Heather B.
Guide
GuideWooden Shoe Campground
The Hill
We love this campground. 20 mins from home but so much fun. We always get a spot on the hill, great view of the lake/river. Kids love it too. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, and frog hunting.
Camping near Lake Ann, MI
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Lake Ann, Michigan provides rustic camping opportunities in a region known for its proximity to both inland lakes and Lake Michigan. Lake Ann State Forest Campground offers a peaceful setting on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann with basic amenities including outhouses and hand pumps for water. The surrounding area includes several established campgrounds within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including Platte River Campground and D.H. Day Campground, which accommodate tent and RV camping. Most sites in the region are within 30 minutes of Traverse City, offering a mix of rustic forest camping and developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities.
"This rustic campground is settled on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann. Camp offers outhouses and water hand pumps," notes one visitor on The Dyrt. Camping in the Lake Ann area typically runs from April through October, with some campgrounds like Platte River offering year-round access. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when the region experiences peak visitation. The Lake Ann Pathway across from the state forest campground provides hiking opportunities through forested hills and along the Platte River. Water access is available at most campgrounds, though visitors should note that Lake Ann State Forest Campground has limited waterfront sites. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, and campers should be prepared for mosquitoes, particularly in wooded sites during summer months.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. According to one camper, "Previous times I've been here we could beach our boat right on the shoreline down from camp." Sites with Lake Michigan views tend to fill quickly, especially at D.H. Day and Platte River campgrounds within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides additional recreational opportunities, with several reviewers mentioning the convenience of hiking trails and beach access. Campers frequently note the region's natural beauty and relative quiet, particularly at the more rustic state forest campgrounds. The mixed-use campgrounds throughout the area accommodate various camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, with some locations like Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort also offering cabin and yurt options for those seeking more comfort.
Best Campgrounds near Lake Ann (185)
1. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
"One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."
"Lots of campsites 30 to 50 feet away from the roadway offering appropriate privacy. Woods and bushes separating campsites. Shower houses in excellent condition and clean. Pads for tents in place."
from $22 - $50 / night
Check Availability2. Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
"Every year I camp on the Green Lake side of Interlochen State Park, and this year was the first year I allowed a guest - my fiance."
"Not super close to Michigan cities, but can drive back and forth to Traverse City."
from $20 - $120 / night
Check Availability3. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
"Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash."
"DH Day campground is the perfect rustic camping spot in Northern Michigan. All campsites are within easy walking distance to a beautiful Lake Michigan beach."
from $20 / night
Check Availability4. Traverse City State Park Campground
"Located on busy US-31, but with pedestrian bridge over 4 lanes to beach. TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) access from campground. Easy biking to Traverse City or Acme."
"Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."
from $45 - $100 / night
Check Availability5. Indigo Bluffs RV Park
"It has a fire pit, nearby bathrooms, WiFi, and was in short driving distance to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City."
"This is one of my favorite campgrounds and it’s located in our favorite vacation destination!"
6. Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp
"We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback, therefore we were in the "horse" portion of the campground."
"Off the beaten path but has great rustic campsites with firepits and there are restrooms and fresh water close by in each circle we will be back"
7. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
"We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."
"There is a pool, jump pad, miles and miles of mountain biking trails and hiking trails, a man made lake which has some inflatable water toys."
from $60 - $260 / night
Check Availability8. Turtle Lake Campground
"Close to traverse city and sleeping bear dunes!"
"The lake is great for kayaking or small fishing boats. Office staff super nice. Small, but nice beach. We took my mom & nieces two years ago."
9. Leelanau Pines Campground
"Plenty of beautiful views of the lake! You’re tucked away from the main road but also close enough to enjoy nearby Sutton’s Bay ( which is worth a visit)"
"The campground was very shady and situated right on the lake. We stayed in Site #50 and could carry our kayaks across a small grassy field to put in at the edge of the lake."
from $103 - $130 / night
Check Availability10. Green Lake Rustic North — Interlochen State Park
"Showers available at Interlochen CG, short drive or walk a mile through the woods and cross the main road near the entrance to the boat launch."
"It was nice waking up to hearing loons calling on the lake though. The campground doesn’t have any trails or a nice beach, but there’s lots to do nearby."
from $20 - $120 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 20 min from Traverse City, MI
- 2 hrs 8 min from Midland, MI
- 2 hrs 13 min from Muskegon, MI
- 4 hrs 40 min from Green Bay, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Lake Ann, MI
362 Photos of 185 Lake Ann Campgrounds
Kate K.
Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp
Justin C.
Lake Dubonnet State Forest Campground
Jade M.
Lime Lake
Judy B.
Garey Lake State Forest Campground
Jim L.
Lively Acres Campground
Jonathan B.
Duck Lake Campground — Interlochen State Park
Kristi S.
Green Lake Rustic North — Interlochen State Park
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Pine Meadows - Coleman Cooking Site
Sherrie P.
Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
Bryan S.
Platte River State Forest
CampgroundKaren ..
