Camping options around Mesick include diverse grounds with varying terrains. Positioned in northern Michigan's Manistee National Forest, Mesick sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Winter camping remains limited with most facilities closed from November through April. Cell coverage varies significantly depending on carrier and specific location within campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing access: Northern Exposure Campground provides direct lake access with family-friendly fishing opportunities. "My kids had a blast, paved roads, beaches, camp store. I think next time we will get one of the lake front sites. The view is amazing," notes Macy M. about the shoreline options.
Trail exploration: Manton Trails RV Park offers direct ORV trail access from campsites. "Great campground. Booked two nights and had to request a third it was so perfect. We went up because it advertised orv access right from campsite. It's really handy to not have to trailer over to the trailheads," reports Jen L.
Water activities: Paddle sports remain popular at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, where campers enjoy small lake access. "We were here off season, daily rate was $40. There is a lot to do in this park, zip line, pool, walking trail, lake. Golf cart rentals," describes Barbara P. about the recreation options.
What campers like
Family-friendly atmosphere: Kampvilla Park receives praise for its family focus and clean facilities. "Great park and very friendly employees! The sites are nice and big, they constantly ride around emptying the trash, they have activities (it was candy bar bingo when we stayed), and the kids loved the pool!" writes Amber C.
Spacious sites: Lake Billings RV Park offers comfortable camping spaces with decent separation. "Very nice showers. Bathrooms were clean. They have a very nice swimming/play area for small children. Great WiFi connection. $32.00 otd," reports Dakota R. about the park's amenities.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of Pats RV Park near Mesick. "This is a great campground, we always start our camping season here. Hodenpyle Dam lake is a great, quiet area. It close enough to several places which makes it convenient to get in some sight seeing in Traverse City, Frankfort and Manistee," notes Steve F.
What you should know
Site conditions: Some rv sites near Mesick, Michigan have significant grade variations requiring preparation. "We opted for a spot with electric only. The amenities we took advantage of were great! There are some trails to walk the dogs, lake access, and plenty of spots to enjoy your he views!! Simple and quiet spot!!" writes steve L. about Pats RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Northern Exposure Campground operates with clear seasonal boundaries. "Camp staff very friendly and park is well maintained. Nice hiking trails nearby and a 20 minute drive to a whole lot of entertainment!" states Kris D. about this May-November operation.
Electric limitations: Some tent sites lack electrical access, which surprises unprepared campers. "They have a really nice area whether it's fishing or swimming, playground or just plain camping, etc. the only negative thing is the tent camping spots DO NOT have PLUGS which was really irritating because tent camping you're definitely gonna need an outlet," warns Dezi T. about Lake Billings.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Timber Ridge offers specialized kid-focused recreation. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. 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," advises Allison H.
Playground access: Manton Trails provides good outdoor play spaces for children. "Peaceful and Clean! A hidden gem near Cadillac. It's nice and quiet and clean, bathrooms aren't too far from campsites. Electrical hookups are provided and fire pits. We even got free firewood. Fun visit! The campground has a lot of activities to offer too as well as live bands," reports Aakifah A.
Swimming options: Multiple rv parks near Mesick offer water recreation for different ages. "To start we are tent campers and this is an RV park…it has great spots for tents! Just electric hookup or primitive (even nicer spots). This campground has very clean bathrooms, a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do," explains Amy Y. about Kampvilla Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Vista Green RV Resort provides premium concrete pad sites. "Our site was $65.63 a night. (This was the average after receiving one night free for staying a week). We were in Site# 4A (premium site). We had Full hook-up with a blacktop pull-through. We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep," details Julia H.
Hookup planning: RVers staying at motorhome-friendly parks should prepare for varying water pressure. "Very nice, well taking care of," notes Julie M. succinctly about Indigo Bluffs RV Park, which features primarily RV accommodations.
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at rv campgrounds near Mesick, Michigan. "We had a chilly Memorial Day weekend but were very impressed with the campground. Great mix of activities for the kids. Big park but felt small, no problems with traffic and golf carts like we have experienced at other 'resort' style campgrounds," shares Chris M. about Timber Ridge's holiday weekend experience.
