, water, and sewer connections differ between campgrounds. "Excellent campground with even better service. Staff escorts you to your site and lines you up with water/sewer," notes another Indian River RV Resort visitor.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Haakwood, one visitor noted it was "Just two miles off I-75 at Wolverine," making it convenient for overnight stops, while another camper at Maple Bay warned of uneven sites and advised bringing leveling equipment.
