Camping near Marcellus, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Hiking and Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Warren Dunes State Park Campground, provide great hiking trails and access to Lake Michigan. One visitor mentioned, "Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!"
- Kayaking and Fishing: At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking on the lakes. A camper shared, "Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown."
- Biking Trails: Potato Creek State Park Campground has paved bike trails that are perfect for family rides. One reviewer noted, "The paved bike trails are amazing."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area said, "The showers are individual and we had no trouble getting one in the late afternoon. They look recently remodeled and were SUPER clean!"
- Secluded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by certain campgrounds. One camper at Van Buren State Park Campground mentioned, "Nice sites, very well organized for privacy. Trees and shrubs dividing sites."
- Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor at Michigan City Campground remarked, "The staff is helpful and the pool is full of children."
What you should know:
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Van Buren State Park Campground noted, "There were children screaming and running around everywhere."
- Limited Privacy: Many sites are close together, which can affect your camping experience. One visitor at Yankee Springs Recreation Area - Deep Lake said, "I felt like I was camping with everyone else there!"
- Alcohol Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Lake Michigan Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper expressed frustration, stating, "No alcohol campground also, so everyone had nice tumblers walking around."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities for kids. Pokagon State Park Campground is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. One parent said, "Horseback riding, swimming at the beach, fishing on the dock."
- Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise, especially in family-oriented campgrounds. A visitor at Michigan City Campground mentioned, "The sites are close together and the fire rings are small."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy during hikes or beach days. A camper at Covert Park Beach & Campground noted, "The camp store is well stocked, and has firewood at a good price."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify the size of your site before booking. A reviewer at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "Our site was 21 inches unloved from front to back and 7 inches down on the passenger side!"
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area said, "Every single one of them was full."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving, as some campgrounds may have limited stores. A camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground noted, "Fresh water fill and dump stations were the best we’ve seen anywhere."
Camping near Marcellus, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to check the specific campground details and reviews to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure!