Best Campgrounds near Kalkaska, MI

Kalkaska is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Kalkaska, MI. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Kalkaska, Michigan (230)

    1. Traverse City State Park Campground

    49 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

    21 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. 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."

    4. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    9 miles
    Website

    "We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it."

    "Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody."

    5. Kalkaska RV Park & Campground

    4 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

    3 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."

    "All the usual stuff, vault toilet, hand pump and a fire ring BUT, the lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing."

    7. 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."

    8. Log Lake Campground

    3 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."

    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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 230 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Kalkaska, MI

1006 Reviews of 230 Kalkaska Campgrounds



Guide to Kalkaska

Camping near Kalkaska, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more modern setup, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This national lakeshore is a must-see. One camper mentioned, "The dunes are incredible to wander around and enjoy a beautiful sunset from" at Platte River Campground.
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Fisherman's Island State Park, provide access to great fishing spots. A visitor noted, "You can't beat the location because it is absolutely gorgeous right on Lake Michigan."
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts. One reviewer at D.H. Day Group Campground said, "Great access to walking trails and the beach."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Traverse City State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms there were still nice!"
  • Secluded Sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy. One camper at Fisherman's Island State Park mentioned, "Each site is secluded and there are about 10 sites that are directly on Lake Michigan."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort noted, "The cleanliness and friendliness clearly shows."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or airports. A camper at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park warned, "There are cars passing by frequently, but less in the evening."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are horribly outdated."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at D.H. Day Group Campground noted, "You’ll likely have to book in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A family at Indigo Bluffs RV Park enjoyed the amenities, saying, "Tons of trees, large sites, well maintained."
  • Choose Secluded Sites: For a quieter experience, opt for sites that are further away from the main areas. A camper at Fisherman's Island State Park appreciated the privacy of their site.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be small for larger RVs. A visitor at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park mentioned, "The spots are very small and you have to park sideways."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Be prepared with extra hoses and leveling blocks. A camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort noted, "The lots were not very level so the setup was a bit more difficult."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to local attractions. A reviewer at Indigo Bluffs RV Park highlighted, "It’s close to Empire which has a beach and Joe’s Friendly Tavern."

Camping near Kalkaska, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Kalkaska, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kalkaska, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 230 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 3.9-star rating from 49 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.