Best Tent Camping near Frankfort, MI
Tent campgrounds near Frankfort, Michigan range from primitive backcountry sites to established campgrounds within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. White Pine Backcountry Camp offers a small collection of tent campsites approximately 1.5 miles along a sandy trail from Lake Michigan. South Manitou Island provides multiple tent camping options accessible only by ferry, including Weather Station Campground and Bay Campground. For those seeking free dispersed camping, the Manistee River Trail area allows primitive tent camping along hiking routes.
Most backcountry tent sites near Frankfort require permits, particularly those within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore where a $10 per night fee applies. Tent campsites at White Pine feature no tent pads, which may create drainage issues during wet weather. Water availability varies significantly across locations—South Manitou Island campers must either filter water from Lake Michigan or hike to designated water sources. Vault toilets are available at most established tent campgrounds, though Manistee River Trail dispersed camping areas have no facilities. Bear boxes are provided at some locations, while at others, proper food hanging is essential to prevent wildlife encounters.
The tent camping experience in this region offers varying levels of seclusion and access to natural features. Weather Station Campground provides tent sites on sandy bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan with trails leading down to the beach. Tent campers along the Manistee River Trail enjoy riverside sites with privacy between camping spots. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in wooded areas during spring and early summer months. According to one visitor, "The Manistee River Trail sites are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful!" Backcountry tent campsites on South Manitou Island provide excellent access to hiking trails, the island lighthouse, and swimming opportunities in Lake Michigan.
