Best Camping near Traverse City, MI

In northern Michigan lies some of the best camping options in the state where you can stay by the lake or sheltered in the pine trees. Near Traverse City, MI, campers and RVers will find everything they need to make their camping trip a success. Campgrounds near the West Arm beaches give you a chance to relax and enjoy the water in the summer. You can walk, drive, or boat in to your campsite. Stay close to nature in a tent or rent a cozy cabin. Trails in the state forest are ideal for exploring on horseback or try one of the campsites at the fairgrounds where campers are close to the rides and the rest of the action.

Best Camping Sites Near Traverse City, MI (212)

    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground

    1. Traverse City State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    93 Photos
    214 Saves
    Traverse City, Michigan

    Traverse City State Park is a 47-acre state park set in a more urban setting and featuring .25 miles of beautiful beach on the Grand Traverse Bay. The park is located only 3 miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the Michigan's most popular resort towns. The park was established in 1920 on about 16 acres of land after the logging industry began to wane. In 1921 and 1939, parcels were added to increase the park's land area. The original inhabitants of the land were the Ottawa branch of the Algonquin Indians.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    2. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    60 Reviews
    229 Photos
    631 Saves
    Beulah, Michigan

    Overview

    Platte River Campground is located in the southern district of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, on the lower peninsula of Michigan. This year-round facility is one of the most popular campgrounds in the park. It is within walking distance of the Platte River and a short walk or drive away from the Lake Michigan shore. Hikers can access many of the area's day use and backpacking trails just north of the campground.Summer temperatures range from the upper 70s to 90 degrees F (25 to 32 C) during the day, and from the 50s to 70 degrees F (10 to 25 C) at night. Winters are cold, with daytime highs from 20 to 30 F (-7 to -1 C) and lows in the 10s and 20s F (-12 to -7 C). Snow is usually on the ground from late November through March.

    Recreation

    Campers can hike, canoe, kayak and fish on the river or the lake. There are canoe rentals at nearby Platte River Point, where the river meets the lake (the point also has beach access for those wishing to drive there). The Platte Plains trail system boasts more than 25 miles (40 km) of trails, some of which can be accessed a short walk away from the campground. Trails to the primitive White Pine backcountry campground are also close by.

    Natural Features

    The campground lies in a wooded area within walking distance of the Platte River and less than two miles (3.2 km) away from the beaches of Lake Michigan. Although the lakeshore is long and narrow, it has northern hardwood and conifer forests, abandoned farm meadows, wetlands, lakes, streams, bogs and splendid examples of a glacially formed landscape.The most prominent features in the park, and those for which it is named, are the perched sand dunes above Lake Michigan. The overlooks at Sleeping Bear, Empire and Pyramid Point bluffs are about 400 feet (122 m) above the lake. With 65 miles (105 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline and numerous inland lakes and streams, the park is wonderfully water-oriented.

    Contact Info

    For local information, please call (231) 326-4700 or call (877) 444-6777 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Camper-submitted photo from D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    3. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    52 Reviews
    196 Photos
    370 Saves
    Glen Arbor, Michigan

    Overview

    D.H. Day Campground is located in the northern district of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, on the lower peninsula of Michigan. This rustic campground is one of the most popular in Northern Michigan and is open (weather permitting) from April 27 through the last Sunday in November. Reservations are required May 1 through October 15. Campsites are within walking distance of the Lake Michigan shoreline and a short drive to many popular features in the park. Summer temperatures range from the upper 70s to 90 degrees F (25 to 32 C) during the day, and from the 50s to 70 degrees F (10 to 25 C) at night.

