The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Charlevoix. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Charlevoix. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.
Nestled on six miles of immaculate Lake Michigan shoreline, Fisherman’s Island State Park is a 2,600+ acre camping haven, located just outside downtown Charlevoix, MI. Thanks to low lake levels the island from the park’s namesake no longer exists. Over the course of 25 years, water fluctuations lead to the natural formation of a tombolo which now connects the island to mainland Michigan.
The park itself consists of 80 homey campsites, 15 of which are nestled right on the dunes dotting the shoreline. Luckily, the campsites have lots of amenities. Many offer private, secluding camping right on the shore of Lake Michigan. Additionally, fires are allowed here, with firewood available as well. Furthermore, pets are permitted if on leash. Even better, full hookups are available for RVers. There are also showers, bathrooms, WiFi, public trash, and more.
As a result of its wet geography, this region is known for its lush wildflower population. Vibrant flocks of Cardinal Flower, Beach Pea, Broadleaf Arrowhead, and many more varieties can be found all over the park’s rolling dunes and under the aspen and birch trees found scattered throughout.
Even though there aren't specified recreation areas here, you really don’t need them. That’s because the campsites themselves are extremely well maintained, private, and perfect for anyone looking for a short trip away from urban life. Rustic camping is $16/night, and there is a 15 day consecutive night limit. That being said, MI residents can save money by purchasing a recreation passport during license plate renewal, which grants access to all MI state parks for free. Campsite reservations can be made 24/7 up to 6 months in advance on the Michigan State Park Website.
$20 / night
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html
$20 / night
Wilderness State Park, located just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to 26 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, 20-plus miles of trails, a designated swimming and pet-friendly beach and unique camping opportunities. The park is also a designated dark sky preserve offering stellar views of the sky and is just 9 miles from Headlands Dark Sky Park (an Emmet County park).
Petoskey State Park began its service as a public recreation area in 1934 as the Petosky Bathing Beach. Prior to that, the area was privately owned by a local tanning company. Located on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, Poetoskey camping is a 300-acre park is popular for its mile-long sand beach and forested campgrounds. Within the park are nearly 3.5 miles of walking, hiking, and biking trails that wander among the park’s wooded dunes. Summer months bring out scores of sunbathers, swimmers, paddlers, boaters and water skiers. The nearby towns of Petoskey and Harbor Springs offer a variety of local arts and crafts shops, cafes and charming Victorian architecture.
The two campgrounds at Petoskey State Park offer 180 tent and RV sites situated among shady woods near the lakeshore. The Dunes Campground, on the north end of the park, has 80 smaller sites suitable for tent campers, while the Tannery Creek Campground, on the south end of the park, has 100 larger sites ideal for RVs and trailers. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and electrical hookups, and there are restrooms, showers and drinking water available in both campgrounds; a dump station is located near the park entrance. Other park amenities include a picnic area, beach house and concession stand. Dogs are permitted, but must remain leashed. Seasonal campsite rates range from $33–$37/night, plus park entrance fee.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Barnes County Park Campground, nestled near Central Lake, MI, is a gem for those looking to camp close to Lake Michigan. This place is open from May 13 to October 18, offering a solid chunk of the year to enjoy its natural beauty. The campground is known for its cleanliness, with bathrooms getting a good scrub multiple times a day.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the lake. You’re just a short walk away from the beach, which is perfect for a quick dip or a lazy day soaking up the sun. The campground also boasts some great hiking and biking trails, making it easy to explore the surrounding woods and enjoy the scenery.
For those who like to plan ahead, you can reserve your spot online, which is super convenient. Just a heads-up, though: some of the sites are pretty close together, so if you’re looking for a bit more space, try to snag one of the larger spots away from the lake.
Pets are welcome, but keep in mind they’re not allowed on the beach. If you’re bringing an RV, you’ll find the place big-rig friendly with electric hookups available. And yes, you can have a campfire, which is always a plus for those evening s’mores sessions.
Overall, Barnes County Park Campground offers a great mix of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re tent camping or rolling in with an RV, it’s a solid choice for a relaxing getaway.
Magnus Park Campground is a solid spot for those looking to camp near Petoskey, MI. This place has a bit of everything: it's right on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering some stunning views and easy access to the water. If you're into biking, you'll love the proximity to the Little Traverse Wheelway, a trail that stretches for miles and connects you to various local attractions.
The campground itself is pretty straightforward. There are 77 sites, with 36 offering full hookups and the rest providing electric hookups. There's also one cabin available if you're not into tent or RV camping. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, making it easy to settle in and enjoy a campfire under the stars. The bathhouse is generally clean and has showers, though they might be a bit on the small side.
One of the standout features here is the easy access to Petoskey. It's less than a mile walk into town, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and more. The campground also has a playground for the kids and allows pets, so you can bring your furry friends along.
Some campers have mentioned that the sites are pretty close together, so don't expect a ton of privacy. But the trade-off is the convenience and the beautiful lake views. Plus, the campground is big-rig friendly and has amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and a sanitary dump.
Overall, Magnus Park Campground is a great base camp for exploring the Petoskey area and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. Whether you're here for a night or a week, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied and comfortable.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html
$22 - $42 / night
This spectacular KOA is located in beautiful Northwest Michigan. The park is rated #1 in Michigan by Trailer Life and it is among the highest rated RV Parks in North America. Lake Michigan and sand dunes are just minutes away and the refreshing breezes rustle through the cedar, pine and maple trees at the resort. The romantic "million dollar" sunsets will give you goose bumps as you watch the sun sink into the lake.
