Rustic camping options abound in the Frankfort, Michigan area, which sits at an elevation of 630 feet along Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline. Northern Michigan's campgrounds operate primarily from May through October due to harsh winter conditions and seasonal closures. Most sites near Frankfort require advance reservations, especially for summer weekends when temperatures typically range from 65-80°F.
What to do
Beach hiking: 1.5-mile trail at Lake Michigan Recreation Area leads directly to pristine dunes. "The beach is clean and the swimming is amazing! We love the trails as the campground is right next to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area," shares Lisa B., who has visited Lake Michigan Recreation Area annually for over 15 years.
Biking on paved trails: Northern Exposure Campground connects to multiple trail systems. "Nice hiking trails nearby and a 20 minute drive to a whole lot of entertainment!" notes Kris D. from Northern Exposure Campground. The paved trails are suitable for all skill levels.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer river or lake access for anglers. "Betsie river runs behind the campground. Wildlife is present in area," explains Nancy C. who stayed at Betsie River Campsite. Many campers bring their own boats, but rental options exist at several locations.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards even during peak season. "Bathrooms were clean and had great ventilation (important when camping during a pandemic like this summer)," reports Debra O. about Betsie River Campsite.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Northern Michigan campgrounds cater to multigenerational groups. "This campground is perfect for campers of most experience and age levels. If you are looking for rugged, wilderness/secluded camping it's probably not your place but for everyone else it's a hidden gem," explains Anne G. from Northern Exposure Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Most campgrounds offer convenient access to natural areas. "Great location, however, to visit Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes," shares Rick G. who stayed at Duck Lake Campground in Interlochen State Park. Many visitors use campgrounds as base camps for day trips.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds have more compact layouts than others. "The sites are pretty close together, and with many people having a boat, and/or extra canopies, etc., on their sites, it seemed very crowded," notes Deb M. about her experience at Betsie River Campsite.
Seasonal water conditions: Beach access can change year to year. "Due to high waters the past few years there is no beach. This is still a family favorite and perfect if you want to go into Manistee," explains Joie V. about Orchard Beach State Park Campground.
Glamping close to Frankfort, Michigan: Beyond traditional camping, several properties offer elevated outdoor experiences. "We stayed in 2 yurts and were comfortable in the summer. Kendra is planning to add further dwellings over the next year to make winter stays more possible," shares Liz W. about her stay at Camp Squid Off The Grid.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several properties feature dedicated children's areas. "They have a nice playground and evening activities at the Camp Store/Office on special weekends," reports Anne G. about Northern Exposure Campground.
Consider fully-equipped options: For families new to camping, glamping near Frankfort provides entry-level outdoor experiences. "Turtle Lake is a perfect mix of campers! Very family friendly, but spaced out well enough for privacy. They have a nice beach area and areas to fish," notes Chris R. about Turtle Lake Campground.
Book early for summer weekends: Family-friendly sites fill quickly. "This is our go to campground for the Traverse area," explains Patrick who stayed at Holiday Park Campground. Most family-oriented campgrounds recommend reservations 6+ months in advance for peak summer dates.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "Water hookup at each site, some sites only have 20 amp service," notes Kristine E. about Betsie River Campsite. Some properties have limited or no electric service.
Consider site layout: RV sites vary in level and privacy. "Sites look level but it's deceiving," cautions Sharon H. about her stay at Betsie River Campsite. Many RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks, even at established campgrounds.
Reserve pull-through sites when available: Easier access benefits larger rigs. "Long, level, pull through. A lot of wonderful things to say - but you'll have to see for yourself!" shares Lisa D. about her experience at Traverse City KOA.
