Campgrounds near Beulah, Michigan offer diverse camping experiences within Michigan's northwestern Lower Peninsula. Located at approximately 800 feet above sea level, this area experiences warm summers and cold winters with lake effect snow. Camping options range from rustic forest sites to modern facilities with full hookups, with many campgrounds situated near natural attractions including lakes, forests, and dunes.
What to Do
Kayaking and tubing: The Platte River provides excellent opportunities for water recreation. At Platte River Campground, "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking," reports Nikki M. Another visitor shared a unique experience: "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!"
Beach access: Many campgrounds provide routes to Lake Michigan beaches. At D.H. Day Campground, campers appreciate the "stunning views of the lake which is just a short hike from the campsites," according to Halie C. The campground features a "boardwalk to the beach," notes Jeffrey R., making water access convenient for all visitors.
Bike trails: Paved trails connect several campgrounds to nearby towns. 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."
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping spots. Anne G. from Platte River Campground says, "The 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." At Platte River State Forest, campers enjoy "huge sites, lots of room between sites. Most are shaded."
Clean facilities: Modern restrooms and showers are available at most established campgrounds. Kevin M. reports being "very surprised to find there are free showers available and they were actually warm!" Scott D. adds that "Bathroom facilities were excellent and clean. Firewood is available to purchase in the campground."
Wildlife viewing: Natural surroundings provide opportunities to see local fauna. Joyce B. mentions that campers at Platte River Campground "were 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."
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer. One reviewer advises, "Reservations are extremely hard to get for this park. If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!"
Weather considerations: Conditions can change rapidly near Lake Michigan. Bug protection is essential during warm months, with one camper noting: "Bring bug spray! The ticks are bad this year and we heard several people in the park talking about having a tick on them."
Site selection: When booking online, carefully review site specifications. At Empire Township Campground, "Some pull through sites are VERY small so be careful when you book your reservation." Another camper adds, "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!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Turtle Lake Campground, Ann D. appreciates that "this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting and offers a nice playground." She adds, "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt."
Swimming options: Pools and lake swimming areas provide water recreation. At Kampvilla Park, one camper notes the pool is "chemically checked several times a day and it was so nice." Another adds that "the kids loved the pool and the space to ride bikes."
Entertainment during inclement weather: Some campgrounds offer indoor options. Amy Y. reports that at Kampvilla, "The 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: Check specific electricity options when booking. Mountain Valley Lodge offers "Full Hookup on back in and pull thru lots," according to Brad F., while Interlochen State Park has differing levels of service in various sections.
Site spacing: Some RV parks have closer sites than others. At Timberline Campground, Bill R. notes that "site's are a little close but very clean," while at Mountain Valley Lodge, Liz E. appreciates the "large well maintained" sites that are spacious.
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds. Steve L. mentions that at Timberline, campers are "tucked into some mature shade trees," providing protection from summer heat and enhancing the camping experience.
Legend
