Camping options near Prescott, MI center around the Rifle River watershed, a region characterized by sandy soil and mixed pine-hardwood forests at approximately 800 feet elevation. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations with limited winter access, and sites along waterways often require reservations 6-12 months in advance.
What to do
River activities: Float trips: River View Campground & Canoe Livery offers tubing and kayaking on the Rifle River with trip options ranging from 2-6 hours. "Family goes there every year. Campground offers many amenities and with the river right on site there is so much to do. We always go tubing and kayaking," notes Jennifer S.
Hiking and biking: The Rifle River Recreation Area features multiple trail systems connecting lakes and forest areas. "Amazing views and great riding for all ages!" shares Dawn C. about Devoe Lake Rustic Campground's biking trails. The recreation area contains five lakes and numerous hiking options.
Fishing: Several campgrounds provide direct fishing access. At Northern Bear Paw RV Park, "It sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit," according to Nellie, making it convenient for anglers.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate secluded spots at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded my trees," reports Daniel C. These rustic sites offer more seclusion than the more developed campgrounds in the area.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife observation opportunities. One camper at Rifle River Recreation Area noted, "We were fortunate enough to see mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan...so it was a treasure trove for us."
Multiple lake access: The five lakes within Rifle River Recreation Area each offer different experiences. "The kids tossed on their PFD's and floated the river from the bridge to our site. You could hear them having a great time...other than their run in with a territorial beaver," shares Dave V. about camping along the river.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Be cautious when swimming with open wounds. At Rifle River Campground, a camper warns, "The water is not clean however, and if you find yourself floating down and feel the liquid courage kicking in telling you to climb a 100ft rock wall—DON'T. Our last trip my boyfriend fell from the top and contracted a flesh eating bacteria."
Weekend crowds: Many campgrounds transition from peaceful weekdays to busy weekends. "We spent all week in solitude until the weekend, when it swells to its limit....and when we usually say good-bye and move on," notes a Rifle River Recreation Area visitor.
Party atmosphere: Some campgrounds have reputations for being less family-oriented. "Rifle river camp ground is a yearly trip for us! A lot of fun going down the river on tubes! Typically not a family friendly location as it's more of a party campground," explains Danny S.
Terrain challenges: Many campsites feature uneven ground. "While the views of the river are great from the majority of sites, the entire campground is on a hill. There are few - if any - level areas to camp," reports Janine P. about Rifle River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated family areas: River View Campground separates family-friendly zones from adult-oriented sections. "The Group camping side is considered the 'Adult/Party' area. Nobody was crazy out of hand or anything to that nature, just louder music, drinking, etc. Although we didn't stay in the Family area it looked very nice," notes Phil M.
Consider multiple playgrounds: Big Bend Campground offers several play areas strategically located. "The playgrounds were great because there are enough of them that we are able to keep an eye on the kids from the sites," mentions Courtney H.
Try off-peak camping: For quieter family experiences, some campers recommend avoiding holiday weekends. "I camped in one of the rustic campgrounds over a holiday weekend and it got a little too rowdy for my tastes," shares Ashleigh M. about her Devoe Lake experience.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Many campgrounds have narrow roads making navigation difficult. At Tawas Point State Park, "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care of if you have a large vehicle," advises Edward C.
Site selection for trailers: At Spruce Rustic Campground, larger trailers can fit but site selection matters. "I got my 20' trailer back there no problem," confirms Jason N. about the rustic campground's accessibility.
Year-round options: Northern Bear Paw RV Park maintains all-season operations with full hookups when most other Prescott MI camping options close for winter. One camper described it as "An awesome place to stay! Owners are very thoughtful, through, and considerate of the campers."
