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Orchard Beach
Overview
Orchard Beach State Park is a scenic destination situated on a high bluff overlooking the vast waters of Lake Michigan. Established in the early 20th century, the park is renowned for its historic limestone architecture and lush, wooded landscape. While it originally served as an apple orchard, it has transitioned into one of the region's most beloved camping spots, offering a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty that captures the essence of Northern Michigan's coastal heritage.
Location & Surroundings
The park is located just north of the city of Manistee, providing a peaceful retreat while remaining close to urban conveniences. The most striking feature of the location is the Lake Michigan shoreline, providing campers with expansive views of the water from the elevated bluff. Surrounded by dense hardwood forests, the environment feels secluded and serene, making it an ideal home base for those planning to explore the Manistee National Forest and the nearby river systems.
Amenities & Park Features
RV travelers will find approximately 166 campsites, many of which feature paved pads and 50-amp electrical service. The park offers modern restroom and shower facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for those without full on-board amenities. A highlight of the grounds is the historic stone pavilion, which was recently moved back from the bluff to preserve it for future generations. For recreation, visitors can enjoy several miles of self-guided hiking trails that wind through the wooded areas and along the scenic bluff edges.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park boundaries, the city of Manistee offers a charming historic Riverwalk and a variety of local boutiques and eateries located in the downtown district. Nature lovers can access the Manistee River for world-class fishing or head to nearby First Street Beach for lakefront swimming and sunbathing. For those seeking even more adventure, the North Country Trail passes through the area, offering extensive hiking opportunities, while local golf courses and casinos provide diverse entertainment options just a short drive away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal choice for sunset enthusiasts and photographers who want to capture the stunning colors over Lake Michigan each evening. Its relatively quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect fit for couples or retirees looking for a relaxing getaway within reach of local culture. Because of the paved sites and clean facilities, it is also a great choice for RV families who appreciate a well-organized setting with easy access to both nature trails and the amenities of a nearby town.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
crafty witch
The park seems to be a large campground. The view was nice, but all the trails leading to the water have been closed or removed. We had a nice hike on the trail, but there aren't any views of the water on that hike.
Tamara Denlinger
Wonderful SP! First visit! It’s small and it’s a fisherman’s campground! Sits on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan! Had an incident with our trailer during the night due to a storm and next morning we needed help as we had damage to our place! Four young fisherman (Angels!!!) an answer to prayer helped us! Thank you again guys! May you be blessed as you blessed us by saying “yes, we will help you when we were in great need”
Wendy Fornwalt
Great park with amazing views of Lake Michigan. Beach Access is closed due to erosion. Trails are close by and you can choose how far you want to hike. Site 126 isn't level and if it rains it's quite messy. Lots of the sites are very close and most people park parallel to their site. There's also a few doggy stations for convenience. Baths and showers were super clean, water pressure was the best we've seen in SPs. Overall really nice stay, staff was super helpful as we added another night. Would definitely return but to a different site.
Nina Trabskiy
Beautiful views of the shoreline. We have state pass and parked here to look around. Not in RV. There are a few picnic tables and benches along the wooden fence. Very pretty and there is a trailhead across the street from the park entrance
Sam S VS
We tent camped here for two nights. Most people were in trailers. Small camp area but beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Steps to the beach were blocked off. No activities so a simple camp site. Electric hook ups. Bathrooms and showers are the cleanest I've ever experienced at any camp site. Staff were all very nice. Bonus: free charging station for electric vehicles (right outside of the check in station)