Empire Township Campground
Cassondra P.
Holiday Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Lake Ann, MI
862 Reviews of 185 Lake Ann Campgrounds
- J
Justin B.
TravelerPlatte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Platte is always a good stay
It is a great base camp for paddling the Platte river and the Betsy river.
- SSusan L.
ScoutPlatte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Amazing
Great site, bathroom very close.
- AAaron T.Traveler
Leelanau State Park Campground
Perfect beachfront campsite
I loved everything about this campsite. It had its own view and access to the beach. In fact, it was so close you could hear the waves throughout the night. I sat outside on a clear night and gazed at the stars for I don’t know how long. It was so peaceful. I highly recommend one of the sites along the water, but the other campsites looked very nice too.
Yes, sites are close, but I didn’t have a problem with lack of privacy.
At site 25, there is not a lot of cover during the day, so it can get quite hot if there’s no other shelter.
- AAaron T.Traveler
Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Perfect spots, quiet, and safe
I stayed here solo for two nights, but had to switch my spot due to scheduling conflicts, but both spots were absolutely amazing. They were mostly private, and I really liked that there was a boundary. Both spots I stayed in had spots for a hammock or a clothesline.
It is a pretty big campground, so expect families and group noice throughout the day, but everyone is kind, and courteous. And everyone respects the quiet time at 10pm.
As a solo camper, I felt completely safe, and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here!
- CCindyScout
Rvino - Timberline, LLC
Good North Country Camping
Sites are large enough, clean campground, staff polite, facilities were very clean. Camp store closes very early. We would return.
Robert M.TravelerWhitewater Township Park Campground
White Water Township Park, West Michigan
The park has 53 campsites I was satisfied with site size and separation from other sites. Camped on a Ridge View site. Site had picnic table and firepit.
I normally don't use electric hook-up, but all sites had them. There are scenic paths down to Elk Lake. The bathhouse has showers and restrooms. All were clean and showers had ample hot water. Some people have complained about only one bathhouse. Normally camping in rustic or dispersed areas I had no problem with that. I thought $45. was expensive for a township park but I guess it was in line with other parks' sites having electric hook-ups. As I said I normally do rustic or in dispersed camping. There are no water hook ups but there is a water fill station next to bathhouse. and 2 others near office. The campground has a dump station. It also has a boat launch with a large parking area in the lower park area. The campground was well kept.
The Township Park is only 10 miles, or 15 minutes west of Elk River where the Paddle Antrim group have a recently completed a beautiful Kayak/Paddle board launch site which is part of the "Chain of Lakes Waterway," at Rotary Park. It has wonderful water access with a handicap or "Easi-launch". There are also restrooms and a boat-wash and a posted map.
I was there for a celebration of that completion.
The only other campground close is expensive, (I believe the cheapest site was $75 per night), and packed tightly.
- AAngie S.Guide
Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park
Beautiful views, but don’t expect quite
The day we pulled in it had been raining. The views were gorgeous! Our campsite sat on the water. I just overlooked that there wasn’t any sewage hook ups. But that’s fine. A few hours later when the sun came out so did all of the kids! The campsite next to us was empty except for a pontoon boat and a float that were parked there. Apparently some other families that were Camping rented the space next to us and we’re using that as their private beach area. As a couple with grown children and no little ones, you always have to remind yourself that we encountered those days as well! Crying, screaming, laughing, more crying. But also as parents, we were aware of our surroundings and tried to keep our kids contained. Most of the people camping here are locals, and it seemed that this was the case as well. The majority of the time the kids were down here with no parental supervision or the supervision of a 13-year-old babysitter. This park has great amenities. Bathrooms are clean and nice and well kept. Lots of trails. And lots and lots of dogs. That was another strike. We have a dog as well. I don’t mind dogs. But the rules explain dogs must be on a leash. Our first day a woman brought her black lab in front of her sight and proceeded to throw the frisbee into the water for her dog with no leash. Our dog is still quite a puppy and a lot of energy and we’re still working on some training. But there is a beach area but it also says no pets allowed. I think she was just looking for a place to let her dog run and play in the water, but in front of ours was not the place to do it! The spaces are very close together and not much room for privacy. Lots are pretty sandy where we were(48) and appeared so starting from lot 47 - 56 or so. I would avoid these unless you prefer sand in everything! All in all, it was a good trip like I said the views are beautiful the trails were very well maintained as well as the restrooms and the store. But if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, maybe come when kids are back in school?
Austin R.ScoutHoncho Rest Campground
My Family of Seven loved it
I have a Skokie conversion 44ft. The area was easy to back in to, bathrooms were clean and nice, well lit.
It’s a quiet campground for sure, but it’s nice and dark at night to see the stars and you can get good rest here.
Guide to Lake Ann
The Lake Ann region offers tent and RV camping opportunities within Michigan's Grand Traverse area. Located approximately 15 miles southwest of Traverse City, this inland region features rolling hills and dense forest surrounding numerous small lakes. Campsites near Lake Ann, Michigan provide access to water recreation while serving as a strategic base for exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore just 20-30 minutes away.
