Tent campsites near Frankfort, Michigan range from lakeside options with sand dunes to deeply forested sites along rivers. The climate features relatively warm summers with average temperatures of 70-75°F and significant mosquito activity during May and June. Camping permits for backcountry sites must be secured in advance, with availability limited during peak summer weekends from late June through August.
What to do
Hike to mini-waterfalls on Manistee River Trail: Follow the 23-mile loop covering both the North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping for varied terrain and water features. A camper notes, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!"
Island exploration on South Manitou: Take the ferry to South Manitou Island Group for day hikes to historical sites. "Hiking trails on the island are well marked, and fairly easy. I would recommend staying 2 nights if you want to see the whole island," advises a visitor who appreciated the island's accessible trails.
Fish at Crystal Forest Campground: Dedicated anglers can enjoy riverside fishing at fixed sites where regular campers keep gear all season. A reviewer mentions, "The fish station was very well done my husband said," noting the quality facilities for cleaning catches.
What campers like
Secluded river campsites: Spacing between sites creates privacy at Manistee River Trail camping areas. One camper shared, "All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful! We actually had a spot on the NCT side, the spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!"
Lake Michigan overlooks: Weather Station Campground offers elevated sites with water views. A visitor recommends, "Site 16 is the site to stay at, with relatively easy access to the lake for water. We used a carabiner to secure a line to a tree in the camp and tossed the other end down to give us a hand in climbing back up to the site."
Historical exploration: Abandoned structures on North Manitou add interest beyond natural features. "Once on the island you can go many miles of hiking, where you will encounter beautiful forest, marsh, dunes, and the abandoned buildings, ruins, and orchards unused for over 100 years," explains a camper who visited North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites.
What you should know
Limited water sources: Most sites require water treatment or carrying supplies. On South Manitou, a camper advises, "There is no access to clean drinking water at the campground, so plan on filtering water from Lake Michigan, or walking approximately 1.5 miles to the dock area to collect water there."
Wildlife considerations: Small animals require careful food storage. According to a South Manitou camper, "There are no food storage lockers, so food must be properly hung from a tree or stored in a bear canister to avoid being stolen by the microbears (aka chipmunks)!"
Ferry dependency on islands: Weather affects island access. "The ferry is unable to reach the island in dangerous weather conditions," warns a visitor, while another suggests, "I'd also recommend bringing more food than you think you need, in case the weather turns and the ferry can't pick you up on the day planned."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: White Pine Backcountry Camp offers a gentle introduction to backwoods camping. A visitor observed, "We ran into a group of young girls from a nearby summer camp who were experiencing their first 'backpacking' adventure. They were adorable and having a ton of fun."
Riverside alternatives for kids: Insta-Launch Campground provides easier access with amenities. "The tent sites are right off the river with docks to fish from and launch your boat from," notes a camper, adding it was "a lovely stay and by far my favorite campground in Michigan for the price."
Supply planning for islands: Pack extra for island stays with children. A parent who camped with their four-year-old reported, "We had numerous people gift us food they had packed over to the island and did not want to pack out. We ended up extending our trip by a couple days."
Tips from RVers
State forest alternatives: Healy Lake State Forest Campground offers basic accommodations for smaller rigs. "We camped here after visiting the Northern Natural Cider and Winery nearby which we highly recommend. The campground itself was large with plenty of sites to choose from, first come first serve. I think it was something like $13. Bring cash!"
Seasonal site considerations: Crystal Forest serves as a seasonal home for many regulars. A visitor noted, "This campground is the quintessential fish camp. Regulars have their gear here all season long. Sue, the host, is lovely and accommodating."
Water and electric needs: Insta-Launch provides hookups for RVs with better facilities than state options. An RV camper reported, "They have a big camp shop, excellent ice cream, flush toilets, free showers, and coin laundry! Wifi throughout the campground allowed us to watch tv from inside our tent."
