Mack Lake Orv Campground
4.6725 reviewsMack Lake Orv Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Camping fee per night is $15.00 for a single site.
About this campground
Deep in Michigan's rugged backcountry, Mack Lake ORV Campground beckons adventure seekers with its untamed spirit and endless trail networks. This rustic haven spreads across the shores of a serene 175-acre lake, where shallow waters mirror the sky through a carpet of natural muck bottom sediments. Here, the roar of engines harmonizes with nature's whispers, creating a unique sanctuary where ORV enthusiasts can push their machines to the limit by day and fall asleep to the gentle lapping of lake waters by night.
The campground primarily supports tent and RV camping, with designations for OHV enthusiasts. It is a rustic site without modern amenities.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable landscape serves as a vital sanctuary for one of North America's rarest songbirds, the endangered Kirtland Warbler. The campground sits within carefully managed habitat that represents decades of conservation success, where visitors can witness the intersection of recreation and preservation. Each spring, these golden-voiced birds return to nest exclusively in young jack pine forests, making this area a living testament to environmental stewardship.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with warm sunshine that filters through the jack pines, creating perfect conditions for dusty trail rides and refreshing evening swims. As autumn paints the landscape in amber and rust, the campground transforms into a peaceful retreat where crisp air carries the scent of pine needles and fallen leaves. Winter blankets the trails in pristine snow, turning familiar paths into frozen wonderlands that challenge even seasoned riders with new terrain and crystalline beauty.
ElevationPerched at 1,460 feet above sea level, the campground offers a gently elevated perspective over Michigan's northern forests. This modest altitude creates ideal conditions for the jack pine ecosystem while providing naturally cooler temperatures during summer months and spectacular vantage points for watching weather systems roll across the landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds across a mesmerizing tapestry of rolling jack pine plains, where sunlight dances between evergreen branches and creates an ever-changing play of shadows on the forest floor. Mack Lake itself presents a unique aquatic environment with its shallow profile and organic muck bottom, supporting a rich ecosystem of wetland plants and wildlife. Bird enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as the protected Kirtland Warbler habitat attracts numerous species throughout the seasons, filling the air with nature's symphony.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, the campground occupies a fascinating geological niche characterized by ancient glacial deposits that formed the region's distinctive rolling jack pine plains. This unique landscape, sculpted by ice age forces and maintained by periodic fires, creates the perfect conditions for the rare Kirtland Warbler habitat. The sandy, well-drained soils support a specialized ecosystem found in few other places on Earth, making every ride through these forests a journey through both geological time and ecological wonder.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned, and restrooms are not wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as "nice big campsites," and some are located right on the lake.
Sites PrivacySites are noted to be private by users. One user stated, 'very private camp sites...we will return.'
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for better views and proximity to water. ORV enthusiasts should select sites close to the trailheads.
Best CampsitesSeveral reviewers highlight lakeside campsites as desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum stay allowed per reservation.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 42 sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire grill. Many sites are spread out, offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to November 30. Closed for the rest of the year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis as reservations are not accepted. Some reviews point out the importance of arriving early to secure a site during busier seasons.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific information provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, most prominently OHV trail riding, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The lake also supports non-motorized boating.
Hiking
An unmarked connector trail leads to the Bull Gap ORV Trail network, providing opportunities for hiking.Fishing
Fishing in Mack Lake includes species such as bass, perch, bullhead, sunfish, and northern pike. However, fishing conditions are described as only fair due to the shallow, muck-bottomed lake.Biking
OHV trail systems are highlighted extensively, making the area popular for motorized biking.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. While there is no boat ramp, carry-down access is available.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding jack pine plains offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the Kirtland Warbler habitat.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, and the campground is closed during winter months.Water Sports
Limited to non-motorized activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Power boating and water skiing are not supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific information provided.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are mentioned as a common concern based on user reviews. The shallow lake may also pose a challenge for watercraft activities.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mio Ranger Station (107 McKinley Road, Mio, MI 48647): Phone (989) 826-3252. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesThe campground is busiest during the summer months; however, many reviews suggest fall is a better time for quiet and seclusion.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the 175-acre Mack Lake. The lake is described as shallow and having a muck bottom, suitable for specific water activities like kayaking or canoeing, but not for swimming or high-speed boating.
Common complaintsSome campers note that the campground is not as quiet as it used to be due to increased ORV activity, with some large groups leading to noise and partying. Ticks and the shallow, mucky nature of the lake are also mentioned.
HostThe campground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Hosts keep the restrooms clean and provide free firewood (donations are appreciated).
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Mio, MI, take State Rt. 33 south for 5.7 miles to County Rt. 604. Turn left onto Rt. 604 and go 3.4 miles to campground sign. Turn left and go 1 mile to stop sign. Turn left onto County Rt. 489 to campground. From Grayling - Travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn right and travel south on M-33 for 6 miles. Turn left and travel east on County Rd. 604 for 4 miles. Turn left and travel north on FR 4460 for 1 mile. Turn left and travel west on County Rd. 489 for 1 mile.
Road access is seasonal as the campground is gated when closed. The roads seem manageable with typical conditions, but no specific challenges or navigation difficulties were noted.Nearby places
Mio (5.7 miles)
Nearby supplies
No specific information provided, but Mio (5.7 miles away) likely offers basic amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.7
25 reviews
Mack Lake Orv Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the rustic charm and abundant OHV trails, but some mention noise and partying as drawbacks. Cleanliness, maintained by the camp hosts, is consistently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Campground hosts are friendly and provide clean bathrooms. Users appreciate the spacious sites and easy access to OHV trails. The setting is described as serene and surrounded by nature.
Based on 25 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted that the campground can be noisy due to large groups of OHV riders. Others mentioned issues with ticks during their stay.
Based on 25 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water; none is available on-site. Users recommend visiting in the fall for a quieter experience. A canoe or kayak is suggested to fully enjoy the lake.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is preferred for its quieter setting. Summer months can be busier and noisier due to OHV traffic.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Very peaceful, yet many ORV trails to ride.' 2. 'Bathrooms very clean.' 3. 'Nice big campsites, many of them right on the lake.' 4. 'The ranger's strict enforcement caused some patrons to feel...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites are closer to the lake, offering better views. Others are noted for their privacy. No specific site numbers were mentioned.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressed accessibility features.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or information about pet policies.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025