Glamping sites near Free Soil, Michigan occupy the western edge of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, where sandy soil supports vast pine forests and accessible dune ecosystems. Located just 7 miles from Lake Michigan shores, the area sits at approximately 650 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, limiting access to certain accommodation options during cold months.
What to do
Hiking through dunes: Access Michigan's unique dune landscape at Lake Michigan Recreation Area where trails connect directly to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. "Off the beaten path beauty...We love the trails as the campground is right next to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. They have weekly ranger programs for kids as well. The beach is clean and the swimming is amazing!" according to a camper at Lake Michigan Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Set up at Insta-Launch Campground where river access provides excellent fishing spots. "Its quiet here a nice cleaning station lots of 🐟" notes one visitor about the Insta-Launch Campground & Marina, which offers direct access to waterways with docks designed for anglers.
Winter activities: Several sites remain open year-round, including Ludington State Park with winter camping options. "Winter camped in Pines Mini Cabin. Bunk beds with one a double- sleeps 5 total. Heat, electricity, mini fridge, microwave, table and 4 chairs...Awesome trails for hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Lots of phenomenal snow this year!" reports a winter visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent glampers particularly appreciate the spacing at Lake Michigan Recreation Area. "Campsites are HUGE! No showers, but you have the lake! No electricity either but this is how we like it," shares one visitor about the more rustic glamping experience available.
Clean facilities: Kibby Creek Campground receives high marks for bathhouse maintenance. "The bathrooms are modern, updated, and so clean! There are two sets of bathrooms-one attached to the general store, which has 2 bathroom stalls and one small shower. The other bathroom further into the campground is larger, it has 4 bathroom stalls I believe, and 3 bigger sized showers," notes a detailed review from Kibby Creek Campground.
Family amenities: Many sites offer dedicated family entertainment spaces. "There are two basketball courts (half courts), a volleyball court, shuffle board, mini golf, a pool, a train ride for kids, a private fishing pond, playgrounds, sand boxes, and various other planned activities," reports a visitor at Kibby Creek Campground.
What you should know
Beach access variations: High water levels affect beach access at some locations. "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," notes one camper about Orchard Beach State Park Campground.
Site configuration challenges: Some campgrounds have quirks in their layout. "The sites are well spaced but the campground overall is not well wooded, especially the sites in the middle of the loop," explains a visitor to Ludington State Park's Cedars campground.
Advance reservations essential: Popularity of glamping sites means planning ahead. "Make sure to book a site near the dunes. This place is perfect and books up quickly," advises a camper about Ludington State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas when traveling with small children. "Owner went above and beyond to put us in a site that would work for our RV and kids. we stayed close to the playscape, which ended up being awesome for our kids," reports a visitor to Cartier Park Campground.
Multi-family coordination: Several campgrounds accommodate group camping effectively. "We booked three neighboring sites on the interior of the loop for some group tent camping. The sites were generous, clean, grassy, with moderate tree cover. 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 a visitor organizing a family gathering.
Swimming options: Lake access varies significantly between sites. "10 minutes from several beaches, I would recommend getting to the beach before 10am. (they get busy fast)," advises a family camper, highlighting the need for early arrival during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Our site needed leveling but was not bad," notes an RVer who visited Twin Oaks RV Campground and Cabins in early spring.
Full hookup availability: Some glamping locations offer comprehensive services. "All 257 sites are full hook-up (with cable), level, and have paved patios and for a $2 up charge you can get a paved site. Our site was super long (over 100') and had a nice view of the large pond," details a visitor to Poncho's Pond RV Park.
Off-season discounts: Consider shoulder season travel for better rates. "New customers get a 10% discount and during our stay we fell into low season and nightly rates were discounted 50%. So for $28/night we got a really nice site with lots of amenities in a great location."
