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List your RVCampgrounds and RV parks near Lakes of the North, MI
108 campgrounds and RV Parks near Lakes of the North, MI. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
108 campgrounds
9801 campsites
57 RVs available for delivery
From $20/night
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Best campgrounds near Lakes of the North, MI
Blue Lakes Adventure Camp
Elmira, MI (5 miles away)
Starlight Campground and RV Park
Mancelona, MI (7 miles away)
$$$$$
(92 sites)
+9
Otsego Lake State Park
Gaylord, MI (10 miles away)
$$$$$
(155 sites)
+8
Gaylord South/Bradford Lake KOA
Frederic, WI (10 miles away)
Antrim Meadows Campground
Mancelona, MI (10 miles away)
$$$$$
(23 sites)
+10
Gaylord KOA Holiday
Gaylord, MI (11 miles away)
$$$$$
(100 sites)
+11
Trails Campground
Michigan (14 miles away)
$$$$$
(58 sites)
Chain-O-Lakes Campground
Bellaire, MI (15 miles away)
$$$$$
(89 sites)
+9
Boyne Country RV Park & Campground
Boyne City, MI (17 miles away)
Log Lake Campground
Kalkaska, MI (18 miles away)
Six Mile Lake Campground
East Jordan, MI (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(4 sites)
+6
Kalkaska RV Park and Campground
Kalkaska, MI (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(105 sites)
+7
Most common amenities
Tables Pet friendly Grills Dump station Toilets Playground Showers Firewood Internet Laundry
Camping near Lakes of the North, Michigan
Lakes of the North sits in Antrim and Otsego counties in northern Lower Michigan, roughly midway between Gaylord and the Grand Traverse Bay shoreline. The area is a resort community surrounded by inland lakes, hardwood forests, and off-road vehicle trails, and it draws RV travelers heading to Hartwick Pines State Park and the state and national forests that cover much of the terrain around Gaylord.
RV renters can stage a trip from several nearby campgrounds. Blue Lakes Adventure Camp and Starlight Campground and RV Park sit closest to the community, while Gaylord South/Bradford Lake KOA and Antrim Meadows Campground serve travelers moving between Gaylord and the Torch Lake chain. Otsego Lake State Park, located near Gaylord and easily accessed from I-75, is home to 62 acres of lakeside recreation.
Most visitors use the area as a base for lake days, ORV riding, and access to the Pigeon River Country State Forest to the east. Interstate 75 provides the main north-south route, and county roads connect the campgrounds to Gaylord's fuel, groceries, and dump stations.
Things to do around Lakes of the North
Water recreation drives most itineraries. Otsego Lake supports bluegill, yellow perch, bass, and other warmwater fish, and its shallow profile suits both motorized and non-motorized boating. The park is known for its beautiful, half-mile sandy beach, and the popular boat launch provides excellent access for motorized and nonmotorized watercraft, while the day-use area features an accessible swimming beach, fishing pier, quarter-mile pathway and picnic area.
Off-road trails are a major draw. Blue Lakes Adventure Camp sits close to ORV routes and inland lakes, giving side-by-side and dirt-bike riders direct access. The Iron Belle Trail runs past the park entrance and offers biking, hiking and snowmobiling.
Families often mix lake time with day trips to Gaylord's shops, museums, and the elk viewing areas in the Pigeon River Country State Forest.
Camping spots and RV parks near Lakes of the North, MI
When to visit Lakes of the North
- spring
March - May
49° / 30°F 72 mmCool and wet; state park opens mid-May
- summer
June - August
75° / 54°F 93 mmPeak season; book six months out for weekends
- fall
September - November
55° / 37°F 85 mmFall color late September; snow returns by November
- winter
December - February
27° / 12°F 58 mmDeep snow and cold; most campgrounds closed
The prime RV window runs from late May through mid-October. Lake to Lake Rentals rents kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards on the day-use area beach on a first-come, first-served basis from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day at Otsego Lake State Park, and the campground is heavily used from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Book six months out for July and August weekends.
Spring is cool and wet, with lakes staying cold into June. The park's sanitation station is located near the campground office and is open seasonally, typically mid-May to mid-October, weather permitting, which is a useful benchmark for planning shoulder-season trips in an RV.
Fall brings hardwood color from late September through mid-October and thinner crowds. Winter closes most campgrounds in the area. Snow in Gaylord usually begins around October and ends by April, and Gaylord receives significant snowfall, averaging about 134 inches per year, so off-season visitors should confirm road access and plan for freezing overnight temperatures.
