Camping sites near Interlochen, Michigan primarily feature heavily wooded, inland lake settings at elevations ranging from 750-900 feet above sea level. The area serves as the watershed for both the Platte and Boardman River systems, creating numerous small lakes and wetlands throughout the region. Fall camping temperatures drop to 40-50°F at night by mid-September, while spring camping typically begins in late April when night temperatures consistently rise above freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on Platte River: Visit Platte River Campground where you can experience the seasonal salmon run. "We do a lot of camping all throughout Michigan. We are from Traverse city and this is our go-to campground. We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking," shares Nikki M. The river also offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities in spring and fall.
Bike trail access: Stay at Traverse City State Park Campground to connect with extensive regional biking routes. "One of our favorite things is being connected to the bike paths so we can bike to downtown area while staying on bike trails!" writes Cassondra P. The campground provides direct access to the TART trail system with connections to downtown and peninsula routes.
Island exploration: Lake Dubonnet offers unique paddling experiences with small islands you can access from shore. "Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp has the basic rustic camping necessities. Outhouses near each circle, spickit with really good water, hiking trails, boat launch and even a nearby island you can kayak to and let the dogs roam free!" notes Caryssa R. The lake contains multiple small islands within easy paddling distance from the public launch.
What campers like
Cultural performances: Green Lake Rustic South campers enjoy proximity to arts programs. "Beautiful state park. Very nice beach and lots of room to roam. Next to a band camp too so it's fun enjoying the music in the distance while camping or around the fire," explains Jason C. The Interlochen Center for the Arts hosts outdoor concerts from June through August with some performances audible from certain campsites.
Off-season availability: Many campgrounds in the region remain open for fall and early winter camping with reduced crowds. "Went at the end of August and lucked out to get one spot for a tent. The campground was full, so you could definitely see and hear your neighbours. There are a few spots that are more private, but you'll likely have to book in advance," reports Emmy W. about D.H. Day Campground.
Secluded sites: Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers more remote camping options. "I absolutely love this campground. I've camped there twice this summer and each time I enjoy it. The campsites themselves have lots of space, privacy and a fire pit. This place is the bees knees," comments Caryssa R. The campground features first-come, first-served sites that remain available even during peak season.
What you should know
Weather variability: Fall campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations. "Went there in late October of 2022 and man was it a cold night to stay in a tent. We got there late, put tents up in the dark, ate dinner late from a local watering hole. But once we got situated, we went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second," says Doug P. about his experience at D.H. Day Campground.
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the area have periodic water quality issues. "The sites are not real big, and all dirt. Not quiet time inforced. And swimmers itcch in the lake. Easy check in. Nice bathrooms and showers. But sometimes the water pressure is not too good," reports Sherrie P. about Green Lake Rustic South.
Traffic noise: Certain campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to highways. "This campground is really busy but its definitely worth it to be in Traverse City! It is right across from the bay so its easy to go swimming. It is also close to all of the wineries which was awesome," notes Sarah P. about Traverse City State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turtle Lake Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt. While I understand that comes with the territory of camping, this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting and offers a nice playground," shares Ann D. The playground area includes swings, climbing structures and open grassy areas.
Beach options: Campgrounds with designated swimming areas provide safer experiences for children. "It's an absolutely beautiful state park, with lots of access to the lakes and in close proximity to Traverse City and Leelanau, without the tourist rush," explains Cait C. about Green Lake Rustic South. The swimming area includes a gradual entry point with firm sandy bottom.
Educational programs: National park campgrounds offer ranger programs specifically for children. "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus," notes Jeffrey R. about D.H. Day Campground. These programs run throughout summer and feature topics like wildlife identification, night sky observation, and regional history.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have variable site sizes that affect RV positioning. "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt. While I understand that comes with the territory of camping, this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting and offers a nice playground. The bathrooms were well kept and showers were clean, although we had a hard time keeping hot water. The thing I didn't particularly like is how close you are to other sites. You are practically on top of each other," advises Ann D. about Turtle Lake Campground.
Hookup availability: RV sites offer different utility connections throughout the region. "The sites in the three loops are nicely placed so that you have foliage and space between sites but also close enough for larger groups to spread out and still feel like they are camping in a group. Good hiking trails and lake MI access. Tent pads are large and thoughtfully placed on the sites," explains Anne G. about Platte River Campground.
Seasonal access: Off-season camping offers better site availability for larger rigs. "We stayed in the rustic sites as the modern ones were closed for the season. You are literally camping with everyone near you. We were lucky that hardly anyone was there," reports Natalie S. about Green Lake Rustic South.
