Best Campgrounds near Lake City, MI

Camping near Lake City, Michigan, offers a great mix of natural beauty and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. One camper mentioned, "There's a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan, about a 1.2-mile hike which was a nice little hike even in the rain."
• Fishing: Head to D.H. Day Group Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for some fishing. A visitor shared, "The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water."
• Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Traverse City State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "You’re right downtown and there’s a catwalk over the beach."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Orchard Beach State Park Campground. A family said, "The bathrooms and showers are clean."
• Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy at Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park. One camper mentioned, "We apparently had the best site in the entire campground. Site 53 was clean and beautiful for viewing the sunset and privacy."
• Friendly Staff: Visitors at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort often mention the helpful staff. A reviewer stated, "The campground was large and well-maintained, and the friendly office staff made our stay even better."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Newaygo State Park Campground noted, "Two nights of brain-damaging laughter and frivolity by campsite 21 ruined the whole experience."
• Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Otsego Lake State Park Campground may have outdated facilities. One camper said, "The bathrooms are horribly outdated. This park needs a facelift ASAP."
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at D.H. Day Group Campground mentioned, "You’ll likely have to book in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. One family at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool."
• Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with snacks on hand. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground mentioned, "The showers are nice, and it’s great to have well-maintained facilities."
• Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have downtime. A visitor at Newaygo State Park Campground noted, "The noise levels really dropped off in the evening."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Some sites can be small. A reviewer at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park said, "The spots are very small and you have to park sideways."
• Bring Extra Supplies: Be prepared for limited access to stores. A camper at Lake Michigan Recreation Area advised, "Bring enough supplies for your stay unless you don’t mind a 1/2 hour drive to get resupplied."
• Leveling Blocks: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort mentioned, "The lots were not very level so the setup was a bit more difficult."

Camping near Lake City, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!