Tent camping near Ellsworth, Michigan provides access to more than 12,500 acres of wilderness areas with many sites situated at elevations between 600-1,000 feet above sea level. The region's glacial terrain creates unique camping opportunities with numerous inland lakes ranging in size from 5 to 500 acres. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F at night to 80°F during day, with July and August being the most popular camping months.
What to do
Hiking on secluded trails: Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "Though this area is usually busy, there is plenty of trail to explore here. We found a quaint opening with gorgeous water where the colors complimented each other."
Island exploration: For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Power Island County Park Primitive Campsites provides unique boat-in camping opportunities. "This small, remote, six site campground is perched on Bassett Island, which is officially part of Power Island, connected by a small isthmus. Locals and tourists alike love this beautiful little spot in the middle of the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan."
Backcountry camping: North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites offers a truly remote experience accessible only by ferry. "Taking a ferry is definitely an experience but then they drop you off in an old abandon village. From there you take off in any direction and find a cool place to camp. There is a central lake, bluffs, cool weather in the summer and great trails."
What campers like
Easy access fishing spots: Many tent campers appreciate the fishing opportunities at Sand Lakes Quiet Area. A visitor shared, "Me and my dad went camping here rode our motorcycles into the parking area and had a nice little hike to the camp ground! Very nice camp sites once we got set up we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!"
Historical exploration: South Manitou Island Group provides opportunities to explore historical sites. 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."
Secluded waterfront campsites: Many tent campers value privacy at their campsites. One reviewer of South Manitou stated, "We were lucky enough to get a site on the cliff over the water and we could watch the waves from inside our tent. Some water side sites have their own trail down to the beach below."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds can be difficult to find without proper directions. 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."
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas have minimal amenities. At Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground, "This campground is hike in/walk in only. The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground."
Weather considerations: Lake effect weather can change rapidly, especially on islands. One North Manitou Island camper noted, "I even got to watch a small rainstorm roll in across the lake, and hurry up the dune to my tent when it got close."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For family tent camping near Ellsworth, consider campsites with shorter walks. One visitor to Sand Lakes Quiet Area shared, "From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping."
Pack extra supplies: When camping with children on islands, bring additional provisions. A South Manitou Island camper suggested, "I'd also recommend bringing more food than you think you need, in case the weather turns and the ferry can't pick you up on the day planned."
Plan for insects: Bug protection is essential, especially in wooded areas. A camper at Sturgeon Valley Campground mentioned, "There are lots of mosquitoes so be prepared." Another camper noted that camping areas can be "pretty buggy so bring your screens, hats and spray!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: While tent camping dominates Ellsworth's wilderness areas, a few campgrounds accommodate small RVs. Torch Grove Campground offers "clean, private campground located near orv trails. Most sites were full hook up but they had some rustic sites too."
Consider tent-only areas: Many RVers in the region opt to pitch tents at primitive sites instead. A Pinney Bridge camper noted that while the area accommodates RVs in designated areas, the best camping experiences come from the tent-only sections accessible via short hikes.
Water access considerations: RV campers seeking water activities should consider proximity to boat launches. At Sturgeon Valley Campground, "River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak."
