The Ludington, Michigan area features numerous camping options within the Manistee National Forest, with elevations ranging from 580 to 650 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperature variations are moderated by Lake Michigan, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows around 55-65°F. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October, with a few extending their season into November depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Lighthouse hiking access: The 1.8-mile trail to Big Sable Lighthouse at Ludington State Park offers views of Lake Michigan and sand dunes. "The hike to Big Sable Lighthouse was beautiful as it wound through the woods and out over the dunes," notes Nancy W. at Cedar Campground — Ludington State Park.
River tubing and kayaking: White River RV Park provides direct river access for water activities. "We brought our kayaks and just brought one vehicle up the river to the start point to put in and got out right at the campground," shares Cassondra P. at White River RV Park & Campground.
Family fun center: Hill & Hollow Campground features an adjacent AJ's fun center with mini-golf, go-karts and arcade games for an additional fee. "There is an AJ's fun center there that has mini-golf, go carts and games. The campground has a pool," explains Clint at Hill & Hollow Campground.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms and facilities: Kampvilla Park maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "So very accommodating! Extremely clean bathrooms n showers. So much to do right here at the campground," reports Karen B. at Kampvilla Park, LLC.
Spacious, level sites: Many rv campgrounds near Ludington, Michigan offer concrete pads with ample space between sites. "Our site was super long (over 100') and had a nice view of the large pond. There is pretty good separation between sites," reports a camper at Poncho's Pond RV Park.
Beach proximity: Most campgrounds are within a short drive to Lake Michigan beaches. "Campsite is located 2 miles from downtown Pentwater, adorable small town on the water. Mears state park is 2 miles from the campground as well, Lake Michigan beaches," explains Melissa M. at Hill & Hollow Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Most Ludington RV parks operate from April through October. Kampvilla Park and White River RV Park both close by mid-October, while Vacation Station RV Resort operates from April 15 to October 31.
Site availability: Reservations are essential during peak summer months. "Hard to get a reservation," states Sara G. about Poncho's Pond RV Park.
Visitor policies: Some campgrounds charge daily visitor fees. "We had some friends show up that were camping near by. They wanted to check out our campsite to see if it was someplace they'd like to camp down the road. The office wouldn't let them in unless they paid $5 per person," notes Clint at Hill & Hollow Campground.
Terrain variation: Some sites may be less developed than others. "Most campgrounds you go to have grass on the sites. The majority of the sites we saw were completely dirt including ours," mentions Erica K. at Cedar Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Indoor recreation options: Look for campgrounds with indoor facilities for rainy days. "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!" recommends Amy Y. at Kampvilla Park.
Halloween camping events: Several Ludington area RV campgrounds host special Halloween weekend activities. "We stay during their Halloween weekend. They had all kinds of activities going on including haunted hayrides, trick-or-treating, and site decorating contest," shares Clint about Poncho's Pond RV Park.
Pool options: Many campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to Lake Michigan. "There are three heated pool on the property – two outdoor and one indoor with and two spas," reports a camper at Poncho's Pond RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Modern cabin alternatives: Several Ludington RV campgrounds offer cabin rentals with modern amenities. "We decided to rent a cabin this time since our toy hauler was in the shop. The cabins are very clean and up to date with modern appliances," shares Rich F. at Sun Retreats Silver Lake.
Concrete pad benefits: Look for campgrounds with concrete pads for easier leveling. "We had a great time. The park is SUPER clean and well-maintained. All sites are level concrete slabs and full service," explains Bob D. at Vacation Station RV Resort.
Site selection guidance: Some campgrounds allow you to choose specific sites. "Also loved that they gave us a choice of sites and let us drive around the campground (in their golf cart) and pick out the one we wanted," notes a reviewer at Poncho's Pond RV Park.
