The Frankfort area offers extensive camping opportunities within Michigan's northwest Lower Peninsula. Located near the shores of Lake Michigan, campsites around Frankfort sit at elevations between 580-650 feet. The region experiences summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak camping months with cooler evenings dropping into the 50s, creating ideal camping conditions.
What to do
Night kayaking on the Platte River: At Platte River Campground, campers can experience unique evening activities. "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking. We have our favorite site too!" shares Nikki M.
Salmon fishing: The rivers around Frankfort provide excellent fishing opportunities. "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" recommends Joyce B. about the Platte River.
Bike trail access: The Betsie River Campsite connects directly to area bike paths. "There is a paved trail that runs by the campground, and it's less than a 3 mile walk/bike ride to downtown Frankfort and the lakeshore, which has a ton of things to do," notes Chris W.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: At Platte River State Forest, campers appreciate the room between sites. "Big, spacious sites with tons of shade and quite. My wife and I pulled into this campground on July 3rd at 10:30am and had 8 sites (out of 26) to choose from," reports Chris G.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. "Great showers. Family friendly. Great location and well maintained campsites," says Cynthia C. about Platte River Campground.
Outdoor breakfast options: Some campgrounds offer unique amenities. "The camp store and little outdoor cafe are great and serve a delicious breakfast," writes Debra O. about her experience at Betsie River Campsite.
What you should know
Rustic camping considerations: Some campgrounds lack amenities. "Rustic camping in a beautiful setting," notes Paul M. about Platte River State Forest. "Vault toilets. Water by a hand pump."
Site reservations: Booking well in advance is essential. "Reservations are extremely hard to get for this park. If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!" warns Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bears occasionally visit the region. "Was told a black bear visits the campgrounds at least once a week, but is not much a nuisance as long as campers store their food in the car," advises Joyce B.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Kampvilla Park offers recreation for children. "This campground has very clean bathrooms, a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do... There are all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with," says Amy Y.
Indoor options for rainy days: Some campgrounds provide covered areas. "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!" adds Amy Y.
Beach access considerations: Shoreline conditions vary between campgrounds. "The trail from Loop 1 is 1.2 miles to Lake Michigan. If you like to walk, be sure to walk out there. The end is complete sand so be prepared to work hard!" explains Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: D.H. Day Campground offers varied sites. "Most sites are very large, shaded, private and have level areas for tents or campers," reports Anne G., though some sites require adjustment.
Hookup availability: Water and electric services vary between campgrounds. "Water hookup at each site, some sites only have 20 amp service," notes Kristine E. about Betsie River Campsite.
Campground layout: Orchard Beach State Park has a unique configuration. "We booked three neighboring sites on the interior of the loop for some group tent camping... Theres an awesome grass avenue that runs down the middle of the sites in the inner loop, marked off so there are no tents in the area," describes Jennifer O.
Pet friendly camping near Frankfort, Michigan remains popular throughout summer months, with most campgrounds providing designated pet areas. When looking for dog-friendly camping options near Frankfort, many campers appreciate the forest-lined sites that provide shade for pets during warm days.
