Northern Michigan's Chain of Lakes region surrounding Central Lake sits between 600-700 feet above sea level, with interconnected waterways offering multiple camping access points. Campgrounds in this area experience typical seasonal fluctuations, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months. The region's geography features a mix of sandy shorelines and wooded areas with predominantly pine and maple trees.
What to do
Boat launch access: Whitewater Township Park provides direct access to Elk Lake with a convenient boat ramp. "Nice bathrooms. This park is situated up on a hill on beautiful Elk Lake. Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used," notes Ann D.
Hunt for Petoskey stones: Fisherman's Island State Park offers six miles of Lake Michigan shoreline perfect for collecting these unique fossils. "This is a 'must-go-to' state park! The shoreline is spectacular. If you can, get a campsite right on the water, you won't be disappointed and be sure to look out for Petoskey Stones as your walk the shoreline, there are tons!" advises Ashlyn K.
Downtown Boyne City exploration: Young State Park places you minutes from local attractions. "The pros about this park are the easy access to Lake Charlevoix and being just a few miles from Boyne City (which has a great weekly farmers market, delicious food and beer at 7 Monks Tap Room, and a weekly Friday 'Stroll the Streets' with live music)," shares Nancy W.
What campers like
Beach access: Barnes County Park Campground features direct Lake Michigan shorelines with easy water access. "Beautiful park on the shore of Lake Michigan. Great for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a distance. Ring road through the park is quiet enough to bike around, and they are many hiking paths to choose from," explains Rachel M.
Spacious waterfront sites: Whitewater Township Park campers appreciate the generous spacing between campsites. "If you are looking for a no-frills secluded campground with spaced out campsites and beautiful views this is the place for you. It does not have a lot of extras but for a peaceful camping trip it has everything you need," notes cheyanne P.
Hammock-friendly terrain: Many wooded campgrounds in the area provide ideal setups for hammock camping. "We just visited this campground this past weekend and it was beautiful! I loved the clear blue water down the big dropoff hill and how heavily wooded this entire park was. Made it perfect for hammock camping!" shares Kelsey P.
What you should know
Seasonal pricing variations: Expect varying costs depending on campground and amenities. "I paid $36 a night to tent camp, and in my experienced opinion, that is absurd! Nevertheless had a great time here!" reports Mark N. about Barnes County Park.
Rustic facilities at some parks: Leelanau State Park Campground offers minimal amenities but exceptional views. "Stayed here on a chilly late September weekend with very few other campers around. Loved it. It's remote, rustic and the lakefront is scrubby and unspoiled. We had one of the waterfront sites and could hear the shore sounds all through the night," shares Mary H.
Pay showers at township parks: Unlike state parks, township-managed facilities may have additional fees. "This is a township campground and does NOT get funding from The state so there are lots of little fees and also the showers are quarter operated (7 min per 25cents). But its well worth the money because they keep it very well cleaned and updated bathrooms," explains Sarah L.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly areas: Chain-O-Lakes Campground provides multiple recreational options. "Chain O'Lakes Park has it all: trails to hike, horses to ride, boats to row, and fish to catch! After an adventure-packed day, you can return to your nearby campsite for some rest and relaxation," suggests Brett F.
Walking distance to ice cream: Thurston Park Campground puts families within easy reach of treats. "Located on Intermediate lake within walking distance of a grocery store and a ice cream parlor that servers Moomers ice cream. Facilities are basic, but the town is charming and offers a lot of summer activities outdoors," mentions Rachel M.
Safe swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature protected beach areas appropriate for younger children. "Young State Park was a quiet gem of a campground for us. The facilities were clean and the grounds themselves were a pleasure to walk around. The camp store was the best stocked one I've seen yet," reports Cory W.
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Traverse City State Park Campground accommodates various RV sizes but requires planning. "Sites are small and pretty close together but shaded with electric at site (134) and centrally located bathhouse with hot water and well kept. Dish washing station available," advises Colleen S.
Pet-friendly campgrounds near Central Lake: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Central Lake have specific site recommendations for pet owners. "Super quiet, right on the beach with a path beside our site. Dogs welcome here but the bummer was that they aren't allowed on their beach at all. Would def come back!!" notes Erin about Barnes Park Campground.
Seasonal site availability: The most desirable RV sites book quickly during peak seasons. "Site 69 was large enough for our class C 31ft motorhome, didn't take much to level. It did rain pretty hard plus wind and with lots of trees many branches and such on top of our rig afterwards. That doesn't bother me but if it bothers you, you may want another place being this has lots of trees," suggests Clint G.
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