Best Campgrounds near Kalkaska, MI

Kalkaska, Michigan serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in northern Michigan's forested landscapes. Within the town limits, Kalkaska RV Park & Campground offers full-service sites with hookups, while nearby Log Lake Campground provides a more traditional camping experience with both tent and RV options. Just west of town, Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground maintains rustic sites in a wooded setting with vault toilets and drinking water but no electrical hookups. The Sand Lakes Quiet Area, approximately 15 miles west of Kalkaska, features backcountry tent sites for those seeking a more secluded experience. Rapid River Campground, situated north of town along US-131, rounds out the local options with cabin rentals alongside traditional camping sites.

Most campgrounds in the Kalkaska area operate seasonally from April through October, with state forest campgrounds like Guernsey Lake remaining open year-round for winter camping enthusiasts. Summer brings warm days with temperatures typically in the 70s-80s°F, while evenings cool considerably, often requiring extra layers. Mosquitoes and ticks are common from late spring through summer, with campers frequently mentioning the need for insect protection. As one visitor to a nearby campground noted, "Make sure you have bug spray. Stay on the paths! And watch for ticks! Stay on trails and out of tall grass or weeds." Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during peak summer weekends and around holidays, though some state forest sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Several campgrounds offer proximity to lakes and rivers for fishing, paddling, and swimming opportunities. The wooded settings provide natural privacy between many sites, though privacy levels vary considerably between developed RV parks and more rustic options. Campers frequently mention the region's trail systems as highlights, with opportunities for hiking and mountain biking directly from campgrounds. Wildlife sightings, including deer and various bird species, add to the camping experience. Visitors should note that cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, and grocery options are limited outside of Kalkaska proper, making advance planning important for extended stays.

Best Camping Sites Near Kalkaska, Michigan (234)

    1. Traverse City State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5270

    "Located on busy US-31, but with pedestrian bridge over 4 lanes to beach. TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) access from campground. Easy biking to Traverse City or Acme."

    "Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."

    2. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    22 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 947-2770

    $60 - $260 / night

    "We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."

    "There is a pool, jump pad, miles and miles of mountain biking trails and hiking trails, a man made lake which has some inflatable water toys."

    3. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    9 miles
    Website

    "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."

    "great spots near lakeside hiking nearby

    quiet, hardly saw anyone"

    4. Whitewater Township Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 413-1160

    $45 - $60 / night

    "This park is situated up on a hill on beautiful Elk Lake. Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used."

    "The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake. We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend."

    5. Kalkaska RV Park & Campground

    5 Reviews
    Kalkaska, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 258-9863

    "1/2 hr outside Traverse City. Nice away from the busy areas.
    The campground needs some attention which will be addressed by the new owners. Very dusty, loose sand uneven entrance."

    "Nice beautiful campground situated in a nice woods setting. Sprayed for bugs so the bugs were not much of a nuisance. The camp sites are a nice firm gravel and pretty level."

    6. Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Boardman, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    "One is reservable and drive-in with access to the lake. We decided to backpack about 3 miles in and camp in the rustic hike in sites."

    "Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded."

    7. Log Lake Campground

    4 Reviews
    Kalkaska, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 258-2940

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Has a clear beach.Good Kayking lake. Has a nice bathroom and shower. If u are there just to swim they have port-a-potty to use on the beach. Town not even a mile."

    8. Upper Manistee River

    11 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    $15 - $20 / night

    "the sites are sandy and surrounded by tall pines and ferns. some biting flies, especially near river (late june). multiple vault toilets and one water pump. sites are spacious enough for small campers"

    "We love Michigan outdoors! We chose paddling and camping the Big Manistee River. As is the expectation when we camp…there will be rain…and this outing was no different."

    9. Robinson Campground

    1 Review
    Kalkaska, MI
    1 mile
    +1 (231) 384-6300

    10. Rapid River Campground

    2 Reviews
    Rapid River, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 258-2042

    "Minus one star because despite the name, there is no access to any river. We stayed here not wanting to be in the tourist trappy areas nearby and it worked out great."

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Recent Reviews near Kalkaska, MI

1045 Reviews of 234 Kalkaska Campgrounds


  • Kathie M.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Leelanau State Park Campground

    Beautiful small rustic campground

    This campground is my all time favorite. I don't think there is a bad site (51 sites plus 3 cabins). Very beautiful in the fall with outstanding forest hiking south of campground. I stayed in Cedar Cabin, sleeps 5, with heat, lights, fridge, microwave. Love that this cabin has a covered awning porch. Very short walk to Lake Michigan- you can even see if you have a clearing. Vault toilets so clean! Lighthouse is breathtaking. Rangers friendly. Highly highly recommend!

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    Lots of activities

    We just needed a spot for the night near Traverse City, and this fit the bill.
    It is a huge campground, with lots of activities for kids, but we have none. It was not high season, so it was not crowded and it was quiet. Our site was full service, but we only need electric for our van. The bathrooms were clean, but we were disappointed that the showers require quarters, as we had none. It was a great last minute opportunity, but I'm sure in high season you need a reservation.

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Petoskey KOA

    Beautiful setting in woods

    This campground was close to the town of Petoskey, had clean showers and bathrooms, which were toasty in the cool October night we stayed! Kudos! Our site was level, shaded, and close to the facilities, as we are van campers this was nice.

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Lively Acres Campground

    Clean, new, quiet

    We visited in mid October, out of season, but the phone reservation that same day was easy and helpful. Verizon cell service was good, and the Porta potties were clean. There were no plumbed toilets or showers. The planted trees and shrubs are young, so there is no shade or privacy between sites yet.

  • Erin F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

    Off the beaten path

    Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded.

