Northern Michigan's forest campgrounds near Millersburg offer tent campers a unique wilderness experience with several small inland lakes scattered throughout state forest land. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level, with sandy soil and mixed hardwood forests dominated by maple, beech, and pine trees. Tent campers can expect temperature variations of up to 30 degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall seasons when overnight temperatures can drop below 45°F.
What to do
**Waterfall swimming: **During summer months, many visitors to Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground enjoy the multi-level waterfall for cooling off. One camper notes, "Multilevel falls where you can swim. Many places to walk/hike, picnic, and enjoy the views."
Night sky viewing: The Millersburg area provides excellent stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. At Negwegon State Park Campground, campers can experience a designated dark sky preserve. According to a reviewer, "Negwegon is a dark sky preserve" making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Kayaking: Multiple rivers in the region offer paddling opportunities. The Sturgeon River provides accessible kayaking from Sturgeon Valley Campground where "River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak," according to a regular visitor.
Wildlife observation: Listen for elk bugling in autumn months near De Cheau Lake. One camper shares their experience: "Feels more remote than it really is... Beautiful lake, blessed by the Elk bugles nearby."
What campers like
River proximity: Sites along waterways remain popular with tent campers. At Ocqueoc Falls, "the campsites are rustic, and are set along the Ocqueoc River, upstream from the falls" with "a private swimming hole in the river."
Trail accessibility: The hiking options directly from campsites receives consistent praise. According to one visitor, the campground connects to "a pretty long hiking trail (not too difficult) with nice wildlife, lookouts, etc."
Privacy between sites: Despite limited capacity, Ess Lake State Forest Campground offers well-separated tent sites. Campers appreciate that "there is adequate space between sites and ample shade" creating a quieter experience than more developed campgrounds.
Natural beaches: Unlike manufactured swimming areas, the lakefront camping offers natural settings. Ess Lake features "grassy beaches" with "sand once you get in the water" on a "small warm inland lake."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Throughout the Millersburg region, connectivity remains problematic. One camper reports that at Ocqueoc Falls, "Cell service is iffy… a bar or two on a good day if you have Verizon, likely not with any of the other providers."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds operate with minimal amenities. Stoney Creek Trail Camp is unusual in having "modern bathrooms and a snack shop on site" while most other areas provide only vault toilets.
Drinking water access: Water sources vary by location. At Ocqueoc Falls, there's "a well with good drinking water" via hand pump, while at some dispersed sites, no potable water exists.
Recreation passport requirements: Michigan state land requires proper permits. At De Cheau Lake, campers note: "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required" - this applies to most camping areas in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner backpacking site: For families wanting to try backcountry camping without difficult access, Negwegon State Park offers an ideal starting point. A reviewer explains: "If you're looking at getting into backpacking or unsure if backpacking is for you, Negwegon is a great place to start. First of all, each of the sites are only a mile or two away from the parking lot of the park."
Beach activities: Several sites offer water access suitable for children. At Stoney Creek, families appreciate that there are "nice sandy beaches" and the park "offers kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals. Also paddle boards."
Potential hazards: Watch for poison ivy around campsites, particularly at Ocqueoc Falls where one camper mentioned: "Some poison ivy near our site a few years ago, watch your kids."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can surprise unprepared families. Fall campers should "be prepared for that breeze blowing off of the lake, we came prepared for the cold, if you don't, you'll be miserable."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest campgrounds accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. At Ocqueoc Falls, "The lack of big rigs makes for a generally laid back and quiet atmosphere" but means limited access for larger vehicles.
Site leveling: Terrain varies across campgrounds. One RVer at Ocqueoc Falls mentions: "We fit our small travel trailer easily into a fairly level lot" - a consideration when selecting specific sites.
Road noise considerations: Some seemingly remote sites still experience traffic sounds. De Cheau Lake campers report: "Can hear the state route from the site but it was low volume traffic."
