Tent camping options near Lake Ann, Michigan extend beyond established campgrounds into more remote backcountry settings. The region sits at the southern end of the Leelanau Peninsula, where northern Michigan's glacial terrain creates unique camping opportunities between 650-750 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with nighttime lows in the 50s, making sleeping bags rated for 40°F appropriate for most summer nights.
What to do
Hiking through old-growth cedars: At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, campers can explore multiple trails connecting peaceful lakes. "Awesome backcountry camping spot in a populated area. Though this area is usually busy, there is plenty of trail to explore here," notes one visitor who appreciated the secluded spots despite the area's popularity.
Fishing in clear waters: Multiple inland lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities near Lake Ann. "Me and my dad went camping here rode our motorcycles into the parking area and had a nice little hike to the camp ground! Very nice camp sites once we got set up we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!" reports a Sand Lakes Quiet Area camper.
Island exploration: For a more challenging adventure, North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites offer extensive hiking. "Plenty of history and wilderness on this reclusive island of Sleeping Bear National Forest. Southern portion near cemetery and cabin is desert like and debatable if it's worth it. Island is 7 miles across but worth the truck," shares one camper who valued the varied terrain.
What campers like
Remote sites away from crowds: Many campers appreciate the solitude at Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, where sites are spaced for privacy. "All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful! We actually had a spot on the NCT side, the spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!" explains a backpacker who enjoyed the trail's layout.
Scenic waterfront camps: Waterfront camping locations near Lake Ann provide direct lake access. "Great spots near lakeside, hiking nearby, quiet, hardly saw anyone," writes a Sand Lakes Quiet Area camper who valued both water proximity and seclusion.
Primitive camping with wilderness immersion: The region offers true wilderness camping. One North Manitou Island camper noted, "Forests, hills, beaches, and dunes really help break up the terrain you encounter. The old village and scattered ruins and structures make for interesting stops. Visiting the cemetery was an ethereal experience as the sun began to set."
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Many sites require preparation for access. At Weather Station Campground, "You must camp at one of the designated sites. There is no access to clean drinking water at the campground, so plan on filtering water from Lake Michigan, or walking approximately 1.5 miles to the dock area to collect water there."
Insect protection essential: Bug spray is critical during summer months. "Mid July was very buggy," reports a camper at South Manitou Island, while others mention mosquitoes as the primary challenge at many sites.
Weather variability: Weather changes quickly on Lake Michigan. A North Manitou Island camper described, "Early June was comfortable at night and the bugs were at a minimum for the most part. There were many weekend visitors so I'm glad we went Sunday to Wednesday when there's typically fewer people on the island."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easier water access: When camping with children, water accessibility matters. At Power Island County Park Primitive Campsites, "Each campsite has a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. Some are heavily wooded and others are very open to the sun. Most have direct water access to the crystal clear, turquoise lake."
Plan for ferry-dependent camping: Island camping requires advance planning. "This campsite can only be accessed via boat with easy access from Bower's Harbor marina on the Old Mission Peninsula. We paddled our sea kayaks out as we are comfortable in the changing sea/wind conditions of Lake Michigan," notes a Power Island camper.
Start with shorter hikes: For children new to backcountry camping, choose sites with shorter approaches. "Just 1.5 miles on a very easy sandy trail from the parking area at the Lake Michigan shore is this 6 site campground complete with a reasonably clean pit toilet and group cooking/campfire area with bear box," reports a visitor to White Pine Backcountry Camp.
Tips from RVers
Parking alternatives for backcountry access: RV owners visiting tent sites can find parking at trailheads. One Manistee River Trail camper advised, "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)," providing a good RV parking location for overnight backpacking.
Nearby amenities: When tent camping from an RV base, Healy Lake State Forest Campground offers basic amenities. "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! Good boat launch," notes a visitor who appreciated the accessible boat launch for day trips.
