Bellaire, Michigan camping areas sit within the Chain of Lakes region at approximately 600-700 feet elevation, featuring a mix of hardwood forests and lakefront access. Winter temperatures often drop below 20°F while summer averages hover in the mid-70s. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October, with several offering year-round accommodations through heated yurts and cabins.
What to do
Hiking trails near the water: Leelanau State Park Campground offers multiple trail options with varying difficulty levels. "Hiking is available in the park, and kayak and bike rentals are available in Leland," notes Kenneth K., who enjoyed the quiet waterfront tent sites.
Fishing on Intermediate Lake: Thurston Park Campground provides direct access for anglers. "There is a boat launch conveniently located next to the campground," shares Stephen K., who appreciated the easy water access for fishing activities.
Winter recreation: Leelanau State Park Campground remains open year-round with trails suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Mary H. describes it as "remote, rustic and the lakefront is scrubby and unspoiled," making it ideal for winter exploration.
Wine tasting tours: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort provides convenient access to local wineries. "Only 10 mins from Torch lake, 5min from the bay, and 30min to WINERIES (which we visited on a rainy day when we couldn't swim)," shares Sarah L.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Whitewater Township Park offers well-separated camping spots overlooking Elk Lake. "Amazing hidden gem. If you are looking for a no-frills secluded campground with spaced out campsites and beautiful views this is the place for you," explains cheyanne P.
Clean facilities: Whitewater Township Park Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "They do a great job maintaining and improving site each year. Their bathrooms are very clean daily," notes Zebadee.
Family activities: Timber Ridge provides numerous organized activities for children. "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," describes Allison H.
Privacy between sites: Wild Cherry RV Resort features well-designed site spacing. "Sites were well-spaced, and we LOVED the area. Our site was a pull-in that faced a large pond on a corner that overlooked a four-acre lake," reports Nancy W.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Whitewater Township Park fills quickly during peak season. "Reservations are first come first serve and aren't taken until early April. So book early," advises Jennifer B.
Limited bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds have fewer amenities than expected. "There is no swimming pool, no tennis courts, no shuffleboard, no fitness center, no playground, in fact there were not even bathrooms/showers (except for porta john and tent shower in the rustic camping section)," explains Nancy W. about Wild Cherry RV Resort.
Wildlife encounters: Leelanau State Park Campground has active wildlife. "Perfect views, secluded sites and hilariously aggressive squirrels," warns Mark L., suggesting campers secure food properly.
Weather variability: Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially in spring and fall. "We were lucky and found an open site but they filled up by mid afternoon. Reservations might be the best way to go here," recommends Art S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Young State Park Campground offers extensive recreational facilities. "The park covers 560 acres which encompasses a campground, hiking trails, a large beach area with concessions, boat launch, picnic area, playground, baseball diamond, basketball courts, and fishing pier," details Nancy W.
Yurt options for beginners: Yurt camping near Bellaire, Michigan provides a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. "We spent six weeks at this park for the last 6 years. We attend a horse show circuit near by. It is the creme de la creme of RV parks," shares Jill B. about Traverse Bay RV Resort.
Water activities: Timber Ridge offers diverse water experiences suitable for different age groups. "There is a lot for the kids to do and we never really left the campground the 2 weekend we camped here. The pool is clean. Kids loved the activities they had scheduled," reports Cassondra P.
Quiet campgrounds: Hartwick Pines provides a more peaceful family environment. "This park is very quiet and peaceful. Many family's love how quiet and restful it can be," notes Valerie W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Whitewater: Whitewater Township Park Campground has specific sites with better views. "Get site 7, 8, or 9 for an unobstructed view of the lake," recommends Sarah L.
Full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete services. "Some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I've seen," mentions debra S. about Hartwick Pines State Park Campground.
Pay shower systems: Some facilities require quarters for showers. "This is a township campground and does NOT get funding from The state so there are lots of little fees and also the showers are quarter operated (7 min per 25cents)," explains Sarah L. about Whitewater Township Park.
Seasonal accessibility: Yurt camping options in Bellaire provide year-round accommodations with varying amenities. "We visited this campground in the summer but in talking to locals this place is wonderful in the winter and great for cross-country skiing with trails that wind through wooded areas," shares Nancy W.
