Northern Michigan's wooded terrain provides varied camping experiences near Lake City, especially during the May to October peak season. Lake City campsites sit between 1,100-1,250 feet above sea level in an area where summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F. The region receives approximately 33 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush surroundings for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access the Manistee River directly from Old US-131 State Forest Campground, where visitors can catch various fish species. "Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing" is available right in the campground, notes Matt T.
Trail hiking: Connect with the North Country Trail at several campgrounds in the region. "The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground," reports Matt T. about Old US-131 State Forest Campground. Winter hiking remains an option for cold-weather campers, as Michael M. explains: "We car camped in February to hike the NCT. Clean toilets, gorgeous wooded setting, nice flat spot."
Swimming and water recreation: Cool off at William Mitchell State Park, which provides access to two lakes. "Great park right in town. Love taking the boat and enjoying both lakes with the kiddos," writes Edmund P., though he cautions visitors to be "careful of Lake Cadillac and the rocks in the water."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Several campgrounds offer sites with natural screening and room to spread out. At Old US-131 State Forest Campground, Harry B. notes, "our site was spacious and wooded, gorgeous colors in the fall. There aren't very many sites and they are spaced out well."
Affordable pricing: Most state forest campgrounds charge modest fees. Amy D. mentions Old US-131 State Forest Campground charges "$15" per night, while Dakota R. reports Lake Billings RV Park offers rates at "32.00 otd [out the door]."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms. At Lake Billings RV Park & Campground, Dakota R. reports "Very nice showers. Bathrooms were clean," while also noting "They have a very nice swimming/play area for small children."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds feature challenging site layouts. At Cadillac Woods Campground, Erika W. advises, "While you can book online, I would call the office and talk to the owners because not all sites are easy to maneuver a camper into and may not be a good choice for your size camper."
Seasonal improvements: Some campgrounds undergo regular upgrades. Maple Grove Campground has seen recent improvements, as one camper explains: "Ted and Jen have been doing improvements to maple grove camp ground, they have gotten new fire rings last year and got the road grated, this year there in the process of getting better internet."
Limited amenities at rustic sites: State forest campgrounds provide basic services only. Long Lake State Forest Campground offers "vault toilets and a hand pump for water along with campfire rings," according to Loni P., which represents standard amenities for rustic sites in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming zones for children. The Campground in Manton features "a pond, a playground with a volleyball court, and a pavilion," according to maddy, making it suitable for family activities.
Kid-friendly attractions: Some campgrounds offer unique features for children. Rvino - Camp Cadillac includes "a petting zoo (goats) and a store with a little game room in it," according to Macy M., while Stacey R. mentions "Pool and petting zoo for the kids. Small store with ice, few necessities and ice cream."
Lake access safety: When bringing children to waterfront sites, consider accessibility factors. Amy D. cautions about Old US-131 State Forest Campground: "The access from the campground to the Manistee was in bad shape and very unsafe," suggesting families should carefully evaluate river access points.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: RV campers face specific obstacles at some locations. Bret J. notes about Cadillac Woods Campground: "Lots of trees here, so you have to manage your trailer pretty well here," though he adds the sites are "small, but yet nice."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services for RVs. Curtis S. reports Cadillac Woods Campground's "pull through sites were great for the two 28' fifth wheels and 30 ft bumper pull in our group," demonstrating accommodation for larger rigs.
Accessibility for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds present limitations for bigger rigs. Amy D. cautions about Old US-131 State Forest Campground: "Do not recommend coming in with a long trailer as it was tight driving through. We had our pick-up and 22-foot trailer."
