Camping options near Johannesburg, Michigan, range from rustic sites to upscale accommodations across the region's mixed hardwood forests. The area sits at approximately 1,150 feet elevation in the northern Lower Peninsula, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping season. Winter camping remains available at select locations where temperatures can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access the North Central State Trail from Haakwood State Forest Campground, which offers convenient proximity to multiple outdoor activities. "This campground is right on the north central bike path and I came to this here for that easy access... The campground is only 2 miles from I-75 and is an excellent spot if you need a campsite just to stop over," notes David C.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Haakwood State Forest Campground during early morning or evening hours for elk spotting opportunities. "This was a really awesome campground we found kind of last minute... you're right by Michigan's only area to view free roaming wild elk!" says Ryan L T., highlighting a unique regional attraction not found elsewhere in Michigan.
Water recreation: Bring kayaks and fishing gear to Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground for direct water access from most sites. "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," explains Lydia T.
What campers like
Private sites: Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground provides secluded camping with waterfront access. "This hidden gem has large private sites..many with direct lake access. There is a beach/swim area as well as a small trail from the beach to the boat launch," shares Nicole V.
Clean facilities: Gaylord KOA maintains well-kept grounds and amenities throughout their season. "This KOA was well kept and clean. Great bathrooms and showers, pool, playground. the only thing keeping from 5 stars in my opinion is the lack of grass, but I also love all the trees so it's a toss up," notes Christine D.
Family activities: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground offers educational opportunities beyond standard camping. "Hartwick Pines is a quiet campground in central Mi. It 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," says Lisa B.
What you should know
Site features: Most rustic glamping sites close to Johannesburg, Michigan lack modern amenities but provide natural settings. At Tomahawk Lake, "Campground had all the usual rustic state forest amenities, pit toilets, water pump, picnic tables, and fire rings," reports Kate K.
Seasonal considerations: Many locations have limited operating seasons with peak availability during summer months. "We stayed here Labor Day weekend. It was my first time staying at a State Forest campground; it has the basics like a hand pump for water, pit toilets and a dumpster," explains Hatcher at Haakwood State Forest Campground.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies throughout the region. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, one visitor noted "Horrible phone service...but, maybe that's a good thing," highlighting the digital disconnect that accompanies many northern Michigan glamping experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly activities: Explore old growth forests and educational exhibits. "The old logging museum is interesting to walk around & check out," shares Cindy C. about Hartwick Pines, which provides historical context for the region's lumber heritage.
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park & Resort at Grayling offers structured activities for children. "This campground has very nice amenities for 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," suggests Brittny B.
Spacing considerations: Select sites carefully based on your desired noise level and privacy. "Very quiet campground and sites are well spaced," reports Chris R. about Gaylord KOA, which provides breathing room between neighboring campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose larger sites when available for easier setup. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, Kerry P. found "Lots were easy to back into. Lot sizes are huge! Nearly every lot down the hill (west loop) has a nice view of the lake."
Hookup availability: Bring extension cords for electric service at some locations. "There is no water or sewer hook up. The lot lines are strange, they run on an angle. Bring extension cords for the electric service," advises Brenda M. about Burt Lake State Park Campground.
Dump station access: Plan for waste management with on-site facilities at larger campgrounds. Ray & Terri F. note that Gaylord KOA 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, but rather on the pricy side, even with all of the amenities."