Top Hosts near Lakes of the North, MI
Victoria3 trips - Joined May 2024
Tori and Dalton were so wonderful to work with! The camper was extremely clean and had everything in it that we needed. This was my first experience renting a camper and would recommend working with them to anyone! Thanks again, you two!
Molly H. - Aug 2024
Excellent communication from Victoria. The RV was delivered on time and all my questions were answered. RV came with 4 chairs to place by the fire pit as well.
Tom P. - May 2024
Kenny4 trips - Joined Jul 2024
Kenny and his wife did a great job setting up the camper and explaining all the features. We spent a wonderful worry-free weekend at Burt lake state park. I highly recommend renting from kenny looze
Eugene G. - Oct 2024
How to book campgrounds near Lakes of the North
Otsego Lake State Park is reserved through the Michigan DNR system. Camping, lodging and harbor reservations can be booked up to six months in advance, and pavilions can be booked up to a year in advance. Bookings go through midnrreservations.com or by phone at 1-800-447-2757.
Anyone driving into a state park will need a Recreation Passport, which can be added when registering a vehicle with the state or purchased at any state park entrance. Out-of-state visitors pay a separate daily or annual rate.
Private campgrounds around Lakes of the North, including Blue Lakes Adventure Camp, Starlight Campground and RV Park, Gaylord South/Bradford Lake KOA, and Antrim Meadows Campground, are booked directly through each operator's website or by phone. Popular summer weekends fill early; reserve as soon as dates are set.
What to expect on-site
Sites in this area range from full-hookup private parks to state-park loops with electric service. Blue Lakes Adventure Camp offers full-hookup and pull-thru sites suited to larger Class A and Class C rigs. The modern campground is divided into two loops, the north loop and south loop, and most sites are generous in size, shaded by oaks, maples and pines, and within view of Otsego Lake.
Expect cell coverage in most locations near Gaylord and along I-75. There is 20/30-amp electrical service available on each site at Otsego Lake State Park, with a seasonal sanitation station on site. There is no sewer at individual state-park sites.
Black bears live in the surrounding forests, so store food inside the RV. Firewood should be sourced locally to avoid moving pests between counties.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Lakes of the North, MI
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Lakes of the North, MI?
RV rental in Lakes of the North is one of the better values in Northern Michigan compared to pricier Traverse City pickups about 45 minutes west. On RVezy, expect roughly $90 to $175 per night for travel trailers, $150 to $275 for Class C motorhomes, and $250 and up for larger Class A rigs. Because hosts set their own pricing, you can find cheap RV rental Lakes of the North options by traveling midweek or booking outside the July to August peak. Pro tip: shoulder weeks in late May and mid-September deliver great rates with peak Northern Michigan scenery.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Lakes%20of%20the%20North%2C%20MichiganWhat license do I need to rent an RV in Lakes of the North?
Great news for first-time renters: a standard Michigan driver's license (or any valid U.S. or Canadian license) is all you need to rent an RV in Lakes of the North, MI. Michigan does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or special RV endorsement for motorhomes or towable trailers used recreationally. You'll need to be 25 or older to book on RVezy, and your ID is verified securely through the platform during checkout. International visitors should grab an International Driving Permit (IDP) before they fly in. That's it, no extra paperwork standing between you and your trip.
michigan.gov/sos/license-id/types-of-licensesIs my Lakes of the North RV rental protected if something happens?
Yes. Every RV rental in Lakes of the North booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan and 24/7 roadside assistance built into the booking. The protection plan helps cover damage to the RV, giving you peace of mind on backroads near Mancelona Road or out toward Deadman's Hill. You choose your coverage level at checkout (not the host), so you can pick the option that matches your comfort level. Review the included coverage during checkout so you know exactly what's protected before your Jordan River Valley trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat if I need to cancel my Lakes of the North RV trip?
Booking is low-risk. RVezy (not individual hosts) sets the cancellation policy for every reservation, and the specific policy that applies to your trip is shown during checkout and on your booking confirmation. Refund outcomes depend on how far in advance you cancel and the policy attached to your booking. If severe weather like a Michigan ice storm disrupts travel, RVezy's support team can help you understand your options. Read the cancellation details carefully before confirming your Northern Michigan getaway so there are no surprises.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a Lakes of the North RV trip?
