Camp Between Two Lakes at Mitchell State Park: Activity and Camping Guide

VISITING WILLIAM MITCHELL STATE PARK

Camp between two beautiful lakes at William Mitchell State Park in Cadillac.  A unique feature of the park is that a canal runs right through the middle of the park, connecting Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell. This creates an ideal environment for a variety of recreational activities including: beach swimming, kayaking, fishing and hiking.

The state park spans 334 acres and has over 200 camp sites, as well as, two cabins with waterfront views. Add the ability to access two beautiful lakes and restaurants in walking distance, it’s a recipe for a fun-filled trip.

If you enjoy in-town camping, Mitchell State Park will be a great fit, since there are tons of nearby activities and restaurants. This campground is located on a busy road which can deter some people. Although if you opt for sites along the canal or in the back near the lake, it is quieter.

HISTORY OF THE TOWN/PARK

Ever wonder where Mitchell State Park name originated? Cadillac became a city in 1877 and George A. Mitchell was the first mayor. The lumber industry was the backbone of the community in the 1870's and 1880's. As the pine stands dwindled in the 1890's, the market for hardwood grew. Cadillac industries switched and new businesses started manufacturing wood products. Several mills converted to the production of hardwood flooring that had become popular. The park’s namesake, William W. Mitchell, operated and co-owned sawmills in the area. He was also the nephew of city founder, George Mitchell.

HIGHLIGHTS/THINGS TO DO

The state park offers camping options with 221 sites, cabins, two boat launches, a playground, beach, and picnicking facilities. Visitors love relaxing while watching boats as they sail along the canal between two tranquil connecting lakes. A convenient path goes under the road, so you don’t have to ride across the busy street and biking is plentiful in the area.

It’s a wonderful location for those who enjoy water sports of kayaking and boating. Not to mention the lakes are prime spots for anglers and fisherman with some of the best fishing around for perch, walleye, panfish, and bass.

If your children enjoy playgrounds, they will be in for a treat. Several of the play structures have relaxing waterfront views. Come visit and enjoy the charm of lake life in Cadillac, Michigan at Mitchell State Park in the summer, or travel here to see the beautiful fall colors of Maple trees in the fall. In Autumn take time to drive the Cadillac intown fall color loop, which consists of 18 miles of colorful fall overlooks, hiking trails, boutiques and farm markets. One of the few state parks that stays open in the winter, it’s a popular area for snowmobiling.

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Mitchell State Park

Stop at the Camp Office

When you first arrive, check in at the state park camp office, which allows individuals to utilize board games and corn hole. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards, so inquire within.

Visit the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center

Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center

Located within the state park, the fishing center is a great stop during your visit. Learn and play with interactive displays and special shooting programs and hunter safety classes occurring throughout the year. The center features both archery and pellet gun ranges. An auditorium is also utilized for classes, as well as, an exhibit hall focused on Michigan’s history of sportsmen and women through the last 150 years.

Explore the Beaches

With two beaches to choose from, one at the park and the other across the road, you have some lovely options for swimming. To reach the beach, take your bikes and enjoy a scenic ride. A tunnel passes under the road that help keep everyone safe as you head to the larger beach. Another option is a quick drive over to Kenwood Beach, which is a tad longer distance from the campground.  

Kenwood Beach

Kenwood Beach

Soak up the sun and dip your toes in the refreshing water as you enjoy the views of Cadillac Lake. The small, sandy beach area features beautiful views of the North shore of Lake Cadillac.  This public beach is free to visit and is a nice size for keeping an eye on your children. Restrooms & changing rooms are clean and located on site near the beach area. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. Benches and picnic tables are scattered throughout the beach and playground area for visitors to sit and rest.

Kenwood Playground

Enjoy the breeze off the lake at the water front playground, which is located near the Kenwood Beach. It has multiple play structures with 6 slides, ziplines, and rope ladders. All ages can enjoy the park since there is also a toddler play area and even a pirate ship for fostering imaginative play with children. Woodchips cover the ground in the play area for a cushioned layer of protection.

Relax on the benches while watching your children play as you listen to the waves lapping along the North shores of Cadillac Lake. I advise packing a lunch to sit under the covered pavilions in the heat of the summer.  This play area will keep children entertained for many hours. 

Playground at Kenwood Beach

Frisbee golf

Located in the park, frisbee golf is a fun activity and a great way to spend quality time with the whole family.

Play Volleyball at Heritage Park

Directly across the road is Heritage Park, which has volleyball nets and another playground structure surrounded by woods. This spot is nice for groups because it also has covered pavilions for public use.

Lake Cadillac Foot and Bike Path

If you enjoying biking or jogging this is a scenic paved trail you must try. Make sure to bring your bike trailer or jogging stroller if you have children for a picturesque adventure around Lake Cadillac. Running alongside the park area this paved bike/ walking trail is a 7.5 mile path and circumvents Lake Cadillac’s Shores.

Another bike option is to take the 3.8 mile bike route to town, if you take the route on the North side of Lake Cadillac it’s flatter than the South.

Fred Meijer White Pine Trail If you’re looking for additional bike miles, check out this beautiful trail for a longer bike ride adventure.

Hike the Heritage Nature Trail

Hike the Heritage Trail

Easily accessed at the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center, the trail is about 2.5 miles in length. This easy trail features a woodchip path with bridges and boardwalks that lead around the wetland areas. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, birds, beavers, waterfowl and even bald eagles.

In winter there are miles and miles of snowmobile trails that are popular in the area.

Fishing/ Boating

The Dock at Mitchell State Park, Cadillac

Mitchell State Park is a popular location for fishing and boating. There is boat access on both Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac. Next to the modern playground area there is a large dock that can be used for fishing, which is handicap accessible. Another favorite spot for kids to fish is along the canal. Walleye, perch, bass and bullheads can be found in the lakes.

