Dispersed camping near Alden, Michigan ranges from primitive backcountry sites to established campgrounds with amenities. The area sits at the northern edge of Michigan's Lower Peninsula where the Chain of Lakes region features numerous interconnected waterways. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during peak camping months while spring and fall bring cooler weather with frequent temperature fluctuations. Fall color season typically starts in late September.
What to Do
Hiking trails nearby: Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers multiple hiking paths through northern Michigan forests with several lake access points. "There are hiking trails nearby and the campground is about 15 minutes away from the quaint town of Elk Rapids and a very touristy Traverse City. The playground isn't much, but offers the kids a place to go," notes a visitor at Whitewater Township Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Guernsey Lake provides excellent fishing access with minimal development around the shoreline. "The lake was gorgeous!! Great sites," reports one camper. Another visitor adds, "The lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing. The NCT 4600mi hiking trail runs through and the cross state horse trail skirts it and bikes are allowed on all trails."
Water activities: Access to multiple lakes allows for various boating options. "Lake is across the street, very large and busy," mentions a visitor to Traverse City State Park Campground. For a quieter water experience, "Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used," notes a camper from Whitewater Township Park.
What Campers Like
Quiet, secluded options: For those seeking solitude, Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides true primitive camping. "We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it. We pitched our tent, stoked the fire, and didn't see another soul during our entire time there," shares one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms despite high usage. "The bath houses on the end we like are very dated and are usually clean but still show their age! The other end had nicer newer shower/bath houses," reports a visitor to Traverse City State Park. Another camper at Barnes County Park notes, "Clean bathrooms super close. Best of all the beach area. The views are stunning."
Proximity to towns: Most camping options provide access to nearby communities. "It's in the heart of TC right by the bay beach and bike trail. Great camp ground if you want to be convenient on TC," reports one camper. Another visitor mentions, "One of our favorite things is being connected to the bike paths so we can bike to downtown area while staying on bike trails!"
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during summer months. "Reservations are first come first serve and aren't taken until early April. So book early," advises a camper at Whitewater Township Park.
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during colder months. Chain-O-Lakes Campground receives consistent praise during its operating season, with one visitor noting, "Our time at this campground has been exceptional. The grounds are kept very clean and tidy, the camp store had what we needed, and the atmosphere is very quiet and calming."
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "If you are looking for a no-frills secluded campground with spaced out campsites and beautiful views this is the place for you. It does not have a lot of extras but for a peaceful camping trip it has everything you need," writes a visitor about Whitewater Township Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, "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."
Swimming options: Water access varies between campgrounds. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc," reports a visitor to Timber Ridge.
Activity planning: Consider campgrounds with scheduled events. "Kids loved the activities they had scheduled. We had no complaints regarding our weekend here! Staff was all Great. Had a well stocked camp store," writes a Timber Ridge camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra work to set up. "It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling. The hookups are rather far away so we needed extensions," notes a visitor to Kalkaska RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Campsites with complete services are limited. "They only have 15 full hookup sites and none were available for our time frame. They have a pump out service twice a week for $10 each time," mentions a Kalkaska RV Park reviewer.
Pull-through accessibility: Some sites offer easier access for larger rigs. "My husband loved this place because most of the sites are pull-through ones. The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long," reports a camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