Absolutely, this is a fantastic region for a pet-friendly RV rental Lakes of the North trip. Many RVezy hosts in the Mancelona and Gaylord area welcome dogs, just use the Pet-Friendly filter when searching. Once you arrive, Michigan state parks and state forest campgrounds allow leashed pets, and the nearby Grass River Natural Area offers boardwalks and trails that are dog-friendly. The North Country Trail near Deadman's Hill is another tail-wagging favorite. Pro tip: message the host before booking to confirm any pet fee and mention your dog's size so they can recommend the best floor plan.
michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/campingCan the RV be delivered to my campsite near Lakes of the North?
Yes, RV delivery Lakes of the North is one of the most popular options for first-time renters. Many RVezy hosts will tow or drive the RV directly to your site at Otsego Lake State Park near Gaylord, a private lot inside the Lakes of the North Association, or another nearby campground, then level it, hook up utilities, and walk you through every system. This is a game-changer if you're nervous about towing down US-131 or M-72. Filter listings by Delivery on RVezy to see which hosts offer it and their delivery radius.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Lakes%20of%20the%20North%2C%20MichiganHow far can I drive my Lakes of the North RV rental?
You have serious range from Lakes of the North, MI, and many RVezy hosts offer generous daily mileage allowances, with some unlimited mileage RV rental options available. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is about 75 miles west, Mackinaw City and the Mackinac Bridge sit roughly 70 miles north, Pictured Rocks in the Upper Peninsula is around 175 miles, and Traverse City wine country is about 45 miles away. For longer hauls, message the host to confirm the per-mile rate beyond the included allowance. Pro tip: bundling several Northern Michigan stops into one loop usually beats paying overage fees.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Lakes%20of%20the%20North%2C%20MichiganWhere should I camp with my RV near Lakes of the North?
You're spoiled for choice. Top picks include Otsego Lake State Park just south of Gaylord (modern sites with lake frontage and a boat launch), Graves Crossing State Forest Campground along the Jordan River (rustic and gorgeous), private RV parks in the Mancelona area, and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Petoskey about 50 miles north for family-focused glamping. For best campgrounds near Lakes of the North during summer holiday weekends, book at least 8 to 12 weeks ahead. Michigan state park sites release on a six-month rolling window through the Michigan DNR reservation system.
midnrreservations.com/When is the best time to visit Lakes of the North?
Late June through mid-September is the sweet spot for an RV camping Lakes of the North experience, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low 80s F and cool 50s at night, perfect for campfires. May brings morel mushroom hunting and the Mancelona Bass Festival around late May. September and early October deliver excellent fall color across the Jordan River Valley with fewer crowds. Winter transforms the area into a snowmobiling hub with hundreds of miles of groomed trails crossing through Lakes of the North and Starvation Lake, so if you love snow, that's an adventure of its own.
weather.gov/grr/I've never rented an RV before. Will I be okay?
You'll be in great shape. First time renting an RV in Lakes of the North is genuinely easier than most people expect. Every RVezy host provides a hands-on orientation at pickup, walking you through propane, water, slide-outs, the awning, and dump procedures. You can message the host with questions before booking, and RVezy support is available throughout your trip. The roads around Mancelona and Gaylord are wide and lightly trafficked, with no big-city stress. Pro tip: choose a Class C motorhome or a smaller travel trailer for your first trip, they handle much like a large pickup.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if the RV breaks down during my trip?
You're covered. Every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan, so help is one phone call away whether you're parked at Otsego Lake State Park or pulled over on M-72 between Kalkaska and Grayling. The roadside team handles common issues like flat tires, jump starts, lockouts, and tows. Your host is also a great second resource, they know their RV inside and out and can usually troubleshoot quirky issues over the phone. Save both numbers in your contacts before pickup and you'll roll into your Northern Michigan adventure with confidence.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Lakes of the North RV rental across state lines or into Canada?
Yes for most interstate travel, and often yes for Canada with host approval. Popular RV road trip from Lakes of the North routes include heading north across the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula (Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls), west to Wisconsin's Door County, or south to Indiana Dunes. Crossing into Canada (Sault Ste. Marie is about 170 miles north) is allowed by many hosts but requires written approval and confirmation that the RV's insurance extends across the border, so message before booking. Travel to Mexico is not permitted on any RVezy rental. Bring a passport for any Canadian leg.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityWhat kind of fuel mileage should I budget for?
