Harrison, Michigan: Wilson State Park

October 2023, weekday, one night, campsite #3

View from inside camper on campsite 3 in Wilson State Park

Arrival and check-in

This was a brief last minute one night stay for us, and we did not make an advance reservation. We arrived a bit before the 3PM check-in time. Staff happily let us pick our site, as well as checked us in. 

Campsite 3 in Wilson State Park

Campsite #3

This campsite is a very large grassy site, and the view overlooks the lake somewhat. Since we were just staying one night, and leaving in the morning, we did not want to spend time with camp set up. This site is large enough, and level enough, that we were able to park without unhooking our truck from the trailer. The power box is quite a ways away (on the edge of sites 3 and 4), and we had to use two cords.

Campsite 3 in Wilson State Park
Below: fire rings on sites 2 and 3; small tree in between is on lot line

The only thing we did not like about this campsite is the placement of the fire rings; for this campsite and neighboring site #2. The fire ring on campsite 2 is pretty much on the site line between 2 and 3. The fire ring on site 3 is very close to it, on that side of the campsite, rather than in the center or on the other side. If the people on campsites 2 and 3 are camping together, this is great, because the fire rings are close enough to have a conversation with each other. There is not enough room between the two fire pits to safely back a trailer in on campsite 3 (and, have two fires). So, a trailer on site #3 either needs to park sideways, or back in with the fire pit behind the trailer. Campsite #2 was empty when we arrived, and a 5th wheel arrived on that site a few hours later.

Steps down to the fishing dock behind site 10 in Wilson State Park

Recreation: beach, fishing, boating

This campground has a swimming beach and concession building on the lake between the two campground sections. The south loop had been closed for the season at the time of our stay. We did not see a boat ramp, although I suppose you could carry kayaks down the hill next to the beach area. The beach looked nice and sandy, although the area is not very big. A large playground is located in the center of the park (near site #1) between the two campground sections. There are steps down to a dock between sites 8 and 10. 

Misc. and overall

The bathrooms in this state park were clean, and in excellent condition. They were the nicest state park bathrooms we have ever seen. I am not sure how recently they were updated. I know the bathrooms in Traverse City State Park were recently updated, and the cleanliness and care of the bathhouse in this park far exceeds the ones in Traverse City.

The dump station behind the campground entrance does not seem adequate for this campground during peak season. We observed signs with arrows directing trailers through the parking lot, so I assume the wait line is organized. Since the sanitation station is easy to get to near the entrance, it would be easy to use when not camping in the park. We observed at least one motorhome arrive after hours, dump their tank, and then depart.

Although we liked the view from our campsite, and we appreciated the excellent care of this campground, I am not sure we would stay here for more than a night or two, as there are no hiking or biking trails. It is probably a great campground for families with kids to visit the beach or playground. Before we departed, we observed Halloween decorations being set up for the upcoming weekend.

Let me know if you have any questions, or info to add!