Campgrounds near Grayling, Michigan range from developed state parks to rustic forest sites, primarily situated along the AuSable River and Lake Margrethe. Hartwick Pines State Park Campground features cabins and full hookup sites among its old-growth forest, while Upper Manistee River and Lake Margrethe State Forest Campgrounds provide more rustic experiences. The region includes a mix of year-round and seasonal camping areas with varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to campgrounds with modern facilities. Several campgrounds offer access to popular water recreation areas, including fishing spots and beaches.
Road access varies throughout the region, with some state forest campgrounds accessible via maintained gravel roads while others require careful navigation during wet seasons. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. The military training facility at Camp Grayling can occasionally affect the camping experience with artillery noise at certain times. Rustic state forest campgrounds typically provide vault toilets and drinking water but lack shower facilities. Reservations are recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and holidays. A camper noted: "Maintained gravel road. Variety of trees. Walking path to AuSable River. Canoe launch at end main road past campground."
Waterfront sites at Lake Margrethe and along the AuSable River consistently receive positive reviews for their scenic views and recreation opportunities. Several campers mention the excellent swimming at Lake Margrethe, with one describing it as having "a killer beach for swimming and wading." The old-growth forest at Hartwick Pines is frequently cited as a highlight, offering educational opportunities about Michigan's logging history alongside hiking trails. Many sites provide good privacy thanks to mature tree cover, though campgrounds closer to water tend to be busier, especially during summer months. According to one visitor, Hartwick Pines features "large sites and most with plenty of trees surrounding the sites." Some campgrounds in the area balance wilderness experiences with proximity to town amenities, making them popular bases for fishing, canoeing, or exploring the region's extensive trail systems.
"There are many walking trails and bike trails too. So much history to be shared and learned about through this area."
"A few trails walking distance from the campground. The old growth trail is beautiful and really well maintained. The trees are crazy TALL."
"It is in a nice location with lakeside swimming and picnic tables while having the camping site close by. Campers are respectful and it is nice and quiet at night. Terrific park!"
"Sites are ok sized, bathroom was clean, biggest issue was right next to a main road so expect alot of highway noise if you're on the outermost part of the circle"
$15 - $20 / night
"We love Michigan outdoors! We chose paddling and camping the Big Manistee River. As is the expectation when we camp…there will be rain…and this outing was no different."
"the sites are sandy and surrounded by tall pines and ferns. some biting flies, especially near river (late june). multiple vault toilets and one water pump. sites are spacious enough for small campers"
$37 - $68 / night
"Great campground filled with wonderful staff, a cute camp store, hiking and biking trails, wild berries, mini golf, a pool, and plenty of activities!"
$15 / night
"This campground is beautifully located in the middle of Huron-Manistee national forest."
"Very nice campground on Kneff Lake in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. The campground road is blacktop in great condition. There are 2 loops."
"Most of the sites overlook the lake. It appears the park is upgrading its restrooms with one new, one relatively new and one older one. We enjoy the central location to places we like to visit."
"A great campground about 20 min south of gaylord, on otsego lake, as with most michigan state parks they have nicely taken care of campsites and easy access to bathrooms, the beach from our site was a"
"One of my favorite parks in Michigan. Beautiful beaches and always a fun week during Harvest Fest!"
"Higgins lake is beautiful. The water is less than waist deep for about 100 yards out and then drops off to about 90' deep. The water color is amazing when the sun is out."
"Being right on the lake was wonderful."
"The campground is conveniently located but this means it’s a very busy place."
$15 / night
"This campground is rustic and mid way between Grayling and Lucerne. The campground is generally quiet and practically deserted during the week. "
"Access to the river was good and the sites were a decent size with privacy in between. We enjoyed walking some of the nearby trails"
"It is a smaller KOA surrounded by dense woods. Some trails and very close to Higginss Lake state parjs."
"Some family activities and trails. Surrounded by nice mature trees. Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks. But very nice once set up."
Scoutfine if you just need a place to pitch a tent, ground is hit or miss and some spots are uneven. The river is the only real draw, bugs still come out and weekends get loud with rowdy groups. Bathrooms are meh
ScoutOnly camper in cluster of sites. Very quiet and peaceful. Only negative is that the lake is very low and not really a part of the camping experience
TravelerWe just needed a spot for the night near Traverse City, and this fit the bill.
It is a huge campground, with lots of activities for kids, but we have none. It was not high season, so it was not crowded and it was quiet. Our site was full service, but we only need electric for our van. The bathrooms were clean, but we were disappointed that the showers require quarters, as we had none. It was a great last minute opportunity, but I'm sure in high season you need a reservation.
GuideBeautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded.
TravelerDecent amount of road and ORV noise, great spot to get things on the MI shore to shore trail.
TravelerVery quiet and remote, if you go as a hiker pick times when the water conditions are poor. This is primarily a paddling campground.
