Camping spots near Beulah, Michigan concentrate around the Benzie County area where the elevation ranges from 580 to 840 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for both lakeside and forested camping experiences. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically closing by mid-October as overnight temperatures can drop into the low 40s by late September. The area's glacial topography creates numerous small lakes and river access points within short driving distances.
What to do
Salmon watching and kayaking: During late summer at Platte River State Forest, visitors can experience the unique phenomenon of salmon runs. "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" notes Joyce B. who visited Platte River Campground, adding that the river is "winding and fast moving" for kayakers.
Bike trail access: The paved trail system connecting multiple campgrounds provides car-free transportation options. At Betsie River Campsite, Chris W. describes the convenience: "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."
Night sky viewing: The region offers excellent dark sky viewing opportunities away from city lights. "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking," explains Nikki M. from Platte River Campground, while another camper at D.H. Day Campground reported, "We went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second."
What campers like
Large, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer spacious camping areas with natural separation. Chris G. notes about Platte River State Forest: "Big, spacious sites with tons of shade and quite. Our neighbors were far away and very quiet." Anne G. from Platte River Campground adds, "The sites in the three loops are nicely placed so that you have foliage and space between sites."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for their restrooms and shower facilities. Scott D. from Platte River Campground reports: "Bathroom facilities were excellent and clean. Firewood is available to purchase in the campground." At Kampvilla Park, a visitor noted, "Extremely clean bathrooms n showers. So much to do right here at the campground."
Water activities: Access to lakes and rivers ranks high for visitor satisfaction. Elizabeth G. from Interlochen State Park shares, "My family has been camping every summer at Interlochen for the past 25+ years. Some years swimmers itch can be a problem. We obviously cannot get enough of this place." The multiple water access points allow for fishing, swimming, and paddling within walking distance of campsites.
What you should know
Reservations essential: For prime summer weekends, booking well in advance is necessary. Kevin D. from D.H. Day Campground notes, "Very full on crappy weather Friday in early September," showing even off-peak times can be busy. For some locations like Platte River Campground, reservations must be made six months ahead for summer weekends.
Strict rules enforcement: Some campgrounds have rigorous rule enforcement. A visitor at Platte River Campground received warnings for minor infractions: "My uncle received a warning because his truck tire was two inches on the 'vegetation,' which was really the gravel next to the paved pad. There is also a fine of $125 if you leave food out or your fire unattended."
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. "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," reports Joyce B. Several campgrounds post warnings about ticks during summer months, requiring regular checks and repellent use.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with young children, some campgrounds offer better play facilities than others. Andrea B. from Platte River Campground shares: "The campround is wonderful. Most sites are very large, shaded, private and have level areas for tents or campers. My only 'complaint' is that once we had children there wasn't a playground for easy access to entertainment."
Beach quality considerations: Not all waterfront access points are equally child-friendly. At Turtle Lake Campground, a camper notes, "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."
Evening activities: Ranger programs provide educational opportunities for children. At D.H. Day Campground, Jeffrey R. mentioned, "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus," while another campground visitor noted that some locations run regular activities like "candy bar bingo" during summer evenings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RVers, campsite elevation and access can be challenging in some locations. A Platte River Campground visitor warns: "When you book, make sure you look at the pictures the website gives because some flat pads are a distance from the paved pad for your car/RV and some were up hill! The picnic tables are BOLTED to the ground rope so you cannot move them."
Hookup limitations: Electric service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground, Brad F. notes, "Full Hookup on back in and pull thru lots," while at Betsie River Campsite, Kristine E. cautions that "some sites only have 20 amp service," which may not support larger RV electrical needs.
Spacing concerns: RV sites can be tight at some locations despite seemingly large dimensions. A visitor to Indigo Bluffs RV Park observed: "The spaces are tight unless you get into the back rows set back sites. This is a terrific way to solve the tight spacing." For larger rigs, calling ahead to confirm actual dimensions is recommended, as some "pull through sites are VERY small."
