The camping sites near Gladwin, Michigan range in elevation from 750 to 850 feet above sea level, with most nestled among the region's mixed hardwood forests and small glacial lakes. The area experiences typical Michigan seasonal transitions with camping conditions at their peak from June through September when average temperatures range between 55-80°F. Most rustic sites offer limited cell service coverage, with stronger signals at developed campgrounds closer to town.
What to do
Fishing and paddling opportunities: Trout Lake offers multiple water activities with excellent kayaking access. "We stumbled on this campground accidentally but I am sure happy that we did! What a beautiful place... I will definitely be heading back in the spring/summer for a paddle," notes one camper who visited in late fall.
Swimming options for families: The public beach at Herrick Recreation Area provides dedicated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "Day use is across the street. Playground, beach, etc. One pond near the camping area," reports a visitor. Another camper adds that "There is a lake for swimming, fishing and putting in a kayak."
Trail connections: Several campgrounds connect to local trail systems. As one visitor mentioned about Herrick Recreation Area: "There is the Pier-Marquette Rail trail about 1.5 miles from the campground, great for biking, running etc." These trails offer packed dirt surfaces suitable for mountain biking and hiking.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers frequently note the generous spacing between sites at Countryside Campground & Cabins. "Sites around #40 are spacious and shaded all day which was awesome. No mats allowed but it was great as the grass is green and lush," mentions one reviewer who appreciated the natural setting.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. One camper noted about Countryside Campground & Cabins: "W.O.W. This is the CLEANEST campground I have ever been to. Seriously not 1 cigarette but or candy wrapper on my site when I arrived. Picnic tables are freshly washed." Another mentioned that at Herrick Recreation Area, "Bathrooms were cleaned three times a day and the showers were just the right temperature."
Multiple lake access points: Secord Lake Campground offers ideal water access. "Perfect Spot for Kayakers," states one review, highlighting the direct lake access that attracts paddling enthusiasts.
What you should know
Seasonal changes affect roads: Spring thaw often creates muddy conditions on access roads to forest campgrounds, with fall bringing earlier sunsets around 7:30 PM by late September. Some campers recommend avoiding peak summer weekends when seeking quieter experiences.
Site variations within campgrounds: At Wilson State Park Campground, site quality varies significantly. "Varying topography. Very low sites on the West edge, side nearest Old 27, far South end it is higher, sloped, can be cramped to get into for newbs. One spot in the corner, the very Northeast corner camp spot, is low, and flood prone during rain," reports one detailed review.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to main roads. "Unfortunately, it's bordered on 2 sides by 2 major roads, Old 27 and Townline Lake Rd," notes a camper about Wilson State Park, adding that "Harrison is loaded with people who think 'no exhaust' equals 'cool car', and are happy to show you just how big a POS they have while driving by the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Many local campgrounds feature playground equipment. At Countryside Campground & Cabins, "There are activities for the kids, a playground, heated pool, hiking/bike trail, and even a baseball field," according to one family's experience.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, several locations offer cabin rentals. Gladwin City Park & Campground provides cabin options close to amenities. One visitor notes, "Very nice campground, river us nice for swimming, mostly shallow, good for kids, canoeing and kayaking also."
Check for special activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family events. A camper at Countryside Campground describes, "They offered hay rides Saturday evening" and "Had a foam party (my 5 year old loved this)," showing how scheduled activities can enhance a family camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Sites are nice sized, we camped in the back and enjoyed less congestion but even up front the sites were nice too. May want to brIng extra water hose as water hook ups can be farther away than expected," advises one RVer about Gladwin City Park & Campground.
Electric hookup variations: Most developed campgrounds offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability. At Herrick Recreation Area, "Rustic feel as all sites are electric but no water hook up. There are spigots in the center as well as a dump station and potable water fill," explains a camper who visited with an RV.
Tree clearance considerations: Pine needle accumulation can affect slide-outs at wooded sites. One RVer at Herrick Recreation Area advises, "No issues with backing in our 36' TT with 2 slides (make sure to clean your slides from the pine needles before you go)."
