R and J Resort Campground

Are you a Michigander longing for a peaceful escape into the heart of Northern Michigan's stunning natural landscapes? If you're seeking a blend of rustic charm, accommodating service, and unparalleled access to outdoor adventure, then R and J Resort Campground in Brethren, MI, might just be your next favorite "hidden gem." Nestled within the vast Manistee National Forest, this campground offers a genuine 'up North' experience, ideal for families, anglers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.

R and J Resort Campground has garnered praise for its tranquil setting and the exceptional hospitality provided by its staff. Reviews highlight the beauty and well-maintained nature of their cabins, with one delighted guest exclaiming, "The cabins are beautiful and well-maintained! Vickey is the best and very helpful. It was a peaceful stay. We already can't wait to go back!" This sentiment points to a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel valued and eager to return.

However, it’s worth noting that some feedback mentions an "outdated playground" and suggests that profile pictures "may not accurately represent the current state of the campground." While this indicates a more rustic approach to certain amenities, it also reinforces that R and J Resort Campground caters to those primarily seeking a true outdoor experience rather than a resort filled with modern recreational facilities. The emphasis is on the natural surroundings and the genuine camping feel.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of R and J Resort Campground, tailored specifically for Michigan residents. We will explore its prime location, the diverse services and features it offers (including both rustic camping and rental accommodations), and ultimately, why this spot is perfectly suited for locals seeking their next authentic adventure in Michigan's beautiful Manistee National Forest.

Location and Accessibility

R and J Resort Campground is conveniently located at 3070 Keith Rd, Brethren, MI 49619, USA. This prime address places it squarely within the heart of the Manistee National Forest in Manistee County, a region renowned for its pristine woodlands, numerous lakes, and world-class rivers. Brethren itself is a small, quiet community, providing a true sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For Michigan residents, accessing R and J Resort Campground is a manageable and scenic journey. The campground is reachable via major state routes like M-55 and M-37, which connect to well-maintained local roads. While you'll feel deeply immersed in a natural setting upon arrival, the routes are generally suitable for both standard vehicles and those towing RVs or trailers. Drive times are reasonable from various parts of the state: approximately 1 hour 1 minute from Traverse City, 1 hour 35 minutes from Muskegon, and 1 hour 44 minutes from Grand Rapids, making it an excellent choice for weekend getaways or longer vacations.

The campground's location is a significant advantage due to its immediate proximity to the Manistee National Forest. This offers campers boundless opportunities for hiking, biking, nature watching, mushrooming, and hunting (in designated areas). More importantly, R and J Resort Campground provides exceptional access to some of Michigan's most famous fishing waters.

It's located near the world-renowned Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River, which is famous for year-round open-water fishing for salmon, steelhead, trout, walleye, bass, pike, perch, and bluegill. Bear Creek, Pine Creek, and the Little Manistee River, all excellent trout streams, are also nearby. This strategic location makes R and J Resort Campground an unparalleled base camp for anglers and water sports enthusiasts looking to explore the best of Northern Michigan's aquatic resources. The surrounding flat terrain mixed with forested areas creates a peaceful and quiet environment, perfect for relaxation.

Services Offered

R and J Resort Campground offers a diverse range of services and accommodation options to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable and engaging outdoor experience:

• Campsites: The campground features 25 total RV sites, capable of accommodating RVs up to 40 feet. These include back-in and one pull-through site, offering 20-amp electric-only hookups. There are also dedicated tent sites for a more rustic experience. Sites are described as wooded and secluded, with various sizes available.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire ring for campfires, cooking, and warmth. BBQ facilities are also available.
• Rental Accommodations: R and J Resort Campground offers two different types of cabins and cottages (fully equipped houses). Cabins have built-in beds (one full, three twin), while cottages may include linens. Semi-modern cabins are available with features like a small refrigerator, microwave, gas log fireplace, and ceiling fan. Rustic cabins offer heat only.
• Playground: A playground is available for children, though some reviews note it may be outdated, it still provides a dedicated play area for kids.
• Recreational Facilities: The campground offers various sports and activities including horseshoes, basketball, and a "great play area for kids of all ages" with three towers, a jungle gym, tube slide, tire swing, sandboxes, playhouses, and swings.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome at the campground, though specific additional charges may apply (e.g., $10 for each additional pet), and leashes are generally required.
• RV Storage: The campground provides RV storage options, offering convenience for seasonal campers or those needing long-term storage.
• Open Year-Round: R and J Resort Campground is open year-round, although facilities may be limited from November to April, catering to all-season outdoor enthusiasts.
• Flexible Rates: Campsites and rentals are available for nightly, weekly, and potentially seasonal stays. Prices vary by site type and length of stay, with discounts potentially available (e.g., Passport America discounts on RV sites).
• Waste Management: Recycling services are available, promoting environmental responsibility.
• Fishing Derbies: The resort hosts fishing derbies for spring steelhead, fall salmon, and fall steelhead, appealing directly to anglers.