    Recreation

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore's rustic D.H. Day Campground is beautifully wooded. Campers can swim, canoe, kayak, fish and relax along the shoreline of the campground. The multi-use Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail passes through the campground opening up 20+ miles (32 km) of biking and hiking. There are canoe and bicycle rentals nearby in the village of Glen Arbor. The historic village of Glen Haven is a short 15-minute walk away. Multiple hiking trails, the Dune Climb, and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive are just a short drive away. D.H. Day Campground is the perfect launching point for a fun-filled stay at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

    Natural Features

    D.H. Day Campground lies in the middle of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near the historic village of Glen Haven. The spacious wooded campsites are no more than a 5-minute walk to the Lake Michigan beach. Features include northern hardwood and conifer forests, old farm meadows, wetlands, lakes, streams, bogs, and splendid examples of glacially formed landscapes. The beautiful, perched sand dunes, for which the parked is named, are just a few minutes' drive from the campground.

    Nearby Attractions

    D.H. Day Campground is within minutes of the lakeside Village of Glen Arbor and the Historic Village of Glen Haven. The Dune Climb and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive are a short drive to the south. The Alligator Hill Trail is less than a mile away. The Crystal River winds its way to Lake Michigan just a few short miles to the north. The harbor town of Leland is approx. 30 minutes away and is the gateway to both North and South Manitou Island.

    Contact Info

    For local information, please call (231) 326-4700 or call (877) 444-6777 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $10 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    5. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    21 Reviews
    24 Photos
    87 Saves
    Traverse City, Michigan

    Big Rigs, RVs, Fifth Wheels, Pop-Up Trailers and Tents are welcomed to escape to Traverse City’s wooded retreat! With Cabin Rentals, wireless internet (please request this when making a reservation), spacious and shady sites, heated pool, a variety of activities, camp store and goodie shop, and clean bath houses, Timber Ridge has all of the bases covered.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $60 - $260 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    6. Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    22 Reviews
    168 Photos
    22 Saves
    Empire, Michigan

    Offering the accommodations you need for all the ways you camp; in a destination that delivers: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Lake Michigan beaches, miles of hiking/biking trails, Traverse City, and more. A place where food, art, and events are abundant in everyday life. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable weekend, a family vacation, or planning your entire season, this is the place. Families have spent a century vacationing and building memories here; we created a place that allows you to do the same with your family and friends.

    Indigo was named after the shades of blue that dominate the surrounding landscape. Leelanau, the peninsula we are located on, is a Native American name meaning “Land of Delight”. That's all the inspiration we needed to create one of the country’s most distinctive outdoor lifestyle resorts.

    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau State Park Campground

    7. Leelanau State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    134 Photos
    506 Saves
    Northport, Michigan

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater Township Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines
    Camper-submitted photo from Leelanau Pines

    9. Leelanau Pines

    10 Reviews
    36 Photos
    239 Saves
    Cedar, Michigan

    Located on the beautiful Lake Leelanau and just a short drive from Traverse City, Suttons Bay, Empire, and more, Leelanau Pines Campground is one of the best camping destinations in all of Michigan. With 7 different RV site types located along the lake or in the pines, there's a spot for every kind of camper! Enjoy our lakefront access and swimming area, playground, nature trail, and more. Open May 6 - October 16.

    A Family Camping Resort on Beautiful Twenty-One Mile Long "Lake Leelanau".

    Close to Traverse City, Leland, Suttons Bay, Casinos and Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $86 - $108 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Park Campground

    10. Holiday Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    27 Photos
    82 Saves
    Grawn, Michigan
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 212 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Traverse City

Recent Reviews in Traverse City

936 Reviews of 212 Traverse City Campgrounds


  • Tammy C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground

    Hidden gem on the west side

    This campground is centrally located to everything that’s going on, on the west side of the state. Whether it’s trail riding, Traverse City Cherry festival or hanging in the town of Manton. There is always something going on. Spacious, super clean bath house and on Saturday nights listen to live music right at your campsite!

  • Barry E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Traverse City State Park Campground
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Traverse City State Park Campground

    Convenient and clean

    Very nice park, walkway to the public beach, paved path behind the grounds. Modern, clean bathhouse. Not a lot of privacy between spots, big mature trees all through the grounds. Right by municipal airport with lots of flight activity.

  • Michael N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Beautiful area!

