By:
Submission
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html
From town: Go 5-1/2 mi SE on CR 611 (Garfield Rd), then 2-1/2 mi E on Potter Rd, then 1/2 mi S on 4 Mile Rd, then 1/2 mi E on N Arbutus Rd.
Dead quiet unless you consider the Loons, Swan, and huge variety of other birds enjoying Arbutus Lake. The campground hadn't been cleaned up for the season yet but was still in pretty good shape. A good selection of rustic campsites, some walk-in access only.
Went there to camp because the pictures look amazing, but none of them show how this place really looks. It's very crowded, sites are close together, some sites are like hanging off the side of the hill and there's no where to park. It might be nice in the off season but don't go during peak.
Loved this campground, disappointed to see how much trash was laying around though. We really cleaned up around our site,but wished others would do the same and not use this wonderful forest as a trashcan. Other than that, very peaceful and quiet when party people weren't there. Definitely want to go again!
This is my favorite camping spot at a state forest campground in northern lower Michigan. It's kinda perfect for staying right outside of Traverse City.
