The best camping near Charles Mears State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Charles Mears State Park adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover Charles Mears State Park's scenic trails and serene campgrounds.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Charles Mears State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Secluded Forest On 40 Acres
  • Secluded Forest On 40 Acres
  • Secluded Forest On 40 Acres

Secluded Forest On 40 Acres

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Hesperia, MI
Nestled within 40 acres of pristine Michigan wilderness, our Modern Farmhouse tiny cabins on wheels offer the perfect blend of seclusion and modern comfort. Each cabin invites you to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with nature. Our tiny homes are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring cool, contemporary interiors that provide all the comforts of home while you enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
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$90
 / night
  • Brookhollow Riverfront Campsite
  • Brookhollow Riverfront Campsite
  • Brookhollow Riverfront Campsite
99%
(55)

Brookhollow Riverfront Campsite

1 site · Tent10 acres · Newaygo, MI
Learn more about this land: You’ll have a secluded, wooded campsite just footsteps from the Little Muskegon River. Tube down the river, fish, swim, explore the land, and get back to nature. There is a creek that runs through the property and a firepit that is available for use right next to the river.  Fall asleep under the stars to the sound of flowing water. We are very flexible with check in and check out times as well. We've been asked why we don't offer several sites on this plot of land but we believe that it's the privacy and seclusion that guests value most and it's what keeps return guests coming back. If you are looking for a getaway, this is it.
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$100
 / night
  • Billy’s Place in the Woods
  • Billy’s Place in the Woods
  • Billy’s Place in the Woods

Billy’s Place in the Woods

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Big Rapids, MI
Small cabin with three beds, the bottom bunk is large and can sleep couple. Campfire wood included Nature Trails Lake Access Deer hunting available for renters. as allowed by State laws. Hunt at own risk, maximum three hunters per party. There is an outhouse that’s clean. There is plenty of firewood for your stay but be reasonable with the fire. Bring all you need the place has nothing. Think like a tent! You will need it all, nothing supplied as far as bedding, water, campfire starter, TP or lights. You may want bug spray. Tics in area and the wildlife is typical Pure Michigan. Over a mile of trails to wander or ride If ATV 25 mph max speed on property. I do provide fire extinguisher. Cost if used. Addition room for tents at $10 per person per night. Maximum 4 adults or family 2 adults 4 minor children in cabin. This is a new venture for me so please don’t destroy the place. Lake access ( Muskegon River, Rogers Pond) is available via adjoining property, there is a dock at adjoining property to tie up to, if you want to put in boat at public access 1 mile away. ATV access to water if you have one. Code opens the cabin door.
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$37.50
 / night
  • Secluded Campsites
  • Miles of trails just across the road!
  • Secluded Campsites
100%
(13)

Secluded Campsites

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Paris, MI
Directly across from: The Hungerford Recreation Area is area consisting of over 6,500 acres of National Forest System lands. The area provides opportunities to hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, horseback ride, mountain bike and enjoy the National Forests. The horseback riding and mountain biking trails are two separate trails. The two trails cross each other at several locations, but "You Are Here" maps are located at trail junctions to aid in navigation. The trail is marked with blue diamonds for the mountain bike trail with a bike symbol and blue diamonds with horses for the horse trail. There is a total of six campsites each with 30 AMP RV hookups. There is one fire-pit. There is a total of 8 water spigots. There is a heated outdoor shower.
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from 
$16
 / night
  • New River Farm
  • New River Farm
  • New River Farm
92%
(6)

New River Farm

1 site · Lodging22 acres · Howard City, MI
Welcome to our homestead! New River Farm sits on 22 acres of land with 500 feet of little Muskegon river frontage. Our property meets 350 acres of Manistee national Forrest on the north and west side! There is endless adventure to be had. Hike the national Forrest, mountain bike on the dragon trail or kayak down the little or big Muskegon river!
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$52.50
 / night
  • The 40 Acre Wood
  • The 40 Acre Wood
  • The 40 Acre Wood
100%
(55)