What to do
Night kayaking on rivers: Platte River Campground provides excellent access for evening water adventures. "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking. We have our favorite site too!" shares Nikki M. For wildlife enthusiasts, Joyce B. advises: "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!"
Beach exploration and hiking: Outdoor enthusiasts visiting D.H. Day Campground can access both shoreline and trails. "Great access to walking trails and the beach. There are a few spots that are more private, but you'll likely have to book in advance," notes Emmy W. The campground's beach access remains uncrowded compared to more popular areas.
Wine tasting circuits: Leelanau Peninsula offers numerous wineries within a short drive of camping areas. "We went to several wineries. Boathouse Vineyards was nice - you could do the wine tasting then sit out back facing the river & have a glass of wine. They had entertainment playing, and brought Pizza in," explains B M. from Leelanau Pines Campground.
What campers like
Lake activities: Turtle Lake Campground provides water recreation options without large crowds. "The lake is great for kayaking or small fishing boats. Small, but nice beach," reports Stacey R. For fishing enthusiasts, be aware of what you might catch: "When my kids went fishing, they pulled up large snapping turtles both times. A bit of a surprise to see their size!"
Forested sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp. "The campsites themselves have lots of space, privacy and a fire pit. This place is the bees knees," shares Caryssa R. Another camper notes: "Great rustic camping necessities. Outhouses near each circle, spickit with really good water, hiking trails, boat launch and even a nearby island you can kayak to."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain excellent facilities. According to Scott D. at Platte River Campground, "Really nice paved camping sites with fire pits and tables. Sites not too close to each other. Bathroom facilities were excellent and clean. Firewood is available to purchase in the campground."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book extremely fast. "Reservations are extremely hard to get for this park. If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!" advises Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity exists in the region. "There was a bear spotted in the group area during our stay. Bring bug spray! The ticks are bad this year," warns another Platte River camper. At Green Lake Rustic South, water recreation has its own challenges: "Swimmers itch in the lake," notes Sherrie P.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "We stayed in the rustic sites as the modern ones were closed for the season," shares Natalie S. Late fall camping requires preparation: "Went there in late October of 2022 and man was it a cold night to stay in a tent," reports Doug P.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers extensive programming. "There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids," explains Allison H.
Beach access amenities: Holiday Park Campground provides water recreation with amenities. "Holiday Park has lake access on silver lake, very nice. Rented a pontoon boat from an outside company and spent the day on the beautiful lake," shares Patrick. The campground also features "a great playground" according to reviewers.
Educational opportunities: Traverse City State Park offers programming and accessibility. "You can catch bus for ride into town where there are lots of shops, breweries, etc - very nice town," notes Colleen S. The campground provides "pedestrian bridge to go over to the park along the bay" and "nice roads to bike on and explore."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research specific sites before booking. "We were lucky that hardly anyone was there. You are right next to the highway so all night you hear cars and headlights come into your tent," warns Natalie S. about rustic sites.
Level sites: Many campgrounds provide assistance with leveling. At Leelanau Pines Campground, "the staff was so helpful when they escorted us to the site & helped us back in they had levels they brought & put under one side of the travel trailer to level us," reports B M.
Hookup considerations: Verify the exact amenities needed. "All sites are full hookup," shares Phil M. about Leelanau Pines. At Indigo Bluffs RV Park, Kyle K. appreciated "shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Ann Campground located in Michigan?
Where is Lake Ann Campground located in Michigan?
Lake Ann State Forest Campground is located on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann in northwestern Michigan, near Traverse City. The campground is situated in a wooded area with some sites offering views or access to the lake. The area is part of Michigan's state forest system and is proximate to outdoor recreation opportunities including the Lake Ann Pathway hiking trail, which is located across the road from the campground. Its location provides good access for boating activities on Lake Ann.
Are there photos available of Lake Ann State Forest Campground?
Are there photos available of Lake Ann State Forest Campground?
Yes, photos of Lake Ann State Forest Campground are available through camping platforms like The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the wooded campsites, lake views, and the natural setting. For additional visual references of similar rustic Michigan campgrounds, you might check Platte River Campground or D.H. Day Campground, which feature comparable natural settings. Most camping websites and apps allow users to upload and view photos of their camping experiences, helping prospective visitors get a sense of the grounds before their trip.
What amenities are available at Lake Ann State Forest Campground?
What amenities are available at Lake Ann State Forest Campground?
Lake Ann State Forest Campground offers rustic amenities typical of Michigan state forest campgrounds. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring for cooking and enjoying campfires. The campground provides pit toilets (outhouses) located in the center of the circular grounds and water is available from hand pumps. The $15 per night fee is collected through self-registration. While most sites are wooded, only a few offer direct water access or views of Lake Ann. For comparison, Thurston Park Campground and Fisherman's Island State Park Campground offer similar basic amenities with varying degrees of lake access.
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