Realistic fuel planning makes a big difference. Class C motorhomes typically get 8 to 12 miles per gallon (MPG), Class A coaches average 6 to 10 MPG, campervans hit 14 to 20 MPG, and trucks towing travel trailers land around 9 to 13 MPG. Michigan gas prices in the Gaylord and Mancelona area usually track close to the state average, so fill up in Kalkaska or Mancelona before heading deep into Pigeon River Country State Forest. Pro tip: a 200-mile round trip in a Class C typically costs roughly $60 to $90 in fuel, easy to factor into your budget.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campsite near Lakes of the North?
Michigan opens state park campground reservations on a six-month rolling window through the Michigan DNR reservation system, and prime summer weekends at Otsego Lake State Park and Burt Lake State Park can book up within hours of release. For July and August, reserve as soon as your six-month window opens. Private parks in the Mancelona area and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Petoskey usually have more flexibility but still fill up for the Fourth of July and Labor Day. Pro tip: midweek arrivals Sunday through Wednesday often have last-minute openings even in peak summer.
midnrreservations.com/What are the local driving conditions like around Lakes of the North?
You'll find Northern Michigan very RV-friendly. The main routes (US-131, M-72, and M-32) are wide two-lane highways with light traffic and gentle terrain (Lakes of the North sits at about 1,200 feet elevation with rolling hills, not mountains). Watch for white-tailed deer at dawn and dusk, especially November through January when Mancelona hosts its Buck Pole hunting contest. In winter, lake-effect snow off Lake Michigan can dump heavy bands quickly, so if you're traveling December through March, check the Michigan Department of Transportation Mi Drive map before you roll. Summer driving is honestly relaxing here.
mdotjboss.state.mi.us/MiDrive/mapWhat amenities do campgrounds near Lakes of the North have?
You'll have plenty of comfort options. Many private RV parks in the Lakes of the North area offer full hookups including water, sewer, and 30/50 amp electric. Otsego Lake State Park has modern sites with electric, flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. State forest campgrounds along the Jordan River are rustic with vault toilets and hand-pump water and no hookups, which is great for boondocking-style escapes. Dump stations and potable water fills are available at most Michigan state parks and at fuel stops along US-131. Pro tip: keep your fresh-water tank topped off if you plan to explore Pigeon River Country, services are sparse out there.
michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-forestsWhat's included inside a typical RV rental from Lakes of the North?
You'll be set up like a rolling cabin. Most motorhome rental Lakes of the North listings sleep 4 to 8 people and come with a full kitchen (fridge, stove, microwave, sink), a bathroom with shower and toilet, comfortable beds, dining area, climate control (furnace and air conditioning), and seatbelted seating for travel. Many hosts include a TV, and quite a few offer Wi-Fi hotspots or generators for off-grid stays. Campervan rental Lakes of the North options are more compact but include the essentials. Check each listing's amenity list, hosts also commonly include camp chairs, kitchenware, and bedding, sometimes for a small add-on.
michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/camping/rv-campingWhat add-ons and pickup options should I know about?
Hosts make it easy to customize a Lakes of the North RV trip. Common add-ons include bedding and linen packages, kitchen kits, generators, bike racks, kayak or SUP racks, fire pits, and outdoor furniture. Many hosts offer delivery and setup, often priced per mile from their base, and some include propane and a starter fresh water fill. Pickup is usually scheduled in the afternoon and return in the late morning, with flexibility if you message ahead. Pro tip: ask about a generator if you plan to camp in rustic state forest sites without electric hookups.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Lakes%20of%20the%20North%2C%20MichiganHow does payment and the security deposit work?
Payment is straightforward and secure through RVezy. You pay the rental total, taxes, and any selected add-ons by credit card at booking, and the host never sees your card details. A security deposit is held as a temporary pre-authorization shortly before pickup, not a charge, and it's released after the trip assuming no damage or policy violations. To avoid issues, do a thorough walk-around video at pickup and drop-off, follow the host's mileage and generator policies, and return the RV with the agreed fuel and tank levels.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I rent an RV in Lakes of the North in winter?
Yes, and it's an underrated adventure. Lakes of the North sits in the heart of one of Michigan's busiest snowmobile corridors, with riders using trails through Mancelona, Starvation Lake, and the Jordan River Valley each winter. Some RVezy hosts offer four-season RVs with heated holding tanks, enclosed underbellies, and shore-power-ready setups suited to cold-weather camping. January highs average in the mid-20s F with lows in the single digits, and the area regularly sees well over 100 inches of seasonal snow. Pro tip: filter for winter-ready listings and book a site with full hookups so you can run the furnace continuously without worrying about freezing lines.
weather.gov/grr/Nearby cities with campgrounds
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