Nichols Lake South Campground
4.2266 reviewsP.O. Box 69, Manistee, MI 49660, USA
Nichols Lake South Campground
$30.00 - $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
The nightly rate for a standard non-electric site is $30 during peak season (May 9 - October 12, 2025). Additional fees may apply for late cancellations and vehicle charges. Reservation fees range from $8-$9 depending on method used to book.
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About this campground
Nestled alongside the pristine waters of a 160-acre lake, Nichols Lake South Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its 29 thoughtfully spaced family sites. Here, mornings begin with the gentle lapping of waves against the shore and evenings end around crackling campfires beneath a canopy of stars. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with wilderness charm—seasonal hot showers wash away the day's adventures, while flush toilets and fresh drinking water ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-like waters, or exploring forest trails, this tranquil retreat offers the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation.
Nichols Lake South Campground offers traditional camping options including tent and RV sites. The campground is well-suited for families and small groups.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Nichols Lake in stunning new colors. Summer transforms the campground into an aquatic playground, with warm days perfect for swimming in the lake's refreshing waters and lazy afternoons spent fishing from the dock. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter brings its own magic, turning the lake into a frozen wonderland where ice fishing enthusiasts drill through crystal sheets to reach the fish below. Spring's gentle rains awaken the forest floor with wildflowers. Throughout the year, moderate breezes rustle through the trees, creating nature's own soundtrack for your camping adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering trees create natural cathedral ceilings and dappled sunlight dances across forest floors. The crown jewel of this landscape is Nichols Lake itself—160 acres of crystalline water that mirrors the sky above. Along its shores, accessible fishing piers extend like welcoming arms into the lake, while a sandy swimming beach invites families to splash and play. Shaded paths wind through the surrounding forest, revealing hidden groves and scenic overlooks. The interplay of water and woodland creates countless picture-perfect moments, from misty morning reflections to golden sunset views across the lake.
Geological RegionNichols Lake South Campground sits within the magnificent tapestry of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, where ancient glaciers once carved the landscape into today's stunning terrain. This diverse ecosystem showcases Michigan's characteristic sandy soils supporting a rich mosaic of hardwood and conifer forests. The 160-acre Nichols Lake, cradled by gently rolling hills, represents one of many glacial gems scattered throughout the region. Wooded trails meander through this varied topography, connecting campers to the broader wilderness while accessible piers and shoreline features make the lake's natural beauty available to visitors of all abilities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible facilities include drinking water, fishing pier, boat ramp, and paths leading to the lake. Specific accessibility features for campsites are not detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with concrete pads that accommodate RVs. 'Large sites, most well separated from each other' (Dan Heaton, 2023-09-24).
Sites PrivacySites offer decent privacy with tree cover between them. 'Decent site privacy and shade' (Jaloney Caldwell, 2020-07-08).
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites on the outer loop for privacy, shade, and proximity to trails.
Best CampsitesBest sites include those on the outside loop for privacy. Sites 17 and 19 are noted for proximity to the beach but lack privacy due to boardwalk access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative data or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 29 sites arranged in a loop, with paved spurs and accessible ramps leading to the lake. Many sites provide shade and are well-separated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 - October 12 during peak season. Off-season reservations are unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews suggest checking in early during peak times due to limited availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. A $10 fee applies, and late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fees. Changes to reservations may incur fees or balance adjustments depending on modifications.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Nichols Lake South Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and wildlife observation. The North Country National Scenic Trail passes near the campground, providing hiking opportunities for all levels. Fishing is popular, with species like bass and northern pike available.
Hiking
The North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the campground, offering hiking opportunities for all levels. 'Right on the North Country Trail for great hiking' (Sara K, 2021-08-22).Fishing
Fishing at Nichols Lake is highly rated, with bass, bluegill, and northern pike being common catches. 'Caught some big bass!' (Tyler Anthony, 2022-08-08).Swimming
Swimming is available at a designated beach area marked by buoys. However, there are no lifeguards. 'Nice little beach, kids loved swimming' (Jim Lynch, 2021-05-25).Biking
Biking is possible around the campground and nearby trails. 'Great park to bring Kayaks & bikes' (Jaloney Caldwell, 2020-07-08).Boating
Boating is facilitated by a paved boat launch at the campground. Suitable for kayaking and small motorized boats. 'The lake is great to kayak and fish' (Tyler Anthony, 2022-08-08).Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes birds like loons. 'Nesting pair of loons and bountiful birds' (Heidi F, 2021-05-26).Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming. 'Nice clean beach with a sand bottom swimming area' (Grant DuBridge, 2022-07-05).Winter Activities
Ice fishing is popular during the winter season.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are common activities at Nichols Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed at designated fire pits. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention gypsy moth caterpillars and occasional bears near the boat launch. Snakes have also been observed.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.5 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
Emergency services are unavailable within the campground, but nearby towns such as Baldwin and White Cloud offer access to hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - October 12 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not extensively detailed in the authoritative or user reviews, but users have not reported significant issues with waste management.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Nichols Lake, which spans 160 acres, the campground provides direct access to water features including piers, beaches, swimming areas, and boating ramps.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include noisy generators, closed showers, poorly maintained swimming areas, and theft incidents.
HostThe campground hosts are reportedly helpful and friendly. Negative sentiments arise from occasional enforcement of generator rules.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 69, Manistee, MI 49660, USA
Driving directionsFrom Baldwin, take M-37 south for 13.5 miles to 11 Mile Road. Turn right. Go west approximately 4.5 miles to the campground entrance. From White Cloud, take M-37 north for 13 miles to 11 Mile Road. Turn west for 4.5 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Directions from both Baldwin and White Cloud are clearly marked. Some user reviews warn that Google Maps may incorrectly direct visitors to Jerome Ave. instead of 11 Mile Rd.Nearby places
Baldwin (13.5 miles), White Cloud (13 miles), Woodland (~2 miles), Bitely (~2 miles), Brohman (~2 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from nearby towns including Baldwin and White Cloud, approximately 13 miles away. Firewood is available for purchase locally, though user reviews suggest buying wood from nearby street stands for better value.
Camper Reviews
4.2
66 reviews
Nichols Lake South Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Nichols Lake South Campground is praised for its quiet, nature-focused atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. Common themes include spacious sites, clean restrooms, and good fishing opportunities. However, some complaints have been raised about noisy generators and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
- Spacious and private sites
- Excellent fishing and kayaking opportunities
- Clean facilities and well-maintained grounds
- Friendly and helpful camp hosts
Based on 66 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Noise from generators disrupting the peaceful environment
- Occasional maintenance issues with showers and restrooms
- Reports of theft and lax management in recent years
Based on 66 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Buy firewood from local stands for better value
- Sites on the outer loop offer better privacy
- Great for kayaking; bring your own equipment
Based on 66 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking being highlighted. Winter reviews focus on ice fishing. Fall is noted for its peaceful atmosphere and hiking on...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Great little campground that is more nature-focused and relaxing' (Jim Lynch, 2021-05-25).
- 'The lake is great to kayak and fish, caught some big bass!' (Tyler Anthony, 2022-08-08).
- 'Quiet with...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 17 and 19 are less private due to proximity to the boardwalk. Site 22 is noted for being wooded and close to the lake and bathrooms. 'Site 22 was really nice and wooded' (Sara K, 2021-08-22).
Based on 66 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible paths and facilities are appreciated, but no detailed reviews from individuals with disabilities are available.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pet-related experiences, but pets are allowed at the campground.
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025