Northern Exposure Toll Booths

northern exposure campground

Hello, Michigan adventurers! Are you dreaming of that perfect "Up-North" escape, where breathtaking water views meet pristine wilderness and exceptional amenities? Look no further than Northern Exposure Campground, a true gem nestled in Mesick, Michigan. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a meticulously maintained retreat designed for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of our great state. This article is your comprehensive guide to understanding why Northern Exposure Campground is quickly becoming a favorite spot for locals seeking an unforgettable Michigan outdoor experience.

Northern Exposure Campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern comforts, ensuring a memorable stay for all types of campers. Imagine waking up to a stunning view of sparkling water from your campsite, spending your days exploring extensive trails or reeling in fish from Hodenpyle Pond, and unwinding to spectacular sunsets. As one delighted visitor exclaimed, "This is our favorite spot for camping!! You have a view of the water from almost every campsite. They do an amazing job on maintaining the property." Another praised its cleanliness, "Very clean and large sites for both tent and or RV with electrical and water for each. Showers and restrooms close by and very clean." These glowing testimonials underscore the commitment to quality and natural beauty that defines Northern Exposure Campground. Our aim is to provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your next cherished Michigan getaway.

Northern Exposure Campground is ideally situated at 10293 W 20 Rd, Mesick, MI 49668, USA, deep within the picturesque landscape of Northern Michigan. This prime location places it on 300 wooded acres, boasting an impressive 2.5 miles of pristine coastline along Hodenpyle Pond. Hodenpyle Pond, a significant body of water formed by the Hodenpyle Dam on the Manistee River, stretches 8 miles long and up to 1.5 miles wide, offering extensive opportunities for water-based activities.

For Michigan residents, Mesick is a convenient and accessible "Up-North" destination. The campground's address ensures clear directions, making your journey smooth. Mesick itself is known for its natural surroundings and provides a perfect base for exploring the Manistee National Forest and other regional attractions. Drive times from major Michigan cities are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a weekend escape or a longer vacation: approximately 39 minutes from Traverse City, 1 hour 36 minutes from Midland, and around 1 hour 38 minutes from Grand Rapids. This accessibility, combined with the feeling of being truly immersed in nature, makes Northern Exposure Campground a highly desirable location for locals seeking a convenient yet profound outdoor experience.

• Spacious Campsites: Northern Exposure Campground offers 260 spacious sites, accommodating both tents and RVs. Many of these sites provide breathtaking views of Hodenpyle Pond and the surrounding rolling hills, enhancing the overall camping experience.

• Variety of RV Hookups: The campground caters to RVs with a range of hookup options, including electric and water hookups, pull-thru water sites, and sites equipped with 50-amp electrical service, ensuring comfort and convenience for all RV sizes.

• Camping Cabin Rentals: For those seeking a more solid roof over their heads, Northern Exposure offers cozy camping cabins for rent. These provide a comfortable alternative to traditional camping, often including amenities like mini-refrigerators and microwaves, as well as outdoor grills and fire pits.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the campground's facilities, noting the "very clean" showers and restrooms. This commitment to hygiene significantly enhances the comfort level for all guests.

• Sanitary Dump Stations: Multiple sanitary dump stations are available for RV campers, providing convenient waste disposal services.

• Sandy Beach Area: A beautiful sandy beach along Hodenpyle Pond offers a perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and refreshing swims in the clear waters. Note: No pets are allowed on the beach.

• Boat Launch & Dock Slips: The campground features a double-sided boat launch, making it easy to get your watercraft onto Hodenpyle Pond. Dock slips are also available for rent, providing convenient mooring for boats.

• On-Site Pizzeria & General Store: For added convenience, Northern Exposure includes an on-site pizzeria and a well-stocked general store. The store offers essential camp supplies, groceries, firewood, bait, and ice, minimizing the need to leave the campground for provisions.

• Children's Playgrounds and Activities: Two dedicated playgrounds ensure younger campers have plenty of safe and fun spaces to play. The campground also offers other children's activities to keep them entertained.

• Recreational Courts: Guests can enjoy friendly competition on the full-size basketball court and beach volleyball court.

• Laundry Facilities & Arcade: For longer stays, laundry facilities are available on-site. An arcade provides indoor entertainment options for all ages.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, ensuring campers have access to burning materials for their campfires.

• Wi-Fi Access: For those who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available at the campground.

