Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground- Grayling MI

As the end of September approaches and the back-to-school grind is in view, we often long for just one more carefree summer weekend. This year, we decided to party right up until the last possible minute.

The last weekend before school started we searched around for somewhere we hadn’t been before, as we’re always on the hunt for new places to add to our camping map. Whenever I ask the boys where they want to camp I get a unison “Yogi Bear!” There are four Jellystone parks in Michigan, and we had only visited two of them.

We decided to check out Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground in Grayling. We tend to look for family campgrounds in areas where there’s a lot to do outside of just the campground, so I was a little nervous about there not being a lot to do in this area, but we went for it anyway. I could not have been more happy with our decision.

We got in to the campground after dark, but were impressed with the large site size right upon arrival. The site across the road from ours was hosting some sort of movie night. There was a large screen set up and it seemed as if all the campground kids were congregating. We lost Ethan and Nolan before we had even parked the camper.

When we woke up, we walked around and got a feel for things. The campground was clean, staff was friendly, and there were TONS of activities going on starting right in the morning all throughout the day. Activities included tie-dye T-shirts, games, wagon rides, and all kinds of fun for the boys. They were off to do a lot throughout the day, which gave Ian and I some odd down time that we weren’t used to! We sat around drinking coffee and I even read a few pages in my book.

There were two large jumping pads, a play set, Gaga pit, volleyball, and a pool area. There was an indoor game room, and nice sized camp store as well that offered a lot of souvenirs, toys, and food.

There was also a mini-golf course, but the course looked like something built in the 80s and likely not touched much since. We did pay to play, but I’m not sure it was worth it. This was the only thing at the campground that needed some attention. I have received word from the park though that the mini-golf course is getting a makeover this year!

The boys had fun playing in the pool even though it was a bit of a rainy weekend. They weather didn’t stop them from spending a lot of time jumping in and playing with other kids. The pool area was nice and clean, as was the attached bathhouse.

Nolan and I saw a recipe for cinnamon french toast with bananas and had to try it out. Breakfast was a success!

Last but not least, the daily activity schedule included a glow dance with yogi at 9pm. We had no idea what to think of it, but it sounded fun so we headed over to the clubhouse at 9. This was SO much fun. Loud music, dancing, and basically the entire campground showed up! We were shocked at the amount of people. It was just a really fun time dancing and playing with the boys.

This campground was a huge hit and we’re sure to go back. I highly reccomend this one for those with kids!