The 40 Acre Wood

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Shelby, MI
www.facebook.com/the40acrewood Before our forest was "owned," it belonged to the Odawa people. Once white settlers arrived and governments were established, land deeds were written. We traced those deeds back through the Oceana County Register of Deeds and found that larger tracts of land were owned by people from Chicago and California, which were later divided into smaller parcels. Interestingly, one owner lost the property after failing to pay back taxes of $3.50, shortly after World War II. It is likely that he never returned. In the mid-1900s, Ed Dewey was the owner. Today, we have a cabin on the east side of the 40 acres that was built by Ed, entirely constructed with oak. He had three sawmills there, each powered by the engines of old Studebakers. He cut and milled enormous oak trees, using the wood to construct crates for transporting cherries. Today, you can still see old oak crates on various farms, but they are slowly being replaced by plastic. Ed never finished the little cabin, and the story goes that he died there. The next owners were a couple from Inkster, near Detroit. Despite Ed leaving an acre of "yard art" all over, the place was used as a vacation home after a 50-foot long mobile home was placed near the cabin. As they aged, they sold off their property to us. First, we acquired the 20 acres where the Cozy Camper Cabin resides, then the 7 acres near Weaver Road and 44th, and finally, the remaining 13 acres with the cabin. We began purchasing the property in parcels in 1992 for $500 an acre and owned it all by 1998. From 1998 to 2008, we removed the mobile home, cleaned up all the yard art, refurbished the cabin, added a garage, and built a new shed nearby. The Hipcamp shed was originally built in 1999 and has been used for storage until it was converted into a unique little place in the woods in 2021. Over the years, our Forester has carefully managed the property. We have logged three times. The first round was to remove 75 huge oak trees. The second round involved culling mature poplar trees. The last time, we took out 276 mature oaks and beeches. A Woodsman spent a year cutting down the tops of the trees. Clearing these old growth trees revitalized the forest, as planned. Today, there are over two miles of trails running throughout the property. Some were logging roads, while others were carved out over time. The land is flat to the north but hilly to the south, as these are forested sand dunes. There are approximately a million trees on the property, densely forested with many large "mother trees" such as oaks, beeches, maples, and pines. The poplar trees are growing rapidly, as they do. Wild cherry, sassafras, beeches, oaks, and maples are also growing quickly and thickly. To the south, there are fenced-in asparagus fields and cherry orchards. To the north, on the other side of Weaver Road, is the privately owned Silver Lake Airport, which remains quiet most of the time. On the east side of our 40 acres, you'll find our cabin and buildings, and we kindly ask you to avoid wandering onto that side of the property. Signs will alert you when you get close. To the west, there is a 20-acre section occasionally occupied by some "Dunners." The area is famous for Silver Lake State Park and the sand dunes, located about 2.5 miles northwest of us. Our neighbors in that area have dune buggies, and they sometimes drive around their property, creating more noise than we prefer. It's possible that you may encounter this during your visit, so please be aware. Deer are abundant in the area, and in 2021, we spotted a porcupine for the first time, although we have occasionally seen evidence of their presence through bark-stripped maples. Raccoons come and go, while turkeys are frequent visitors at times. You can hear coyotes yipping away at night, and depending on the time of year and migratory season, you'll see lots and lots of birds. We're pleased to report that there is no poison ivy on the property! It is a beautiful place in the woods, not far from many entertaining activities suitable for both the young and old. Come and visit, but please be respectful of the land and our privacy while enjoying yours. Love Mother Earth while you are here and nourish your soul.
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$80.10
 / night
  • Honey Creek (18+ only)
  • Honey Creek (18+ only)
  • Honey Creek (18+ only)
67%
(3)

Honey Creek (18+ only)

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Howard City, MI
We are an 18+ only property. Private camping on Little Muskegon river, with over 200 feet of private waterfront for you to enjoy. The Trout stream is great for fishing, so don't forget to bring your poles! There is a cozy pop up camper provided. Camper comes with electric and has a fan in there to help keep you cool on warm days. Electric, BBQ grill and fire pit on site. Site includes 2020 camper refrigerator, coffee pot with coffee, creamer and sugar to start your day. Picnic table fire pit chairs private beach. I have two kayaks available which includes drop off upriver or pick up downriver at your convenience, or bring your own. There are mosquitos sometimes, please come prepared with bug spray. Fire wood available. Connected to 100 acres of Manistee National Forrest. Less than 10 minutes from the Howard City exit off of US-131. This is for adults only no pet's. Adults only, please. Come enjoy a relaxing weekend at Honey Creek
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$75
 / night
  • Lake Log Cabin
  • Lake Log Cabin
  • Lake Log Cabin
100%
(1)

