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Underdown County Park Campground
County Park

Underdown County Park Campground

Merrill, Michigan
4.7 (54 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Underdown County Park Campground

Campground in Michigan.

Underdown County Park Campground offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Michigan's natural landscape, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Merrill, this intimate county park provides a serene camping experience with its modest selection of eleven sites, ensuring that you won't feel crowded or overwhelmed during your stay.

The Merrill area is characterized by the natural beauty of central Michigan, where forests and open spaces create a tranquil setting perfect for reconnecting with nature. Whether you're an experienced RV traveler or new to the camping lifestyle, this county park provides a comfortable base for exploring the region. The smaller size of the campground means you can expect a more relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere where fellow campers are genuinely friendly and the pace of life slows down considerably.

Surrounding Merrill, you'll discover the quintessential charm of rural Michigan. The area is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including access to local trails, fishing spots, and natural areas that showcase Michigan's diverse ecosystems. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The region's forests and waterways provide endless opportunities for exploration and photography.

This location appeals especially to travelers seeking a low-key camping experience away from the commercialization of larger RV resorts. It's perfect for families looking to introduce children to camping in a safe, manageable environment, retirees seeking peaceful getaways, and anyone who values simplicity and natural surroundings over extensive amenities. The intimate setting makes it easier to enjoy genuine connection with nature and potentially make lasting friendships with other park visitors.

Underdown County Park Campground represents authentic Michigan camping, where the focus remains on the natural environment and the simple pleasures of outdoor living. It's a destination that rewards visitors who appreciate quality over quantity.
11

Total Sites

4.7

Rating

54

Reviews

Park Details

Total Sites 11

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Merrill is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Michigan weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Merrill.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Merrill. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Underdown County Park Campground Reviews

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Simply Starry

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Simply Starry

I can't believe I have completely forgotten about the underdown recreation area how many years ago before I moved out of Wisconsin I used to bike this trail system in the summer there's a great Network and it's really good for trail running too also in the winter they groom. now this time out there wasn't enough snow and was frigid cold to actually ski any of the trails they had melted and they... I can't believe I have completely forgotten about the underdown recreation area how many years ago before I moved out of Wisconsin I used to bike this trail system in the summer there's a great Network and it's really good for trail running too also in the winter they groom. now this time out there wasn't enough snow and was frigid cold to actually ski any of the trails they had melted and they were and very poor condition but they do groom for skate skiing and for striding and they have a great great Network and I remember skiing at this place it was always phenomenal and just a hidden gem on the mountain bike trails during the winter time you can snowshoe on them trail hike or even take your fat tire bike however note that the mountain bike trail is very very difficult with a lot of up and down and I guess if you have a fat tire it's going to be a very challenging course and a good workout despite the brutal brutal cold and we had wind gusts up to like 40 mi an hour we brave the winter hike with the dogs and a friend and I really enjoyed it and I will be back

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Megan Lilly

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Megan Lilly

Absolutely beautiful woodland setting for camping! We camped on lucky #7. EASILY parked our 2 trucks plus trailer on the campsite. We recommend bringing LOTS of mosquito repellent as they do get bad around sunset. 4G Cell service was great in the area! 👍 Toilet areas were neat & clean, although the solar light didn't turn on in the women's bathroom at night. Love that there were wheelbarrows for... Absolutely beautiful woodland setting for camping! We camped on lucky #7. EASILY parked our 2 trucks plus trailer on the campsite. We recommend bringing LOTS of mosquito repellent as they do get bad around sunset. 4G Cell service was great in the area! 👍 Toilet areas were neat & clean, although the solar light didn't turn on in the women's bathroom at night. Love that there were wheelbarrows for the manure pits! That made hauling so much easier! The trails were in good shape! We did come across some downed trees and my boyfriend helped by chopping back limbs. We saw ample wildlife including some rare birds, deer and a very cute waddling porcupine! Hills and valleys made for good experience and even better exercise for my Stallion. **The Constructive criticism I will give is that the trail system isn't marked very well and really needs a map update. I would recommend a "top down" satellite shot of the area, and color lines over the marked trails.** All in all it was a great experience and we can't wait to ride again!!!

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Dani Mezz

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Dani Mezz

Great place to ride horses. 20miles of trails but plenty of shortcuts to tailor your ride. Very well marked.Beautiful scenery- a few trails oversee lakes. Gentle rolling hills and well maintained sandy/grassy trails. Choice of camping options: private single lots in the woods or group camping with or without hitching areas. They are treating a few sites for garlic mustard so a few sites are closed... Great place to ride horses. 20miles of trails but plenty of shortcuts to tailor your ride. Very well marked.Beautiful scenery- a few trails oversee lakes. Gentle rolling hills and well maintained sandy/grassy trails. Choice of camping options: private single lots in the woods or group camping with or without hitching areas. They are treating a few sites for garlic mustard so a few sites are closed. We went during a dry spell, absolutely no bugs. It has vault toilet which was very clean. Water is available but there is a hand pump(wish it was electric!).

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Terra Nosbush

Mar 23, 2026

2.0

Google Review by Terra Nosbush

The reservation process is hideous! A camping and trail permit is required and you are unable to purchase both at the same time on the website. You have to pay a $1 and CC 2.5% fee on EACH transaction. You are un able to purchase multiple day trail passes if you want to ride only 2 days you need to do a separate transaction for each day and if you have a partner they also need a separate transact... The reservation process is hideous! A camping and trail permit is required and you are unable to purchase both at the same time on the website. You have to pay a $1 and CC 2.5% fee on EACH transaction. You are un able to purchase multiple day trail passes if you want to ride only 2 days you need to do a separate transaction for each day and if you have a partner they also need a separate transaction. The website is extremely unfriendly

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Kim Hackbarth

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kim Hackbarth

The area is beautiful. Went with Scout troop and the was something for everyone to do. Canoeing(bring your own canoe) fishing, Mountain biking trails. There are also horse trails for riding.

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