RV camping near Copemish, Michigan offers access to Hodenpyle Dam Lake and the Manistee River. Located in Manistee County, Copemish sits within 30 minutes of both Lake Michigan beaches and extensive trail systems through national forest land. Winter temperatures average 18°F with summer highs typically reaching 80°F, affecting campground availability throughout the seasons.
What to do
Outdoor recreation access: Northern Michigan's motorized trail systems are easily accessible from Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground. "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 trsilheads," notes Jen L. The campground provides direct trail connections for ATV enthusiasts.
Fishing opportunities: Bass Lake in Elk Rapids provides fishing options for travelers willing to drive 40 miles north of Copemish. "The campground sits on the shores of Bass Lake which is great for a quick paddle around, fishing, etc.," reports Shari G. about Honcho Rest Campground, which offers waterfront sites for anglers.
Canoe and kayak trips: The Manistee River offers paddling opportunities with outfitters nearby. "Very close to Manistee River and canoe/raft liveries, very fun family togetherness activity," writes a visitor about Manton Trails. The river provides class I rapids suitable for beginners and multi-day float trips for experienced paddlers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. "Extremely clean bathrooms n showers. So much to do right here at the campground. Very visible and friendly," notes Karen B. about Kampvilla Park, LLC. Regular maintenance appears to be a priority at established campgrounds throughout the area.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating room between sites. "The sites are nice and big, they constantly ride around emptying the trash," reports Amber C. Large pull-through sites accommodate various RV sizes without feeling cramped, particularly important during peak summer months.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "They have a very nice swimming/play area for small children," writes Dakota R. about Lake Billings RV Park & Campground. Natural lake swimming plus pool facilities at select campgrounds provide cooling options during humid summer days.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the Copemish region operate from May through October. Lake Leelanau RV Park specifically operates "May 1 to Oct 31" according to their information. Honcho Rest Campground lists their season as "May 1 to Oct 1," making advance planning essential for shoulder season visits.
Wi-Fi variations: Internet connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. "WiFi 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," reports a Manton Trails camper.
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance booking. "We had to adjust our dates and they were very accommodating," notes a visitor to Kampvilla Park, suggesting flexibility outside the busiest periods. However, holiday weekends typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance at popular campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Family-friendly campgrounds provide structured activities. "There are all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with. The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!" writes Amy Y. about Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
Entertainment planning: Scheduled events keep children engaged. "Kids loved the activities they had scheduled. We had no complaints regarding our weekend here! Staff was all Great. Had a well stocked camp store," shares Cassondra P. about Timber Ridge. Weekly activity calendars typically include crafts, games, and themed events.
Water safety: Lakes and pools require supervision. "This is a great campground with many options, as far as campsites go. They have everything from basic tent sites to high end sites for newer Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels. The pool is decent and there are organized activities for kids," notes Stu E. about Indigo Bluffs RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RV campers near Copemish have multiple options for complete utility connections. "We were in Site# 4A (premium site). We had Full hook-up with a blacktop pull-through. We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep," reports Julia H. about Vista Green RV Resort, which offers 93 sites.
Site selection strategy: Consider specific site requirements. "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 Jeff G. about Indigo Bluffs. Corner sites typically provide more privacy and space at most RV parks.
Campground amenities: Facilities vary significantly between parks. "There is an adult pub-style game room with poker tables, a large tv, a table shuffle board, air hockey game, foosball table, and board games. There is a community catering kitchen located in their activities center," notes a Vista Green visitor. Most campgrounds provide at minimum water, electric, and dump stations.
