The Michigan Campground With Its Own Floating Waterpark Belongs On Your Bucket List
By Jack Springgate|Published February 14, 2024
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Jack Springgate
Author
I'm proud to be from the great state of Michigan. I've lived in the Mitten several different times throughout my life spending time in all corners of it. My journeys took me up and down the Lake Michigan coast, out east to explore Detroit and Ann Arbor, and to the dense forests of the UP.
Before writing with Only In Your State, I worked as a local TV news reporter and anchor, most recently in South Bend. Many of the stories I covered took place in Southwest Michigan. My roots are even deeper in the Wolverine State as I often head to Kalamazoo to visit family.
When I'm not out exploring nature, I'm avidly watching sports. I specifically have a deep love for the Michigan Wolverines (my alma mater), and I get to write about them and several other Big Ten teams as and editor for Athlon Sports. I also love to enjoy the great outdoors with my wife and our dog, Piper.
I'm excited to share all my favorite Michigan destinations with you. Keep exploring.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Few campgrounds in Michigan offer as many ways to enjoy the great outdoors as Bald Mountain Recreation Area in Orion Township. I’m not just talking about warm weather fun either. This nature area is packed with things to do all year round.
This destination finds itself on our list of the 22 Best Campgrounds in Michigan not only due to its versatility but also thanks to its lodging options. The only worry you’ll be facing when you book a cabin at Bald Mountain Recreation Area is finding time to try everything at the park.
Located in Orion Township, Michigan in the southeast part of the state, it’s best to plan ahead when booking lodging here. There aren’t any traditional campgrounds or RV hookups, but there are two rustic cabins that are ideal for bigger groups.
This is an expansive state park with a footprint of roughly 4,600 acres. It’s dotted with small ponds connected by a network of streams. It has everything from hiking, to fishing, to hunting, to relaxing on the beach. And that’s only considering what you can do in the summer.
As I mentioned, the ‘campground’ here is actually two rustic cabins that visitors can rent. Glampers be warned, these accommodations are not for those with luxurious expectations. However, it’s probably the most ideal option for a Scouts Troop retreat or a group trip with seasoned outdoors folk.
They are electricity-free and sleep up to 20 people. There is a woodburning stove in each cabin to keep warm during the winter. You can even collect your own firewood right outside your door. Prices and availability vary so make sure to check Michigan DNR’s website before planning your trip.
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Water Warrior Island takes aquatic activities to the next level. This on-the-water playground is a great way for anyone to enjoy the lake at Bald Mountain Rec Area during the summer.
This ‘water park’ is more like a ninja warrior course in the middle of the lake. You can test your abilities by trying to make it through all the obstacles or be met with a watery fate.
In addition to the ninja warrior course, visitors can take the 25-foot drop down the Warrior Whoa Slide, rent a kayak or paddle board, and even rent a floating cabana.
All of these options are located off the beach at Lower Trout Lake. While the beach is free (as long as you have a recreation passport), there are additional costs for the activities at Water Warrior Island. You can find more information on tickets and pricing on their website.
We’re not afraid of the snow in Michigan. In fact, we welcome it. There’s a winter alternative for basically every activity here. Snowmobiling is a great way to explore the whole state park, while others might take the more leisurely route with a snowshoeing expedition.
I find most of the Best Campgrounds in Michigan can be enjoyed any time of the year. Ice fishing is just as popular in the wintertime as it is once the lakes melt. The park is even open to hunting between September and March annually.
There are several trails to hike that cater to several different ability levels. They’re split up between the North and South units, totaling more than 15 miles of trails.
Not only are these great for hikes, but you can also mountain bike, cross-country ski, and even snowmobile.
It’s hard to find a campground that really offers it all, but that’s exactly what lands Bald Mountain Recreation Area on our list of the 22 Best Campgrounds in Michigan. You will need a recreation passport to enter the area. You can find more info on booking one of the rustic cabins on the Michigan DNR reservation website.
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