Near Elberta, Michigan, camping options stretch along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan at elevations ranging from 580 to 780 feet above sea level. The region experiences a humid continental climate with lake effect conditions causing summer temperatures to average 75°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with limited winter access due to heavy snowfall that averages over 100 inches annually in certain areas.
What to do
Kayaking on Platte River: Accessible from Platte River Campground with launch areas near the entrance. "Kayaked the North branch, which was winding and fast moving. Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" notes Joyce B. about Platte River Campground.
Biking on paved trails: The Betsie Valley Trail runs directly in front of Betsie River Campsite. "There is a paved trail that runs by the campground, and it's less than a 3 mile walk/bike ride to downtown Frankfort and the lakeshore, which has a ton of things to do," reports Chris W. from Betsie River Campsite.
Beach access and swimming: Several campgrounds offer Lake Michigan beach access. "We were a mile walk to the lake and even less to the River where salmon were swimming upstream as we canoed," according to Lori L. at Platte River Campground. Some beaches require short drives rather than walking directly from campsites.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at certain campgrounds. "The sites in the three loops are nicely placed so that you have foliage and space between sites but also close enough for larger groups to spread out and still feel like they are camping in a group," writes Anne G. about Platte River Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned. "Bathroom facilities were excellent and clean. Firewood is available to purchase in the campground," notes Scott D. from D.H. Day Campground.
Family-run campgrounds: The personal touch at smaller operations stands out. "The people are friendly and it appears to be well kept. The sites are pretty close together, and with many people having a boat, and/or extra canopies, etc., on their sites, it seemed so very crowded," observes Deb M. at Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground.
What you should know
Site availability and reservations: Prime sites fill extremely quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Reservations are extremely hard to get for this park. If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!" warns Stephanie C. about Platte River State Forest.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity occurs in some campgrounds. "Was told a black bear visits the campgrounds at least once a week, but is not much a nuisance as long as campers store their food in the car," mentions Joyce B. about Platte River Campground.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature variations. "Stopped for a night on a road trip around Lake Michigan. Campgrounds was clean, and so were the toilets/showers. There were hiking trails close by, but wish they were clearly marked," reports Joyce B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better play facilities than others. "There is a room in the bathhouse that is for washing dishes. This made it very convenient and I was very impressed with that," notes Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Beach proximity matters: Walking distance to swimming areas varies widely between campgrounds. "The campround is wonderful. Most sites are very large, shaded, private and have level areas for tents or campers. There is a (long) walking trail to the beach, and many areas to hike, fish or tube down a river nearby," explains Andrea B.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than others. "This tiny little family owned campground is one of our favorites. The sites are smaller, but comfortable with lots of shade trees and a handful of cabins. There are no activities, pools, etc! But there is a DELICIOUS little café serving up inexpensive, filling breakfasts each morning," reports Allison H. from Kampvilla Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have deceptively uneven sites. "Sites look level but it's deceiving. Bath house was so so. Manager on duty the day we arrived was having a personal meltdown and took it out on us when we asked to move our assigned site to the one next to us," warns Sharon H. about Betsie River Campsite.
Full hookup availability: Full service sites with water and sewer connections are limited in the region. "The sites, bathrooms and pool are clean. They spray for bugs so there's not too many creepy crawlies or biting bugs in the campground. Plus there's no poison ivy!" shares Mindy C. about Indigo Bluffs RV Park.
Tight access at some parks: RVers report difficulty navigating certain campgrounds. "This was an awesome campground but was kinda tight getting camper into our campsite. It's really nice that it's a short trip down the road to Manistee," notes Nick B.