Lake Log Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Baldwin, MI
Cozy authentic log cabin nestled directly on a lake in Northern Michigan for adventure and relaxation!🌲🦌🦢 🐕 Dog friendly! 🚗 Great location for day trips to Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Ludington, Cadillac, Holland, Grand Rapids, etc. 🏊‍♀️🎣 Swim & Fish. Renowned Baldwin River 2 miles away 🚣‍♀️ Paddleboat, Rowboat, Kayaks included ⛷️🚴‍♀️🥾 Trails nearby to snowmobile/Bike/Hike/Ski/ATV. 1/8 mile to Pere Marquette Trail 🧩 Game room/Bunkhouse 🔥Firepit, Hammock, egg swing, grill 🛜 Wifi More details: 🌲 This charming authentic log cabin is nestled on a 33 acre private tranquil lake, surrounded by towering trees. The perfect setting to unwind, relax, have fun, and create lifetime memories. 🛶 🎣 🏊‍♀️ This slice of paradise has activities galore! We provide kayaks, a paddleboat, a fishing rowboat, tubes/inflatables, life vests, fishing poles and tackle, and even a kid's log cabin playhouse, all included with your stay for your enjoyment of the lake. The lake is home to panfish (bluegill, sunfish, etc), perch, large mouth bass, pike, possibly walleye and trout. 🐕 We accept your canine best friend! We provide dog supplies such as a crate, food bowls, tie-outs, couch cover, and toys. Enjoy walks with your dog around the lake or on the Pere Marquette State Trail just 1/8 mile away. 🔥🪵Enjoy late-night chats by the fire pit as you sink into those comfy tamarack chairs or the hammock. Be mesmerized by the dancing flames as you look out over the lake. Roast marshmallows, watch the sunset, and count the stars. 🧩Just a few feet from the cabin is a 3-season bunkhouse that can sleep up to four people (bunk bed with trundle). It includes games, puzzles, toys, and many supplies for the beach and lake. Just imagine the kids' faces lighting up as they discover the magic of this space! 🌅 Enjoy the gorgeous lake view from the back deck. Grill some dinner and have a drink at the bar while taking in the most stunning natural theater. 🥾🚴‍♀️⛷️ Just 1/8 mile from the cabin is the Pere Marquette State Trail (rails to trail) for hiking, biking, skiing, or snowmobiling. So convenient! The nearby Huron-Manistee National Forest offers a plethora of adventure opportunities such as thrilling motorcycle and ATV trails. The 8-state North Country Trail is perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or snowmobiling. 🚙 The log cabin makes a perfect centrally-located spot for day trips to many popular tourist destinations: Ludington: 35 miles Cadillac: 42 miles Manistee: 47 miles Traverse City: 68 miles Sleeping Bear Dunes: 84 miles Grand Rapids: 83 miles Midland (Canopy Walk): 90 miles Holland: 110 miles Petoskey 183 miles Mackinaw City: 184 🏌‍♂️Marquette Trails Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole course in Baldwin. 📶👩‍💻 Don't worry about staying connected – the cabin has internet powered by the T-Mobile Gateway for working remotely or using your favorite streaming services. Stay in the loop while still basking in nature's glory. Seasons change, and so does the magic of this place. Summer? Dive into the refreshing lake waters and soak up the sun. 🌊🌞 Fall? Get lost in the mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors as leaves paint the landscape. 🍂🍁 Winter? Embrace the thrill of snowmobiling and ice fishing. ❄️🎣 Spring? Traverse the budding trails as the land awakens from its slumber. 🌱🌷 This lakeside log cabin is not just a place to stay; it's a memory-making machine, a gateway to endless adventures, and a sanctuary of nature's wonders. Pack your bags, gather your crew, and make some unforgettable memories together. 🌄✨
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$175
 / night
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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Charles Mears State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Charles Mears State Park

  • DaltonTraders Base Camp-Grand Cabin
  • DaltonTraders Base Camp-Grand Cabin
  • DaltonTraders Base Camp-Grand Cabin
99%
(71)

