Camping opportunities near Ellsworth, Michigan center around inland lakes with public access points along shorelines, wetlands, and forested areas. The region sits within the northern lower peninsula at elevations between 600-800 feet, creating distinct seasonal transitions. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with occasional humidity spikes, while sandy soil conditions throughout the region affect both tent stability and campfire management during dry periods.
What to do
Water activities at Fisherman's Island: Access to Lake Michigan's shoreline provides excellent swimming conditions during summer months. According to a camper, "The water was amazing all weekend — we swam multiple times a day. I had a hard time leaving. Maybe next time I'll try for a waterfront site, but absolutely not necessary to enjoy this place."
Hunting for Petoskey stones: Lake Michigan beaches offer prime hunting grounds for Michigan's state stone. A visitor to Petoskey State Park Campground noted, "The shoreline is spectacular. If you can, get a campsite right on the water, you won't be disappointed and be sure to look out for Petoskey Stones as your walk the shoreline, there are tons!"
Hiking and biking trails: Multiple trail networks connect the region's lakes and forests. A guest at Leelanau State Park Campground shared, "Hiking is available in the park, and kayak and bike rentals are available in Leland. While removed from the bustle of touristy areas, it's a great starting/ending point for exploring the peninsula with all its Lake Michigan vistas and quirky little bars."
Historical lighthouse tours: Several campgrounds provide access to historic lighthouses. One visitor remarked, "We walked over to the lighthouse. They give tours and have a camp store/gift shop. There aren't really any trails there but you can get to the water in a bunch of places."
What campers like
Lake access: Direct water access ranks consistently as the top amenity. A visitor to Barnes County Park Campground explained, "Breathtaking views very close to torch lake. Does are very sandy but the rest makes up for that. Horseshoe pits, park for the kids, hiking trails, bike trails and just a mile to boat launch on torch lake."
Secluded campsites: Many campgrounds feature wooded sites with privacy. A camper at Fisherman's Island noted, "There are plenty of sites all along the shore of Lake Michigan! It gave the illusion of our own private beach and even though we had a camper at the site next to ours it was still very private because of all the trees in between."
Sunset views: Lakefront camping provides exceptional sunset viewing opportunities. At Magnus Park Campground, one visitor observed, "We got a site right on Lake Michigan and it was amazing. Rocky beach access, wave sounds lulling me to sleep, view of the lake sunset from my fire."
Off-season tranquility: Fall and spring camping offers reduced crowds. A camper at Leelanau State Park shared, "Stayed here on a chilly late September weekend with very few other campers around. Loved it. It's remote, rustic and the lakefront is scrubby and unspoiled."
What you should know
Site reservations and seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate May through October with limited off-season facilities. A visitor to Young State Park Campground advised, "You have to reserve your spot early in the year for summer camping near the water but sometimes luck out with one or two days open."
Campsite layouts and proximity: Site arrangements vary significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Barnes County Park noted, "The sites are spaced decently far apart. Some of them are so close to Lake Michigan, you can just walk on a path through some trees right up to the water!"
Rustic vs. modern facilities: Campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities. A visitor to Fisherman's Island cautioned, "Understand that this is a rustic campground with small sites, no electric, scattered water spigots, and pit toilets. There is a day use area, hiking/biking trails, and a picnic area which is about it."
Weather considerations: Lake effects create unpredictable conditions. As one camper recalled, "It even thunderstormed while we were there and it's still one of my favorite camping trips ever!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Whiting Park Campground, a visitor noted, "I stayed in the corner lot next to the playground. There was more than enough room for my tent. There was a nice spot to hang a hammock next to the road."
Beach safety: Lake conditions vary widely between inland lakes and Lake Michigan. A parent at Young State Park shared, "Great place for the whole family. Park ranger, crafts, and beach area for the kids. Very clean."
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow entry points available at select beaches. One camper described Barnes County Park as "Great for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a distance. Ring road through the park is quiet enough to bike around, and they are many hiking paths to choose from."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Local fauna includes deer, raccoons, and various bird species. A visitor to Leelanau State Park humorously warned of "hilariously aggressive squirrels" that entertained their children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many older campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor to Wooden Shoe Campground noted, "This campground lacks full hookup. We like it fine it is just the inconvenience of only a dump station. Sites are gravel. Has a shower house. Most sites have a great Michigan views. Only 30 amp and water hookup."
Electric service variations: Hook-up quality differs between parks. At Young State Park, a reviewer explained, "All campsites are a mix of 20/30/50 amp or 20/30 amp with water spigots scattered throughout the loop."
Navigating tight camping roads: Several campgrounds have limited turning radius. As one RVer warned, "The roads in the campground are pretty narrow and when someone was backing into their site it caused a traffic jam."
Tree clearance issues: Overhead branches can create access problems. A camper at Barnes Park cautioned, "It did rain pretty hard plus wind and with lots of trees many branches and such on top of our rig afterwards. That doesn't bother me but if it bothers you, you may want another place being this has lots of trees."
