RV camping near Boyne Falls, Michigan spans across Antrim and Charlevoix counties where the Boyne River flows through scenic hardwood forests. Winter temperatures can drop below zero while summer averages 75-80°F with frequent evening thunderstorms in July. Most campgrounds in this region sit between 600-900 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort provides direct trail access for ATV enthusiasts. "Access right to trails. Only 10 mins from the great wine tasting!!" notes Jason C., highlighting the convenient location for both outdoor recreation and leisure activities.
Paddling opportunities: Lake Leelanau RV Park offers water recreation options on their protected lake. "Lake Leelanau is a large enough lake to spend the day exploring, but protected enough for swimming, kayaking, small sailboats, and paddle boarding," shares Shari G., who particularly recommends checking out nearby Cedar for additional kayaking.
Wine tasting tours: Many Petoskey RV Resort guests use the campground as a base for exploring regional wineries. The Leelanau Peninsula features over 20 wineries within a 15-20 minute drive, with several tasting rooms offering seasonal harvest events between August and October.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The campground bathrooms at Lake Leelanau RV Park receive consistent praise. "The bathroom here is VERY clean and updated - much nicer than most campgrounds," writes Allison H., while another camper notes, "Each family bathroom includes a toilet, sink, and shower."
Family-friendly activities: Starlight Campground and RV Park organizes themed weekends with scheduled events. "They have an app you can download and do everything from ordering firewood and ice to seeing what's going on during their theme weekends. They kept my kids busy while still allowing for relaxing time," explains Victoria S.
Central location: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "This was a good spot for a two night stay as it's close to the Sleeping Bear National Dunes and also many local wineries," reports Robert T. about Wild Cherry RV Resort, emphasizing the strategic positioning for day trips.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at most parks, especially lakefront sites. "We were searching for a super last minute campground near Traverse City for Memorial Weekend and everything within a quick drive seemed booked," shares Holly Jo J. about Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
Site considerations: Ground conditions vary widely between parks. "Site is gravel and dirt. It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling," mentions Hope C. about Kalkaska RV Park, adding details about hookup placement challenges requiring extensions.
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks have limited operating seasons. Indian River RV Resort runs from April to October, while Wild Cherry RV Resort operates May 1 through October 31. Only a handful of parks offer winter camping options in the Boyne Falls area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds provide structured recreation options. "Great mix of activities for the kids. Big park but felt small, no problems with traffic and golf carts like we have experienced at other 'resort' style campgrounds," reports Chris M. about Timber Ridge, which offers a jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, and crafts.
Swimming options: Indian River RV Resort maintains a heated swimming pool popular with families. "Very kid-friendly, including a large playground, a large heated swimming pool, plus volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, basketball and pickleball courts," writes Ron and Mary C., noting these amenities keep children entertained throughout their stay.
Quiet hours enforcement: Most parks strictly enforce quiet hours beginning at 10 or 11 PM. "The campground is very quiet. Even with families and dogs it's very peaceful and relaxing. The vibe is contagious and all the neighbors are friendly and considerate," explains one Indian River RV Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies between parks. At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, campers note: "Site is gravel and dirt. It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling." Another visitor had a different experience: "The camp sites are a nice firm gravel and pretty level. We didn't even have to use leveling blocks."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement when booking. "The hookups are rather far away so we needed extensions," reports one RVer about their experience with a 40-foot motorcoach, while another mentioned, "The water, sewer, and electric were all placed appropriately in the site so no extended hoses were needed."
Premium site benefits: Upgraded sites often provide easier access and additional amenities. "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers," shares one Wild Cherry RV Resort visitor, recommending spending extra for premium sites with concrete patios during peak season.