DaltonTraders Base Camp-Grand Cabin

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Muskegon, MI
40 acre secluded wood lot located: 10 miles from Lake Michigan public beaches. 5 miles from Michigan’s Adventure amusement park. 4 miles from Thunderbird Raceway 2 miles from US 31 expressway. 3 miles from shopping, bars and restaurants. 1 mile from public golf course. 5 miles from downtown Muskegon. 8 miles from Lake Express cross lake ferry terminal.
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$40
 / night
  • Gray's Riverside Camp
  • Gray's Riverside Camp
  • Gray's Riverside Camp
98%
(26)

Gray's Riverside Camp

5 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Big Rapids, MI
This property is the perfect location to stop and relax while you are traveling on the White Pine Trail. We have cabins and campsites with water and electricity. It is centrally located between Grand Rapids and Cadillac. We offer river access, kayaking, disc golf, bathrooms, showers, and a dump station. This is an old church camp with 15 different buildings. We recently built a road to go down to the river so it's not as steep as it was. My goal is to restore all of the buildings to what they should be. I encourage you to come and investigate before it's all done. I can't wait to see what the next few years have in store for me! Angie Gray
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$29.60
 / night
  • Checking out the view from the very top of the treehouse.
  • Checking on the car from the window.
  • Checking out the view from the very top of the treehouse.
98%
(107)

Provision Family Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · White Cloud, MI
Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.
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$22.50
 / night
  • Air & Sun Acres
  • Air & Sun Acres
  • Air & Sun Acres
100%
(14)

Air & Sun Acres

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Le Roy, MI
Tucked back in the woods of North Western Michigan. A turn down a pine lined driveway takes you into a simpler world. Conveniently located, our cabins are rustic, beautiful, and timeless. Enjoy the solitude and peace not far from local amenities. We live here on the land and strive to share its beauty with you. Need some more room to spread out? Interested in hosting a retreat? We share our land and scenic walking trails with neighbors MorningStar Adventures. They offer additional cabins within walking distance for larger groups seeking connection with the land. Learn more about this land: Gabriel's cabin is just a short walk to the Hersey Creek and the hiking and cross country skiing trails on the 125 acres of surrounding property which has been enjoyed as an eco-spiritual retreat center for over 40 years. This cabin sleeps 1-4 people and has electricity, a full kitchen, running cold water and well hydrant near by, a gas stove for heating, three beds, an outside fire pit, and an outhouse as well as an indoor camping commode. Outdoor cold shower is available in spring - fall. PLEASE NOTE: There are no heated shower or bathing facilities at this cabin. As an Eco-spiritual retreat center, we encourage our guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Walk the trails or labyrinth on our 35 acres or those on the neighboring 90 acres. We share the opportunities to wander with our friends to the south for a seamless experience for our guest and theirs. A second larger labyrinth, medicine wheel and wailing wall are also on the property to the south. Overall 125 acres of woods, creek, gardens and places to wander await you. The Fred Meijer White Pine Linear State Park is only a few steps away an is a paved path way of over 90 miles stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Plan a bike excursion and stay here half way! No hunting, ATVs or snowmobiles allowed on our property.
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from 
$30.60
 / night
  • Antique wagon near Pavilion
  • PV's Campground and Resort
  • Antique wagon near Pavilion
98%
(94)

PV's Campground and Resort

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · White Cloud, MI
We sit on over 50 acres that has been in our family for over 40 years.
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from 
$25
 / night
  • Rob has hiking trails marked so they're easy to follow and enjoy
  • Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat
  • Rob has hiking trails marked so they're easy to follow and enjoy
98%
(413)

Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Stanwood, MI
My property (Lynx Run) has an amazing geological and historical background. During the last ice age, glacial waters carved out the ravine in which the Betts Creek flows.  Sometimes, the creek drops over 60 feet below the surrounding terrain as it meanders back and forth in oxbows as it flows toward the Muskegon River.  It was once the hunting, foraging and camping grounds of the Potawatami Indians.  In the late 1800's it was at the center of the Michigan Timber Industry.  Running along the edge of my property is the old railroad bed where timber was once hauled away.  Only two miles from my home, the logs were sent down the side of the hill and into the Muskegon River on log chutes and then floated to where the Muskegon empties into Lake Michigan.  Piles of field stones indicate that after the timber industry moved on, farmers moved in and attempted to tame the land.  But, fortunately for me, the land was abandoned by the farmers and has returned to a much more natural and pristine state.  My land is now a part of the Manistee National Forest and I am surrounded by thousands of acres of beautiful land (both public and private).  I am the only person who lives back here in this part of the forest, so seclusion and privacy are wonderful and the wildlife and beauty is abundant.
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from 
$50
 / night
  • Bear Woods Resort
  • Bear Woods Resort
  • Bear Woods Resort
100%
(6)