Paddle Sports

Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the park.

These two lakes provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy watersports. Bring your own equipment or rent and utilize the state park’s kayaks and paddleboards. If you’ve ever wanted to try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding without having to buy your own, Mitchell State Park is a great place to experience it. You can even travel through the Clam Lake Canal. Call ahead for details, including days and times, rental cost, and pick-up/drop-off rules.

VISIT CADILLAC

Located right in Cadillac there are great stores, shops, and restaurants up and down the Main Street. It’s so convenient to dine at the many restaurants or grab takeout and bring it back to your campsite when you don’t feel like cooking.

CAMPING AT MITCHELL STATE PARK

Entrance to a Michigan State Park requires a Recreation Passport. Michigan residents can purchase a yearly pass for $13.00 with their vehicle registration. There's a $5 convenience fee (except for Belle Isle Park) when the Recreation Passport is not purchased at the time of your license plate registration renewal through the Secretary of State. Non residents can purchase a daily pass for $11 and an annual pass for $40 as of 1/1/24.

Campground/ Sites

221 campsites , 2 water front cabins, electric hookup, and dumping station

Mitchell State Park is open for winter camping. Many snowmobile trails and groomed cross-country trails are in the area.

Site 7 at Mitchell State Park, Cadillac

The prime sites are by the lake and along the canal.

Facilities/Amenities

Water front cabins at Mitchell State Park

Modern restrooms and showers available. Basketball court, playground, two beaches.

State Campground Waterfront Playground

Waterfront playground at Mitchel State Park Campground

Mitchell State Park has a modern lakefront playground which is a great feature for younger children. There is a large play structure with slides, bumblebee and ladybug bouncers, and several climbing structures for children to scale. A small path leads along the lake and meanders by two lakefront log cabins, which can be rented. Relax and take in the beauty of the lake from the nearby dock. It’s common to see fish, geese and wildlife in the area. Rent a kayak at the State Park Office or bring your own fishing pole and make the most of the lakes large supply of walleye and bass. Benches and picnic tables located next to the playground make it an ideal spot to have a picnic. Bathroom facilities are located nearby at the state campground.

PROS/ CONS

PROS- A variety of activities, biking, and hiking and ideal for those who love boating, kayaking or fishing. Nice, clean modern facilities. Easily accessible restaurants.

CONS- Campgrounds are tightly spaced and offer little privacy, shade or vegetation. If near the entrance it can be noisy by the road because it’s on a busy street and there is a Burger King right by the entrance. Be aware if there is a lot of rain some sites can flood. Making a left out of the campground is difficult and for RV’s the roads are tight to maneuver.

NEARBY AREA ATTRACTIONS BY CADILLAC

Indoor Activities Nearby

The Pines Bowling Center Bowling alley with a restaurant

YMCA For $25.00 the whole family can use the pool, facilities and hot tub.

Goodrich Cadillac 4 Don’t worry if it’s rainy since you can enjoy some popcorn and a film at the movie theater.

Outdoor Activities Nearby

Cadillac Freedom Festival Festivals in Cadillac occur during the summer including over the Independence Holiday, July 4th-8th with fun activities for the whole family.

Music Concerts In the summer on Thursday nights at 7pm the rotary park downtown has free music concerts at the pavilion.

Next Door Arcade Go cart track, batting cages, putt putt golf and ice cream.

Sound Garden A fun musical place to visit with children located on the North side of Lake Cadillac.

Kiss Monument Standing 8ft tall, fans of the rock band KISS have to stop by the one and only KISS monument.

Golf Courses Choose from six different golf courses in Cadillac. El Dorado, Cadillac Country Club , Caberfae Peaks, Evergreen Resort, Lakewood on the Green.

Farmers Market Enjoy fresh produce, flowers and tons of vendors at the farmers market at the City Park.

Amish Store In Tunston there is a big Amish store with unique and homemade items. Make sure you bring cash to shop.

Cadillac intown fall color loop, enjoy beautiful scenic drives in the fall with this loop. which consists of 18 miles of colorful fall overlooks, hiking trails, boutiques and farm markets.

Hudson Farm has its annual Fall Fest Oct 7 & 14 from 11-4 with fun fall activities, animals, crafts, hay mounds, food and wagon rides.

PLACES TO EAT

Cone Lickers Ice Cream: A tasty treat is always a must when visiting.

Mr. Foisies Grab some pasties made fresh daily or they freeze well for later.

Mr. Foisie’s Pasties

Herraduras: Craving Mexican head to Herraduras restaurant for some delicious food.

BC’s Pizza: Walk across the street for some delicious pizza, which is decently priced.

Walravens Market Pick up some fresh veggies and fruit, including Traverse City cherries. Inside is a butcher shop with a wide variety of meats including homemade brats and chicken jerky

Firehouse 115: A little restaurant across from the mini golf place. Great food, especially the smoked pork chops.

Clam Lake Brewery: A tap house/ restaurant located downtown Cadillac.

Cadillac Winery A family owned winery that is ideal for relaxing as you sample wines and enjoy outdoor games, seasonal flowers, herb & veggie gardens.

Nearby Cities

Several nearby towns and scenic areas to visit for day trips including: Manistee, Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Final Thoughts

We love hearing about other’s experiences, so leave a comment or any helpful tips. Reservations can be made 6 months in advance at Michigan State Parks Reservation System, remember popular sites fill up fast so book soon.

The Great Lakes State is one of the most beautiful places to visit, you're sure to fall in love with all that Michigan has to offer. Make sure to pin and save this post for later to help you decide on where your next adventure will be. Follow Discovering Anew for more family travel and camping recommendations.

You May Enjoy these Featured Posts: