Northern Michigan's glamping options extend beyond the shores of Traverse City into the forests surrounding Mancelona. The area sits at the crossroads of several major recreation areas with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Winter temperatures often dip below 0°F while summer brings comfortable 70-80°F days, making seasonal planning essential for glamping in the Mancelona region.
What to do
Hiking trails at Hartwick Pines: Access 9+ miles of trails through Michigan's old growth forest from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground. "There is a small lake for fishing, an old logging community with some programming in busier months," notes camper Lisa B., who appreciates the "side trails that are less traveled so you rarely see anyone else."
Boat launch access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used," explains Ann D. about Whitewater Township Park Campground. The park sits "about 15 minutes away from the quaint town of Elk Rapids."
Winter recreation: Unlike many seasonal operations, some Mancelona area campgrounds remain open year-round. "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here," mentions Cindy C. about Hartwick Pines. For winter glamping near Mancelona, this provides a reliable basecamp for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
What campers like
Large wooded sites: Privacy ranks high among camper preferences near Mancelona. "We got site 7, 8, or 9 for an unobstructed view of the lake," recommends Sarah L. at Whitewater Township Park. "The sites are nice and large, however, I thought we would have better access to Elk Lake."
Clean, modern facilities: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort maintains high standards for their glamping accommodations. "Big park but felt small, no problems with traffic and golf carts like we have experienced at other 'resort' style campgrounds. All sites are full hookup and there are just enough cabins, cottages, and yurts for our non-camping family to tag along," notes Chris M.
Natural features: The Mancelona region offers distinctive natural settings. At Young State Park Campground, Matt K. reports, "We live relatively close but this is by far our favorite state park for a quick getaway. Some of the spots are a little close, but the park makes up for it with its amazing beach and proximity to Boyne City."
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality can vary throughout the season. "The water was clean with a gorgeous sunset," reports Copper P. about Robinson Campground. But elsewhere, campers note seasonal changes in water clarity and beach conditions.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. At North Higgins Lake, one camper reported "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty." Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected during your glamping stay near Mancelona.
Campground popularity: Prime sites at popular campgrounds book quickly. Young State Park camper Sam C. shares that "despite those things, this campground is super nice and convenient for all needs and activities" but warns that it "books up fast!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recently updated play areas. At Otsego Lake County Park, Lydia T. notes "The playground is the classic old playground with swings and slides and some big tires to climb on. The water was mostly sand with some rocks. The campground has 4 cabins to rent right on the lake."
Kid-friendly activities: Timber Ridge offers extensive programming. "We really enjoyed this campground! There was a lot for the kids to do and we never really left the campground the 2 weekend we camped here," shares Cassondra P., adding that "Kids loved the activities they had scheduled."
Beach quality matters: When glamping with children, beach access can make or break the experience. At Young State Park, Therese S. found a "lovely campground right on the water and sandy beach. Nice, clean bathrooms with showers, sites had electric hookups."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For glamping with RV amenities, Gaylord KOA offers "sites not paved and entrance roads not paved!!!" according to Neil, who nevertheless gave the campground five stars. Their full hookup sites support glamping setups that require utilities.
Site leveling considerations: Even at well-maintained campgrounds, RVers should prepare for leveling. Barbara P. noted at Timber Ridge that "our first site was pretty unlevel but we were able to move without issue." Many glamping sites with elevated accommodations have been pre-leveled.
Road noise concerns: Some otherwise excellent campgrounds have sites affected by nearby roads. At North Higgins Lake, Brian H. warned: "We were on sight 169 this whole side is next to a busy road cars and logging trucks all day and night way noisy." Request interior sites when glamping near Mancelona if road noise is a concern.
