Dispersed camping areas near Kewadin, Michigan provide alternatives to established campgrounds for those seeking more secluded experiences. Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers primitive campsites across multiple lakes and forested areas 15 miles southeast of Kewadin. The region experiences temperature fluctuations due to Lake Michigan influence, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months of June through August.
What to do
Paddle multiple lakes: At Chain-O-Lakes Campground, water activities dominate recreational options. "Chain O'Lakes Park has it all: trails to hike, horses to ride, boats to row, and fish to catch! After an adventure-packed day, you can return to your nearby campsite for some rest and relaxation," notes Brett F.
Hunt for Petoskey stones: The shoreline at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground provides excellent rock hunting opportunities. "The parks' six miles of shoreline are a perfect location to search for these treasures," explains Nancy W., referring to the fossilized coral fragments unique to northern Michigan.
Explore local towns: Campsites serve as convenient baselines for visiting nearby communities. "Sutton is a cute town with some great shopping. We went to a few wineries. Loved Chateau De Leelanau good wine & hard cider," shares B M. from Leelanau Pines Campground.
Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes: Multiple campgrounds provide access to this national lakeshore. "We drove to Sleeping Bear Dunes it was a beautiful drive. I can't believe people walk to the bottom it takes at least 2 hours to climb back up," reports B M. from their stay at Leelanau Pines.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Leelanau State Park Campground offers prime Lake Michigan frontage. "Wonderful time at Leelanau at a waterfront site in a tent. Rangers were so nice and helpful, the sites in great condition, and the 'outhouses' always clean," Kenneth K. reports.
Spacious, shaded sites: Many campgrounds feature larger campsites with natural separation. "The sites are nice and large, however, I thought we would have better access to Elk Lake. I would stay here again though," notes Sarah P. about her experience at Whitewater Township Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent praise. "Clean bathrooms. 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," Ann D. notes about Whitewater Township Park.
Small-town proximity: The region offers camping near charming communities. "Super close to torch lake and lots of great small towns. Only an hour away from sleeping bear dunes and like 30 minutes from traverse city," Hailey C. shares about Chain-O-Lakes Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season fills quickly throughout the region. "Reservations are first come first serve and aren't taken until early April. So book early," advises Jennifer B. about Whitewater Township Park.
Variable amenities: Facilities range from rustic to full-service. "It is a rustic campground with small sites, no electric, scattered water spigots, and pit toilets," Nancy W. explains about Fisherman's Island State Park.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal bathing options. "They had a sign advertising a local place offering showers for a small fee," reports Art S. about Leelanau State Park, where vault toilets are standard.
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during colder months. "May 1 to October 15" is the operating season for Leelanau Pines Campground, restricting access during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Barnes County Park Campground offers safe swimming areas. "Great for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a distance. Ring road through the park is quiet enough to bike around," explains Rachel M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "There is a laundry, playground and swimming area in the lake. The owners and people working in the office were really nice," shares Cindy B. about Leelanau Pines Campground.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds feature kid-friendly cycling routes. "Nice roads to bike on and explore the campground," notes Colleen S. about Traverse City State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Natural encounters enhance family camping experiences. "Daily visits by the local duck families were entertaining," Kimberly C. mentions about her stay at Leelanau Pines.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Site 69 was large enough for our class C 31ft motorhome, didn't take much to level," notes Clint G. about Barnes County Park.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds accommodate easier parking. "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," Michelle S. shares about Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
Full hookup options: Service levels vary significantly between campgrounds. "We were stationed near the boat ramp and had a beautiful shaded view of the lake. Our neighbors, most of whom were permanent campers, were nice," describes Kimberly C. about her experience at Leelanau Pines.
Seasonal limitations: Not all campgrounds support winter RV camping. "Fall camped here. First time and it lived up to all the good reviews! Absolutely beautiful fall colors throughout the campground," Kathie M. describes about her late-season visit to Fisherman's Island State Park.
