Rv sites near Cross Village, Michigan, sit along Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline in Emmet County, with most campgrounds located within a 30-mile radius of this small village. The terrain alternates between wooded inland areas and coastal sites with direct water access. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain that can create muddy access roads to some campsites.
What to do
Stargazing at Wilderness State Park Camping: The park offers exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities from the beach area. "If you want to explore some gorgeous dark night skies in Northern Michigan, I suggest checking it out!" according to Amy G. The park has designated dark sky areas perfect for meteor showers and northern lights viewing.
Visit Mackinac Island: Campers at Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping can easily access the island. "You buy your ferry tickets to Mackinaw Island at the camp store and it's 10 minutes to get there with boats leaving every 30 minutes. The island is amazing and worth a day of your life to ride around it on a bike and get some good food and fudge," notes Greg S.
Cycling on local trails: The Petoskey area offers excellent biking opportunities. The Petoskey KOA provides access to "Cycling dream trails" according to Geri Lynn P., with paved routes connecting Charlevoix to Harbor Springs running nearby.
What campers like
Beach access with bridge views: At Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping, waterfront sites provide dual benefits. "There is a beautiful grassy and rocky shoreline that is lined with fire pits for viewing the sunset and bridge lights in the evening. Very cool and communal in a good way," says Joe O., highlighting the popular evening gathering spots.
Private yurt accommodations: Tiki RV Park & Campground offers unique glamping options. "We decided to splurge on a yurt for our first camping trip of the summer. Well worth it! We stayed in 'Kai' one of the newest yurts. It's at the end of what we came to call 'the yurt village,'" shares Meaghan G., describing amenities including electricity, indoor/outdoor lights, and coffee supplies.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds prioritize maintenance. At Indian River RV Resort, campers appreciate the upkeep: "This is a nice family-friendly campground. We appreciated that they squeezed us in on a weekend, short notice! Although busy, it was very quiet at night and we slept well... We used the campground showers and they were clean and well maintained," reports Tracy K.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Cross Village operate from May to October. Wilderness State Park Camping is an exception, operating "All year" according to their listing, though winter camping options are limited.
Site selection matters: At Lakeshore Park Campground, waterfront sites vary significantly. "We traveled with two other families and chose to stay on the Lake View (Mackinaw Bridge not visible). For our families these were the best sites because they are on the water with beach sand. If you choose to stay on the side with the bridge view the shore line is rocky," advises Bryan R.
Reservations essential: Given the popularity of the area, advance booking is critical. At Mill Creek, one camper noted: "We booked last minute and didn't have many sites to choose from as this place is popular!" The best waterfront sites at most campgrounds fill months in advance, particularly for summer weekends and holidays.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping offers extensive recreation options. "They have everything here- huge playground, pool, beach, great store, lots to do," notes Greg S., making it suitable for extended family stays.
Consider cabin options for beginners: For families new to camping, Petoskey KOA offers comfortable alternatives. "We've chosen to rent a cabin. Simple yet clean. I'm a bit fussy about having a firm mattress; no problem, I brought a firm air mattress to put over their marine covered like mattress," shares Arch M.
Check event schedules: Some campgrounds host special family events. "We were here for the halloween weekend. They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest," reports Craig F. about seasonal activities at Petoskey KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: At Tiki RV Park, Doug A. advises: "Most of the sites are partially shaded and fairly spacious. We stayed in site 32 which worked out perfectly for our 36' trailer." However, site specifications often vary within the same campground, making research essential.
Premium site options: For longer stays, consider Petoskey RV Resort which offers upgraded amenities. "Nice campground, cement pads at each site. Nice staff. Close to Petoskey," notes Tom M. Many premium sites include concrete/paved pads that remain level during wet weather.
Rig-specific considerations: For larger motorhomes, Indian River RV Resort provides helpful arrival assistance. "Owners lead you to your site and assist getting your rig lined up with water/sewer connections," shares Eric C., noting the park is "Very nice, clean, and well maintained."