The unique park layout weaves sites into the natural landscape. Flowers and landscaping adorn every corner of the tranquil 30 acre setting. Each of our spacious 160 RV sites has a level paved parking area and large, clean concrete patio for relaxing with your family. The resort's cozy log Camping cabins are nestled among the trees. We also offer deluxe camping cottages, lodges and studios, which include bathroom and kitchen amenities.
We offer a full slate of activities including educational nature events, movies, bingo and Saturday breakfast in our Cafe. Within minutes lie local golf, restaurants, beaches, bike trails and shopping. Easy day trips include the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Lighthouse Museum, Mackinac Island and many more nearby destinations.
Our outstanding staff takes pride in offering service to our visitors that is second to none. The Rose Family invites you to visit the Petoskey KOA. "For a place you will always remember and a vacation you will never forget."
Traverse City State Park is a 47-acre state park set in a more urban setting and featuring .25 miles of beautiful beach on the Grand Traverse Bay. The park is located only 3 miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the Michigan's most popular resort towns.
The park was established in 1920 on about 16 acres of land after the logging industry began to wane. In 1921 and 1939, parcels were added to increase the park's land area. The original inhabitants of the land were the Ottawa branch of the Algonquin Indians.
Nestled on six miles of immaculate Lake Michigan shoreline, Fisherman’s Island State Park is a 2,600+ acre camping haven, located just outside downtown Charlevoix, MI. Thanks to low lake levels the island from the park’s namesake no longer exists. Over the course of 25 years, water fluctuations lead to the natural formation of a tombolo which now connects the island to mainland Michigan.
The park itself consists of 80 homey campsites, 15 of which are nestled right on the dunes dotting the shoreline. Luckily, the campsites have lots of amenities. Many offer private, secluding camping right on the shore of Lake Michigan. Additionally, fires are allowed here, with firewood available as well. Furthermore, pets are permitted if on leash. Even better, full hookups are available for RVers. There are also showers, bathrooms, WiFi, public trash, and more.
As a result of its wet geography, this region is known for its lush wildflower population. Vibrant flocks of Cardinal Flower, Beach Pea, Broadleaf Arrowhead, and many more varieties can be found all over the park’s rolling dunes and under the aspen and birch trees found scattered throughout.
Even though there aren't specified recreation areas here, you really don’t need them. That’s because the campsites themselves are extremely well maintained, private, and perfect for anyone looking for a short trip away from urban life. Rustic camping is $16/night, and there is a 15 day consecutive night limit. That being said, MI residents can save money by purchasing a recreation passport during license plate renewal, which grants access to all MI state parks for free. Campsite reservations can be made 24/7 up to 6 months in advance on the Michigan State Park Website.
$20 / night
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html
$20 / night
Wilderness State Park, located just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to 26 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, 20-plus miles of trails, a designated swimming and pet-friendly beach and unique camping opportunities. The park is also a designated dark sky preserve offering stellar views of the sky and is just 9 miles from Headlands Dark Sky Park (an Emmet County park).
Petoskey State Park began its service as a public recreation area in 1934 as the Petosky Bathing Beach. Prior to that, the area was privately owned by a local tanning company. Located on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, Poetoskey camping is a 300-acre park is popular for its mile-long sand beach and forested campgrounds. Within the park are nearly 3.5 miles of walking, hiking, and biking trails that wander among the park’s wooded dunes. Summer months bring out scores of sunbathers, swimmers, paddlers, boaters and water skiers. The nearby towns of Petoskey and Harbor Springs offer a variety of local arts and crafts shops, cafes and charming Victorian architecture.
The two campgrounds at Petoskey State Park offer 180 tent and RV sites situated among shady woods near the lakeshore. The Dunes Campground, on the north end of the park, has 80 smaller sites suitable for tent campers, while the Tannery Creek Campground, on the south end of the park, has 100 larger sites ideal for RVs and trailers. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and electrical hookups, and there are restrooms, showers and drinking water available in both campgrounds; a dump station is located near the park entrance. Other park amenities include a picnic area, beach house and concession stand. Dogs are permitted, but must remain leashed. Seasonal campsite rates range from $33–$37/night, plus park entrance fee.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Barnes County Park Campground, nestled near Central Lake, MI, is a gem for those looking to camp close to Lake Michigan. This place is open from May 13 to October 18, offering a solid chunk of the year to enjoy its natural beauty. The campground is known for its cleanliness, with bathrooms getting a good scrub multiple times a day.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the lake. You’re just a short walk away from the beach, which is perfect for a quick dip or a lazy day soaking up the sun. The campground also boasts some great hiking and biking trails, making it easy to explore the surrounding woods and enjoy the scenery.
For those who like to plan ahead, you can reserve your spot online, which is super convenient. Just a heads-up, though: some of the sites are pretty close together, so if you’re looking for a bit more space, try to snag one of the larger spots away from the lake.
Pets are welcome, but keep in mind they’re not allowed on the beach. If you’re bringing an RV, you’ll find the place big-rig friendly with electric hookups available. And yes, you can have a campfire, which is always a plus for those evening s’mores sessions.
Overall, Barnes County Park Campground offers a great mix of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re tent camping or rolling in with an RV, it’s a solid choice for a relaxing getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Charlevoix, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Charlevoix, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 campgrounds and RV parks near Charlevoix, MI and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Charlevoix, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Charlevoix, MI is Fisherman's Island State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 40 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Charlevoix, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Charlevoix, MI.
What parks are near Charlevoix, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Charlevoix, MI that allow camping, notably Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Sleeping Bear Dunes.
