Camping spots near Wolverine, Michigan span across Northern Michigan's Pigeon River Country State Forest, known as the "Big Wild" with 105,000 acres of wilderness. The area sits at 900-1,200 feet elevation with cooler nights even in summer months, creating temperature swings that can reach 40°F between day and night in spring and fall. Most campgrounds maintain operation from late April through October, with some private facilities offering extended seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on the Sturgeon River: Access points are available near Haakwood State Forest Campground, where you can enjoy paddling on one of Michigan's fastest-flowing rivers. "Right on the sturgeon river you get away from the main camps of Burt lake and mullet lake. An easy drive to wolverine and a couple hour float back to camp or drive to Indian River and go to the lakes," notes one visitor.
North Central State Trail biking: This paved trail runs through the area connecting Gaylord to Mackinaw City. "This campground is right on the north central bike path and I came to this here for that easy access. However, it is right next to the road and there is a lot of road noise during the day and early evening," shares a camper about Haakwood.
Wildlife viewing in Pigeon River Country: The forest area is home to Michigan's elk herd, with early morning and evening being prime viewing times. "You're right by Michigan's only area to view free roaming wild elk! We went and tried, but unfortunately didn't see any elk," reports a visitor at Haakwood State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many state forest campgrounds offer significant space between sites. At Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground, "Sites are great for tents and RVs but no electricity. Hand pump wells for drinking water and vault toilets that are well kept. About 40 spots. All with picnic table and fire ring," according to a camper.
Affordability of rustic camping: State forest campgrounds provide low-cost options. "It's hard to beat $15 a night at a campground as nice and well located as this," notes a visitor about Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground.
Swimming in clear lakes: The region offers several swim-friendly lakes with good water quality. At Pigeon River State Forest Campground, "The river is also great for fly fishing and floating down If you decide to bring a tube. The best place to camp is right on the river which is lovely to fall asleep to at night. Beware of the bugs!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "Bring a map/gps because there is not cell service," advises a camper about Pigeon River State Forest Campground.
Basic amenities at rustic sites: Most state forest campgrounds provide minimal facilities. "You can pick sites on the river or back by the woods. There are vault toilets and a well for water," explains a visitor at Pigeon River.
Distance to supplies: Stock up before arrival at more remote locations. "Make sure you have all of your supplies before you arrive as the nearest town is 20+ minutes away," warns a camper at Aloha State Park Campground.
Insects can be challenging: Prepare for seasonal bugs, especially in wooded areas. "Gnats and fishflies were bad while we were there. Fishing was nice off the pier," notes one Aloha State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Petoskey KOA, visitors find "a large playground, a large heated swimming pool, plus volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, basketball and pickleball courts."
Beach access for children: Look for campgrounds with swim-friendly shorelines. "The lake is beautiful and clear, perfect for a paddle or morning swim," says a visitor about Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground.
Holiday weekend activities: Some campgrounds organize special events during peak times. "We spent a 4th of July weekend up in Petosky with our family. It was a perfect mixture of rustic modern camping. The facilities are nice and clean and the campground is well kept," shares a camper at Petoskey Dunes.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds can accommodate different RV sizes with varying levels of privacy. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65! Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited to certain campgrounds. "There is no water or sewer hook up. The lot lines are strange, they run on an angle. Bring extension cords for the electric service," advises a Burt Lake State Park visitor.
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. "Pretty nice campground. The sites vary in size - some are close together. We stayed at site 145 which was large but there is a path to the beach right next to it so it's not very private," notes one camper about Burt Lake State Park.
