Merrill–Gorrel County Park

For Michigan locals, the call of the wild, especially a tranquil lakeside retreat, is often irresistible. Merrill–Gorrel County Park, nestled in Barryton, Michigan, offers just such an escape. This cherished Mecosta County Park provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our state, whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, or enjoying the comfort of a rustic mini cabin. It's a place where clean facilities, friendly surroundings, and direct access to two beautiful lakes combine to create memorable outdoor experiences.

Merrill–Gorrel County Park is more than just a campground; it’s a destination for relaxation and recreation. With 90 acres featuring frontage on both Merrill and Gorrel Lakes, it’s a haven for water lovers. The park is renowned for its well-maintained facilities and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among many who return year after year. It's the kind of place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, from mornings by the water to evenings around a crackling campfire.

One of the standout features, consistently praised by visitors, is the cleanliness of the facilities. As one satisfied camper put it, "Other than crappy weather, the campground and bath house are very nice and clean!!" This attention to detail ensures a comfortable and pleasant stay for all guests. Another long-time visitor, who has been coming to the area for over a decade, shared their particular fondness for the mini cabins: "I've gone camping in this area for well over a decade. I often go two or three times a summer. I personally prefer the mini cabins. That way I do not have to set up any tents and I don't have to sleep on the ground. The mini cabins have electricity, two bunk beds, and a loft that can sleep two people. It also has a shelf, a table, and benches. It has a little porch with chairs that you can sit on as well. I like the cabins on the Merrell side because they face the lake. Very lovely to sit there and relax." This insight highlights the convenience and comfort that the cabins provide, perfect for those who want a taste of camping without the full rustic experience.

The consistent positive feedback about the park's cleanliness, the availability of diverse camping options, and its inviting atmosphere solidifies Merrill–Gorrel County Park's reputation as a top-tier destination for Michigan locals seeking a refreshing outdoor adventure.

Merrill–Gorrel County Park is conveniently located at 3275 Evergreen Rd, Barryton, MI 49305, USA. While the official address is in Barryton, some listings may also refer to it as Sears, MI, as it is situated between the two. This prime location in Mecosta County offers a peaceful, natural setting while remaining accessible for Michigan residents across the state.

The park's strength lies in its proximity to both Merrill and Gorrel Lakes, providing immediate water access for a variety of activities. This makes it a favored spot for anglers, boaters, and those who simply enjoy being by the water. Getting to Merrill–Gorrel County Park is straightforward from major Michigan cities. From Midland, the drive typically takes around 55 minutes. Bay City residents can expect a drive of about 1 hour and 9 minutes, while Saginaw is approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes away. For those coming from Grand Rapids, the journey is roughly 1 hour and 14 minutes.

The access to nearby M-66 further enhances its accessibility, providing a direct route for travelers. The surrounding area offers a mix of wooded landscapes and open spaces, characteristic of Michigan's beautiful countryside. This balance ensures a sense of escape from urban hustle without being too remote. For Michigan locals, the ease of reaching the park for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation makes Merrill–Gorrel County Park a highly practical and appealing choice for their outdoor adventures.

Merrill–Gorrel County Park, managed by Mecosta County Parks, provides a comprehensive array of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors:

• Over 140 campsites available, accommodating various camping styles.
• Combination of modern and primitive campsites.
• Rustic Camp-n-Cabins (mini cabins) available for rent, offering a more comfortable camping alternative with electricity.
• Modern bathhouse facilities, praised for being very nice and clean, with restrooms and showers.
• Sanitary dump station for RVs and trailers.
• Water hookups available at some sites, with water outlets nearby for cabin sites.
• Electricity (30 Amp hookups available at some sites; included in mini cabins).
• Picnic tables at each campsite and cabin.
• Fire rings with grills at each campsite and cabin.
• Boat launches available on both Merrill and Gorrel Lakes.
• Swimming beaches on both Merrill and Gorrel Lakes.
• Playground equipment for children.
• Picnic areas and picnic shelters available for rent.
• Weekly garbage removal.
• Pet-friendly policy for campsites (with restrictions; pets not permitted in cabins, beach areas, playgrounds, pavilions, or park buildings).