Features / Highlights

R and J Resort Campground boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Michigan locals seeking a genuine outdoor experience:

• Peaceful and Rustic Ambiance: Consistently described as a "Nice hidden gem" and a "peaceful, quiet and rustic park," it offers a true escape into nature, ideal for those seeking tranquility and relaxation away from crowded areas.
• Immersive Manistee National Forest Setting: Located "in the heart of the Manistee National Forest" and surrounded by 20 acres of wooded land, the campground provides a deeply immersive natural environment for hiking, biking, nature watching, and more.
• Exceptional Hospitality: The owner/operator, Vickey/Steve (names vary slightly across sources but imply dedicated management), receives high praise for being "the best and very helpful," "super helpful and responsive." This personalized service, including firewood delivery to sites, significantly enhances the guest experience.
• Access to World-Class Fishing: Its strategic location near Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River and other renowned trout streams provides unparalleled fishing opportunities for salmon, steelhead, trout, walleye, bass, and panfish. Fishing derbies add to the appeal for anglers.
• Variety of Accommodations: The availability of tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and both cabins and cottages allows for flexibility, catering to different comfort levels and group sizes, including fully equipped cottages for a "home away from home" feel.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Despite some feedback on the playground, the presence of various sports courts (basketball, horseshoes) and a comprehensive play area with multiple structures still offers ample entertainment for children, promoting family fun.
• Four-Season Appeal: Being open year-round allows Michiganders to enjoy various seasonal activities like hunting, snowmobiling, and mushrooming, in addition to spring/summer pursuits.
• Value for Money: While rates vary, the overall offering of a peaceful setting, direct access to nature, and dedicated service often provides excellent value for a Northern Michigan outdoor retreat.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability, cabin/cottage rentals, or any other questions regarding R and J Resort Campground, Michigan locals can use the following contact details:

Address: 3070 Keith Rd, Brethren, MI 49619, USA

Phone: (231) 301-4977

Mobile Phone: +1 231-301-4977

Email: info@rnj-resort.com or reservations@rnjresort.com

Given the popularity and "hidden gem" status suggested by reviews, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for cabins, cottages, or during peak fishing seasons (spring steelhead, fall salmon). Direct communication via phone or email will allow you to confirm availability, specific amenities for your chosen site/rental, and any policies regarding pets or extra guests. The direct contact with the accommodating staff is a major plus for planning your trip.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

R and J Resort Campground in Brethren, MI, stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly appealing destination for Michigan locals, offering a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences that embody the very best of our state's natural charm. It’s a place designed for those who appreciate tranquility, adventure, and genuine hospitality.

For Michiganders, its location deep within the Manistee National Forest is a significant draw. This means immediate access to thousands of acres of pristine woodlands for hiking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities like mushrooming and snowmobiling. More importantly, its proximity to the world-renowned Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River provides unparalleled opportunities for year-round fishing, an activity deeply woven into Michigan's culture. This direct connection to prime outdoor resources makes it an ideal base for any local outdoor enthusiast.

The highly praised "beautiful and well-maintained cabins" and the "peaceful stay" highlighted by visitors speak to the quality of the accommodations and the serene atmosphere. While some aspects like the playground might be "outdated," this often contributes to a more rustic and less commercialized camping experience, which many locals specifically seek. The exceptional customer service, with staff going out of their way to be "helpful and responsive," ensures that every guest feels valued and comfortable, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the stay.

Finally, the variety of lodging options—from electric RV sites and tent sites to cozy cabins and fully equipped cottages—means R and J Resort Campground can cater to a diverse range of preferences and budgets. This flexibility, combined with its prime location for fishing and forest exploration, makes it an inclusive and attractive choice for families, couples, and individuals across Michigan looking for an authentic and memorable 'up North' adventure. It's truly a spot where you can unwind, explore, and fall in love with Michigan all over again.

R and J Resort Campground

3070 Keith Rd, Brethren, MI 49619, USA