Primitive camping options near Honor, Michigan extend beyond the popular Sleeping Bear Dunes locations into quieter state forest campgrounds and private facilities. The region features a mix of lakeside camping and wooded settings, with elevations ranging from 580-850 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity near the lakes, while spring and fall camping brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on inland waters: Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers opportunities for paddlers looking beyond the more crowded Platte River. "There is a boat launch right near by, but most of the sites have their own path right down to the water... great for early morning paddles and peaceful relaxation," notes Kate K. from Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp.
Biking on paved trails: The Betsie Valley Trail connects campgrounds to nearby towns. "There is a paved trail that runs by the campground, and it's less than a 3 mile walk/bike ride to downtown Frankfort and the lakeshore, which has a ton of things to do," reports Chris W. from Betsie River Campsite.
Equestrian camping options: For those traveling with horses, some campgrounds offer dedicated facilities. "There are a few spots that are more private, but you'll likely have to book in advance. Great access to walking trails and the beach," shares Emmy W. about D.H. Day Campground, which also offers equestrian options nearby.
Attending cultural events: Camp near the Interlochen Center for the Arts for unique experiences. "Next to a band camp too so it's fun enjoying the music in the distance while camping or around the fire," mentions Jason C. about Green Lake Rustic South.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the less crowded options. "Site 20 was very secluded... At night the campground was quite. Showers are .50¢ for three minutes and water was hot," reports Justyna E. about Empire Township Campground.
Night sky viewing: The area offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "We went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second," shares Doug P. about his late October stay at D.H. Day Campground.
Breakfast options: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities. "The camp store and little outdoor cafe are great and serve a delicious breakfast," notes Debra O. about Betsie River Campsite, adding that the "campground feels like campgrounds should! It is a small, family-run place."
Wildlife encounters: The region offers opportunities to observe native species. "There is a room in the bathhouse that is for washing dishes. This made it very convenient and I was very impressed with that," Stephanie C. mentions about Platte River Campground, which also has warnings about bears in the area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: State park and national lakeshore campgrounds book up quickly. "Reservations are extremely hard to get for this park. If you want a weekend campsite, you must book six months in advance!" advises Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Swimming conditions: Some lakes have water quality issues during summer months. "Swimmers itch in the lake. Easy check in. Nice bathrooms and showers. But sometimes the water pressure is not too good," warns Sherrie P. about Green Lake Rustic South.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. "You do need to walk across a bridge to get to the bay but not a long walk... do expect the campground to be full on weekends, especially during the cherry and film festivals," notes Annie C. about Traverse City State Park Campground.
Site variations: Even within the same campground, site quality can differ significantly. "Some pull through sites are VERY small so be careful when you book your reservation," cautions Stephanie C. about Platte River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When selecting campsites near Honor with children, consider recreation facilities. "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt... this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting and offers a nice playground," shares Ann D. about Turtle Lake Campground.
Junior Ranger programs: National Park Service sites offer educational opportunities. "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus," mentions Jeffrey R. about D.H. Day Campground in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area.
Beach proximity: For families with children, waterfront access matters. "We were a mile walk to the lake and even less to the River where salmon were swimming upstream as we canoed," explains Lori L. about her experience at Platte River Campground.
Trail difficulty warnings: Some trails may be challenging for younger children. "My only 'complaint' is that once we had children there wasn't a playground for easy access to entertainment," notes Andrea B. about accessibility at Platte River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend specific areas within campgrounds. "Our favorite place to camp is along the back fence with great hammock trees and the fire pit behind our trailer. It makes it feel like your not in a big busy packed campground," advises Cassondra P. about Traverse City State Park Campground.
Premium vs. standard sites: Some campgrounds offer different tiers of RV sites. "The spaces are tight unless you get into the back rows set back sites. This is a terrific way to solve the tight spacing," explains Jeff G. about Indigo Bluffs RV Park.
Generator policies: Rules vary by campground regarding generator use. "This campground has great amenities without feeling like urban camping. The staff and park rangers are amazing," shares Anne G. about Platte River Campground, which has specific generator restrictions.
Extended hookup considerations: Some sites offer full hookups for longer stays. "Awesome facility. Shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient," reports Kyle K. about Indigo Bluffs RV Park.