Toilet has no TP, lots of hidden sites if you venture off trail
ScoutThe new management and owners are rude, non-friendly and have not kept up the campground. Not kept up and locked bathrooms. We have been camping here for almost 20 years and it was a home away from home. This is not a place I would bring a family. Do not recommend.
ScoutBeen camping here for years and new ownership has ruined the experience. Do not camp here.
ScoutLots of road noise and no water or electricity and it’s not free as stated online $20 isn’t bad per night but other places near charge $27-35 per night and have water and electric hookups there is tons of random traffic through the grounds which is a little uncomfortable. They do have bathrooms and you can fish but if your looking for a peaceful place this is not it or a free campsite it is not
Camping near Grayling, Michigan provides opportunities for outdoor recreation in the northern Lower Peninsula. The region sits at approximately 1,150 feet elevation with sandy soil conditions typical of the Au Sable River Valley. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during daytime with considerably cooler nights even in July and August, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
Fishing access points: Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground offers direct lake fishing where the water is clear and suitable for wading. According to a camper, "Most sites have an amazing view. The campground is so pretty with huge Pines and hills overlooking the lake. You can swim right at most of the sites."
Kayaking routes: Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground connects to the South Branch of the Au Sable River with multiple access points. One visitor noted, "The access to the river is fantastic, with multiple trails and access points easily accessible with a short walk." This campground serves as an excellent base for paddling excursions with manageable river entry points.
Winter usage: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground remains open year-round with winter activities. A camper mentioned it's "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here. The old logging museum is interesting to walk around & check out." The park maintains plowed access roads during winter months.
Clean facilities: North Higgins Lake State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. A visitor reported, "The park and bathrooms were always clean, showers were clean and had good water pressure. They did lose power in the whole park for about 3 hours due to a squirrel chewing through a wire somewhere."
Swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming beaches, but Kneff Lake Campground offers a quieter alternative. A camper described it: "The day access lake area has 2 put toilets with stairs and a ramp leading down to the beach. The beach is all sand, no seaweed in the water. It's a perfect swimming area."
Forested sites: Otsego Lake State Park Campground provides larger, more established sites. A reviewer noted, "Without a doubt this is one of our favorite campgrounds. It's a bit older, so the campsites are quite large compared to modern campgrounds. There are huge trees throughout, easily navigable roads, etc."
Artillery noise: Camp Grayling military training facility produces periodic artillery noise that affects nearby campgrounds. A camper at Lake Margrethe described: "On top of that, nearby Camp Grayling provided almost constant noise from machine gun fire...It was hilarious, guys, thanks. To be fair, the artillery sounds ended around 8 PM and started up again at 9 AM (on a Saturday morning)."
Road access: Several state forest campgrounds require navigation on rough forest roads. At Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground, a visitor warned: "The dirt road from the hwy to the campground is really-really rough... drive slow." This road condition is particularly challenging during spring thaw or after heavy rains.
Cell service: Cell phone coverage varies widely across the region with many campgrounds having limited or no service. At North Higgins Lake, a camper reported: "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty." Those requiring connectivity should plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Grayling, Michigan?
Grayling offers excellent campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Keystone Landing State Forest Campground provides secluded, shaded sites along the river while remaining close to town. It's perfect for trout fishing with three river access points. Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground offers beautiful lakeside sites with direct water access, making it ideal for paddling and fishing. Other notable options include Hartwick Pines State Park with its historic logging exhibits and hiking trails, and River Park Campground with its family-friendly atmosphere and clean facilities. The area's campgrounds provide excellent access to the AuSable River, perfect for canoeing and fishing adventures.
How much does camping cost in Grayling, MI?
Camping costs in Grayling vary by campground type and amenities. River Park Campground, a family-owned facility with shower facilities and spacious sites, charges moderate rates for daily lots that accommodate tents or travel trailers. State forest campgrounds like Upper Manistee River typically charge $13-20 per night, with an additional Recreation Passport required for Michigan residents ($12-17 annually). These rustic sites usually offer vault toilets and water pumps but no hookups. Private campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort have higher rates ($35-75+) but provide additional amenities including water, electrical hookups, and family activities. Most campgrounds accept credit cards, but state forest locations may require cash or check payment.
What camping options are available near Grayling for different seasons?
Grayling offers year-round camping options with seasonal advantages. Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is particularly peaceful during weekdays and serves as an excellent base for fishing trips on the AuSable's South Branch. Spring visitors should be cautious of ticks. Summer is prime time for water activities at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground, which offers educational programs about logging history alongside numerous hiking and biking trails. Fall brings spectacular colors to the Upper Manistee River area, perfect for paddling. Winter camping is available for hardy souls at several state forest campgrounds, though amenities are limited. Many campgrounds reduce services during shoulder seasons, so check availability before planning off-season trips.
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