Campgrounds surrounding Cedar, Michigan offer a blend of rustic and modern accommodations including yurt options. The area sits on the Leelanau Peninsula between Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay, with an elevation ranging from 580 to 860 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-80°F while fall brings cooler 45-60°F temperatures with vibrant foliage, making it ideal for extended camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking at Sleeping Bear Dunes: Access multiple trail systems ranging from easy 1.5-mile loops to challenging 4.3-mile dune climbs. Betsie River Campsite provides convenient access. "It's right on the local paved bike trail that goes into the town of Frankfort or out in the other direction. Easy for kids and adults alike," notes Allison H.
Winery tours: Visit multiple vineyards on Leelanau Peninsula within 15-20 minutes of camping areas. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers a central location. "Only 10 mins from the great wine tasting!!" shares Jason C., making it convenient for afternoon tastings.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Choose from small inland lakes to Lake Michigan beaches within 5-30 minutes of most campgrounds. "There is a small lake with fishing. There is an indoor pool & game room," explains Kathy C. about on-site options at Timber Ridge.
Lighthouse exploration: Visit operational lighthouses on the peninsula. "We walked over to the lighthouse. They give tours and have a camp store/gift shop," reports Art S. about facilities at Leelanau State Park.
What campers like
Lake access for various water activities: Holiday Park Campground offers both lake views and water access. "Holiday Park is along Silver Lake to swim, fish or rent a boat. Their is no reason to leave this paradise," according to George W., highlighting the convenience of on-site water recreation.
Clean, updated facilities: Modern bathrooms and showers are consistently maintained. "Bathrooms are super clean. Some spots are better than others. The newer section the trees are beginning to provide some shade," notes Patrick about Holiday Park Campground.
Variety of site types: From wooded tent sites to lake-view RV spots. "We went for the Halloween weekend. We had fun. The wooded sites were wonderful. Sites were stone and not muddy (it did rain)," reports Craig F., emphasizing the quality of sites regardless of weather conditions.
Family-focused amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "We really enjoyed this campground! There was a lot for the kids to do and we never really left the campground," shares Cassondra P. about scheduled events at family-oriented resorts.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season (June-August) requires booking 6+ months in advance for premium sites. Shoulder seasons (May/September) offer better availability.
Wildlife awareness: Leelanau State Park Campground has active wildlife. "Perfect views, secluded sites and hilariously aggressive squirrels," warns Mark L., suggesting proper food storage is essential.
Water conditions vary: Some lakes have seasonal water quality issues. "Beach is beautiful but has swimmers itch," cautions Joie V. about Duck Lake Campground, recommending checking with rangers about current conditions.
Bathroom availability: Facilities differ dramatically between campgrounds. "Wild Cherry RV Resort is called a 'resort' which is a little misleading because there are very few amenities. There is no swimming pool, no tennis courts, no shuffleboard, no fitness center, no playground, in fact there were not even bathrooms/showers," notes Nancy W.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Whitewater Township Park Campground offers basic play equipment. "The playground isn't much, but offers the kids a place to go," explains Ann D., suggesting bringing additional activities for younger children.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Choose campgrounds with dedicated trails suitable for various ages. "There are hiking trails nearby and the campground is about 15 minutes away from the quaint town of Elk Rapids and a very touristy Traverse City," shares Ann D. about Whitewater Township's location advantages.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events during summer months. "We were here for the Halloween weekend. We had fun. There were a lot of play grounds as well," reports Craig F. about special weekend programming at Turtle Lake.
Beach considerations: Select shallow-water beaches for younger children. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area," explains Edward C. about Duck Lake's swimming area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Traverse City KOA provides well-maintained sites. "Long, level, pull through. A lot of wonderful things to say - but you'll have to see for yourself!" shares Lisa D., highlighting the convenience for larger rigs.
Hookup placement: Water and electric connections vary by campground. "Our site was a full hookup but had one small issue where the drain dump was slightly uphill from the camper, so we had to work with the drain hose to empty tanks," explains Robert T. about site planning at Wild Cherry RV Resort.
Space considerations: RV sites have varying privacy levels. "The sites are beautiful and spacious. The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake. We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend," advises Sarah S. about selecting optimal positioning at Whitewater Township Park.
Road access: Some campgrounds have limited maneuvering space. "My husband loved this place because most of the sites are pull-through ones. The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long," reports Michelle S. about accessibility at Timber Ridge.
