Interlochen, Michigan offers rustic to modern camping options within 20 miles of Traverse City. Located in northwestern Michigan's Grand Traverse County at an elevation of 826 feet, the area experiences warm summers with average temperatures of 75-80°F and cool nights around 55-60°F. Winter camping is limited with only Timber Ridge Resort remaining open year-round.
What to do
Kayaking on Silver Lake: Accessible from Holiday Park Campground with rentals available for watercraft. "Silver Lake for swimming, fishing, and boating, plus rental opportunities for pontoon boats and other watercraft," is available for visitors looking for water activities.
Biking trails: The Betsie River Campsite connects directly to paved paths. "There is a nice trail to ride your bikes to Frankfort but we chose to drive this time through. If we were to stay again we would definitely take a nice ride to town," notes one camper who enjoyed the accessibility.
River tubing: The Boardman River at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground offers floating options. "The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down," states a reviewer who enjoyed this relaxing water activity.
What campers like
Private campfire settings: Holiday Park Campground features custom fire areas. "We got an awesome site! Because it was after season we got to camp on someone's seasonal lot which was awesome! We had a beautiful site with a look out area and nice fire place," shares a visitor who camped during the off-season.
Family-friendly activities: Northern Exposure Campground offers organized events and playgrounds. "Nice spots both on the river show and across the road. Easy water access for very little children and non-motorized boats / Kayaks, etc. Nicely equipped playground and evening activities at the Camp Store/Office on special weekends," explains a camper highlighting the range of options.
Natural swimming areas: Duck Lake Campground features gradual-entry beaches. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area," states one reviewer about the family-friendly water access.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping sites near Interlochen, Michigan operate from late April through October. Holiday Park Campground offers special seasonal events during this period.
Reservation timing: Premium glamping accommodations fill quickly during summer months, especially lakefront sites. "Book well in advance for summer weekends."
Swimmers' itch precaution: Duck Lake Campground visitors should be aware of potential water conditions. "Beach is beautiful but has swimmers itch," notes one camper, while another adds, "We enjoy it a lot. It is close to many attractions or things to do. One negative is the swimmers itch but there are beaches/lakes that are nearby."
Site layout considerations: Campgrounds have varying spacing between sites. "Sites are close together with not a lot of trees," mentions one KOA reviewer, contrasting with more spacious options at other nearby glamping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly alternative: Turtle Lake Campground offers grassy sites that keep kids cleaner. "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."
Age-appropriate activities: Consider glamping sites with organized events. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Kitchen amenities: Luxury glamping units typically include cooking facilities, but verify what's included. "Each glamping unit includes comfortable beds with linens, electricity, and climate control options to ensure comfort in all seasons."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Ask for pull-through sites when possible at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort. "My husband loved this place because most of the sites are pull-through ones. The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long," shares one visitor highlighting the practical layout.
Leveling challenges: Check site terrain before setup. "There is a lot to do in this park, zip line, pool, walking trail, lake. Golf cart rentals. Lots of kid activities, in fact there was a Halloween party as we pulled in. Gated to pull back to sites, our first site was pretty unlevel but we were able to move without issue."
Seasonal bookings: Off-season camping offers better site selection and value. "We were here off season, daily rate was $40. There is a lot to do in this park," notes a camper who visited during a quieter period.
