Best Campgrounds near Lake Ann, MI
Lake Ann, Michigan provides rustic camping opportunities in a region known for its proximity to both inland lakes and Lake Michigan. Lake Ann State Forest Campground offers a peaceful setting on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann with basic amenities including outhouses and hand pumps for water. The surrounding area includes several established campgrounds within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including Platte River Campground and D.H. Day Campground, which accommodate tent and RV camping. Most sites in the region are within 30 minutes of Traverse City, offering a mix of rustic forest camping and developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities.
"This rustic campground is settled on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann. Camp offers outhouses and water hand pumps," notes one visitor on The Dyrt. Camping in the Lake Ann area typically runs from April through October, with some campgrounds like Platte River offering year-round access. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when the region experiences peak visitation. The Lake Ann Pathway across from the state forest campground provides hiking opportunities through forested hills and along the Platte River. Water access is available at most campgrounds, though visitors should note that Lake Ann State Forest Campground has limited waterfront sites. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, and campers should be prepared for mosquitoes, particularly in wooded sites during summer months.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. According to one camper, "Previous times I've been here we could beach our boat right on the shoreline down from camp." Sites with Lake Michigan views tend to fill quickly, especially at D.H. Day and Platte River campgrounds within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides additional recreational opportunities, with several reviewers mentioning the convenience of hiking trails and beach access. Campers frequently note the region's natural beauty and relative quiet, particularly at the more rustic state forest campgrounds. The mixed-use campgrounds throughout the area accommodate various camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, with some locations like Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort also offering cabin and yurt options for those seeking more comfort.