    The camping area is amazing. My group camped in the non electric section. Each area was set back from the road. Flat gravel pad. Small paved driveway for your car. It was peaceful. And absolutely dark at night. Perfect for star gazing. The comfort station was a short walk away. Clean bathrooms, shower areas, and a small room to wash dishes. You cannot wash dishes at your site. You must take precautions against bears. So food had to be locked in cars. We didn’t encounter bears. At the entrance is a canoe/tube business. You can float down the river to Lake Michigan.

  • Amy D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnes County Park Campground
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Barnes County Park Campground

    Beautiful Lake Access

    This Campground was very family-friendly. There is easy access to the beach with wide stairs. Many people enjoying rock collecting and watching the sunrise and sunset. The park was very clean and well kept with multiple bath houses.

  • Amy D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Young State Park Campground
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Young State Park Campground

    Unique Trails

    The campground was well maintained. The sites had adequate privacy and space. I really enjoyed the trails through Cedar Forest along Lake Charlevoix. More unique experience than just hiking through the woods.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippy Dam State Recreation Area
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Tippy Dam State Recreation Area

    Great nature - noisy neighbors

    Our site was great, easily fit a 17 foot trailer and a tent. Trails down to the water were appreciated by our kids. Neighbors are pretty close all around but that didn't matter until our last night. Several new campers rolled in at 10pm and proceeded to throw an absolute rager of a party until 4am - on Labor Day weekend. So overall a great campground but I wish there had been enforcement of quiet time or some kind of consequence for such horrible camping manners.

  • Austin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp David
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Camp David

    Wonderful, quiet location

    David and Gail were so friendly and welcoming, especially for the inconvenience of a last minute stay on Labor Day weekend! I had questions during the booking process and messaged them- I had a response in minutes. We had a quiet spot and were able to get some uninterrupted sleep after a long afternoon at the beach. 

    There are several places nearby with beach access (the turquoise water of Lake Michigan is beautiful), and lakes under 5 minutes away for fishing. For rockhounding, check out the beaches near Old Mission Lighthouse. Should we find ourselves back on the road to the UP, we'll be sure stop back in. Thanks again for being so accommodating!

  • Jason H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Manitou Island Group
    Aug. 28, 2024

    South Manitou Island Group

    Popple Campground

    Stayed at site 3. It was a relatively easy hike until you hit a hilly spot towards the campground. Mid July was very buggy.

    Site 3 has easy access to an overlook which we made use of for photos of a storm that rolled in over North Manitou Island, our original destination. There was one vault toilet at the opposite end of the campground.

    Like at Weatherstation, it was easy enough to get down to the beach for swimming and refilling our Grayls but to get back up was a bit of a challenge that grew old after a few trips.

    Our last night, we stayed at the Bay campground which was nice. Fire rings are available and getting to and from the water was much easier. I'd recommend the Bay for people who want a more leisurely experience and one of the other campgrounds if you want to get some miles and get more rustic.

  • H. S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Track Campground
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Bear Track Campground

    Rustic seclusion.

    No running water.
    No electricity.

    No flush toilets.

    No internet.
    No phone signal.

    Pure heaven.

    Rustic campsites. 50-100 yards from the river. Great water from the pump. Nice clean vault toilet. Very quiet at night. Peaceful and beautiful. We've gone ever year for the last 5 years. Going again next year.

    Highly recommend a satellite-based GPS unit like Garmin or TomTom in your car. I was serious when I said no phone signal so Google Maps ain't gonna' get you there.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from The Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    The Campground

    Fantastic Campground!

    The campground is a small, family friendly campground that has a lot of activities for both adults and kids. It is clean, has level sites and well maintained facilities.

  • J B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippy Dam State Recreation Area
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Tippy Dam State Recreation Area

    Great time

    The campsites are spacious and feature trails that lead directly to the Tippy Dam Backwater. There’s also convenient access for launching a boat on either the Manistee River or the backwaters side of the dam

  • Erica L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain-O-Lakes Campground
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Chain-O-Lakes Campground

    Will be back!

    Our time at this campground has been exceptional. The grounds are kept very clean and tidy, the camp store had what we needed, and the atmosphere is very quiet and calming. Everything on our full hookup site worked good and our site itself was level.

