Tent camping around Eastport, Michigan offers a mix of secluded forest experiences and island adventures in the Grand Traverse region. The area sits at the northern tip of Torch Lake, with elevation ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level and summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping season. Many backcountry sites in this region require short hikes from parking areas, with distances typically ranging from 700 yards to half a mile.
What to do
Explore island camping: Take a ferry from Leland to North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites for a true wilderness experience. One camper reports, "There is a central lake, bluffs, cool weather in the summer and great trails." The island features miles of shoreline perfect for backcountry camping.
Fish multiple lakes: Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides excellent fishing opportunities. A recent visitor shared, "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast." The area contains several small connected lakes that support diverse fish populations.
Visit historic sites: While camping at South Manitou Island Group, take time to explore the lighthouse with daily tours. A camper mentioned, "The island has a Light house that has daily tours, a ship wreck and old growth ceder trees you can hike to along with the dunes."
What campers like
Beach access: Many campsites on Power Island County Park Primitive Campsites offer direct water access. One visitor noted, "Each campsite has a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. Some are heavily wooded and others are very open to the sun. Most have direct water access to the crystal clear, turquoise lake."
Peaceful seclusion: Tent campers appreciate the quiet locations throughout the region. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, a camper shared, "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot." The hike-in nature of many sites limits crowds.
Clear water views: Sites along shorelines offer exceptional water clarity. One North Manitou Island visitor described, "The sparkling blue waters and sandy beaches make it feel like you're on an island at the equator, not halfway to the North Pole."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds can be difficult to locate. A Sand Lakes Quiet Area camper advised, "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer."
Walking distance requirements: Many Eastport area campgrounds require hiking with gear. At Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground, "The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground."
Weather preparedness: Lake Michigan weather can change rapidly, especially when island camping. A South Manitou camper warned, "Bring plenty of food and weather gear as you never know what Northern Michigan can bring as far as storms. The ferry doesn't run if the weather is too grievous for safety."
Tick awareness: Some wooded areas have tick populations. One Sand Lakes visitor reported, "Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of ticks though so we avoided the trails."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, consider camping at C3 Farm Trust which offers private tent camping with only three designated walk-in sites, making it manageable for families.
Pack extra supplies: When camping on South Manitou Island with children, bring more than you think you'll need. One parent shared their experience: "My four year old son and I took the ferry to South Manitou Island and had planned to stay for a few days. We had numerous people gift us food they had packed over to the island and did not want to pack out. We ended up extending our trip by a couple days."
Explore farm ruins: Kids enjoy discovering abandoned structures on North Manitou Island. A visitor explained, "Your views are endless opportunities of woods, old farm fields, or possibly a settlers orchard with remains of one of the farms throughout the island."
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most tent camping locations around Eastport have minimal or no RV facilities. At Torch Grove Campground, "Most sites were full hook up but they had some rustic sites too. There was a small playground also."
Consider alternatives: RV campers visiting the area should look toward established campgrounds rather than the primitive sites that dominate the region. One camper noted Torch Grove is "a clean, private campground located near orv trails."
