RV campgrounds near Empire, Michigan provide various options for outdoor recreation with convenient access to Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The area sits at approximately 640 feet above sea level with sandy soil and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-80°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights dropping into the 50s even during July and August.
What to Do
Trail access from campsites: At Manton Trails RV Park, visitors can ride ORVs directly from their campsite without trailering to trailheads. "It's really handy to not have to trailer over to the trailheads. Quiet, big spaces, huge bathhouse. We will be going back!" notes Jen L.
Golf courses: Several RV parks near Empire are situated near golf courses, creating convenient options for campers who enjoy golfing. Wild Cherry RV Resort sits across from a golf course in the Lake Leelanau area, approximately 25 minutes from Empire.
Water activities: The region offers multiple lakes for recreation. "Honcho Rest Campground is a little gem on Bass Lake in Elk Rapids, MI... situated on a small lake that is great for fishing, boating, or kayaking," according to Steve F. The campground's proximity to both Bass Lake and Grand Traverse Bay provides varied water options within minutes.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistently positive reviews at Kampvilla Park, located near Bear Lake. "Very clean bathrooms, a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do," writes Amy Y., adding that "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!"
Level, spacious sites: Campers frequently mention site conditions in their reviews. At Lake Leelanau RV Park, "The sites at this campground are lush with grass, but on the smaller side," according to Allison H., who also notes "The bathroom here is VERY clean and updated - much nicer than most campgrounds."
Proximity to attractions: Location remains a key factor for many reviewers. Indigo Bluffs RV Park offers "Awesome facility. Shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient," says Kyle K. The park's location provides easy access to Empire and Sleeping Bear Dunes.
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in the Empire region operate seasonally, typically May through October. Wild Cherry RV Resort runs from May 1 to October 31, with Nancy W. noting that "The park is called a 'resort' which is a little misleading because there are very few amenities."
Site types vary significantly: Campgrounds offer different camping experiences from rustic to luxury. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort features "some open sites & some in the trees," according to Kathy C., while also mentioning that "Mostly seasonal campers. Has a small lake with fishing."
Advance reservations essential: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Many visitors recommend booking well in advance, particularly for larger RVs or premium sites at higher-end facilities.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activities for children: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers extensive recreation options. Allison H. reports it's "a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc." She adds it's "great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Play areas and amenities: When selecting a family-friendly campground, check for dedicated children's facilities. Kampvilla Park includes "a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do," according to Amy Y., who also mentions "There are all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with."
Bathroom proximity: For families with younger children, bathroom location matters. Amy Y. notes at Kampvilla Park that "the only downside to the bathroom/shower house is the only indoor bathrooms all have a shower. So if you really need to go or have kids that need to use indoor it makes it tough."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces and leveling: RV campers should research site conditions before booking. At Traverse Bay RV Resort, "Sites are all paved with water electric and sewer, but also landscaped," according to Bucky W., who adds "There's trash pick up at 10:00 at your site. No fire rings."
Size restrictions: Some parks have specific vehicle requirements. Traverse Bay RV Resort "is limited to Class A, Fifth Wheels and Class C only," mentions Jill B., explaining the park is "dominated by big, very nice class A's."
Hookup variations: Water, electric, and sewer connections differ between campgrounds and sometimes between sites within the same facility. Check specifications when booking to ensure compatibility with your RV requirements.
