Beaver Island camping options require transportation planning with mainland options less than an hour away by mainland ferry or regional flights. The island sits 32 miles offshore in northern Lake Michigan, making it the largest island in the lake. Weather conditions change rapidly across the region, with Lake Michigan's notorious winds affecting shoreline campsites particularly from September through May when gusts regularly exceed 20 mph.
What to do
Stargazing at Wilderness State Park: This park maintains a designated dark sky viewing area along its shoreline. "Wilderness opened a dark sky park this past year as well. If you want to explore some gorgeous dark night skies in Northern Michigan, I suggest checking it out!" notes Amy G. The park's remote location offers exceptional astronomical viewing with minimal light pollution.
Kayaking from St. James Township Campground: Launch directly from the campsite for paddling excursions into St. James Bay. "My favorite thing to do is paddle my kayak out into the bay, anchor up, and sit for hours in the gentle waves reading a book," shares Mike M. The sheltered bay provides calmer conditions for paddling compared to open lake waters.
Hiking at Leelanau State Park Campground: Trail networks connect the campground with lighthouse views and forest terrain. The park features "beautiful trails and scenic sites" with access to the historic lighthouse. As one visitor notes, "The views and trails are beautiful, local towns are super cute and easy to get to."
What campers like
Lake Michigan shoreline access: Fisherman's Island State Park Campground offers waterfront sites that create the feeling of a private beach experience. "There are plenty of sites all along the shore of Lake Michigan! It gave the illusion of our own private beach and even though we had a camper at the site next to ours it was still very private because of all the trees in between," reports Magy C.
Privacy between sites: Big Knob State Forest Campground features well-separated camping areas despite being a smaller facility. "The sites vary in size and shape, but many could accommodate everything from a tent to a small trailer, Class B or truck camper," explains Ari A. According to Donna F., "This is a very nice, very well maintained USFS campground with options for everyone."
Night skies and northern lights viewing: Wilderness State Park offers excellent astronomical viewing opportunities. "Best star gazing in the LP," reports Ted B. Another camper recommends, "Next time you hear of northern lights happening, I suggest you book a trip here." The park's location away from urban areas creates ideal dark sky conditions for celestial viewing.
What you should know
Water access challenges: Leelanau State Park lacks traditional beach access despite waterfront location. One camper reports, "There is no beach, you have water front which is beautiful but no beach. The water front is very rocky, and full of a brown sticky film that smelled bad."
Wind conditions: Most shoreline sites throughout the region experience significant wind exposure. At Beaver Island Bill Wagner Memorial Campground, conditions can be particularly challenging without proper preparation. One visitor advises, "Very windy so prepare by packing the right gear."
Off-season advantages: Fall camping offers reduced crowds and distinctive experiences. At Fisherman's Island State Park, one visitor reported, "Fall camped here. First time and it lived up to all the good reviews! Absolutely beautiful fall colors throughout the campground!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Straits State Park Campground features updated play facilities for children. As one camper mentions, "The new playground was a hit for the kids, one of the best playgrounds we have experienced at a state park."
Halloween events: Straits State Park hosts special seasonal activities. "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun," reports Jenafer P. These organized events provide structured activities for families beyond standard camping.
Swimming considerations: Brevoort Lake Campground offers lake swimming with family-friendly shoreline access. "Very family friendly with plenty of activities. You are able to rent water equipment, play mini golf and swim around the lake," notes Brittany R. The rental equipment provides additional options for families without bringing extensive gear.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Most campgrounds in the region have natural terrain with limited leveling. At Hog Island Point State Forest Campground, "Some sites were a bit unlevel but most seemed pretty good." The campground can accommodate various vehicles but requires preparation for uneven terrain.
Road access considerations: Several campgrounds feature narrow entrance roads with potential hazards. Big Knob State Forest Campground requires extra caution when arriving. "Long drive off HW2, felt longer than 6 miles. Sites are small but some to back up to Lake Michigan but not flat," notes Joie V. Another camper adds, "It takes about 20 minutes from the main road to the campground, and the road is gravel with some pot holes."
Generator regulations: Campground policies vary regarding generator use and quiet hours. Specific rules may apply even during regular daytime hours at some locations, particularly during peak season. Most state forest campgrounds maintain stricter noise limitations compared to private facilities.
