Best Campgrounds near Lake Leelanau, MI
Lake Leelanau, Michigan provides a variety of developed campgrounds set amid the scenic Leelanau Peninsula. The area includes established campgrounds like Leelanau Pines, Lake Leelanau RV Park, and Wild Cherry RV Resort that accommodate different camping styles. Tent and RV sites are available throughout the region, with some campgrounds also offering cabin rentals and yurts. Most campgrounds are situated within 15-20 minutes of popular destinations including Suttons Bay, Leland, Glen Arbor, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The peninsula location offers campers proximity to both Lake Michigan beaches and inland lakes.
Campground operating seasons typically run from May through October, with limited year-round options. Many sites require advance reservations during peak summer months when the region experiences high tourism traffic. Water and electric hookups are common in RV-focused campgrounds, while tent camping areas often feature more rustic amenities. The central location on the peninsula makes these campgrounds convenient bases for exploring regional attractions including wineries, hiking trails, and water activities. Several campgrounds provide direct lake access with beaches, boat launches, or marinas for water recreation. As one visitor noted, "The campground is a great stepping off point for exploring Leelanau with wine, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and small lakeside towns nearby."
Campers consistently highlight waterfront sites as preferred options, particularly at Lake Leelanau RV Park and Leelanau Pines Campground which both offer direct lake access. Reviews indicate that sites along Lake Leelanau provide swimming beaches, fishing opportunities, and scenic views. While some campgrounds feature predominantly seasonal residents, most maintain a portion of sites for short-term visitors. Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with some offering modern, clean facilities while others provide more basic amenities. The surrounding area supports multiple outdoor activities including kayaking on Lake Leelanau and its connecting creeks, cycling on local roads and trails, and hiking in nearby natural areas. A frequent camper mentioned that "Lake Leelanau is a large enough lake to spend the day exploring, but protected enough for swimming, kayaking, small sailboats, and paddle boarding."
