Lonesome Lake Camp Ground

For Michigan residents seeking a truly tranquil and rejuvenating escape, Lonesome Lake Camp Ground in Bitely offers a perfect retreat from the everyday hustle. Described by visitors as a "wonderful little retreat away from home" and "very peaceful," this campground provides a serene environment where the primary focus is on relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of West Central Michigan. Nestled within the vast embrace of the Manistee National Forest, Lonesome Lake Camp Ground isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a cherished destination with a rich history, attracting campers for generations.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground caters to both seasonal campers who return year after year, building a strong sense of community, and occasional transitional campers looking for a short-term peaceful getaway. Its commitment to providing a calm and enjoyable atmosphere, coupled with its advantageous location amidst abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, makes it an ideal choice for Michigan locals. Whether your idea of a perfect escape involves quiet mornings by the lake, adventurous days on ATV trails, or simply unwinding by a crackling campfire, Lonesome Lake Camp Ground provides the setting for unforgettable experiences right here in Michigan. It's a testament to the quiet charm and natural allure that define so much of our beautiful state.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground is strategically situated at 318 W 18 Mile Rd, Bitely, MI 49309, USA. This location places it deep within the scenic Manistee National Forest, providing campers with immediate access to a sprawling natural landscape. The campground is also situated directly on Lonesome Lake, offering a picturesque waterfront setting.

For Michigan residents, accessing Lonesome Lake Camp Ground is generally straightforward, despite its seemingly secluded feel. Bitely, though a smaller community, is within reasonable driving distance from many of Michigan's larger cities. The most common route involves utilizing US-131, a major north-south highway that runs through the heart of West Central Michigan, connecting areas like Grand Rapids and Cadillac. From US-131, travelers would typically take exits leading onto state roads and then local county roads to reach Bitely and 18 Mile Road. While the campground is described as being in a place where "a half dozen cars a day may come by," indicating its peaceful, less-trafficked nature, it is not truly isolated.

Nearby amenities, while not directly adjacent, are accessible. Bitely itself offers a small-town grocery store, local restaurants, and even a Dairy Queen, all within approximately 5 miles of the campground. For more extensive shopping or services, larger towns like Baldwin are also within a reasonable drive. The campground’s location within the Manistee National Forest is a significant advantage for accessibility to outdoor activities, as campers can "ride out of camp onto the ATV trails connected to hundreds of miles of trails." This blend of serene natural surroundings and manageable access to both essential services and extensive recreational networks makes Lonesome Lake Camp Ground a convenient and appealing destination for Michigan locals.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground offers a comprehensive set of services designed to provide a comfortable and activity-rich camping experience, catering to both long-term seasonal residents and short-term visitors.

• 53-Site Seasonal Campground: Primarily operating as a seasonal campground, it boasts 53 sites, often with a waiting list due to its popularity, indicating a strong community and consistent demand.
• Transitional Camper Sites: For those seeking shorter stays, the campground accommodates "occasional transitional campers" at a nightly rate, providing flexibility for weekend getaways or brief trips.
• Full Electrical Hookups: Each site is equipped with newly installed electrical pedestals featuring 30, 50, and 110 receptacles, ensuring ample power for RVs and other camping needs.
• Dump Station and Pump Service: Convenient waste management is provided with both a dump station and pump service available for RVs.
• Tent Camping Welcome: Tent campers are explicitly welcome, ensuring that those who prefer traditional tenting can also enjoy the campground.
• Cabin Rentals: Two distinct cabins, the "Middle Cabin" and the "Little Cabin," are available for rent, offering a more comfortable lodging option with amenities like fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping arrangements for groups.
• Indoor Pickleball Court: A brand-new indoor Pickleball Court offers a unique recreational amenity, providing a fun activity option for guests regardless of weather.
• Access to ATV Trails: Situated within Manistee National Forest, the campground provides direct access to hundreds of miles of connected ATV trails, a major draw for off-road enthusiasts.
• Lake Access for Fishing & Swimming: The campground is located on Lonesome Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and swimming.
• Public Fishing Access: Nearby trout fishing and canoe rentals are available, expanding fishing opportunities beyond Lonesome Lake.
• On-site Activities: Beyond specific amenities, the campground promotes various activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the campfire.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground boasts numerous features and highlights that contribute to its reputation as a beloved retreat for Michigan campers:

• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Consistently described as "very peaceful" and a "wonderful little retreat," the campground offers a serene environment ideal for unwinding and escaping daily stress.
• Long-Standing Community: With a history of campers returning for three generations, the campground has fostered a strong, familiar, and welcoming community feel.
• Modern Electrical Hookups: The newly installed electrical pedestals at every site, offering 30, 50, and 110 amp service, provide convenient and reliable power for all types of campers.
• Prime Location within Manistee National Forest: Being nestled in this expansive forest grants direct access to vast wilderness for hiking, exploration, and nature observation.
• Extensive ATV Trail Access: A significant highlight for adventure seekers, the ability to ride directly from the campground onto hundreds of miles of ATV trails is a major draw.
• Lonesome Lake for Water Activities: The private Lonesome Lake offers opportunities for fishing (including cabin rentals on the lake) and swimming, adding a refreshing element to the camping experience.
• New Indoor Pickleball Court: A unique and modern amenity, the indoor pickleball court provides an excellent recreational option, ensuring fun even on rainy days.
• Variety of Accommodation Options: From traditional tent sites to full 50AMP RV sites and comfortable cabin rentals, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences and comfort levels.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The presence of convenient dump station/pump service and the mention of "clean spots" imply a commitment to maintaining a pleasant environment.
• Nearby Outdoor Opportunities: Proximity to Bitely offers access to local amenities, while the wider area also boasts attractions like the Pere Marquette River for more fishing and paddling.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground primarily operates as a seasonal campground with occasional sites for transitional (short-term) campers. Based on available information, there aren't specific, publicly advertised "Promotions or Special Offers" in the sense of discounted rates or bundled packages.

However, the pricing structure for transitional campers is transparent: "$30 a night." This is a straightforward and seemingly affordable rate for an overnight stay in a campground offering electrical service and access to various amenities.

For those interested in long-term seasonal camping, direct inquiry is essential as there is often a waiting list due to the campground's popularity.

If you are considering a cabin rental, prices for the Middle Cabin are listed at "$100 night, $600/week." It's advisable to check platforms like VRBO for current availability and any potential booking-specific deals on the cabins.

Prospective campers are encouraged to contact Lonesome Lake Camp Ground directly to confirm current rates for both seasonal and transitional sites, inquire about cabin availability and pricing, and ask about any specific terms or conditions that may apply to their desired stay.

To connect with Lonesome Lake Camp Ground for inquiries about seasonal or transitional camping, cabin rentals, or any other information, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 318 W 18 Mile Rd, Bitely, MI 49309, USA
• Phone: (210) 667-6163
• Mobile Phone: +1 210-667-6163

Direct communication via phone is highly recommended, especially given the campground's popularity for seasonal sites and the potential for a waiting list. Calling ahead will allow you to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on site availability, current rates, details about the cabin rentals, and specific amenities like the indoor pickleball court or ATV trail access. It’s also the best way to clarify any specific needs or preferences you might have for your camping trip in Bitely.

Lonesome Lake Camp Ground is exceptionally well-suited for Michigan locals, offering a unique blend of peaceful retreat and active outdoor adventure right in the heart of the state. Its prime location within the Manistee National Forest means residents don't have to travel far to immerse themselves in vast wilderness for hiking, fishing, and direct access to hundreds of miles of ATV trails – a significant draw for many Michigan outdoor enthusiasts. This accessibility transforms a weekend getaway into a truly enriching experience.

The campground's reputation as a "very peaceful" and "wonderful little retreat" is a strong draw for those seeking to escape the noise and stress of daily life. The fact that families have been returning for three generations speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and strong sense of community found here. This is a place where Michiganders can truly relax, build connections, and create lasting memories. With modern amenities like full electrical hookups and a brand-new indoor pickleball court, Lonesome Lake Camp Ground offers comfort alongside its rustic charm, catering to a wide range of preferences. Whether you're an avid angler, an off-road adventurer, or simply looking for a serene spot to unwind by the campfire, Lonesome Lake Camp Ground provides an ideal and highly accessible destination for a quintessential Michigan outdoor experience.