Camping opportunities near Glen Arbor, Michigan feature mainly wooded sites in both established campgrounds and rustic state forest areas. The region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months. Fall camping conditions bring cooler temperatures with daytime highs in the 50s-60s and significantly colder nights that require proper insulation and heating sources.
What to do
Kayak the Platte River: Launch directly from Platte River Campground for easy water access. "We kayaked the North branch, which was winding and fast moving. Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" notes Joyce B.
Night sky viewing: October camping offers excellent star-gazing opportunities despite cooler temperatures. Doug P. from D.H. Day Campground shares: "We went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second."
Trail biking: The paved trail near Betsie River Campsite connects to surrounding areas. "It's right on the local paved bike trail that goes into the town of Frankfort or out in the other direction. Easy for kids and adults alike," reports Allison H.
What campers like
Small, family-run campgrounds: Many visitors appreciate the intimate settings. "This tiny little family owned campground is one of our favorites. The sites are smaller, but comfortable with lots of shade trees and a handful of cabins," writes Allison H. about Betsie River Campsite.
Breakfast options: On-site food service adds convenience for pet-friendly camping near Glen Arbor. "The camp store and little outdoor cafe are great and serve a delicious breakfast," mentions Debra O. at Betsie River Campsite.
Wooded privacy: D.H. Day Campground offers natural separation between sites. Rhonda D. states: "Nice wooded sites. Amazing beach access. Quiet." This sentiment is echoed by many campers seeking pet-friendly camping options with adequate space between neighbors.
What you should know
Late fall temperatures: Prepare for significant temperature drops if camping after September. "Went there in late October of 2022 and man was it a cold night to stay in a tent," reports Doug P. about his experience at D.H. Day Campground.
Seasonal water concerns: Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers paddling opportunities but with limitations. "Great like camp ground. No swimming but pretty lake with lots of lilipads and sunken tree. Nice hiking trail," advises Tracie S.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This is a great location based around Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes areas," notes Phil M. at Leelanau Pines Campground, which requires reservations well in advance for pet owners seeking accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Several campgrounds offer educational activities. Jeffrey R. mentions: "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus" at D.H. Day Campground.
Beach options: Not all water access is created equal for families with pets. "We were a mile walk to the lake and even less to the River where salmon were swimming upstream as we canoed," reports Lori L. at Platte River Campground.
Self-contained cabin options: Empire Township Campground provides cabins for those wanting a more controlled environment with pets. Justyna E. shares: "We stayed at site 20 which was large, and super spacious. There was our own private trail to the vaulted toilets which were always clean, stocked with T.P."
Tips from RVers
Space constraints: Many older campgrounds have tight turns and limited maneuvering room. "The sites are nice and very level, but a little close together," explains Chris R. from Leelanau Pines Campground.
Waterfront RV access: Several campgrounds offer direct water views from RV sites. "We were stationed near the boat ramp and had a beautiful shaded view of the lake," shares Kimberly C. about Leelanau Pines Campground, noting the pet-friendly policies that extend to cabin and RV areas.
Limited hookups: Most rustic campsites near Glen Arbor lack full services. Taylor D. notes about D.H. Day: "The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water."