    Our weather wasn’t very good, 66 and rainy, but we made the best of our time by going downtown Bellaire and visiting Shorts Brewing. The little town has some cute shops and is only 8 minutes from the campground.

    We had a wonderful time and can’t wait to book again next year.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry RV Resort
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Wild Cherry RV Resort

    Quiet and peaceful

    This was a great campground, quiet and peaceful in the cherry orchard area of west Michigan, near Glen Arbor and Traverse City.

    Our site, #20, had an improved gravel parking area for camper with a finished concrete pad with a picnic table.

    Site, and whole campground was clean and well maintained. Our site was a full hookup but had one small issue where the drain dump was slightly uphill from the camper, so we had to work with the drain hose to empty tanks.

    Only other negative is that there are no trees for the majority of sites for shade cover.

    This was a good spot for a two night stay as it’s close to the Sleeping Bear National Dunes and also many local wineries.

    Have fun!

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds

    close to travese city and interlockin

    Quiet, large sites, like new bath house, 7th nite free, rate$35, good location for northwestern Michigan sites Water on all outside sites. interior sites share water hookups

  • Gary P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiting County Park Campground
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Whiting County Park Campground

    Awesome Campground

    First timers. Very pleased with our stay. Reservation system is awesome, and easy to follow. Bathhouse was clean and fresh smelling. Even with all the rain we had during the stay, the bathhouse never got overly soiled. Water has a very heavy sulphor smell, but that's the way it goes with Michigan well water. Our Tear drop camper had fresh water on-board, so we were good to go. We've stayed at Young State Park across the way. Given what I know now, Whiting Park will be our"go to" park in the future. Again, Very Pleased.

  • Jen L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground

    Great location for orv trail access

    Great campground.  Booked two nights and had to request a third it was so perfect.   We went up because it advertised orv access right from campsite.  It’s really handy to not have to trailer over to the trsilheads.  Quiet, bug spaces, huge bathhouse. We will be going back!

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Grass Lake State Forest Campground
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Grass Lake State Forest Campground

    Updated Info

    Updating this information. We live 3 miles from this camp. All MI State Forest Campgrounds are nor $20/night.

    There is not a RV dump or hookup of any kind in this campground. One could easily bring a 30 ft trailer but sites this size are limited.

    This camp is on the Betsie River and the Grass Lake Flooding. There is a gravel/sand ramp to launch smaller fishing boats. Great area to kayak and float tube. 1000's of acres of State Forest surrounding this spot with miles of trails for atv, cars, trucks and horses. There are no horst facilities at this camp.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Vista Green RV Resort
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Vista Green RV Resort

    Large, beautiful campground

    Our site was $65.63 a night. (This was the average after receiving one night free for staying a week).

    We were in Site# 4A (premium site). We had Full hook- up with a blacktop pull-through.
    We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep.
    The site was easy to level.

    Our site was not shaded with limited trees. This was a smaller lot with our neighbors fairly close.

    The lot comes with a concrete patio with picnic table. There was not a fire ring since only propane fires are allowed.

    There is free WiFi. They do not offer Cable TV but there are many local channels.

    There is an adult pub-style game room with poker tables, a large tv, a table shuffle board, air hockey game, foosball table, and board games. There is a community catering kitchen located in their activities center.

    They do not provide garbage service at your site so you must walk to garbage dumpster. This can be a long distance for some.

    You are allowed to ride personal golf carts. They also allow you to rent golf carts. It is beneficial to have a golf cart to get around since it is a large campground. We have our own e-bikes which helped.

    They do have a large heated Swimming pool and an adults only hot tub. There is a fitness center.

    They have quite a few ponds throughout the campground.

    There is not a Playground. They offer pickleball courts.

    There is not a general store nor snack bar/restaurant on site.

    The streets are paved and good for riding bikes.

    This is solely an RV park. They do not have any cabins to rent or any tent areas.

    The showers are located in the activity center. These are typical stalls. There is a great area to hang clothes and store your toiletries in the shower stall. These are kept very clean.