Bear Woods Resort

6 sites · Lodging, RVs65 acres · Bear Lake, MI
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan, our enchanting 65-acre property offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature's beauty. Situated amidst rolling hills and woods, our property serves as a basecamp for your Northern Michigan adventure. From here, you'll find yourself conveniently positioned to explore all the region's hotspots, including the pristine Lake Michigan beaches, a round of golf at the acclaimed Acadia course, the iconic M22 drive, and visits to charming cities such as Frankfort, Traverse City, and Bear Lake. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, golfer, beach lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, our property offers the perfect starting point for your daily excursions. For those who prefer the comforts of home on the road, we offer three spacious RV full hook-up sites, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. These sites provide all the essential amenities, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, making it convenient for RV enthusiasts to relax and recharge. Additionally, we offer a unique glamping experience with canvas tents that allow you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the comforts of a cozy retreat. As the sun sets, gather around a campfire, stargaze under the vast Michigan sky, and savor the tranquility of our secluded haven. Whether you're embarking on a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends and family, or a solo retreat, our 65-acre property welcomes you to experience the best of Northern Michigan.
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from 
$40
 / night
  • Sites 3 and 4
  • campground map
  • Sites 3 and 4
100%
(139)

Sportsman's Port

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Wellston, MI
Gearing up for our 5th season as the new owners of The Sportsman's Port. We have made many updates and will continue to do so. We take pride in a clean bath house, and want everyone to have a great time at our campground. Sometimes it's crazy booked up and other times it may just be you. Feel free to ask any questions you may have and we will answer them as soon as we can. We look forward to meeting lots of new faces and hopefully starting family traditions for you and yours. We have spacious sites that are all different shapes and sizes. Depending on the site it may have 20/30/50 amp service depending on the site. There are currently only three that have 50 amp service. Also some sites have a septic hookup. Water fill station is located near the bathhouse. There is a private dump station also available for use just ask.
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from 
$25
 / night
  • Deer Run Retreat
  • Deer Run Retreat
  • Deer Run Retreat
100%
(6)

Deer Run Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
Escape the hustle and bustle at Deer Run Retreat, a haven for those seeking tranquility and new memories in the embrace of nature. Here, you can wake up to the sight of deer grazing in the pasture and spend your evenings by the fireplace, gazing up at a sky adorned with countless stars. Our retreat offers a serene environment to unwind and relax, providing a peaceful getaway from the demands of everyday life. Whether you're drawn to the Little River Casino, historic downtown Manistee, or the array of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, tubing, and hiking, you'll find something for everyone in the surrounding area. We provide two gravel pads with full hook-ups for RVs and an additional grassy area with electric and water hook-ups. For those without their camper, we offer the option to rent a beautiful camper on-site. Deer Run Retreat is designed to be family-friendly, creating the perfect backdrop for building lasting memories with your loved ones. Come and rejuvenate at Deer Run Retreat, where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of a welcoming retreat. We can't wait to host your stay!
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from 
$50
 / night
  • Whispering Pines Retreat
  • Whispering Pines Retreat
  • Whispering Pines Retreat
100%
(6)

Whispering Pines Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Newaygo, MI
Relax and unplug at our peaceful little retreat. This new cabin has a full size bed and lots of windows to let in the beautiful scenery. There is a fire pit, table, chairs, privy, and plenty of space for a tent and yard games. There is a second cabin available for rent on the property if interested for family or a friend retreat. This is an ideal location for those seeking to get off the grid and be surrounded by nature. Over 30 acres of trails to hike on site and only 2 miles from Newaygo. You will enjoy a comfortable new full size mattress with bedding provided. Over 30 acres of maintained hiking trails are available. The fire pit area, with solar powered string lights, is the perfect place to relax around the campfire. There is a clean outhouse and water/sprayer available for rinsing off. This is an intentionally rustic site so guests can truly unplug from the daily rush of life. You will enter from a private drive and follow the trail markers to the cabin. Other markers will guide you through the hiking trails on the property. I live adjacent to the property and will be available by phone. I'm happy to answer any questions about the area and activities surrounding. This is a great space for artists, writers and those looking for peace and space to relax amongst the tall pines and listen to the birds sing. Newaygo is a charming little historic town with the Muskegon River flowing through. Visit the local shops and restaurants or explore the nearby trails and Manistee forest or spend time fishing or kayaking on the Muskegon river. The Dragon Trail is a popular biking trail featuring beautiful views of Hardy Pond.
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from 
$95
 / night
  • Sandy Fern Campsite
  • Sandy Fern Campsite
  • Sandy Fern Campsite
94%
(8)

