Campgrounds near Rhodes, Michigan offer experiences from tent sites to deluxe glamping. Situated in Michigan's northeastern Lower Peninsula, this area features sandy lake shores and pine forests with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while spring and fall bring cooler 45-65°F conditions ideal for camping.
What to do
Biking trails access: Bay City State Park Campground offers extensive paved paths for cyclists. "The park is huge and there are lots of places to ride your bike," mentions one visitor. The campground connects to longer recreational trails suitable for all skill levels.
Water activities: At River View Campground & Canoe Livery, the Rifle River provides tubing and kayaking opportunities. "We always go tubing and kayaking. Bathrooms and showers are decent for a campground," notes Jennifer S. Equipment rental is available on-site, with trips ranging from 1-4 hours depending on the route chosen.
Wildlife viewing: Devoe Lake Rustic Campround offers diverse habitats for spotting native species. "We were fortunate enough to see mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan...so it was a treasure trove for us," shares one visitor. Early morning and dusk provide the best viewing times at the lake edges.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Tawas Point State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms are clean and well maintained. Sites are large in general with plenty of room for activities," reports Edward C. The park also features modern showers and a full dishwashing sink for camper convenience.
Beach access: South Higgins Lake State Park Campground offers excellent swimming areas with gradual depth changes. "The beach is great for kids to play in safely while the parents chill at the shore," writes Kristi B. The water remains shallow for approximately 100 yards before dropping to deeper levels.
Site spacing: Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides well-designed camping spaces. "The campsites are nicely laid out with comfortable amenities. With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite," describes Colin L. The property maintains original pine trees for natural separation between sites.
What you should know
Booking requirements: For popular spots like South Higgins Lake State Park Campground, plan well ahead. "Getting a site here during the summer can be very difficult. You will want one of the sites closer to the lake. If you want one of these sites, you will need to be ready to book the site 6 months in advance," advises Stu E. Holiday weekends fill immediately when reservation windows open.
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have significant site variations. At Bay City State Park Campground, "Lots of moving around to get your electric hooked up to the shared and oddly placed power poles. Make sure to come with an extension cord," warns Deb M. Research individual site specifications before booking.
Seasonal conditions: May flies can affect comfort during certain periods. One camper noted at Bay City State Park: "There were quite a few May Flies. According to the park office they're pretty much there all summer. They weren't bad at the campground except at night around the bathrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Bay City State Park Campground organizes regular activities for children. "They have campground hosts that facilitate free activities organized by the park. We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," explains Sarah S. Activity schedules are posted monthly.
Multiple recreation options: When glamping close to Rhodes, Michigan with children, look for sites with diverse activities. "From the beach, to the splash pad, the huge playground, the hiking trails, fishing in the lagoon, and the touristy attractions right down the road (i.e. - bumper boats, mini golf, batting cage, go karts, etc..). The kids had a blast," reports Matt S. about Bay City State Park.
Pet-friendly beaches: For families traveling with dogs, City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground provides river access. "Park is in town and on the river. Good people running it. Good size sites. Great walking paths," notes Kenneth W. The riverfront location offers gentler water conditions than lake beaches for pets and small children.
Tips from RVers
Power requirements: When luxury camping or glamping near Rhodes, Michigan in an RV, check electrical specifications. At Wilson State Park Campground, a camper advises, "Yes, some spots are smaller than others, so be honest about your rig length when booking. Many sites are rather large, like 97, but severely sloped, also like 97... Others are flat, small, and your camper is right near the road."
Late arrival procedures: For those arriving after office hours, campgrounds have specific protocols. "We came in late for just a place to rest before heading further north. Drop box available after 10pm(summer). Between 8p-10p there is a yellow phone to check in with," explains Tanner G. about Bay City State Park Campground.
RV light etiquette: Consider neighbors when using exterior lighting. "We had to ask our neighbors politely to turn their outside LED light strips off the second night. They were great about it but, didn't seem to realize it would bother tent campers next to them," notes Melissa H. from Bay City State Park Campground.
