Dispersed camping options near Benzonia, Michigan include both public and private sites located in Benzie County's mix of forests and lakefront areas. The region sits at elevations between 580-900 feet with sandy soil that drains well after rain. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while winter camping faces average lows of 15-30°F with significant snowfall.
What to do
Beach access at Lake Michigan: Betsie River Campsite places campers within 3 miles of Frankfort's Lake Michigan beaches. "A short bike ride on the bike trail leads to the cute town of Frankfort. Nice sites and clean bathrooms," notes a visitor to Betsie River Campsite. The paved trail provides direct access for cyclists and hikers.
Fishing opportunities: Northern Exposure Campground offers river access for anglers. "The Betsie river runs behind the campground. Wildlife is present in area. Beautiful," according to one camper at Northern Exposure Campground. The campground includes a fish cleaning station for those who catch their limit.
Kayaking and canoeing: Turtle Lake Campground provides water recreation without Lake Michigan crowds. A reviewer explains, "There is a small lake that is fun for short kayak/canoe rides and fishing. It's called Turtle Lake for obvious reasons- when my kids went fishing, they pulled up large snapping turtles both times."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms in the area. At Northern Exposure Campground, a visitor notes: "This campground has the cleanest restroom/shower facilities of any campground I have been to. Also the staff is very friendly and helpful."
Family-friendly amenities: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort receives praise for its numerous activities. "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."
Unique yurt accommodations: Camp Squid Off The Grid offers distinctive glamping options. A reviewer shares: "Kendra and her team have created a unique glamping experience in northern Michigan. They have thoughtfully designed spaces that are comfortable and fun. There is so much to explore in the local area."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds pack sites closely together. A reviewer at Orchard Beach State Park cautions: "Unfortunately, the sites are as compact and close together as possible. I usually enjoy the aroma of a campfire, but in the evening if all the sites are full, a smogtacular smoke cloud hovers over this campground."
Beach access challenges: Water levels affect beach availability. "Due to high waters the past few years there is no beach. This is still a family favorite and perfect if you want to go into Manistee," explains a camper at Orchard Beach State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options near Benzonia require advance booking. At Duck Lake Campground, a visitor advises: "Park Staff at check-in are 6/5. Incredibly helpful. Let me do a drive by of the site to check if I would fit, and stalled someone on the phone who called about that last site while I checked it out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Duck Lake Campground offers child-friendly water access. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the buoy markers for the swimming area," notes a recent camper, adding that "the sandy soil seems to be keeping the mosquito population in check."
Off-site activities: When staying near Benzonia, day trips enhance the experience. A visitor at Timber Ridge reports: "Location is good, as it can be a jumping off point to explore Traverse City and the surrounding area."
Campground sizes: Consider your preference for small vs. large settings. A camper at Holiday Park Campground explains: "Campground has lake access on silver lake, very nice. Rented a pontoon boat from an outside company and spent the day on the beautiful lake. Staff is friendly and helpful."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "Campsites - be prepared to deal with sloping ground," warns a camper at Duck Lake Campground.
Hookup access: Holiday Park Campground offers full services for RVs. "Campground is beautiful. We had an elevated firepit patio, malibu lights it was so cool. Gravel and level sites," shares an RVer, noting the bathroom was "exceptionally CLEAN."
Off-season options: Some facilities remain open during shoulder seasons. "We were here off season, daily rate was $40," reports an RVer at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, noting they found plenty of activities still operating including "zip line, pool, walking trail, lake."
