Hemlock Campground And Boat Launch
4.1211 reviews1170 Nursery Road Wellston, MI 49689
Hemlock Campground And Boat Launch
$16.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single campsite fee is $30 per night. Day-use fee is $10 per vehicle. Payments are accepted in cash or check. Users have reported a cheaper rate of $16 per night compared to nearby Mitchell State Park.
About this campground
Nestled on the western shores of Lake Mitchell near Cadillac, Hemlock Campground and Boat Launch offers an enchanting escape into Michigan's natural wetlands. This thoughtfully designed campground features a single loop of paved sites, where early arrivals can claim convenient pull-through spots near the entrance or coveted lakefront sites that put you just steps from the water's edge. In early summer, the surrounding marshlands burst into color as wild iris paint the landscape in vibrant purples, creating a photographer's paradise and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Hemlock Campground offers a rustic camping experience with 18 combined sites suitable for both tents and RVs with no utility hookups. The campground features paved parking aprons and accommodates a range of camping styles, from primitive tent setups to larger RVs.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Hemlock Campground places you within the storied boundaries of the Manistee National Forest, a treasured landscape that has captivated visitors for generations. This scenic wonderland represents Michigan's rich forestry heritage and ongoing commitment to preserving natural spaces for public enjoyment and wildlife habitat.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Michigan's seasons at Hemlock, where warm, dry summers invite endless days of outdoor adventure and crisp autumn mornings wrap the campground in a palette of gold and crimson. Summer visitors should come prepared with insect repellent, as the lush wetlands that make this area so biodiverse also attract mosquitos during the warmer months. The changing seasons bring their own unique charm, from spring's awakening wildflowers to autumn's spectacular foliage display.
ElevationPerched at 1,420 feet above sea level, Hemlock Campground offers a refreshing retreat where mature forest canopy meets wetland ecosystem. The elevation provides comfortable temperatures even during summer's peak, while towering trees create natural shade corridors perfect for stringing up hammocks and enjoying lazy afternoon naps accompanied by the gentle sounds of nature.
Natural Features and SceneryHemlock Campground immerses you in a rare marshland ecosystem where nature puts on a daily show. The surrounding wetlands serve as a thriving wildlife corridor, offering exceptional opportunities to spot herons, waterfowl, and other marsh inhabitants in their natural habitat. Come early summer to witness the spectacular bloom of wild iris transforming the landscape into a living impressionist painting. Mature hardwoods and evergreens frame each campsite, providing both privacy and those perfect branches for hammock camping under a canopy of green.
Geological RegionSituated in the scenic Caberfae region along Lake Mitchell's western shoreline, Hemlock Campground occupies a unique ecological niche where forest meets wetland. This marshy landscape, dotted with residential properties along the lake's edge, creates a fascinating study in contrasts between developed and wild spaces. The area's geological history has crafted an environment perfectly suited for diverse wildlife, from the smallest marsh flowers to the great blue herons that fish these productive waters. Early summer transforms these wetlands into nature's garden when wild iris blooms carpet the marshes in stunning displays of color.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-accessible. No other specific accessibility features are described.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 18 combined sites with paved parking aprons.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as secluded and far enough apart to provide privacy. Mature trees at the sites add to the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites further from the entrance are quieter, more private, and offer better views of Lake Mitchell.
Best CampsitesLakefront campsites with paved aprons are highly rated for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at any time as the campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Check-out
Check-out time unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 individuals per site.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout with 18 combined tent and RV sites. Four pull-through sites are near the entrance.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 8 through September 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 18 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNo detailed information on cancellation policies provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hemlock Campground provides limited recreational opportunities centered around Lake Mitchell. Popular activities include fishing, motorized and non-motorized boating, and bird and wildlife viewing. Hiking trails are not available.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Lake Mitchell, with opportunities to catch northern pike, bluegills, walleye, bass, and sunfish. The lake is marshy, which may impact fishing conditions in some areas.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are supported on Lake Mitchell. The campground features a boat ramp for easy water access.Wildlife viewing
The west end of Lake Mitchell is marshy and excellent for wildlife viewing. Campers have reported hearing owls at night and observing other local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is open seasonally from early May to mid-September.Water Sports
Water skiing and sailing are permitted on Lake Mitchell.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits, which include attached grills.
- Quiet hours unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in a swampy area; mosquitos can be heavy during summer months. Users have reported ticks in some seasons.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Cadillac/Manistee Ranger Station is nearby for emergencies. Address: 1170 Nursery Road Wellston, MI 49689. Phone: (231) 848-7090. Operational hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season spans May 8 through September 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the provided information.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on Lake Mitchell and includes a boat launch. The marshy west end is unsuitable for swimming.
Common complaintsMosquitos during hot months and perceived hostility from some campground managers.
HostCampground managers are on-site and maintain cleanliness. However, reviews of the host's interaction vary; some praise their friendliness, while others cite rudeness.
Campground Map
1170 Nursery Road Wellston, MI 49689
Driving directionsFrom Cadillac, MI, take State Rt. 55 east 1.1 miles to Pole Rd. Turn right onto Pole Rd. and go 1.3 miles to campground. NOTE: Pole Rd. sign also displayed as Mitchell Dr.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, specifically State Rt. 55 and Pole Rd/Mitchell Dr. The parking aprons are paved, ensuring smooth access for vehicles.Nearby places
Cadillac: Approximately 2.4 miles or 10 minutes.
Nearby supplies
The campground is about 10 minutes from downtown Cadillac, where groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available.
Camper Reviews
4.1
11 reviews
Hemlock Campground And Boat Launch is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hemlock Campground highlight its secluded and rustic nature, with positive feedback on the serene environment, well-spaced campsites, and clean facilities. Some negative feedback includes the abundance of mosquitoes during summer, lack of potable water, and a reportedly rude campground manager.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the secluded campsites surrounded by mature trees, the clean and well-maintained facilities, and the rustic camping atmosphere. The availability of fire pits with grills was...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints included the absence of potable water, mosquitoes during summer months, and occasional issues with campground management. The lack of playgrounds and hiking trails was also noted by...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent, especially for visits during summer. Campers are advised to prepare for a lack of potable water and to bring sufficient drinking water. Summer was...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer was universally praised for its lush scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. However, visitors noted an increase in mosquito activity during hotter months. Fall visits were negatively...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Loved it! Secluded campsites, far enough apart, but all close to the amenities. The atmosphere is real, down-to-earth camping.' - Shannon Davis
2. 'Campsites are well spaced, outhouses are clean,...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are not provided, but general consensus indicates that lakeside sites offer better views and are preferable.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair-accessible, but no additional accessibility features or reviews were mentioned.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pets or pet-related policies were included.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025