Glamping accommodations close to Harbor Springs, Michigan provide lake views and convenient access to northern Michigan attractions. This coastal area experiences warm summers with average temperatures around 75°F and cold winters that drop to 20°F. Several camping facilities near Harbor Springs offer premium glamping options with modern conveniences while maintaining proximity to natural attractions.
What to do
Beach exploration at Magnus Park: Visitors can search for Petoskey stones along the shoreline. "We thoroughly enjoyed the beach. We found Petoskey stones and other fossils and swam. It felt like being at the ocean!" shares Magnus Park Campground reviewer Jennifer G.
Visit Mackinac Island: Campers staying at Mackinaw City can access ferry transportation to this car-free island destination. "They offer a free shuttle to mackinaw ferry. That was really helpful. Everyone here has been friendly," notes Nicole P. about Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA.
Cycling adventures: The area features extensive paved trails connecting multiple communities. "Cycling dream trails," writes Geri Lynn P. about Petoskey KOA, highlighting the network of paths that provide scenic rides throughout the region.
Lighthouse tours: Several campgrounds offer access to historic lighthouses. Patrick S. from Magnus Park notes, "Open to a magnificent view of the sapphire and aqua blue water of Little Traverse Bay, this park is tucked away below US-31."
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites provide direct water access. "The location of the sites along the canal tend to have a good amount of goose poop by them as the geese were there daily. The park was clean and the sites were a good size. Beach was clean and the water was as well," reports Jessica S. about Aloha State Park Campground.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds feature larger-than-average camping spots. "Camp site was HUGE! I believe ours was like 40x65! Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area," writes Myron M. about Burt Lake State Park Campground.
Easy access to towns: The proximity to local communities enhances the camping experience. Kenneth K. from Leelanau State Park Campground shares, "While most supplies, including firewood, are available through the rangers and camp store, the town of Northport, with Tom's Grocery, is only 10 mins away."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. "This was our first time staying here and it was one of the best camping experiences we have ever had. The campground is well laid out and they have sites for anything from a tent to big rigs," notes Chris R. about Petoskey KOA.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some premium sites offer better views and privacy. "Young State Park has a typical rustic campground feel. The park covers 560 acres which encompasses a campground, hiking trails, a large beach area with concessions, boat launch (located in the Terrace Campground loop), picnic area, playground, baseball diamond, basketball courts, and fishing pier," explains Nancy W. about Young State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels can affect camping conditions. Mary K. from Leelanau State Park notes, "Great park. Sites near water are great. Far enough away but close to town if needed."
Reservations recommended: Popular sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "We were lucky and found an open site but they filled up by mid afternoon. Reservations might be the best way to go here," advises Art S.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit campsites. "Raccoons are insane! They are not afraid of anything. We were very good about putting everything away so we only had them visit our site a few times but the dumpster is full of them," warns Melissa M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. "They had a small playground for the kids. There was also a nice heated pool for them to swim in," shares Glynnis A. about Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA.
Water safety: Lake conditions vary at different locations. At Burt Lake, Myron M. reports, "If you like the beach, you'll easily get out in the water over 100 yards and still be safe (roughly 3feet or so). Bring your kayaks too."
Family-friendly rentals: Some campgrounds offer special accommodation options. Cody S. from Petoskey KOA notes, "The KOA campground is close to Petoskey, but outside town enough to be a bit quiet. A short drive to breweries, wineries, and dinner. There are amenities that would be good for a family and also big enough for a peaceful weekend for couples."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "We were here for the halloween weekend. They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest," shares Craig F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require adjustments for larger vehicles. Kim L. shares about Petoskey RV Resort, "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers."
Full hookup availability: Services vary between campgrounds and specific sites. "We were assigned a pull-thru in a spot where most of the campers were transients. The site was level, paved and had a paved patio and was full hook-up with cable and WiFi (which worked well at our site)," notes Nancy W.
Parking configurations: Site layouts affect how RVs can be positioned. "Be sure when you book that you put down the correct size of your rig as they have site management down to a science," advises Chris R. about Petoskey KOA.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads may present challenges. "The roads in the campground are pretty narrow and when someone was backing into their site it caused a traffic jam," cautions Nancy W.