  • Kammy H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park

    Beautiful fall morning, site on the lake

    Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, childrens playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails. I feel very relaxed here.

  • thomas D.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Great Circle Campground

    Do Not Recommend Camping Here

    The new management and owners are rude, non-friendly and have not kept up the campground. Not kept up and locked bathrooms. We have been camping here for almost 20 years and it was a home away from home. This is not a place I would bring a family. Do not recommend.

  • John H.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Great Circle Campground

    Do not recommend

    Been camping here for years and new ownership has ruined the experience. Do not camp here.


Guide to Kalkaska

Campsites near Kalkaska, Michigan range from lakeside retreats to forested hideaways across elevations between 1,000-1,300 feet. The area receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually, with significant snowfall during winter months. Most forest campgrounds remain open year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations, while private campgrounds typically operate from April through October.

What to do

Paddle the waterways: The Manistee River offers excellent kayaking opportunities near Kalkaska. At Upper Manistee River, campers appreciate the river access. "We contacted Chippewa Landing...and they met us at our put in (Grayling area)...and drove our vehicle to their livery for our take out," notes Dave V., who adds that "its a beautiful river...and on a early week paddle...we had the river to ourselves."

Explore hiking trails: The Sand Lakes Quiet Area contains multiple interconnected trails through diverse forest terrain. "There are hiking trails nearby and the campground is about 15 minutes away from the quaint town of Elk Rapids and a very touristy Traverse City," explains Ann D., who stayed at Whitewater Township Park Campground. The park offers "a small playground; boat launch; hiking trails and fire rings and picnic tables at every site."

Fishing opportunities: Local lakes provide productive fishing spots throughout the camping season. "The lake was gorgeous!! Great sites," writes Nikki about Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground. Another visitor, Tom B., mentions that "the lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing. The NCT 4600mi hiking trail runs through and the cross state horse trail skirts it and bikes are allowed on all trails."

What campers like

Rustic camping experience: Many campgrounds near Kalkaska maintain a natural, undeveloped feel. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, Maddy T. found exactly that: "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness... The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears." For those seeking backcountry options, these sites require "a 1/2 mile or less" hike from the parking area.

Waterfront access: Lakefront camping spots rank highly among visitor preferences. "We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend," says Sarah S. about Whitewater Township Park. "The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake." Another camper, Kelsey P., notes, "I loved the clear blue water down the big dropoff hill and how heavily wooded this entire park was. Made it perfect for hammock camping!"

Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive consistent positive mentions. At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, camper Mike C. "enjoyed our tent camping 4-day experience at this wonderful, clean, & friendly place." Another guest, Tammey B., reports that "facilities were very very clean and well kept. The owners are awesome and very friendly and super willing to help if you need assistance."

What you should know

Site conditions vary widely: Campground terrain ranges from sandy to gravel surfaces. Macy M. reports that at Log Lake Campground, "Site 25 was a large site that fit my 36' TT and my brother-in-laws very large tent on with plenty of room (very deep site)." However, they also noted that "upon arriving to my site, site was dirty, trash all over site and trash dumped in fire pit."

Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent, particularly in wooded areas. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, the staff addresses this directly. Tammey B. notes they "sprayed for bugs so the bugs were not much of a nuisance," while another camper, Michelle S., appreciates how "the trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long."

Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking. Angela P. notes that Upper Manistee River campground is "first come, first serve - never full. Quite on the river and convenient to kayaking and canoeing locations." For popular locations like Timber Ridge, camper Holly Jo J. recommends planning ahead: "We were searching for a super last minute campground near Traverse City for Memorial Weekend and everything within a quick drive seemed booked."

Tips for camping with families

Recreation options: Many campgrounds offer dedicated play areas and structured activities. Chris M. shares that Timber Ridge has a "great mix of activities for the kids. Big park but felt small, no problems with traffic and golf carts like we have experienced at other 'resort' style campgrounds." Another visitor, Allison H., elaborates: "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."

Swimming areas: Beach access varies by location, with some offering designated swimming zones. Robinson Campground gets high marks from Copper P., who says "the sites were kept very well. Lots of wildlife scurrying about. The water was clean and a gorgeous sunset." At Whitewater Township Park, Sarah S. mentions that the campground is "positioned on a hillside next to a lake" with "a small playground; boat launch; hiking trails."

Campsite spacing: Site proximity affects noise levels and privacy. Jennifer G. describes Rapid River Campground as having "spots were not huge and also not very grassy" but appreciates that it's "not far from Torch Lake and Petoskey to look for stones." For families seeking more space, Cassondra P. recommends Timber Ridge for its "well stocked camp store" and because "we really enjoyed this campground! There was a lot for the kids to do and we never really left the campground."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites are limited at most campgrounds. At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, Hope C. notes: "They only have 15 full hookup sites and none were available for our time frame. They have several long term tenants. Roads are narrow but most sites are ample. They have a pump out service twice a week for $10 each time."

Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain. "We camped in a 40' motor coach for a week. Site is gravel and dirt. It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling," explains Hope C. about Kalkaska RV Park.

Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turns or narrow roads. BC-G shares that Kalkaska RV Park needs "some attention which will be addressed by the new owners. Very dusty, loose sand uneven entrance." However, Robert O. had a better experience, finding a "pull through full hook up, everything worked great. Nice level gravel spot."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Kalkaska, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kalkaska, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 234 campgrounds and RV parks near Kalkaska, MI and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Kalkaska, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kalkaska, MI is Traverse City State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 51 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kalkaska, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Kalkaska, MI.

What parks are near Kalkaska, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Kalkaska, MI that allow camping, notably Sleeping Bear Dunes and Huron-Manistee National Forests.