Grayling, Michigan sits at the junction of the Au Sable and Manistee Rivers at an elevation of approximately 1,150 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Many campgrounds near Grayling operate seasonally, with most facilities open from May through October due to Michigan's northern climate.
What to do
Hiking old-growth forests: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground offers extensive trails through one of Michigan's largest old-growth forests. "There is a small lake for fishing, an old logging community with some programming in busier months," explains Lisa B., who appreciated the "multiple ranger programs each week, hosts that give you coffee or hot chocolate in the morning."
River activities: Several campgrounds provide access to canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities. The Luzerne Express Campground & RV serves as a convenient base for river adventures. Judy B. notes, "The Luzerne Express Campground is literally all you need in one spot... Walk right off the campground into the Huron National Forest."
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal sites, Hartwick Pines State Park Campground remains open year-round. Cindy C. mentions it's "open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here." This makes it an excellent option for winter camping near Grayling, Michigan when most other facilities close.
Seasonal activities: Each season brings different recreational opportunities. Wesley R. recalls Hartwick Pines offering "nature activities during the summer, along with some educational opportunities. There are rivers close by for canoeing, tubing and fishing."
What campers like
Year-round camping options: Visitors appreciate that some campgrounds remain open through all seasons. At South Higgins Lake State Park Campground, Edmund P. enjoyed the "beautiful beaches and always a fun week during Harvest Fest!" The park hosts Halloween weekends with decorations and special activities.
Yurt camping: For those interested in yurt camping near Grayling, Michigan, Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA offers yurt accommodations among their rental options. Bailey notes, "We tented at this campground. Good location, decent bathrooms," though the KOA also provides alternative lodging including yurts for those seeking a middle ground between tent and cabin camping.
Swimming beaches: Water clarity stands out to visitors. Christina M. describes South Higgins Lake as "extremely clear" with "2 sandbar areas which are very popular providing 3-4 feet water to hangout in." She advises: "Be sure to catch a sunset from the campground beaches, you won't regret it!"
Privacy levels: Site spacing varies considerably between campgrounds. At North Higgins Lake State Park Campground, Christie L. recommended: "If we stayed again - we'd pick site 101. Little more privacy than the rest. We stayed at 137 which backed up to the woods which was lovely."
What you should know
Rustic vs. modern facilities: Campgrounds range from basic to full-service. At Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground, Lydia T. notes: "A rustic campground right on Bear Lake. Most sites are directly on the water. There is a 4 foot breakwall between the sites and the lake. You could anchor your boat in front of your campsite."
Cell service limitations: Don't expect reliable connectivity. Amy D. from North Higgins Lake warns: "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty." This is common throughout the area's more remote campgrounds.
Water level variations: Lake conditions change seasonally. Melissa B. observed at Big Bear Lake: "The lake has a beach, but it has been covered by water and the water is kinda gross looking, but we still got in."
Tick awareness: Some visitors report ticks in certain campgrounds. Melissa B. notes at Big Bear Lake: "There seem to be a lot of ticks. It was a nice place, but wouldn't visit again."
Tips for camping with families
Quieter campground sections: At busy campgrounds, select sites strategically. Christie L. advises about North Higgins Lake: "This is a very bustling and full campground with lots of groups and families. Lot's of kids on bikes."
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer family-oriented facilities. Lexi G. states the Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park & Resort at Grayling is "Great for kids. Tons of activities all day long... The jumping pillow is another great feature. Grew up here in the summers as a kid, great memories."
Winter yurt options: Consider yurt camping near Grayling during colder months. Judy B. notes that Luzerne Express Campground has "an array of sites available plus RV's and Cabins for rent so winter camping here is a blast."
Halloween weekends: Several campgrounds host special autumn events. Craig F. reports about Jellystone: "We stayed here last fall for a Halloween weekend. There were a lot of kids, it was pretty full. It was nice of the staff to take us to our site and ask if we needed anything."
Tips from RVers
Full hookups: Several campgrounds provide complete services. Debra S. mentions Hartwick Pines has "some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I've seen."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with adequate blocking at some campgrounds. About Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA, Gary E. notes: "Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks. But very nice once set up."
Site spacing: RV sites vary in size and privacy. Ray & Terri F. describe Gaylord KOA: "This is a relatively large CG, just under 100 wooded sites, which are reasonably spaced for a private CG... Our site had a fair bit of slope side to side, which I mentioned to the person that led us to our site."
