RV camping near Cedar, Michigan offers travelers direct access to the Leelanau Peninsula's recreational opportunities. Most campgrounds in this area operate from May through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak season. Sites around Cedar provide access to inland lakes and Lake Michigan beaches within 15-20 minutes of driving distance.
What to Do
Trail access for ORVs: Manton Trails RV Park provides direct ORV trail access from campsites. "It's really handy to not have to trailer over to the trailheads. Quiet, big spaces, huge bathhouse," notes one visitor who extended their stay to enjoy the convenience.
Fishing opportunities: Honcho Rest Campground sits on Bass Lake with access to larger bodies nearby. "Honcho Rest Campground is a little gem on Bass Lake in Elk Rapids, MI. The grounds are mostly well maintained and clean," shares a camper who enjoyed fishing from the property.
Water recreation: Multiple options exist for paddling and boating within 15 minutes of most campgrounds. "Lake Leelanau is a large enough lake to spend the day exploring, but protected enough for swimming, kayaking, small sailboats, and paddle boarding. Lots of great fishing, cycling, and hiking in the area, too," explains a reviewer.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Kampvilla Park receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "So very accommodating! Extremely clean bathrooms and showers. So much to do right here at the campground. Very visible and friendly," notes a camper who plans to return.
Spacious sites: Several RV parks offer larger sites than typically found in the region. "Our site was a pull-in that faced a large pond on a corner that overlooked a four-acre lake. We never had a neighbor on the site next to us during our stay and since we were on a large corner there was not much traffic," reports a Wild Cherry RV Resort visitor.
Access to attractions: Lake Leelanau RV Park serves as a central base for exploring. "The campground is located in the heart of wine country, with about 6 vineyards/wineries within 15-20 minutes (all with tasting rooms) and just a short drive to Leland's historic fishing village," explains a reviewer who appreciated the location.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (July-August), campsites book up to a year in advance at popular locations. "Because they are such a popular place to stay during the show (July - mid August), the sites book up a year in advance," warns a Traverse Bay RV Resort visitor.
Site differences: Indigo Bluffs RV Park offers varied camping experiences. "This is a nice campground with many options, as far as campsites go. They have everything from basic tent sites to high end sites for newer Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels," explains a camper who appreciated the variety.
Campground policies: Several parks maintain strict requirements regarding vehicle types and behavior. "This park is limited to Class A, Fifth Wheels and Class C only. This park is dominated by big, very nice class A's," notes a Traverse Bay visitor who stayed for six weeks.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's amenities. "There are all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with. The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!" reports a Kampvilla camper.
Pool access: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers water options beyond the lakes. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family," explains a reviewer with children.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide structured activities throughout the season. "They have activities (it was candy bar bingo when we stayed), and the kids loved the pool!" notes a Kampvilla visitor who found the organized recreation beneficial.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Wild Cherry RV Resort provides well-positioned utilities. "The water, sewer, and electric were all placed appropriately in the site so no extended hoses were needed. There was no cable but sites are very open allowing for good satellite reception and we were able to get over a dozen antenna channels," explains an experienced RVer.
Site selection strategies: Consider layout when booking. "The spaces are tight unless you get into the back rows set back sites. This is a terrific way to solve the tight spacing," advises an Indigo Bluffs camper who found the right spot for more privacy.
Seasonal considerations: "Our site was $65.63 a night. (This was the average after receiving one night free for staying a week)," reports a Vista Green RV Resort visitor, noting that weekly rates provide significant savings during extended stays.