Nestled right on beautiful Big Bradford Lake, near Otsego Lake State Park, Gaylord South/Bradford Lake KOA is your perfect Northern Michigan lakeside getaway!
Stay and play, or set up the perfect basecamp to explore all that Northern Michigan has to offer. Make the trek 15 minutes north to be smack dab in the middle of golf mecca or explore the Alpine Village of Gaylord or the many other sights of this incredible area.
After a great day of sightseeing, come back and relax lakeside! Lie out on our private beach and soak up the sunshine while the kids splash in the designated swim area. Prefer some speed? UTVs and toys are welcome, and pontoon rentals are available close by. Is hiking or biking your thing? We've got that too! Check out the many bike trails from Gaylord to Mackinaw City.
Come in the summer and enjoy farmers' markets and frequent festivals in the area, including Alpenfest and Big Ticket Festival!
Come in the winter and we'll see you on the snowmobile trails or staying warm by the fire.
Either way. we'll see you soon!
We currently offer the following activities:
Starts: 10/31/2024 - Ends: 10/31/2024
Elk....in Michigan? YES! Come to Gaylord to view the city's elk herd located off East Grandview Avenue (this herd started with 4 elk and has grown to 40), then drive to Pigeon River Country State Forest to catch a glimpse of theirs. From the Pigeon River Country State Forest website, "Generally, the best months are September and October, when the males (bulls) are trying to establish dominance for mating rights with the females (cows). They are extremely active during this time, making loud vocalizations (bugling) and breaking brush with their antlers to impress cows and intimidate their rivals. If you plan to visit during this time, try to arrive mid-week, as elk viewing has become very popular and weekends can be crowded at known viewing sites. Another good time to view elk is from late April through early May. Elk are active throughout the daylight hours eating the new green growth and there are fewer people out to see them."
Starts: 07/08/2025 - Ends: 07/12/2025
Come to Gaylord for one of their biggest weekends of the year! Ever heard of "The Burning of the Boog?" There will be traditions, music, and food you have never heard of before as downtown Gaylord puts on an Alpine-inspired celebration that honors the city's heritage and partnership with sister city, Pontresina, Switzerland. The entertainment is top-notch and includes Rolling Stones and Katy Perry tribute bands, 80's rock, classic rock, country, polka and German music, and to further honor the theme, a 14-piece Bavarian style band. There will also be two parades (a walking parade and a grand parade), carnival rides, Queen and Princess pageants, a car show, a craft show, food vendors...do I need to say more? Oh, there is more! If you like to run or walk, sign up for the half marathon, 10k, 5.9k or 1-mile fun run. Grab your lederhosen (yes, you'll see those there too) and join in the fun!