Tent camping near Kingsley, Michigan offers access to multiple state forest lands and quiet inland lakes across Grand Traverse County. The region sits within the rolling hills of the northwestern Lower Peninsula, with elevations ranging from 800-1200 feet and a climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Campsites in this area typically experience seasonal temperature swings from 70-85°F during summer months to below freezing in spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sand Lakes Quiet Area features exceptionally clear water lakes with abundant fish. "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast," notes a camper at Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites.
Hiking trails: The Manistee River Trail provides marked routes through varied terrain with scenic river views. "Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side)," explains a visitor to Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping.
Waterfall viewing: Several small waterfalls can be found throughout the region's trail systems. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" recommends a camper who visited Manistee River Trail.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground offers isolation despite being only 20 miles from Kingsley. "Hopkins is your dream camp site. Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area," says a reviewer of Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground.
Water access: Many Kingsley area campgrounds feature direct water access for swimming and fishing. Long Lake State Forest Campground provides "large and spacious" sites where "some are tree covered and more forested while others are open, grassy and lakeside," according to a visitor at Long Lake State Forest Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. A Sand Lakes visitor noted: "The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears. From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Several tent camping areas near Kingsley have limited signage. "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off," reports a Sand Lakes visitor.
Variable water conditions: Water sources range from reliable pumps to seasonal streams. At Healy Lake State Forest Campground, "the campground itself was large with plenty of sites to choose from, first come first serve. I think it was something like $13. Bring cash!" notes a camper at Healy Lake State Forest Campground.
Seasonal fluctuations: Campgrounds near Kingsley can become crowded during summer weekends. "Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite," explains a Manistee River Trail visitor.
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Sand Lakes, a camper noted: "There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategies: For family tent camping near Kingsley, look for campsites with space for multiple tents. "Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far," explains a visitor to Power Island County Park Primitive Campsites.
Bug preparedness: Northern Michigan's lakes and forests support active insect populations. "Campsites can be pretty buggy so bring your screens, hats and spray! Awesome backcountry camping spot in a populated area," warns a Sand Lakes visitor.
Water safety measures: Families should monitor weather conditions when camping near lakes. At Long Lake, a camper noted it was "a very weedy lake - caught a few fish though," indicating potentially challenging swimming conditions for young children.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Kingsley have limited RV access. For RV-friendly options, consider established campgrounds like Torch Grove Campground where "most sites were full hook up but they had some rustic sites too. There was a small playground also," according to a visitor to Torch Grove Campground.
Road conditions: Forest roads leading to campsites may present challenges for larger vehicles. A Healy Lake visitor cautioned about "washboard roads to get to it," which could be difficult for RVs with low clearance.
Seasonal availability: Check operating dates when planning RV trips to the Kingsley area. Long Lake State Forest Campground operates from "April to October," providing a defined season for camping access.
