Elmira sits in the heart of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula with elevations ranging between 1,200-1,300 feet. This area experiences heavy seasonal insect activity during late spring, particularly May through June. Camping facilities around Elmira range from modern campgrounds with full hookups to rustic hike-in sites with minimal amenities.
What to do
Beach activities at Otsego Lake: The state park offers a large swimming area with concession stands that rent beach equipment. "Fishing, biking, boating, and playing at the beach" are popular activities according to Rachael D., who notes the park has "basketball court, volleyball net, fishing pier, and bike trails."
Hiking through old growth forest: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground offers rare access to original pine forest stands. Lisa B. explains the park has "side trails that are less traveled so you rarely see anyone else! There is a small lake for fishing, an old logging community with some programming in busier months."
Search for Petoskey stones: The rocky and sandy beaches around Little Traverse Bay are prime hunting grounds for these distinctive fossils. "We found Petoskey stones and other fossils and swam. It felt like being at the ocean!" shares Jennifer G. about her experience at Magnus Park.
What campers like
Wide, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site dimensions at Young State Park Campground. According to Nancy W., "Campsites in the Spruce loop don't have a designated 'pad' so you can arrange your RV or tent any way you like. This was the case with groups of friends who had two or three sites and arranged them so they faced each other with common area in the center."
Lakefront camping opportunities: Fisherman's Island State Park Campground offers shoreline camping with waves lapping nearby. Magy C. shares, "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."
Tree cover and natural settings: Most campgrounds in the area feature mature trees. Allison H. says about Otsego Lake State Park, "It's a bit older, so the campsites are quite large compared to modern campgrounds. There are huge trees throughout, easily navigable roads, etc."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have significant grade issues. Patrick notes at Otsego Lake State Park: "Site 52 and sites in immediate area was over 12" out of level from front to back. Looked like our camper was doing a wheelie."
Walk-in only access at some sites: Pinney Bridge requires more effort to reach. Doug B. warns, "This campground is hike in/walk in only. The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground."
Seasonal crowds and noise: Many campgrounds become busy during peak summer months. Michael Z. describes Magnus Park: "Sitting between the town and the water, the backside of the camp area is the hospital with loud cooling fan towers running constantly. Not much of a campground feel to it."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Gaylord KOA offers organized events. Amanda C. reports, "Stayed for 6 days. Staff was awesome. Sites were neat. Park was clean. Lots to do for kids."
Consider bike-friendly parks: Flat paths make recreation easier for children. Edmund P. recommends Otsego Lake State Park: "We love this park, great lake, small comfortable park and safe! Great bike riding park for little ones."
Check for playground facilities: When choosing pet-friendly camping near Elmira, Michigan, look for sites with play areas. At Starlight Campground and RV Park, Jaime found "Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games! This campground is extremely clean and has beautiful bathrooms/showers."
Tips from RVers
Book lakeside sites well in advance: The most desirable waterfront spots fill quickly at campgrounds offering pet-friendly accommodations near Elmira. Karen O. advises about Fisherman's Island: "I camped this past week and there were signs the park hadn't been used by many at all just yet. On the sites just a few yards away from Lake Michigan, the fall leaves and winter branch droppings remained on most of the sites."
Check utility locations and connections: Some campgrounds have specific hookup configurations. Kathie M. notes: "Potable water from hand pump and was unable (water bandit didn't fit) to fill camper water tank which was my only complaint."
Research site dimensions carefully: Campground layouts vary widely. Kim L. explains about Gaylord KOA: "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!"
