Camping sites near Benzonia, Michigan range from rustic forest campgrounds to developed lakeside facilities within a 25-mile radius. This area sits at elevations between 600-800 feet and experiences average summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most area campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter camping options due to snowfall that can exceed 120 inches annually.
What to Do
River activities: Platte River offers excellent kayaking opportunities near Platte River Campground. "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking. We have our favorite site too!" notes Nikki M. The river provides both relaxed paddling and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Swimming: Green Lake at Green Lake Rustic South provides beach access with volleyball areas. The campground features "large, shaded, private" sites according to Andrea B., who also mentions "many areas to hike, fish or tube down a river nearby."
Cycling: Several campgrounds connect to regional bike paths. At Betsie River Campsite, Chris W. notes, "There is a paved trail that runs by the campground, and it's less than a 3 mile walk/bike ride to downtown Frankfort and the lakeshore, which has a ton of things to do."
Fishing: Fall salmon runs create unique fishing opportunities. Joyce B. from Platte River Campground recommends: "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" Multiple campgrounds offer fish cleaning stations for successful anglers.
What Campers Like
Spacious campsites: Platte River State Forest receives high marks for site size. "Very secluded and peaceful. Clean bathrooms and friendly staff," notes Bryan S. Chris G. adds, "Our neighbors were far away and very quiet. Pit toilets were cleaned more than once a day during our stay."
Clean facilities: Kampvilla Park maintains exceptional cleanliness standards. Karen B. comments, "Extremely clean bathrooms n showers. So much to do right here at the campground." Another camper mentions "great pool and real nice event room. Nice clean bathhouses, and one family bathhouse."
Beach access: Despite Lake Michigan's popularity, inland lakes offer less crowded alternatives. D.H. Day Campground features "a short boardwalk to the beach" according to Jeffrey R., who adds that "the amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus."
Privacy: Several campgrounds feature wooded sites that provide natural screening. Anne G. from Platte River Campground appreciates that "sites in the three loops are nicely placed so that you have foliage and space between sites but also close enough for larger groups to spread out."
What You Should Know
Campsite availability: Reservations are essential, particularly for holiday weekends. Stephanie C. advises about Platte River Campground: "If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!" This applies to most area campgrounds during summer.
Bear awareness: Bears occasionally visit campgrounds in the area. Joyce B. mentions, "Was told a black bear visits the campgrounds at least once a week, but is not much a nuisance as long as campers store their food in the car." Several campgrounds enforce strict rules about food storage.
Park regulations: D.H. Day Campground enforces specific rules about vegetation protection. Be aware that rangers monitor compliance closely, and fines can reach $125 for infractions like leaving food out or unattended fires.
Water conditions: Some lakes in the area have reported cases of swimmer's itch. At Interlochen State Park, Sherrie P. notes: "The sites are not real big, and all dirt. Not quiet time enforced. And swimmers itch in the lake."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground, Liz E. notes, "Our kids loved the pool and the space to ride bikes." The campground also offers "a nice park for the kids, and nice spacious lots."
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities. Taylor D. appreciates D.H. Day Campground for its "quiet park, quiet beaches, beautiful views," mentioning that "going into Glen Arbor is fun and checking out all the different parts of Sleeping Bear is a treat."
Protection from elements: Screening is important for comfort. Katie D. from Platte River Campground cautions, "Even after applying a ton of bug spray we felt like we were getting eaten alive on the trail." Consider bringing canopy tents for additional protection.
Indoor options: For rainy days, campgrounds with indoor facilities are valuable. Amy Y. appreciates that Kampvilla Park's "indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Indigo Bluffs RV Park offers full hookups but site spacing varies. Matt M. notes, "The 'backroads' sites are very close together. Disappointing for the cost." Consider requesting specific site numbers when booking.
Site size realities: Some RV parks advertise large sites but have limitations. Jeff G. advises, "The spaces are tight unless you get into the back rows set back sites. This is a terrific way to solve the tight spacing."
Campground accessibility: Road conditions affect larger rigs. Scott D. from Platte River Campground appreciates the "really nice paved camping sites with fire pits and tables," adding that "sites not too close to each other."
Local service availability: Limited dump stations means planning ahead. Kampvilla Park receives praise for its comprehensive services, with Chris R. noting, "Spacious, level sites. Great family atmosphere! Very clean and well kept. Close to every kind of recreation you can think of."