• Stunning Waterfront Views and Access: A primary highlight is the campground's extensive 2.5 miles of pristine coastline along Hodenpyle Pond. "You have a view of the water from almost every campsite," ensuring breathtaking scenery and easy access for swimming, fishing, and boating directly from the property. The sunsets over the water are particularly notable.

• Exceptional Property Maintenance: Visitors consistently praise the campground for its upkeep, noting that they "do an amazing job on maintaining the property" and that it is "very clean." This dedication to cleanliness and maintenance contributes significantly to a pleasant and comfortable stay for all.

• Direct Access to the North Country Trail: For hiking enthusiasts, a major draw is the direct access to the North Country Trail right from the park. This provides endless opportunities to explore Michigan's stunning natural landscapes on foot.

• Award-Winning Fishing: Hodenpyle Pond is renowned as an "award-winning fishing area," making Northern Exposure a top choice for anglers. The lake boasts abundant pike, walleye, bass, and panfish, promising rewarding fishing experiences for both novice and seasoned fishermen.

• Diverse Site Options for All Campers: From primitive tent sites to RV sites with 50-amp full hookups and cozy camping cabins, the campground caters to a wide range of preferences and needs. This versatility ensures everyone can find their ideal accommodation.

• On-Site Amenities and Entertainment: The presence of an on-site pizzeria, general store, arcade, two playgrounds, basketball court, and beach volleyball means there's always something to do. These comprehensive amenities provide convenience and entertainment, making it easy to enjoy your vacation without leaving the property.

• Friendly and Welcoming Atmosphere: Reviews frequently mention the "friendly staff" and "super nice and friendly" fellow campers, creating a welcoming and pleasant community vibe that enhances the overall experience.

• Non-Profit Operation: Northern Exposure Campground operates as a non-profit organization, with all proceeds being reinvested back into enhancing the campground. This commitment to continuous improvement benefits every visitor and ensures a high standard of facilities.

Address: 10293 W 20 Rd, Mesick, MI 49668, USA

Phone: +1 (231) 885-1199 (This number is consistently associated with Northern Exposure Campground.)

Email: northernexposure@acegroup.cc

Website: northernexposureinc.com (This website provides additional information, reservations, and rules.)

For Michigan residents, Northern Exposure Campground in Mesick is not just a place to visit; it’s a premier "Up-North" retreat that perfectly encapsulates the beauty and recreational opportunities our state is famous for. Its suitability for locals stems from a unique combination of stunning natural features, comprehensive amenities, and a commitment to providing an exceptional and well-maintained outdoor experience that is both convenient and deeply fulfilling.

Firstly, the geographical advantage is immense. Located in Mesick, with 2.5 miles of coastline on the expansive Hodenpyle Pond, Northern Exposure offers breathtaking water views from nearly every campsite. For Michiganders who cherish lake life, this direct access for fishing, swimming, and boating is an unparalleled draw. The knowledge that they are fishing in an "award-winning" area for bass, pike, and panfish adds to the appeal for local anglers, many of whom have honed their skills on Michigan's plentiful waters.

Beyond the water, the campground’s dedication to property maintenance and cleanliness, as consistently highlighted by visitors, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This attention to detail, from "very clean" showers and restrooms to well-maintained sites, reflects a standard that locals expect from a top-tier Michigan outdoor destination. The variety of accommodations, including spacious RV sites with full hookups and cozy cabins, caters to diverse preferences, making it easy for any Michigan family or group to find their perfect fit.

Furthermore, Northern Exposure’s extensive on-site amenities truly set it apart as a suitable local hub. The presence of an on-site pizzeria, general store, arcade, playgrounds, and various sports courts means that entertainment and convenience are always at hand, reducing the need to leave the property. This is especially appealing for families looking for a comprehensive vacation experience without constant travel. For outdoor enthusiasts, the direct access to the renowned North Country Trail provides endless opportunities for hiking and exploring Michigan’s pristine forests.

Lastly, the fact that Northern Exposure Campground operates as a non-profit, reinvesting all proceeds back into the facility, speaks volumes about its commitment to the long-term enjoyment of its guests. This dedication ensures that every visit contributes to the enhancement of an already exceptional "Up-North" experience. For Michiganders seeking a clean, well-appointed, amenity-rich, and beautifully situated camping destination that feels like a true retreat while remaining accessible, Northern Exposure Campground is an ideal and highly recommended choice for creating new family traditions and cherishing the best of what Michigan’s outdoors has to offer.

Northern Exposure Toll Booths

10293 W 20 Rd, Mesick, MI 49668, USA