The Mesick area sits at the edge of the Manistee National Forest in northern Michigan, with elevations around 900 feet above sea level. Most glamping sites near Mesick operate from May through October due to the region's cold winter conditions. Water temperatures in local lakes typically reach the low 70s by mid-June, making this a popular destination for water recreation.
What to do
River adventures: Plan for half or full-day trips on the Manistee River near Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park. "Trails in forest give oppertunity to explore, and just down the road from Mesick also," notes camper Dalton B. The campground offers rentals for water activities.
Hiking network: Access forest trails within a 20-minute drive of most campsites. One visitor at Tippy Dam State Recreation Area mentions, "Campsites are spacious and feature trails that lead directly to the Tippy Dam Backwater. There's also convenient access for launching a boat on either the Manistee River or the backwaters side of the dam."
Beach time: Visit the shallow beaches suitable for families with young children. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area," says a camper at Duck Lake Campground. Swimming areas at most lakes stay shallow for 15-20 feet from shore.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathrooms maintained daily at most glamping sites. According to a visitor at Twin Oaks RV Campground and Cabins, "This campground offers rustic sites and electric and water and can be enjoyed by tent campers and large RVs. I love the wooded rustic sites! The sites are large and you will definitely find a spot for a hammock. Bonus is unlike State Forest campgrounds you get a rustic site with the benefit of hot showers!"
Fishing access: Multiple access points to the Manistee River and nearby lakes. "Steps go right down to the river. Good fishing," reports a camper at Tippy Dam Recreation Area. Most glamping sites include fishing access within walking distance of campsites.
Special events: Seasonal activities organized by campground staff. A visitor at Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground shares, "Our first time there was 4th of July weekend, they have a large building for events....over the weekend they a concert! Live band and food truck....free to all campers and their friends!"
What you should know
Site selection: Waterfront spaces fill quickly in peak summer months. At Turtle Lake Campground, a camper notes, "We asked to be away from the lake because of our young kids but the lake lots looked beautiful." Reservations for waterfront sites should be made 3-6 months in advance.
Seasonal operation: Most glamping facilities close by late October. According to the Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds listing, their "Campground is closed July 28th - August 11th" for the annual fair.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can occur, even in summer months. One camper at Duck Lake Campground mentions, "The sandy soil seems to be keeping the mosquito population in check." Pack layers for evenings when temperatures can drop into the 50s, even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Multiple options for children at most campgrounds. A visitor at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort shares, "There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Shallow swimming areas: Look for designated family beaches with gradual entry. "Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, childrens playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails," reports a camper at Northern Exposure Campground.
First-timer friendly: Some sites cater to new campers with extra amenities. "Great site for first time campers or when you want to just get away quickly without having to take lots of equipment and supplies. Nice little camp store and pizza restaurant on site. Great playground, evening activities," notes a visitor at Northern Exposure Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check ahead about site conditions before arrival. A camper at Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds notes, "Sites are level. No landscaping." This can save time during setup.
Hookup variations: Water access differs between campgrounds and specific sites. At Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, "Water is a shared spigot on most sites, but some sites have water. There is a good dump station."
Pull-through availability: Several options for larger rigs exist in the area. According to a visitor at Holiday Park Campground, "Gravel and level sites" make setup easier for RVers with limited experience.
