The area around Elberta, Michigan sits on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan with sandy beaches and diverse terrain including forest land and river valleys. The region experiences cold winters and moderate summers with average July temperatures around 80°F. Summer tent camping typically requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 50s even during peak season.
What to do
Lake swimming access: The White Pine Backcountry Camp offers a short quarter-mile trail to Lake Michigan beaches. One camper noted, "The trail to the beach is just about ¼ mile across the dunes from the campground."
Fishing opportunities: Anglers enjoy the Insta-Launch Campground & Marina where "its quiet here a nice cleaning station lots of 🐟" according to a visitor. The campground provides docks specifically for fishing and boat launching along the river.
Hiking diverse terrain: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area connects to the North Country Trail for varied hiking options. One hiker shared, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" The trail system allows backpackers to complete a 23-mile loop with riverside and forest sections.
What campers like
Secluded sites: At Popple Campground on South Manitou Island, campers appreciate the privacy. A visitor observed, "This campground is the furthest from the dock area, so less people travel to here. There was probably about 5 other families while we were here, which is surprising because it was mid July."
Waterfront views: The designated sites along the Manistee River Trail offer premium locations. A backpacker explained, "The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far. No matter where you end up setting up camp, you're in for a beautiful and gentle hike."
Rustic experiences: South Manitou Island camping requires proper preparation. A camper at Weather Station Campground advised, "bring what you need. filter your water, beautiful hikes, beautiful views...bloodthirsty mosquitos.. but worth it...bring deet."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: For South Manitou Island camping, ferry schedules limit access. One camper cautioned, "Bring plenty of food and extra supplies in case of delays as the ferry is unable to reach the island in dangerous weather conditions."
Water access considerations: At Weather Station Campground, campers need to plan for water collection. A visitor explained, "We used a carabiner to secure a line to a tree in the camp and tossed the other end down to give us a hand in climbing back up to the site as well as dragging our bag of containers back up."
Wildlife management: Small animals can cause problems at tent sites. A camper reported, "There are no food storage lockers, so food must be properly hung from a tree or stored in a bear canister to avoid being stolen by the microbears (aka chipmunks)!"
Tips for camping with families
First backpacking experiences: White Pine Backcountry Camp offers an accessible introduction to backpacking. A camper observed, "We ran into a group of young girls from a nearby summer camp who were experiencing their first 'backpacking' adventure. They were adorable and having a ton of fun."
Lake access for kids: Healy Lake State Forest Campground provides easy water access for families. A visitor noted, "Good boat launch. The site host was actually not there while we were, though it wasn't an issue."
Food planning: When tent camping near Elberta with children, bring extra provisions. A camper advised, "Bring your own wood and ice" as supplies can be limited at more remote locations like Healy Lake.
Tips from RVers
Alternative options: Crystal Forest Campground offers both tent and RV sites with full hookups. A visitor mentioned, "Sue, the host, is lovely and accommodating. She made us feel very comfortable and checked on us often. Full hook up at each site, and pit toilets if needed."
Boat launch facilities: Insta-Launch Campground provides comprehensive amenities for RVers who bring boats. A camper shared, "The tent sites are right off the river with docks to fish from and launch your boat from."
Cost considerations: Private campgrounds can offer better value than state parks. A camper reported, "One of the wonderful things about this campground was that because it is privately owned, it was very reasonably priced. It was significantly cheaper than the state parks."
Ranger