Merrill–Gorrel County Park boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a standout destination for Michigan locals seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation:

• Frontage on both Merrill Lake and Gorrel Lake, offering extensive water access.
• Two distinct swimming beaches, providing safe and clean areas for water enjoyment.
• Excellent fishing opportunities on both lakes, with reports of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and pike.
• Boat launches on both lakes, accommodating various watercraft for boating and paddling.
• Unique mini cabins (Camp-n-Cabins) that offer a comfortable "glamping" experience with electricity, bunk beds, a loft, and a porch.
• Specific cabins on the Merrill side offer lovely lake views from their porches.
• Consistently praised for very nice and clean bathhouse facilities, including restrooms and showers.
• Family-friendly environment with playgrounds and a reputation for safe biking for kids.
• Wooded trails within the park's 90 acres for hiking and exploration.
• Variety of recreational amenities including sand volleyball, basketball court, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, tetherball, and a ball field.
• Mix of wooded areas and open spaces, offering diverse camping environments.
• Quiet at night, contributing to a peaceful camping experience.
• Lots of shade, providing comfort during warmer Michigan days.
• Hosts Discover, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express for convenient payments.

As a Mecosta County Park, Merrill–Gorrel County Park operates under a standard rate structure set by the county parks commission, rather than offering frequent, limited-time promotions like private businesses. However, there are several aspects of their pricing and offerings that provide excellent value and can be considered ongoing "special offers" for Michigan locals seeking affordable and accessible outdoor recreation.

The daily camping rates are competitive for the quality and amenities provided. For 2022 (the most recent published rates found), nightly camping fees were $25 Monday-Thursday and $30 Friday-Sunday, with holiday rates at $35. Monthly rates were also available at $600. For those seeking the comfort of the mini cabins, the rates were $40 Monday-Thursday, $45 Friday-Sunday, and $50 on holidays. Seasonal camping is also available at $1300.

One key element that enhances the value for Michigan residents is the vehicle permit system. While daily vehicle permits are required upon arrival (ranging from $7-$10 per day depending on the park), an annual Mecosta County Parks vehicle permit can be purchased for $35. This annual pass provides access to all Mecosta County Parks for the entire calendar year, which is a significant saving for frequent visitors or those planning to explore multiple parks within the county. This functions as a fantastic "promotion" for loyal local users.

While there are no specific, advertised "discounts" beyond these structured rates and annual pass options, the inherent value of the clean facilities, prime lakeside location, and array of recreational opportunities at these price points make Merrill–Gorrel County Park a very attractive and cost-effective option for Michigan residents to enjoy the outdoors. Prospective campers are encouraged to visit the Mecosta County Parks website or contact them directly for the most current rates and reservation details for the 2025 season and beyond.

Address: 3275 Evergreen Rd, Barryton, MI 49305, USA (also sometimes listed as Sears, MI 49679)

Phone: (989) 382-7158

Mobile Phone: +1 989-382-7158 (This is the same as the main phone number)

Email: Merrilllake@mecostacountyparks.com

Administrative Office Phone: (231) 832-3246 (for Mecosta County Park Commission)

For Michigan locals, Merrill–Gorrel County Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation, offering a fantastic blend of natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and a friendly atmosphere. Its location in Mecosta County, easily accessible from major cities across the Lower Peninsula, makes it a convenient choice for a quick weekend escape or a longer family vacation without extensive travel.

The park's dual frontage on Merrill and Gorrel Lakes is a huge draw for Michiganders who love spending time on the water. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to catch bass, pike, or bluegill, or you simply enjoy paddling, swimming, or relaxing on a sandy beach, the park provides direct and easy access to these quintessential Michigan summer activities. This immediate access to prime fishing and swimming spots is a significant advantage for locals seeking genuine lakeside experiences close to home.

The consistently positive feedback regarding the cleanliness of the bathhouse and overall park facilities is a major highlight. For many campers, clean restrooms and showers are paramount to an enjoyable stay, and Merrill–Gorrel County Park clearly delivers on this front. This commitment to upkeep, combined with the presence of playground equipment and a safe environment where "kids biked around all day and everyone drives slow," makes it an ideal spot for families looking to create lasting memories in a secure setting.

Furthermore, the variety of accommodation options, from traditional campsites for tents and RVs to the comfortable and convenient mini cabins, caters to different preferences and camping styles. The cabins, with their electricity, bunk beds, and lake-facing porches, offer a perfect compromise for those who want to experience the outdoors without the full setup of traditional camping. This flexibility ensures that Merrill–Gorrel County Park can suit a wide range of Michigan outdoor enthusiasts, from rugged adventurers to those seeking a touch more comfort.

The affordability of the Mecosta County Parks system, especially with the option of an annual vehicle permit, provides excellent value for frequent local visitors. This cost-effective access to high-quality recreational facilities makes Merrill–Gorrel County Park a smart choice for Michigan families and individuals looking to make the most of our state's incredible natural resources. In essence, Merrill–Gorrel County Park embodies the best of Michigan camping: beautiful lakes, clean facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites locals to return season after season.