Indian River provides RV camping options within Michigan's northern lower peninsula where the Indian River meets Burt Lake. Campers can access the 38-mile Inland Waterway connecting four lakes and two rivers through this area. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer averages reach 75-80°F, affecting campsite availability and road conditions.
What to do
Inland waterway access: Indian River RV Resort serves as a convenient basecamp for exploring the waterway system. "Location is central to several activities; Mackinac Island, Petosky, Burt Lake, Mullet Lake etc.," notes one reviewer. The resort's location makes it ideal for water-based recreation.
Trail systems: Access to ATV/UTV trails directly from campgrounds provides off-road adventures. "Close to stores, tubing, able to ride atv/utv in and out," reports one camper at Indian River RV Resort, highlighting the convenient trail access from this location.
Golfing excursions: Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort combines camping with golf. "There are several 'packages' including camping and golf (if that's what you enjoy) and at times you can take a horse drawn Elk tour or participate in a Murder Mystery weekend," explains a reviewer, noting the unique combination of activities.
What campers like
Heated pool facilities: The swimming amenities at RV parks near Indian River provide relief during warm months. A camper at Starlight Campground notes, "Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games! This campground is extremely clean and has beautiful bathrooms/showers."
Friendly staff assistance: Staff at campgrounds often provide exceptional service, including setup help. "The owners/hosts and you're treated like family from the first contact until they remind you to come back. Their wonderful team are friendly and hard working to keep the park and facilities in tip-top shape," comments a guest at Indian River RV Resort.
Quiet camping environments: Many RV sites near Indian River, Michigan offer peaceful stays despite being fully occupied. "Even with families and dogs it's very peaceful and relaxing. The vibe is contagious and all the neighbors are friendly and considerate," reports a camper about their experience at Indian River RV Resort.
What you should know
Site surface variations: Some campgrounds offer concrete pads while others have gravel or grass surfaces. At Petoskey RV Resort, "cement pads at each site" are provided according to one reviewer, though another notes that "our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers."
Seasonal operation limitations: Most RV parks in the area operate from spring through fall. The Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort specifically runs "April 1 to October 31," with many others following similar schedules due to harsh winter conditions.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Book early as it is a small campground," advises a camper about Lakeshore Park Campground, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities for kids: Family-friendly facilities help keep children entertained. According to a camper at Starlight Campground, "Great campground for a family! Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games!" These amenities provide activities beyond the campsite itself.
Dog-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "A HUGE dog park with lots of room for pups to run off-leash, chase balls and make friends!" describes a reviewer at Indian River RV Resort, noting the special accommodations for four-legged family members.
Proximity to regional attractions: Location matters for day trips with children. A camper at Tiki RV Park mentions it's "within biking distance to the Shepler's Ferry dock which is super nice if you're planning to take bikes along" for trips to Mackinac Island.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access considerations: Some parks accommodate larger motorhomes better than others. At Indian River RV Resort, campers have "buddy sites so families and friends can face each other" and "premium sites that include options like concrete/brick patios, paved sites, pergolas, BBQ grills, etc."
Connectivity options: Internet and cell service vary between campgrounds. At Starlight Campground, "Cellphone service with Verizon was great and WiFi was available at the campground," providing reliable connections for those needing to stay connected.
Site assistance services: Some RV parks offer extra help with parking and hookups. "Owners lead you to your site and assist getting your rig lined up with water/sewer connections," explains a visitor to Indian River RV Resort, a valuable service especially for newer RVers.
