South Branch, Michigan's camping area sits amid the Huron National Forest at approximately 900 feet elevation where the Pine River and South Branch intersect. The region experiences warm summers with highs around 80°F and cold winters with significant snowfall. Camping options range from full-service RV parks to rustic sites with many facilities closing between mid-October and mid-April.
What to do
Trail riding access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct trail access for ORVs and ATVs. At Manton Trails RV Park, campers appreciate the convenience: "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," notes Jen L.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes and rivers provide fishing options within minutes of most campgrounds. The area around Timber Ridge offers both lake and river fishing. "There is 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," shares Allison H.
Water recreation: Canoeing and rafting on the Manistee River is popular with campground visitors. "Very close to Manistee River and canoe/raft liveries, very fun family togetherness activity," according to a Manton Trails RV Park camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the quality of bathhouses and showers. At Kampvilla Park, campers find "extremely clean bathrooms n showers" with Karen B. noting they are "so very accommodating!" The park also offers "a big sandy playground for children."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer good site separation compared to typical RV parks. Lake Billings campers appreciate the layout, though Dakota R. mentions, "We had a small issue with a typical Seasonal neighbor thinking they owned the park but the Park Manager quickly handled the issue and we had a good stay."
Weekend activities: Organized events create community atmosphere at several campgrounds. Sarah S. from Manton Trails RV Park shares: "Our first time there was 4th of July weekend, they have a large building for events....over the weekend they a concert! Live band and food truck....free to all campers and their friends!"
What you should know
Hookup variations: Electrical service ranges from basic to comprehensive depending on the park. At Lake Billings RV Park & Campground, tent campers should note limitations: "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.
Site conditions: Natural features can affect setup and comfort at some parks. Amie R. notes about Lake Billings: "The sites themselves are small, ours had massive roots that made walking and setting up outside a challenge. We saw a couple of people actually moving their campers to different sites."
Management responsiveness: Staff attitude and helpfulness vary between campgrounds. Dakota R. shares about Lake Billings: "Very nice showers. Bathrooms were clean. They have a very nice swimming/play area for small children. Great WiFi connection. $32.00 otd."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming areas designed for children provide safe recreation options. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, facilities include "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."
Indoor activity spaces: Rainy day options keep children entertained regardless of weather. Amy Y. appreciates that at Kampvilla Park, "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!"
Playgrounds and recreation: Dedicated play areas provide supervised entertainment. "There are all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with," notes Amy Y. about Kampvilla Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some rv parks South Branch Michigan visitors report challenges with uneven sites. Barbara P. from Timber Ridge notes: "Our first site was pretty unlevel but we were able to move without issue."
Golf cart rental options: Several larger campgrounds offer golf cart rentals to navigate expansive grounds. At Vista Green RV Resort, Julia H. advises: "You are allowed to ride personal golf carts. They also allow you to rent golf carts. It is beneficial to have a golf cart to get around since it is a large campground."
Laundry facilities: Limited laundry options exist in the South Branch camping region. Vista Green offers "approximately 4 washers and 4 dryers. They allow you to use cash or an app. It is approximately $2.25 to wash and $2 to dry a load."
Full hookup availability: Many rv parks near South Branch offer complete service connections. At Indigo Bluffs RV Park, Kyle K. confirms: "Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room."
