Located in northeastern Michigan, Crystal Creek Campground occupies about 35 acres of land in a rural setting. The establishment is currently under the ownership of Robert and Leslie Russell, who also own a business called Russell Canoes Livery & Campground. At Crystal Creek Campground, 120 sites are available for visitors to reserve, and a considerable number of on-site facilities, amenities, and activities are available to people over the course of their stay. In view of the property's close proximity to the Rifle River, some of the most popular activities that guests engage in are kayaking, rafting, canoeing, and tubing. Robert and Leslie hope that those staying at Crystal Creek Campground will find enjoyment on the river as well as at the campground itself.
Crystal Creek Campground is found in a rural part of Michigan, featuring 120 sites for guests to occupy. There are both tent and RV sites available. Electric hookups are provided, with options for both 30-amp and 50-amp service. The campground offers pull-through and back-in sites, depending on the location within the campground. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. The property features designated group camping areas, providing space for large groups to camp together. However, it is important to note that these areas are not exclusive to large groups, and individual campers are welcome as well.
Outdoor recreational activities are a fairly popular pastime around Crystal Creek Campground, as visitors can engage in rafting, canoeing, and tubing on the Rifle River—located next to the property. Some of the activities available at the campground include three volleyball courts and a small playground. Throughout the premises, there are walking paths that were created by the owners. These paths allow campers to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy leisurely walks within the campground, as well as avoid the main road. It should also be noted that a small store is available on-site, offering a variety of merchandise. The manager, Lindsey, believes that this store can provide campers with the convenience of purchasing essential items and supplies as well as any items they may have forgotten to bring along. The store is adorned with hunting mounts, reflecting the owners' interests.
Situated in a fairly wooded environment, Crystal Creek Campground occupies roughly 35 acres of land, and it is encompassed by open areas. It is divided by Grove Road, which is not a main road, but it periodically experiences moderate traffic due to the presence of other nearby campgrounds and farms. Walking paths have been created throughout the campground, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls. In the encompassing area, Lindsey mentions a few restaurants by name that she recommends her patrons visit, including Cliff's Bar in Sterling, which serves pizza; Wheeler's Restaurant in Standish; and Iva's Chicken Dinner in Sterling. Nearby lakes, such as Sage and Long Lake, provide additional recreational opportunities, and the town of West Branch—about a 30-minute drive away—offers attractions such as an outlet mall and a Victorian downtown area, as reported by Lindsey.
With the intent to create a relaxed atmosphere, the campground staff makes an effort to be available to assist guests with their needs and inquiries. They try to provide helpful services such as delivering firewood and ensuring that reserved items are available upon arrival. A particularly notable focus is on customer service and addressing any issues that may arise during visitors' stay is important when it comes to helping guests feel comfortable. Several guest reviews comment on the owners' hospitality, as one former patron said that the "owner was a very nice lady." Another review mentioned the property's on-site amenities, as they stated, "Excellent campground on the river. It has a small convenience store with whatever you need as well as showers, bathroom, playground, volleyball, firewood for sale, fire pits, and trips down the river with canoes, kayaks, rafts, and a bunch of different tubes."
In terms of unique characteristics, Lindsey, the manager of Crystal Creek Campground, believes that the property stands out for its rural and remote ambiance. "The lack of cell service and the wooded surroundings" are a couple of specific elements that Lindsey says contribute to the nature-oriented and peaceful environment that she and the owners hope to create. "We want them to feel relaxed; they're here for a good time, and we want to help them enjoy their stay," Lindsey remarks.
A few policies are enforced at Crystal Creek Campground that guests should be aware of over the course of their stay. Quiet hours last from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. every night to avoid disrupting other campers who are trying to sleep. In accordance with Michigan law, children age six and under must wear a life jacket when they are on the river. Campers should also be aware that check-out time is noon. Moreover, firewood that was purchased off-site is prohibited. While smoking is allowed on the grounds, the owners ask that visitors refrain from doing so in the canoe livery vehicles and the on-site store.
Crystal Creek Campground is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. With regard to the typical demographic of people who visit the property, Lindsey mentions that they primarily see adults between the ages of 18 and 65. In addition to this, a fair amount of young families have also stayed at Crystal Creek Campground. Lindsey remarks that the campground has served as the site for multiple bachelorette parties and weddings, as many of them come to enjoy the river.
Crystal Creek Campground dates back to its establishment in 1981 by Robert and Leslie Russell, the current owners. The campground's roots can be traced to what was once farmland, which the Russells transformed into a camping destination. Over the years, the property has undergone development and improvements with the intent to cater to campers' needs and enhance their experience. One of the challenges the owners faced was the inability to construct a shower house near the river. However, they found a solution by developing the top of the hill where they built the shower house. The campground's small store, which now sells various merchandise to campers, was originally a shed that the present owners, Robert and Leslie Russell, converted into a rustic store. Additional sections of the campground were cleared over time, allowing for the expansion of the camping area.
The current owners have plans for future expansion, as they envision adding cabins to provide campers with additional lodging options. While Crystal Creek Campground does not currently host events or activities, there are plans to invite food trucks to the property, considering the limited dining options in the area.
207 North Grove Road
Omer, Michigan 48749
United States
Campground
Robert and Leslie Russell
