Camping options near Boyne Falls range from rustic state parks to full-service RV resorts within a 30-mile radius. Northern Michigan's forested hills and numerous lakes create diverse camping environments with elevations from 600-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 55-65°F at night, with higher humidity near lakeshores than inland sites.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Several campgrounds offer direct access to northern Michigan's trail systems. At Haakwood State Forest Campground, visitors appreciate the proximity to wildlife viewing areas. "This campground is right on the north central bike path and I came to this here for that easy access... The camp sites are spread out and many offer complete privacy," notes David C.
Lighthouse exploration: Located at the tip of Leelanau Peninsula, Leelanau State Park Campground offers access to a historic lighthouse. One camper shares, "Great park. Sites near water are great. Far enough away but close to town if needed," while another mentions, "Campground shares a common area with the light house, walking over to the lighthouse was a fun experience."
Water activities: Lake access proves popular at most area campgrounds. The beach at Otsego Lake County Park offers swimming and boating opportunities. A visitor describes it as having "sandy beach, updated playground and good boat launch," making it ideal for families wanting lake recreation without the crowds of larger parks.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer more secluded camping experiences than typical commercial facilities. At Haakwood State Forest Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Stayed in site 4. Very quiet and isolated from other camp spots. Fire ring and picnic table. Pit toilets and fresh water via hand pump."
Waterfront camping: Young State Park Campground offers premium sites with water views. "The Terrace and Oak loops have less sites and seem a little quieter. The other plus of these loops is the easy access to water (some of which have great water views)," explains one reviewer. Another notes, "Lake Charlevoix sunsets rival the Caribbean. Breathtaking."
Proximity to small towns: Location near charming northern Michigan communities adds appeal. According to a visitor at Magnus Park Campground, "Great location, right on the lake and awesome views. Also very convenient to North country Trail to ride or run up and down the Lakeshore on a paved path! Very close to town to walk in and see the sites."
What you should know
Busy summer season: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak months. A visitor to Young State Park advises, "Very nice beach and not far drive from Charlevoix. Very nice campground books up fast!" Reservations for luxury yurts and premium sites at popular campgrounds should be made 6-9 months in advance.
Varied shower facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies widely between campgrounds. At Magnus Park, visitors note "The shower house is decently clean, and for the price and location, I'm fine with it." Meanwhile, at Otsego Lake County Park, one camper points out, "The bathrooms and showers are old and not the best. There is no place for washing dishes and the camp sites do not have water hook up."
Cell service limitations: Rural locations often have spotty connectivity. A visitor to Burt Lake State Park mentions, "Horrible phone service...but, maybe that's a good thing ;)" Most campgrounds within 10 miles of Boyne Falls offer better coverage than those in more remote settings.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer better recreational facilities for children than others. At Gaylord KOA, families appreciate the activities: "While it was pricey at $65 night, we had a very spacious full hookup site within easy walking distance of pool. Shower house was very nice and modern, with 4 shower stalls."
Consider beach quality: Sandy beaches are preferable for families with young children. At Burt Lake State Park, a visitor notes, "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65! Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area." The shallow water at many lakefront campgrounds provides safer swimming for children.
Check noise levels: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours more strictly than others. A visitor to Otsego Lake County Park cautions, "The campground was nice. It needs to be patrolled though... They were partying till 2 in the morning and being very loud." Weekday camping typically offers a quieter experience than weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds have unique site configurations that affect RV parking. At Magnus Park, one RVer shares, "Sites large enough for our 42 ft motor home! Level, quiet, close to shopping and a nice walk/bike trail along the bay. Great area to relax and explore the area."
Utility connections: Electric hookups vary across campgrounds. A visitor to Young State Park explains, "All campsites are a mix of 20/30/50 amp or 20/30 amp with water spigots scattered throughout the loop. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for potential leveling issues at some sites. One RVer at Petoskey RV Resort notes, "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for many area campgrounds.
