Best Campgrounds near Gladwin, MI

Camping near Gladwin, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Tawas Point State Park Campground, have stunning beaches on both sides of the point. One reviewer mentioned, "There's beaches on both sides of the point," making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Visit local attractions: Check out the Tawas Point Lighthouse nearby. A camper noted, "You can climb a lighthouse and look out 30+ miles," which is a unique experience for families.
• Hiking and trails: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Bay City State Park Campground said, "The Tobico Marsh trails and observation towers were great for watching birds."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review for Hartwick Pines State Park Campground stated, "Bath house facilities were very clean, and campsites were fairly spaced, giving decent privacy."
• Friendly staff: Many campers have noted the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor at Bay City State Park Campground mentioned, "Friendly staff. Super long lines for the dump station on a Sunday."
• Natural beauty: Campers love the scenic views and natural surroundings. One camper at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground said, "The campground was beautiful and had many trails to walk & bike."

What you should know:

• Crowded on weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Tawas Point State Park Campground warned, "It can get really packed here on weekends, and the day use gets closed because of being too full."
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Au Sable River Primitive Camping, are more rustic and lack amenities like drinking water and electric hookups. A reviewer mentioned, "They only have a fire ring, no picnic tables or bathrooms."
• Reservations are a must: Popular spots fill up quickly. A visitor at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground noted, "Getting a site here during the summer can be very difficult."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites to accommodate families. A camper at Bay City State Park Campground said, "Most sites are good, though some have slopes to them. Choose carefully."
• Bring activities for kids: Many campgrounds have playgrounds and swimming areas. One family at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground enjoyed the "small playgrounds throughout the campground."
• Plan for quiet hours: Some campers have mentioned noise issues. A visitor at Tawas Point State Park Campground noted, "People didn't listen to rules such as quiet hour."

Tips from RVers:

• Check road access: Some campgrounds have tight roads. A camper at Tawas Point State Park Campground advised, "Big rigs, note that the roads can be tight, especially when inconsiderate campers crowd the road."
• Bring extension cords: Some sites may require longer cords for electric hookups. A visitor at Bay City State Park Campground mentioned, "Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far."
• Book early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A camper at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground suggested, "Clearly you should book your spot as early as possible."

Camping near Gladwin, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!