Johannesburg sits within the Pigeon River Country State Forest at approximately 1,200 feet elevation. This northern Michigan region experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging between 65-80°F and cold winters with substantial snowfall averaging 120 inches annually. Rustic camping options dominate the area, with most sites providing basic amenities and access to numerous inland lakes and hiking trails.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Round Lake State Forest Campground offers access to both the small on-site lake and nearby waterways. "The kids were able to ride their bikes around without a worry, cement pad... Back by site 10 is a path that leads to the beach area," reports Melissa M.
Elk viewing: The Pigeon River State Forest region contains Michigan's only free-ranging elk herd. As Ron F. notes about Town Corner Lake State Forest Campground: "Saw an elk while driving around the area." Many campers report early morning and dusk as prime elk spotting times.
Kayaking on small lakes: The clear, shallow waters around Johannesburg are perfect for paddling. Kate K. describes Round Lake State Forest Campground: "So quiet and peaceful, tons of trails, and little lakes all tucked around... About half of them have a nice lake view."
Biking trails: The paved trails and roads around Johannesburg work well for family cycling. At Pigeon River State Forest Campground, Halie C. mentions: "The Shingle Mill Pathway (a roughly 10 mile loop trail) runs right through the campgrounds which is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking."
What Campers Like
Natural swimming areas: The region's clear lakes provide excellent swimming options. Jason N. says of Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground: "Lake is small but beautiful. Great for swimming and kayaking."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes the area perfect for night sky viewing. Kate K. notes at Round Lake State Forest Campground: "At night the sky was incredible and there is even areas along the trails for elk viewing."
Rustic, quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings. Paul C. writes about Town Corner Lake State Forest Campground: "Beautiful location with a perfect kayaking lake. The coyotes were very loud and close at night keeping us awake but the experience was exciting."
Budget-friendly options: State forest campgrounds offer affordable camping. Jeff P. shares about Pickerel Lake: "As others have said, it's hard to beat $15 a night at a campground as nice and well located as this."
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have minimal to no connectivity. Aaron T. cautions about Pigeon River: "Make sure you have all of your supplies before you arrive as the nearest town is 20+ minutes away. Bring a map/gps because there is not cell service."
Sandy sites can be challenging: Several campgrounds have sandy terrain that becomes problematic in wet weather. Nick W. notes about Otsego Lake State Park Campground: "The downside is the sites are all sand. This is a problem when it rains. No matter how hard you try to clean your shoes, you end up tracking in wet, dirty sand."
Tick prevention: In addition to the tick population mentioned in the existing description, campers should apply repellent and perform regular checks. Ian R. emphasizes: "The only problem with this hike was the insane amount of ticks."
Drinking water access: Most rustic sites have hand pumps for water. Emily V. notes about Pickerel Lake: "Hand pump wells for drinking water and vault toilets that are well kept."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. Edmund P. shares about Otsego Lake County Park: "We love this park, great lake, small comfortable park and safe! Great bike riding park for little ones."
Wildlife education: The area provides excellent opportunities to teach children about forest ecosystems. Paul C. mentions an unexpected wildlife encounter at Town Corner Lake: "The coyotes were very loud and close at night keeping us awake but the experience was exciting."
Swimming safety: Lake depths and conditions vary widely. Kate K. notes about Pickerel Lake: "The lake is beautiful and clear, perfect for a paddle or morning swim."
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options for families. Lydia T. observes about Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Patrick from Otsego Lake State Park warns: "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."
Size limitations: Many rustic campgrounds can accommodate smaller RVs but might be challenging for larger rigs. Jason N. notes about Pickerel Lake: "40 first come first serve rustic sites. No problem getting smaller trailers back there."
Electric hookup availability: Most rustic sites lack electrical connections. Emily V. explains: "Great state forest campground. $15 per night can't be beat. Sites are great for tents and RVs but no electricity."
Water access planning: Without hookups, campers must plan accordingly. Emily adds: "Hand pump wells for drinking water and vault toilets that are well kept."
