Kingsley's camping areas feature diverse terrain across Michigan's northern lower peninsula. Located within the Manistee National Forest region, these campgrounds offer access to the Boardman and Manistee Rivers at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. Seasonal temperatures fluctuate dramatically, with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter temperatures regularly dropping below freezing.
What to do
River exploration: Access the Boardman River from Old US-131 State Forest Campground for kayaking trips. "We put in upriver a ways where there was parking and got out right at the campground. It was close enough that we could follow the trail along the river back to our car since we only had one," notes Tee Jay M., who visited Old US-131 State Forest Campground.
Trail hiking: Traverse interconnected paths between campsites and forest trails. "The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground. There is also Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing," explains Matt T. about the trail system at Old US-131. Many trails connect to the North Country Trail for longer hikes.
Swimming access: Cool off in natural waters at Sand Lakes Quiet Area. "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping," reports Maddy T., who enjoyed the Sand Lakes Quiet Area. The area contains multiple small lakes with sandy shorelines for swimming.
What campers like
Privacy in rustic settings: The state forest campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural surroundings. "Rustic campground with access to the Boardman river and many miles of trails in the state forest. Bring cash, no state park workers onsite, honor pay system. Lots of shade and when we were there not busy at all," explains Anna B. about her stay at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers. "Awesome fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody. Fires were allowed ample firewood available for processing multiple lakes great hiking. Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count," reports Dan K. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for regional exploration. "This is a good campground. To me, it didn't stand out that much from others I have been to, but they have a bathhouse with showers and toilets, which is nice. It's also right next to a nice lake with sand volleyball pits," notes Kenzie B. about Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation in site quality. "Sites are small and pretty close together but shaded with electric at site (134) and centrally located bathhouse with hot water and well kept. Dish washing station available," reports Colleen S. about Traverse City State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts campsite conditions and accessibility. "A couple of the sites flooded after an unusually heavy rain today, so I would avoid any site that looks low if rain is expected," warns Jay F. about Scheck's Place. Spring camping can involve muddy conditions while fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer bugs.
Noise levels vary: Different campgrounds have distinct noise profiles. "Super lively campground with lots of people and campsites close to each other. The airport is nearby as is the main road so don't expect much peace and quiet. If noise isn't an issue, this campground is clean, fun, and cozy," explains Aakifah A. about Traverse City State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Choose campgrounds with built-in recreation. "Best place for a family vacation!! Great site for first time campers or when you want to just get away quickly without having to take lots of equipment and supplies. Nice little camp store and pizza restaurant on site. Great playground, evening activities," recommends K about Northern Exposure Campground.
Water safety: Select sites with shallow swimming areas for younger children. "Lake is across the street, very large and busy," notes Sara G. about Traverse City State Park. This makes supervision easier but requires careful planning for beach days.
Campsite spacing: Reserve larger sites when camping with multiple children. "We got an awesome site! We stayed here in 2016 for a fall weekend get away! 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 Cassondra P. about Holiday Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Not all campgrounds offer full services for larger rigs. "Huge campground (500+ campsites) right across the street from Grand Traverse Bay and a nice sand beach. Shower houses are clean and newer (at least on the back loop where I was). Campsites were clean and level with fire rings and picnic tables, but I did not see dedicated tent pads," explains Annie C. about Traverse City State Park.
Accessibility concerns: Some rustic campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. "Do not recommend coming in with a long trailer as it was tight driving through. We had our pick-up and 22-foot trailer," warns Amy D. about Old US-131 State Forest Campground.
Pet accommodations: Most campgrounds welcome pets but have specific rules. "My family has been camping every summer at Interlochen for for the past 25+ years. The employees are great, facilities are what you would expect at a campground. The campsites are HUGE and you can have lots of space and privacy," shares Elizabeth G., highlighting the spacious sites at Green Lake Rustic South that work well for pet friendly camping near Kingsley, Michigan.
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