Sandy Fern Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Baldwin, MI
Our property is 1 acre of land nestled in Baldwin MI. It is filled with white pines and black oak trees. It is walking distance from a swimmable and fishable lake called Rattlesnake Lake. 2 miles away is Idlewild lake with a beach, toilet and wifi. There are hundreds of miles of ORV trails. Our site is 2 miles from downtown Baldwin.
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$50
 / night
  • Up North Rivers Camping
  • Elwood Creekside site
  • Up North Rivers Camping
98%
(65)

Up North Rivers Camping

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
We have 20 Acres of rolling hills, mostly forested, nestled on the banks of a flowing creek, we are also a budding flower farm, this summer there will be hundreds of dahlias blooming, along with many other flowers. If you have a special occasion, that calls for fresh flowers, be sure to let us know! Our setting is quiet, private and scenic. We occasionally see the Aurora Borealis right from our house. We are located in beautiful Manistee, Michigan where outdoor adventures abound!! Manistee is a peaceful, quaint Northern Michigan town with shopping, antiquing, fine dining and a River Walk. We are minutes from award winning fishing spots on the Big Manistee, Little Manistee, Bear Creek Trout Streams and the Platte River. There are many opportunities to canoe, kayak and paddle board. We are 10 minutes from the Lake Michigan shore, and many beaches are close by. You have a choice of gorgeous sand beaches with picturesque dunes, and rocky beaches for those looking for fossils, agates, beach glass and beautiful beach stones. We are within an hour of Sleeping Bear Dunes which has award winning hiking. Traverse City is 40 minutes away with many activities, especially the Cherry Festival. The area is known for live music venues, and lots of weekend art festivals. Manistee is also home to the Little River Casino. We have firepits at each campsite, dry firewood is available to purchase, feel free to pay by cash, Venmo or CashApp, cost is $11.00 a wheelbarrow. Fresh flowers are available to purchase, seasonally. An outhouse is available for use and is supplied with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. There is a garbage can and recycling bin near the outhouse. We installed a water hydrant so you can get potable water to bring back to your site, or hose off with on the spot. A scenic small creek runs by many of the campsites. We live on the property and are here to answer your questions. Feel free to text us. We hope you enjoy your stay!! Dean and Jackie
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$26
 / night

The best camping near Charles Mears State Park guide

Overview

About

Pentwater is the kind of lovable Michigan tourist town that just screams, “Summer vacation!” In a good way, of course. A stay at Charles Mears State Park is an ideal way to take advantage of that charming atmosphere while also enjoying a charming Lake Michigan beach. The approximately 50-acre park offers a one-mile trail along with fishing options, and is a popular place to hang between visits to shops, art galleries and concerts in town. The beach can get packed in summer but the vibe is jovial and carefree—you can run around with your dog, go metal detecting, or strike up conversations with random strangers. A great weekend escape from Chicago, Charles Mears serves up a gleeful break from your 9-to-5 routine.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Charles Mears State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the lake is inviting. However, autumn also offers a spectacular display of fall colors, making it a great time for hiking. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, potentially limiting access to certain park areas.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for all visitors.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to pack appropriately for the conditions.
  • Be mindful of park rules to preserve the natural habitat and wildlife.
  • Remember to bring water and snacks, as options may be limited within the park.
  • Trail maps are available for download; consider bringing a physical copy for navigation.

Top parks near Charles Mears State Park

Traverse City State Park
Muskegon State Park
Sleepy Hollow State Park
Petoskey State Park
Big Bay State Park
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Seven Lakes State Park
Interlochen State Park

Top cities near Charles Mears State Park

Chicago
Grand Rapids
Milwaukee
Escanaba
Rochester Hills
Toledo
Indianapolis
Plainfield

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  4. Charles Mears State Park

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