Recreational vehicle parks near Grayling, Michigan provide access to the region's inland lakes and rivers across Antrim and Kalkaska counties. Located in the Au Sable River watershed with elevations averaging 1,100-1,400 feet, the area features sandy soil and frequent northern Michigan temperature swings. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F while dropping into the 50s overnight, making extended-season camping practical from April through October.
What to do
Fishing access: Many campers enjoy fishing at Lake Billings RV Park & Campground, which features a swimming area and fishing opportunities on-site. "They have a really nice area whether it's fishing or swimming, playground or just plain camping," reports one reviewer.
Trail riding: Manton Trails RV Park offers direct access to regional ORV routes. "Great location for orv trail access. 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 trailheads," notes a recent visitor.
Water activities: Honcho Rest Campground provides lake access for paddling. "The campground sits on the shores of Bass Lake which is great for a quick paddle around, fishing, etc., but if you are seeking larger bodies of water, the Elk Rapids Marina on Grand Traverse Bay and Elk Lake are just a couple miles away," shares one camper.
What campers like
Indoor recreation options: Antrim Meadows Campground features community spaces for rainy days. "They have a brand new building filled with games, tv, and other fun things to do inside," reports one bicycle camper who discovered the park during a bike packing trip.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort receives praise for its diverse activities. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Event programming: Many RV campgrounds near Grayling organize regular activities for guests. "We had a family, socially distant reunion with 6 sites. We rented an extra site, so nobody could rent near us, sooo nice! Very close to Manistee River and canoe/raft liveries, very fun family togetherness activity," reports a Manton Trails visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Terrain at many Grayling area RV campgrounds requires preparation. "Our site was easy to level. Our site was not shaded with limited trees. This was a smaller lot with our neighbors fairly close," notes one Vista Green visitor.
Seasonal availability: Most RV parks in the Grayling region operate with limited seasons. Kalkaska RV Park runs April through October, while Starlight Campground operates from May through early September.
Amenities differ significantly: Starlight Campground and RV Park maintains comprehensive facilities. "The park was clean and the staff were very nice. They have an app you can download and do everything from ordering firewood and ice to seeing what's going on during their theme weekends. They kept my kids busy while still allowing for relaxing time. The store is well stocked too with everything you may need."
Tips for camping with families
Check bathroom facilities: Family campers consistently note the importance of clean restrooms. "Bathrooms, showers and laundry available and are clean and nice. Staff is kind, helpful and knowledgeable. Pool is heated," shares a Kalkaska RV Park visitor.
Reserve activity sites: For family gatherings, booking adjacent spaces enhances the experience. "The campground itself is lovely. The people who work it are kind, helpful and accommodating. The sites themselves are small, ours had massive roots that made walking and setting up outside a challenge," notes a Lake Billings RV visitor.
Consider shoulder season: Many campgrounds offer more availability and lower rates during early and late season. "Our first time there was 4th of July weekend, they have a large building for events...over the weekend they a concert! Live band and food truck....free to all campers and their friends! It was a great time," shares a camper who visited during a holiday weekend.
Tips from RVers
Electrical needs: Check specific electrical options when booking RV campgrounds in Grayling. "We camped in a 40' motor coach for a week. Site is gravel and dirt. It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling. The hookups are rather far away so we needed extensions," notes one Kalkaska visitor.
Site spacing considerations: Density varies significantly between parks. "We enjoyed our tent camping 4-day experience at this wonderful, clean, & friendly place," shares a Kalkaska camper, while another notes that at Traverse Bay RV Resort, "Sites are all paved with water electric and sewer, but also landscaped. Wifi is terrible but good cell coverage. There's trash pick up at 10:00 at your site."
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require adjustment for comfort. "Pull through full hook up, everything worked great. Nice level gravel spot. Clean restroom and laundry room. The host were friendly and helpful," shares a Kalkaska RV Park visitor, illustrating the importance of preparation.
