Northern Michigan's Charlevoix region sits at the intersection of Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, with elevation ranging from 580-700 feet above sea level. The area experiences heavy winter snowfall averaging 125 inches annually, while summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F. Fall camping brings spectacular foliage displays with significantly reduced mosquito activity compared to peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Wilderness State Park Camping offers extensive trail networks with varying difficulty. "The views and trails are beautiful, local towns are super cute and easy to get to," notes one visitor who stayed at a nearby park. Some trails connect directly to beach areas for mid-hike swimming opportunities.
Beach combing beyond Petoskey stones: While many visitors focus on Petoskey stones, the shoreline offers diverse geological finds. "The beach is really nice and looks like the ocean. The water is very clear and has lots of small colorful pebbles and Petoskey rocks," reports one camper at Petoskey State Park Campground.
Dark sky viewing: Wilderness State Park Camping is recognized for exceptional stargazing. "If you want to explore some gorgeous dark night skies in Northern Michigan, I suggest checking it out!" writes a reviewer. The park officially opened a dark sky viewing area, with one camper noting it's "Best star gazing in the LP."
Local food exploration: Boyne City, just minutes from Young State Park Campground, offers excellent dining options. "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)" according to one reviewer who appreciated the park's proximity to town.
What campers like
Waterfront camping opportunities: Fisherman's Island State Park Campground features lakeside sites with natural sound barriers. "We got a site right on Lake Michigan and it was amazing. Rocky beach access, wave sounds lulling me to sleep, view of the lake sunset from my fire," writes one camper. Sites 76 and above are positioned away from the cement factory noise.
Well-maintained shower facilities: Despite high usage during peak season, many dog friendly campgrounds near Charlevoix maintain clean facilities. "The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and in working order and just a short walk from any site," notes a visitor to Petoskey State Park Campground, while another mentioned shower buildings were "toasty in the cool October night."
Spacious sites at certain campgrounds: Leelanau State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "Very beautiful in the fall with outstanding forest hiking south of campground," writes one visitor. Another notes, "Our site had nice distance between the next camp but others are closer together. We had lots of room- enough so that the dog didn't even get disturbed by other campers."
Fall camping experiences: The Charlevoix area transforms in autumn. "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," shares a Leelanau State Park visitor. Another camper notes "Absolutely beautiful fall colors throughout the campground!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront sites fill months in advance. "You have to reserve your spot early in the year for summer camping near the water but sometimes luck out with one or two days open," advises an experienced Fisherman's Island visitor. Off-season camping offers more flexibility but reduced services.
Pet restrictions vary by beach area: While most campgrounds welcome dogs, beach access policies differ. At Barnes County Park Campground, "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." Always check specific pet policies before arriving.
Rustic camping limitations: Some campgrounds offer minimal facilities. "Pit toilets only as I recall," mentions one Leelanau camper. Another notes that Fisherman's Island has "no electric, scattered water spigots, and pit toilets." Plan accordingly with appropriate supplies.
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons and other wildlife can be problematic. One camper warns, "raccoons are insane! They are not afraid of anything. We were very good about putting everything away so we only had them visit our site a few times but the dumpster is full of them. They will walk right up to you."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Young State Park Campground offers comprehensive recreation options. "The park has a large beach area with concessions, boat launch, picnic area, playground, baseball diamond, basketball courts, and fishing pier," details one reviewer. Multiple activity options help keep children entertained.
Water safety considerations: Some lakefront sites require extra vigilance. At Leelanau, a camper advises, "Those with small kiddos may want to opt for interior site as lake sites are RIGHT ON THE WATER." Always supervise children near water.
Halloween camping events: Special seasonal programs create memorable experiences. "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun," shares a Wilderness State Park visitor. Another camper at Petoskey KOA describes, "They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest."
Family-friendly beaches: Sandy beaches with gradual entry points work best for young swimmers. "Perfect for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a distance. Ring road through the park is quiet enough to bike around," notes a Barnes Park visitor describing the safe swimming conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Petoskey KOA offers guidance for larger vehicles. "Be sure when you book that you put down the correct size of your rig as they have site management down to a science," advises one RVer. This helps ensure appropriate placement.
Low-hanging branch awareness: When navigating wooded campgrounds, clearance becomes critical. At Fisherman's Island, "Some of the sites say they will fit a 40' RV but be careful as roads are narrow and there are low-hanging tree limbs," cautions an experienced camper.
RV leveling challenges: Concrete pads may require adjustments. One RVer reports, "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers." Bring proper leveling equipment and wheel chocks for stability.
Generator restrictions: Policies vary between pet friendly campgrounds around Charlevoix. One RVer noted, "Quiet hours are after 10pm-8am so technically we could run it all day, understanding the desire for the nature noises we limited it." Always check specific campground rules regarding generator use before planning your stay.
