Camping around Cross Village, Michigan concentrates near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan with several notable public access sites. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 600 feet above sea level, with sandy soil composition in many camping areas. Winter temperatures typically drop to 15-20°F, while summer camping season brings average highs of 75-80°F with higher humidity levels than inland locations.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: At Wilderness State Park, the night sky viewing is exceptional. "Best star gazing in the LP," notes Ted B., who recommends the park's dark sky area. Another camper mentions, "If you want to explore some gorgeous dark night skies in Northern Michigan, I suggest checking it out!"
Petoskey stone hunting: Along Lake Michigan shorelines, these distinctive fossilized corals are abundant. "The beach was really nice and looks like the ocean. The water is very clear and has lots of small colorful pebbles and Petoskey rocks. We enjoyed walking up and down the beach looking for these fossils," reports John K. from Petoskey State Park Campground.
Cycling trails: The region offers extensive paved paths connecting coastal towns. "There is a great paved biking trail located nearby that runs from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs," notes Nancy W. Another camper adds, "You are really close by way of a walking trail to town and the marina for boating or just to grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the historical town."
Northern lights viewing: During peak aurora seasons, lakeside camping provides front-row views. "I made a spontaneous trip up towards Mackinac to catch a view of the northern lights. Wilderness State Park has fantastic beach sites all along the water that offer great views," explains Chris F.
What campers like
Waterfront site privacy: Campers appreciate the natural buffers between lakeside sites. At Fisherman's Island State Park Campground, "even though we had a camper at the site next to ours it was still very private because of all the trees in between. Waking up to the sound of crashing waves was so relaxing," reports Magy C. Another reviewer mentions, "If you are lucky enough to score one of the dozen or so sites right on the water, you will be treated to easy beach access and beautiful sunsets over Lake Michigan."
Reasonable firewood costs: Many campgrounds offer affordable on-site firewood. "Firewood bundles are $4 in the campsite near the entrance," notes one Petoskey State Park visitor. At Fisherman's Island, "Firewood is sold in the park on an honor system and is available anytime. The price when we visited was $10/large plastic tote full or $4/bundle which we found very reasonable compared to other locations."
Ferry access: Several campgrounds provide convenient transportation to Mackinac Island. "They offer a free shuttle to mackinaw ferry. That was really helpful," says Nicole P. about Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA. At another campground, "the shuttle will pick you up if you want to go to Mackinac Island. The shuttle will take you directly to the ferry."
Fall camping atmosphere: Autumn brings spectacular colors and fewer crowds. "Fall camped here. First time and it lived up to all the good reviews! Absolutely beautiful fall colors throughout the campground!" shares Kathie M. about Fisherman's Island. Another camper adds, "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."
What you should know
Sandy access roads: Many rustic sites have challenging entry points. At French Farm Lake Rd, "Beware of sandy roads and make sure to scout before pulling in with your big rig. There is one opportunity to turn around via a parking lot of the right hand side when first entering French Lake Rd," advises Jef E. Another camper notes, "The sites are really wide, like really wide! But not very deep. Some were close to the neighbors in the rear."
Insect preparation: Biting insects are common during summer months. "Lots of bugs," notes one camper plainly. Another mentions, "And as per usual in the Midwest, bring plenty of mosquito and fly products. They weren't horrible at our campsite, but evening walks are definitely not happening again."
Campground crowding: Peak season brings high occupancy rates. "It is a very family-friendly park and you feel like every other site is having a family reunion with so many people at each site," shares one KOA visitor. Another camper noted, "Came in early September and it was pretty packed - gotta imagine it's even busier in the peak of summer."
Hospital noise: Some lakeside campgrounds have unexpected urban noise. At Magnus Park Campground, "Sitting between the town and the water, the backside of the camp area is the hospital with loud cooling fan towers running constantly. Not much of a campground feel to it," reports Michael Z.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special fall activities. "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun," shares Jenafer P. about Wilderness State Park. Another family noted, "It was a perfect mixture of rustic modern camping. The facilities are nice and clean and the campground is well kept. Even on a busy holiday weekend it was so enjoyable."
Kid-friendly beaches: Look for sandy shores with gradual entry points. "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," notes one family. Another adds, "Crystal clear water, sugar sand, and tons of Petoskey stones if you know where to look."
Mini-golf amenities: Some campgrounds offer on-site activities. "We had fun playing the mini golf that was offered there," shares Gary E. about St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA. Another notes, "As with most KOA's there are games and things to do for the kids. Mini golf, carpet ball, volleyball, etc."
Bicycle opportunities: The region offers safe riding paths for children. "Long paved roads for kiddos with bikes, but still really woodsy," reports Trish S. Another camper adds, "There is a short walk across the Little Traverse Wheelway bike trail that stretches 23.5 miles from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient sites for larger rigs. "Most are pull through. This campground was easy to drive our camper through and easy to find," notes Glynnis A. Another RVer mentions, "We were in Site# 98. We had Full hook-up with a gravel pull-through. We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep."
Hookup considerations: Water connections may require special equipment. "Potable water from hand pump and was unable (water bandit didn't fit) to fill camper water tank which was my only complaint," reports Kathie M. about Fisherman's Island.
Leveling requirements: Some sites need additional equipment for proper setup. "The site was easy to level. Our site was level, paved and had a paved patio and was full hook-up with cable and WiFi (which worked well at our site)," shares one RVer. Others note, "Only had to use one block under each front tire to level, with plenty of room to pull forward."
Scouting recommendations: Check site conditions before attempting access with large rigs. "Don't forget to grab a registration sheet on your way in. I had very little issue backing in our 24 ft class c with a utility trailer (37 ft total)," advises one camper about French Farm Lake Road.
