Northern Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula and surrounding regions offer upscale glamping experiences from spring through fall. State parks near Elmira provide access to Lake Michigan's shoreline as well as inland lakes. Winter temperatures typically range from 14°F to 27°F, while summer brings moderate 60°F to 80°F conditions ideal for outdoor exploration.
What to do
Trail access from campgrounds: The North Central State Trail runs directly alongside Haakwood State Forest Campground, making it perfect for cyclists. "This campground is right on the north central bike path and I came to this here for that easy access. However, it is right next to the road and there is a lot of road noise during the day and early evening," notes David C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Pigeon River Country State Forest near Elmira offers elk viewing areas accessible from several campgrounds. "This was a really awesome campground we found kind of last minute when things didn't work out at the other place we were trying to camp... you're right by Michigan's only area to view free roaming wild elk!" says Ryan L T. about Haakwood State Forest Campground.
Waterfront activities: Young State Park Campground sits on Lake Charlevoix with extensive beach areas. A camper shares, "The park has a large beach area with a camp store/concession stand that has food and items for rent. It is really convenient that you can rent beach chairs/umbrellas/watercraft instead of having to bring them."
What campers like
Proximity to towns: Many glamping options close to Elmira, Michigan provide quick access to charming nearby communities. "We live relatively close but this is by far our favorite state park for a quick getaway. Some of the spots are a little close, but the park makes up for it with it's amazing beach and proximity to Boyne City," Matt K. notes about Young State Park.
Waterfront views: Leelanau State Park Campground offers sites with Lake Michigan frontage. One camper describes, "Tent camping on the water, it does not get any more beautiful than this! Close to town, fire pits, no hook up at the tent sites."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Otsego Lake County Park. "There are two sides to this campground. North side and south side. North side has much closer lots and is busier, playground nearby, beach, pavilion. South side has more covered, spacious, private sites," notes Ann D.
What you should know
Campground amenities vary significantly: Not all glamping sites include full facilities. At Otsego Lake County Park, "The bathrooms and showers are old and not the best. There is no place for washing dishes and the camp sites do not have water hook up. Drinking water spouts are around the campground."
Seasonal considerations: Burt Lake State Park Campground operates from April through November. "We visited Young State Park in the summer but in talking to locals this place is wonderful in the winter and great for cross-country skiing with trails that wind through wooded areas," notes one reviewer.
Pet policies: Most glamping sites in the area allow pets, but with varying restrictions. According to Melissa M., at Leelanau State Park, "Sadly dogs aren't allowed on the beach so Dakota rolled in the sand at the edge and we continued hiking."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Very friendly staff and clean park. Family friendly and pet friendly, beach was close by and clean. Reservations were very easy to make online and allows you to pick your site," mentions jodi L. about Young State Park.
Activity options for kids: Gaylord KOA offers structured activities during peak season. "While it was pricey at $65 night, we had a very spacious full hookup site within easy walking distance of pool. Shower house was very nice and modern, with 4 shower stalls. Full coin laundry was helpful too! They had kids activities over the 4th of July weekend, and our kid loved it," shares Kim L.
Family-friendly site selection: Look for campgrounds with good spacing between sites. "We've camped here for two years in a row and we LOVE it! Everyone is so friendly. Camp sites are nicely spread out and our 4 kids have a ball. They just updated their playground area as well!" says Holly K. about Chandler Hill Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check campground websites for specific site measurements. At Young State Park, "The advantage of making reservations online is that you get a really good description of the site which includes length, width, hook-ups, amount of shade, length of site, distance to restrooms, and best of all - pictures."
Access challenges: Interior roads can create navigation issues in some campgrounds. At Young State Park, "The cons are that the roads in the campground are pretty narrow and when someone was backing into their site it caused a traffic jam."
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds in the region offer limited hookup options. At Magnus Park Campground, RVers will find "Sites large enough for our 42 ft motor home! Level, quiet, close to shopping and a nice walk/bike trail along the bay... This is a city park, small but nice for a few night stay. No WiFi but our ATT had service and we have satellite TV with clear signal," according to Carol W.