    There is a laundry facility. There are approximately 4 washers and 4 dryers. They allow you to use cash or an app. It is approximately $2.25 to wash and $2 to dry a load.

    They do not have a fenced in dog park. There are areas to walk dogs though.

    Bugs/gnats were a small issue and bug spray was needed.

    There is supposedly a mowed trail to hike off of the campground (about 3 miles) but I was unable to locate it.

    Some fun things to do outside of the campground are the shops (Front Street) & water activities in Traverse City, the local wineries/vineyards, and the DNR Outdoor Shooting range (5 miles away & free to the public). We ate at Yankee Boy where all of the locals hangout. Excellent food (no alcohol served).

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    Very nice and well maintained campground. Bath house facilities were very clean, and campsites were fairly spaced, giving decent privacy. There are some activities in the area related to the park. All in all a very nice State Park campground.

  • Nicole V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dubonnet State Forest Campground
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Lake Dubonnet State Forest Campground

    Nice but camp host needed

    Large campground composed or 5 loops. Many have a trail leading to the water. Hiking and biking paths within the campground along with a nice boat ramp. Trash on sites and dirty outhouses along with lots of generators and after hour noise was a downside.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    Nice surprise

    First time camping here. Site 72 had a nice view if the make. Very nice park. Bathrooms s d dhowers ckean for really need to be upgraded. They have a ni. ce dog beach bit no real wslking trails as it is only 64 acres. Very nice beach! Already booked our next trip there.



Guide to Traverse City

Camping near Traverse City, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a family-friendly spot, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This stunning national lakeshore is a must-see. One camper mentioned, “The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water,” highlighting the natural beauty despite some rustic amenities.
  • Visit local beaches: Many campgrounds, like D.H. Day Group Campground, offer easy access to quiet beaches. A reviewer said, “Quiet park, quiet beaches, beautiful views,” making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
  • Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the area. One camper at Platte River Campground noted, “There's also a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan,” making it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Traverse City State Park Campground said, “It’s nice to have well-maintained showers to feel fresh after.”
  • Friendly staff: Many reviews mention helpful campground staff. One camper at Indigo Bluffs RV Park said, “Clean restroom and showers. Swimming pool very nice friendly staff.”
  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Leelanau State Park Campground offer beautiful lakeside spots. A reviewer shared, “Our site was perfect with gorgeous views of the sunrise/set over the water.”

What you should know:

  • Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Barnes County Park Campground mentioned, “Sites are pretty close together in some locations.”
  • Rustic amenities: Many campgrounds, like Northern Exposure Campground, have limited amenities. One visitor noted, “The bathrooms and showers were extremely clean and were cleaned daily,” but be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Noise levels can vary: Campgrounds near busy roads or airports may have some noise. A camper at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park said, “There are cars passing by frequently, but less in the evening.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Look for family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offer plenty of activities for kids. One parent shared, “My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool.”
  • Choose sites with space: Some campgrounds have larger sites that allow for more privacy. A camper at Betsie River Campsite mentioned, “There are no activities, pools, etc! But there is a DELICIOUS little café serving up inexpensive, filling breakfasts each morning.”
  • Plan for meals: Many campgrounds have stores nearby. A visitor at Northern Exposure Campground said, “Anything you could want you would find in their store.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be small for larger RVs. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground noted, “The spots are very small and you have to park sideways.”
  • Look for electric hookups: If you need power, make sure to choose a campground that offers electric hookups. A reviewer at Indigo Bluffs RV Park appreciated the “FHU, level, absolutely would stay here again!”
  • Be prepared for leveling: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort mentioned, “The lots were not very level so the setup was a bit more difficult.”

Camping near Traverse City, Michigan, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Traverse City, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Traverse City, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 212 campgrounds and RV parks near Traverse City, MI and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Traverse City, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Traverse City, MI is Traverse City State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 49 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Traverse City, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Traverse City, MI.

  • What parks are near Traverse City, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Traverse City, MI that allow camping, notably Sleeping Bear Dunes and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.