Camping near Mancelona, Michigan centers around the region's pine forests and glacial lakes situated at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer day temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter dropping below freezing from December through March. Northern Michigan's continental climate brings higher precipitation in late summer, affecting trail conditions at many rustic campgrounds in the region.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground provides easy lake access with a maintained boat dock and concrete launch. "Fishing was just ok. Although rumor has it the lake is stocked with Walleye, my take was limited to abundant Bluegills, Pumpkinseeds, and Largemouth bass, many of which were on the larger size," notes one camper.
Hiking trail connections: The Upper Manistee River State Forest Campground connects directly to the North Country Trail system. "The scenery was beautiful in the fall. The leaves really give it a gorgeous picturesque appeal. This trail/campground is very versatile. You are able to kayak to campsite directly on the river but also do through hikes or backpack, and camp in different atmospheres," reports one visitor.
Off-road vehicle trails: Many campgrounds connect to Michigan's extensive ORV network. "This campground is located on a small lake with beautiful scenery and is located across the road from an ATV trail. The North County Hiking Trail also runs through this camp. Noisy and quite busy on weekends with all the off road vehicles coming in," notes a reviewer at Pickerel Lake.
What campers like
Proximity to small towns: Whitewater Township Park Campground offers convenient access to shopping and dining. "The location is amazing, right on Elk lake and 20min from Torch lake, 5min from the bay, and 30min to WINERIES (which we visited on a rainy day when we couldn't swim)," one camper shares.
Well-maintained shower facilities: Many campers specifically note bathroom cleanliness as a deciding factor. "Showers were amazing. Staff was fantastic!" reports a visitor to Starlight Campground and RV Park. Another camper at Whitewater Township Park notes, "They keep it very well cleaned and updated bathrooms."
Recreation programming: Campgrounds in the area increasingly offer structured activities. "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," reports a Starlight Campground visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Water systems at many rustic campgrounds operate only during warmer months. "The hand pumped water well takes a bit of priming to get going, but don't give up. You will get water," advises one camper at Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground.
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds border major roads. "Campground is right off of the road, so you will hear any traffic, which isn't too terrible if you happen to land a lakeside site, otherwise, you're literally next to the road with little barrier," warns one visitor to Pickerel Lake.
Reservation timing: Otsego Lake State Park Campground requires advance planning during peak season. "During the summer months it is very busy (especially on weekends) and difficult to get a site unless you reserve well in advance," advises one regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Look for campgrounds with paved paths for younger riders. "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 a visitor to Otsego Lake State Park.
Beach access quality: Barnes County Park Campground offers prime Lake Michigan shoreline. "Just steps to the lake from any campsite, this campground is wonderful! Best of all the beach area. The views are stunning," reports one camper.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreational facilities. "Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games! This campground is extremely clean and has beautiful bathrooms/showers," notes a Starlight Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Check site descriptions carefully before booking. "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 one Otsego Lake State Park visitor.
Full hookup availability: Chain-O-Lakes Campground offers complete RV services with reasonable amenities. "Our time at this campground has been exceptional. Everything on our full hookup site worked good and our site itself was level," reports one RVer.
Sand management: Many sites in the region have sandy soil that can cause problems. "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," notes an Otsego Lake camper.
