The northern Michigan forests surrounding Millersburg feature a mix of state forest and state park campgrounds situated at elevations between 600-900 feet above sea level. Most camping sites near Millersburg, Michigan sit along river corridors or lakeshores within the vast hardwood forests that characterize this region. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer days typically reach the 70-80°F range with nighttime temperatures cooling to the 50s even in July.
What to do
Swim at the falls: Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground offers a unique swimming experience in the river's waterfall area. "Multilevel falls where you can swim. Many places to walk/hike, picnic, and enjoy the views. Beautiful overall with wooded campsites, some right next to water," notes Amber A.
Explore hiking trails: The Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground area connects to several trail systems. "Found this campgrounds while going to the Shoepac sinkholes, it's broken up into 3 units, we stayed at the last unit across from the road to the sinkhole," mentions Rachel K., who enjoyed exploring the surrounding natural features.
Paddling options: The clear lakes of the region provide excellent paddling opportunities. "The lake itself was gorgeous and had a nice launch for paddling, fishing, and swimming," says Kate K. about Tomahawk Lake, making it ideal for kayakers and canoeists looking for quiet water experiences.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Black Lake State Forest Upper ORV Campground offers direct water access. "We stumbled on this campground when Ocqueoc's first come first serve sites were full. This campground is also first come first serve but way more sites. The lower site is where we stayed and literally had a waterfront site," explains Sarah L.
Dark night skies: The rural setting provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "At night, it was so dark and so clear that you could faintly see the Milky Way!!" shares Samantha S. about her experience at Clear Lake State Park, highlighting one of the area's natural advantages.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature well-spaced sites. At Onaway State Park Campground, "If you dislike state parks due to crowds and loud campers, you will love this little gem. Well managed and very clean facilities make this a pleasure to stay at," according to Paul B., who appreciated the uncrowded feeling even on busy weekends.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most modern campgrounds require advance booking. "Make reservations early!" is common advice for state parks with amenities, while rustic sites typically operate first-come, first-served.
Limited services at rustic sites: State forest campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "Bring a bandsaw for plenty of wood, and gas station/but shop not far," suggests Rachel K. about Tomahawk Lake, indicating campers should come prepared with tools and supplies.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. At Clear Lake State Park Campground, one visitor noted the park remains open year-round but with limitations: "Pretty much only downsides were that the water spigots were turned off for winter (someone told us that there was a hose available back by the office somewhere) and shower house was closed (but vault toilets still open and pretty clean)."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches for children. "The beach was beautiful too. It wasn't busy until closer to noonish, but that makes sense. The water we was clear, and really there wasn't a lot of debris," reports Samantha S. about Clear Lake State Park.
Nature exploration: The region offers educational opportunities about ecosystems. "What's not to love? Only a few sites, but this campground has it all. Lots of space and wooded areas around you, good spots for hanging out in the hammocks, a private swimming hole in the river," says Sarah B. about Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground.
Wildlife watching: Many sites provide opportunities to spot local fauna. "Chipmunks are fearless, so keep an eye on your food. Ticks are abundant so check yourself and your group frequently," warns James P. about Tomahawk Lake, giving practical advice for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger units: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger rigs better than others. At Hoeft State Park Campground, "We have a 25' Class A motorhome and spent 2 days in July at Hoeft State Park. We had camped here several years ago and decided to revisit. It was great then and just as great now. The site we had (54) was a perfect combo of sun and shade," shares Mary S.
Limited hookups: Most rustic sites lack electrical connections. "The camp is semi-isolated. There is adequate space between sites and ample shade, but you can still certainly tell if you have neighbors. Additionally, you can hear road noise from M-68. Overall a terrific spot for rustic camping that's easy to access and within easy distance to travel to all the area's offerings. We fit our small travel trailer easily into a fairly level lot," reports Joshua M. about Ocqueoc Falls.
Access considerations: Some campground roads may present challenges. "The lack of big rigs makes for a generally laid back and quiet atmosphere - a certain plus," notes Joshua M., suggesting that limited access actually improves the camping experience at certain locations by preventing overcrowding with large vehicles.
