Camping sites near Leland, Michigan span the Leelanau Peninsula where the growing season averages just 140 days per year due to the moderating effects of Lake Michigan. The peninsula's elevation rises to nearly 1,000 feet at its highest points, creating diverse microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Most campgrounds maintain a strict quiet hours policy from 10pm to 8am, with enforcement varying by location.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Leelanau: Campers at Leelanau Pines Campground can launch directly from the campground. "We launched the kayak & could keep it there on the grass at the lake. We kayaked the lake Leelanau then went up into Victoria Creek it was so cool. There was a duck blind in there and shore birds," reports one visitor.
Visit local wineries: Located near many campgrounds on the peninsula. "We went to several wineries. Boathouse Vineyards was nice you could do the wine tasting then sit out back facing the river & have a glass of wine. They had entertainment playing, and brought Pizza in," notes a camper from Leelanau Pines.
Winter stargazing: For off-season campers at D.H. Day Campground, the night sky offers exceptional viewing. "Went there in late October of 2022 and man was it a cold night to stay in a tent. We got there late, put tents up in the dark, ate dinner late from a local watering hole. But once we got situated, we went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second."
Lighthouse tours: Several campgrounds offer access to historic lighthouses. "I stayed in Cedar Cabin, sleeps 5, with heat, lights, fridge, microwave. Love that this cabin has a covered awning porch. Very short walk to Lake Michigan. Lighthouse is breathtaking," explains a visitor at Leelanau State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Leelanau State Park Campground offers sites with direct water access. "Wonderful time at Leelanau at a waterfront site in a tent. Rangers were so nice and helpful, the sites in great condition, and the 'outhouses' always clean," reports one camper who enjoyed "falling asleep to light sound of waves."
Shade coverage: Many campers appreciate tree cover at specific campsites. "The campground was very shady and situated right on the lake. We stayed in Site #50 and could carry our kayaks across a small grassy field to put in at the edge of the lake," notes a visitor at Leelanau Pines Campground.
Beach quality: Barnes County Park Campground provides direct beach access from multiple sites. "There are campsites here with direct access to the beach. The campsites are relatively close together but there a lot of tall trees and it was nice and quiet," shares one camper.
Off-season solitude: Late season camping offers unique experiences. "Stayed here on a chilly late September weekend with very few other campers around. Loved it. It's remote, rustic and the lakefront is scrubby and unspoiled," notes a visitor at Leelanau State Park.
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies considerably: South Manitou Island Group offers more isolation than mainland options. "We were lucky enough to get a site on the cliff over the water and we could watch the waves from inside our tent. Some water side sites have their own trail down to the beach below," explains an island camper.
Bathroom facilities differ by location: Some campgrounds maintain modern facilities while others use vault toilets. "Bathrooms and showers were clean and there was someone cleaning them a couple times a day if needed," reports a visitor at Leelanau Pines Campground.
Wildlife concerns: Some campgrounds have bear activity protocols. "Don't leave food out!! There was a bear spotted in the group area during our stay," warns a visitor about Platte River Campground.
Weather impacts: Lake effect weather patterns can create challenging camping conditions. "It did rain pretty hard plus wind and with lots of trees many branches and such on top of our rig afterwards. That doesn't bother me but if it bothers you, you may want another place being this has lots of trees," notes a camper at Barnes Park.
Tips for camping with families
Easy hiking options: Platte River Campground offers accessible trails for all ages. "The campground is wonderful. Most sites are very large, shaded, private and have level areas for tents or campers. There is a (long) walking trail to the beach, and many areas to hike, fish or tube down a river nearby," shares a camper.
Kid-friendly programming: Some campgrounds offer structured activities. "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus," reports a visitor about D.H. Day Campground.
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds have dedicated swimming zones. "They have a laundry, playground and swimming area in the lake," notes a visitor at Leelanau Pines Campground.
Beach activities: For families with young children, Barnes Park offers an extended shallow area. "Great for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a distance. Ring road through the park is quiet enough to bike around, and they are many hiking paths to choose from."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Traverse City State Park Campground has distinct areas with different advantages. "Our favorite thing is being connected to the bike paths so we can bike to downtown area while staying on bike trails! Campground is busy and small sites but our favorite place to camp is along the back fence with great hammock trees and the fire pit behind our trailer."
Arrival timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We were late arriving but they had friendly staff that met us to check us in and guide us to our site. The site had full hookups and was considered to be one of the premium sites," reports a visitor at Leelanau Pines Campground.
Campground access considerations: Some sites have challenging terrain. "The sites at this campground are lush with grass, but on the smaller side. It's right on Lake Leelanau, and they even rent boat slips," explains a camper from Lake Leelanau RV Park.
Off-grid preparations: Plan accordingly when visiting more rustic campgrounds. "The solar driven well is no longer operating so grab your water from Lake Michigan and treat it accordingly," advises a South Manitou Island camper.
