Grayling, Michigan sits at the intersection of two major rivers, the AuSable and Manistee, in the northern Lower Peninsula at an elevation of approximately 1,150 feet. The area's sandy soil and pine forests create ideal conditions for rustic camping, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F during peak camping season. Fall brings vibrant color changes to the region's hardwood forests alongside cooler nights that require warmer sleeping gear.
What to do
Hiking the Mason Tract: Access this 4,493-acre special management area from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground, which connects directly to hiking trails. "There are a lot of fly-fisherman at this campground. Buy firewood from a stand on M-72 near the road to the campground. The dirt road from the hwy to the campground is really-really rough.. drive slow," notes Jessica V.
Fishing the South Branch: Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground provides direct river access for anglers. "This has been out camp for fishing on the South Branch for 20 years now. The access to the river is fantastic, with multiple trails and access points easily accessible with a short walk," shares Jeff P.
Swimming at Lake Margrethe: Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground offers clear water swimming options. "We like this place because they have a killer beach for swimming and wading. A good amount of the sites are water sites and some are up on a hill with really nice views," explains Kate K.
Off-road vehicle trails: Access nearby ORV trails directly from Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA. "Nice Campground, pretty well maintained. close enough to the ORV trails that you can ride to them from the park which is a huge bonus as many parks won't let you unload or ride out of the park," says Megan K.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground offers spacious, well-separated camping spots. "Large wooded campground with nice sized sites, picnic table, fire ring, electric hook up, flush toilets, and year round activities," reports Rachel K.
Educational programs: Several campgrounds provide nature activities. "Hartwick Pines features old growth forest on the hiking trails, multiple ranger programs each week, hosts that give you coffee or hot chocolate in the morning, a beautiful visitor center and main trails," shares Lisa B.
Water recreation access: North Higgins Lake State Park Campground provides direct beach access. "The beach was nice, water is crystal clear. we will return in the future," notes Jay T.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds feature paved paths suitable for cycling. "Paved roads good for bike riding. Nice and level site. Well maintained grounds, with a fire pit and picnic table," says Joe S. about Hartwick Pines.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty," warns Amy D. about North Higgins Lake. At Hartwick Pines, "State park, so no WiFi. AT&T is 1 bar," according to Joe S.
Noise considerations: Otsego Lake State Park Campground has road noise on certain sites. "The only drawback to this park is that it abuts a very busy road and can have a fair amount of road noise if you're on that side," notes Allison H.
Uneven terrain: Some sites require significant leveling. "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 about Otsego Lake State Park.
Water contamination alerts: Check current water quality before swimming. "On top of that, there is a health advisory about swallowing any of the foam in the water because of PFAS contamination," cautions a visitor to Lake Margrethe.
Tips for camping with families
Look for themed weekends: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers special events. "I love going to the Halloween themed weekends with trick-or-treating at the campground. People decorate their sites, dress up, and hand out candy," shares Amanda L.
Seek out kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds cater specifically to families. "There is 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," recommends Brittny B. about Jellystone.
Choose campgrounds with biking paths: "Nice paved path through the campground, great for kids riding bikes around camp. They also have a playground with a cool old fashion slide," notes Amy K. about Otsego Lake State Park.
Scout beach access: "The beach is great, soft sand bottom, water was clear & cold! Sites can get messy since ground is a dirt/sand mix," warns Heather M. about North Higgins Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Book full hookup sites early: South Higgins Lake State Park Campground has limited full-service options. "Try to get a full hook up site if you can.....no line to dump on your way out!" advises Jessica.
Check site grades before reserving: "Several can be uneven. Bathrooms are new on the smaller side of the park," notes Andrea B. about Otsego Lake State Park.
Prepare for water access challenges: "Nice campground. Only thing that makes it 4 rather than 5 for me is lake access, required a drive or carrying everything on a lengthy hike," shares Stephanie about Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA.
Consider pet-friendly campgrounds year-round: Hartwick Pines offers pet-friendly camping in all seasons. "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here," shares Cindy C., making it ideal for those seeking pet friendly camping near Grayling, Michigan during winter months.
