Best Campgrounds near Charlevoix, MI

Camping near Charlevoix, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more modern campground, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds are close to stunning beaches. For instance, at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "The beach is sandy with plenty of cool rocks for rock hunting." This makes it a great spot for families who enjoy beachcombing.
• Visit nearby attractions: If you're near Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA, you can easily access the ferries to Mackinac Island. One reviewer said, "There is a nature trail that you can take your bike that leads you to the North Western State Trail."
• Hiking and nature walks: Campgrounds like Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offer trails that connect to beautiful natural areas. A visitor noted, "There's also a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Straits State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
• Secluded sites: Many campers enjoy the privacy offered by certain campgrounds. A visitor at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground mentioned, "Each site is secluded and there are about 10 sites that are directly on Lake Michigan."
• Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Traverse City State Park Campground, one camper noted, "The front desk was very nice and helpful."

What you should know:

• Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or activities. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a walk over bridge, so you don’t have to cross the road! But the park is right next to a busy road and near an airport, so it was a little noisy."
• Booking in advance: Popular sites fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Wilderness State Park Camping advised, "Book early to get a campsite on the beach!"
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like D.H. Day Group Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper mentioned, "It's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. The Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA has a playground and swimming pool, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "Lots of activities for the kids and a shuttle to the ferry."
• Pack for the beach: Bring beach toys and snacks for a fun day by the water. A camper at Petoskey State Park Campground shared, "The beach is awesome! Will be back to spend more than one night."
• Plan for quiet time: Some campgrounds can get noisy, so be prepared with activities for kids during quiet hours. A visitor at Wilderness State Park Camping noted, "The crowd that this park attracts blatantly ignores quiet time rules."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground's site dimensions. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground mentioned, "The spots are very small and you have to park sideways."
• Look for full hookups: If you prefer more amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. At Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA, one reviewer said, "We had Full hook-up with a gravel pull-through."
• Be ready for tight spaces: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A visitor at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA noted, "The sites are tight, particularly the inside pull throughs."

Camping near Charlevoix, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!