Starlight Campground, Mancelona, MI

ByGeorge and Paula

Our Enchanting Stay at Starlight Campground, Mancelona, Michigan

From the moment we pulled our RV through the inviting entrance of Starlight Campground in Mancelona, Michigan, I knew we were in for something special. The winding gravel drive led us past towering pines that seemed to welcome us with their gentle swaying, creating that perfect “getting away from it all” feeling that’s so hard to find these days.

Starlight Campground strikes a perfect balance between nostalgic summer camp vibes and modern RV accommodations. You can choose to nestle your rig among the majestic pines for a cozy, secluded feel, or opt for a spot in the newer area with breathtaking open skies perfect for stargazing (which, given the campground’s name, is practically mandatory). Each site comes with a well-maintained fire ring, and the gravel pads provide level, stable parking even after rain. 

The amenities here go beyond the basics. The large, sparkling pool, playground, and outdoor games are great for chilling at the campground. What really sets Starlight apart, though, is their commitment to creating experiences. During our stay, they were hosting a “Wild West Week” with themed activities for all ages—everything from horseshoe tournaments to an evening country dance in their renovated farm building that serves as a versatile event space. For families with children, the fairy trail is an absolute must—a winding path through the woods dotted with whimsical miniature fairy houses that had even the adults in our group enchanted.

The social heart of the campground is undoubtedly the welcome cabin with its sprawling front porch lined with rocking chairs. For those traveling without an RV, Starlight offers rentable retro campers that deliver all the Instagram-worthy charm without requiring you to tow anything.

What impressed me most about Starlight wasn’t just the physical space or amenities, though both exceeded expectations. It was the genuine sense of community fostered by weekly themes, group activities, and common spaces designed for connection. Whether you’re a family looking for a kid-friendly getaway, a couple seeking romantic evenings under the stars, or RV enthusiasts wanting to swap stories with like-minded travelers, Starlight Campground manages to create a place that feels both new and familiar at the same time. 

Fun Facts About Starlight Campground:

  1. The campground sits on land that was once a lumber camp in the late 1800s, and several of the original pine trees (now towering giants) still remain from that era.
  2. The renovated farm building used for events was originally built in 1932 and was transported to the campground piece by piece from a historic farm ten miles away.
  3. Starlight Campground holds the record for the most RVs gathered in Antrim County during their annual Fourth of July celebration, with over 200 rigs participating in their famous nighttime illuminated RV parade.

Personal Touches:

  • Very inviting entry
  • Reminds me of a kids camp – big open areas to play, large pool, large beautiful pines
  • Rentable retro RVs
  • Open farm building for events
  • Weekly theme and activities, even foam parties!
  • Fairy trail
  • RV sites among the trees or out in the new area with big open skies
  • Fire rings at each site
  • Welcome cabin with large front porch and rocking chairs
  • Gravel drive & sites
  • They will even deliver wood, ice, and store items directly to your site

More Facts:

  1. Snow Capital: Mancelona holds a unique record as the “Snow Capital of Michigan.” It’s known for heavy snowfall during winters, making it a hotspot for winter sports enthusiasts.
  2. White Pine: Historically, Mancelona was recognized for its vast white pine forests. These forests played a crucial role in the region’s logging industry during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
  3. Railroad Hub: The town played a significant role in Michigan’s railroad history. It was a key hub for the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad during the late 19th century, facilitating transportation of timber and other goods.
  4. Cherry Capital: While Traverse City is widely known as the Cherry Capital of the world, Mancelona also has a strong cherry-growing history. The area around Mancelona is famous for its cherry orchards and produces delicious fruits.

Things to do:

  1. Outdoor Paradise: Mancelona sits in the midst of an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. It offers access to the Jordan River Valley, known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
  2. Elk Viewing: Nearby, in the Pigeon River Country State Forest, visitors might be lucky enough to spot elk. The area is home to a successful elk reintroduction program and has become a popular spot for elk viewing.
  3. Annual Bass Festival: The Mancelona Bass Festival is an annual event that celebrates the town’s heritage. It features parades, live music, carnival rides, and various community activities, drawing locals and tourists alike.
  4. Outdoor Adventures: Explore the stunning natural beauty through activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the local trails, including the Jordan River Valley Trails or the North Country Trail.
  5. Winter Sports: Embrace the winter wonderland with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling at nearby ski resorts such as Schuss Mountain/Shanty Creek Resorts.
  6. Fishing and Kayaking: Enjoy fishing or kayaking along the rivers and lakes, including the scenic waters of the Jordan River or Lake Bellaire.
  7. Golfing: Tee off at some of the area’s renowned golf courses like the Chief Golf Course, offering beautiful views and challenging holes.
  8. Orchard Visits: Explore local orchards and farms offering seasonal fruit picking experiences, particularly cherries, which the region is known for.
  9. Charm of Mancelona: Discover the charm of downtown Mancelona with its quaint shops, restaurants, and local attractions that highlight the town’s history.
  10. Nature Sightseeing: Experience the natural beauty of nearby attractions like Grass River Natural Area or Antrim Creek Natural Area, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying serene landscapes.
  11. Local Festivities: Depending on the time of year, participate in local events like festivals, fairs, or community gatherings that showcase the area’s culture and heritage.

How to get there:

Starlight Campground is about 25 minutes east of Rapid City, Michigan.

Visit them online: https://starlightcampground.com/

Map view: