Camping sites near Frederic, Michigan provide access to the Huron-Manistee National Forest and the Manistee River watershed. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with sandy soil that drains quickly after rain. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with cooler nights, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below zero.
What to do
Hiking old-growth forests: At Hartwick Pines State Park Campground, visitors can explore remnants of Michigan's ancient forests. "There is a small lake for fishing, an old logging community with some programming in busier months," notes Lisa B., who adds that the side trails are "less traveled so you rarely see anyone else."
Kayaking calm waters: Kneff Lake offers peaceful paddling opportunities in a secluded setting. "The lake is beautiful - fun to kayak! The day access lake area has a beach that is all sand, no seaweed in the water. It's a perfect swimming area," says Carrie O.
Biking paved trails: The campgrounds near Frederic connect to regional bike paths. At Otsego Lake State Park Campground, "Nice paved path through the campground, great for kids riding bikes around camp. They also have a playground with a cool old fashion slide," reports Amy K.
Winter activities: Several camping areas remain open year-round for cold weather adventures. "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here," mentions Cindy C. about winter options at Hartwick Pines.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Upper Manistee River campers appreciate the natural setting. "The sites are sandy and surrounded by tall pines and ferns. Sites are spacious enough for small campers and walk/boat-in tent sites are great and have their own vault toilets and pump," explains R.B.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain good standards. At Gaylord KOA, "This is a relatively large CG, just under 100 wooded sites, which are reasonably spaced for a private CG. The CG is very clean and well maintained," notes Ray & Terri F.
Water recreation: Lake access is a major draw for campers. At Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground, "Being right on the lake was wonderful. The sites along the lake are gorgeous and have many little paths down to the water," reports Bill W., though he cautions to "stay away from the interior sites (#24-28) because they are basically little islands in a marsh."
Educational opportunities: Historical elements enhance the camping experience. "The old logging museum is interesting to walk around & check out," mentions Cindy C. about Hartwick Pines, while Wesley R. notes that "the park also provides nature activities during the summer, along with some educational opportunities."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Frederic area campgrounds have different operating windows. The Gaylord South/Bradford Lake KOA operates from "May 1 to Oct 31" according to its listing information, while state forest campgrounds typically remain open year-round with reduced amenities in winter.
Site variations: Not all campsites offer the same experience or quality. At Lake Margrethe, "If you want another reason not to go, there is a health advisory about swallowing any of the foam in the water because of PFAS contamination," warns dh W., who also mentions noise from nearby Camp Grayling.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance planning. "This is dry camping and is first come first served," notes John W. about Kneff Lake Campground, while state parks typically offer reservations through the Michigan DNR system.
Road access: The quality of approach roads varies significantly. To reach Kneff Lake Campground "requires a lot of driving through dirt roads," according to Halie C., though once there, "The campground road is blacktop in great condition."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park & Resort offers "a pool, outdoor movies, horseshoes, inflatable blob (kids love the blob), putt putt, sand box, small bikes to rent and a nice store and lodge on site," according to Brittny B.
Choose campgrounds with sandy beaches: Several lakes provide swimming opportunities. At North Higgins Lake State Park Campground, "The beach was great, soft sand bottom, water was clear & cold!" reports Heather M.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "The campground is very clean. The shower room was very clean and well organized. The site we camped on was a little small but it served our needs," notes Annette B. about Hartwick Pines.
Select sites with shade: Summer temperatures can reach the mid-80s. "Love camping here. We've been camping here for many years and love it every time," says Nick W. about North Higgins Lake, though he cautions "the sites are all sand. This is a problem when it rains. No matter how hard you try to clean your shoes, you end up tracking in wet, dirty sand."
Tips from RVers
Check for full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Sites not paved and entrance roads not paved!!!" notes Neil about the Gaylord KOA, while Debra S. mentions that Hartwick Pines has "some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I've seen."
Be prepared for uneven sites: Some campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Otsego Lake State Park, "Site 52 and sites in immediate area was over 12" out of level from front to back. Looked like our camper was doing a wheelie," warns Patrick.
Verify size restrictions: Campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger rigs. At Kneff Lake, John W. reports "Had no problem staying here with our 35' fifth wheel and RAM 3500 dually on site 26 in the upper loop. There several spurs on the upper loop in the 60' to 70' range."
Monitor electrical service: During busy periods, power can be inconsistent. At Bradford Lake KOA, "We got in on a Thursday and left on a Saturday. The power was fine Thursday and early Friday, but as more campers arrived the voltage dropped to the point where my surge protector started cutting it off," cautions Michael T.
