Camping sites near Williamsburg, Michigan cover a variety of terrain from lakefront locations to forested settings across Grand Traverse County. The region sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with numerous inland lakes connected via river systems. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F while spring and fall camping seasons experience more variable conditions with overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides miles of secluded trails through northern Michigan wilderness. As one visitor notes, "Though this area is usually busy, there is plenty of trail to explore here. We found a quaint opening with gorgeous water where the colors complimented each other. A beautiful spot for a quick lunch and as long as no one is across the way, good for a nice dip."
Fishing opportunities: Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground offers productive fishing waters with minimal crowds. "All the usual stuff, vault toilet, hand pump and a fire ring BUT, the lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing. The NCT 4600mi hiking trail runs through and the cross state horse trail skirts it and bikes are allowed on all trails," according to a recent camper.
Water activities: Multiple lakes provide paddling access within short distance from campsites. At Arbutus Lake State Forest Campground, one camper explains: "Great lake for fishing and paddling. Lake is made of 5 lobes, high speed boating is restricted on some of them." Many campsites offer direct water access for launching kayaks or canoes.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers value the direct water access at Whitewater Township Park Campground. "Nice bathrooms. This park is situated up on a hill on beautiful Elk Lake. Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used," shares one reviewer. Sites with lake views are particularly sought after.
Spacious campsites: Several campgrounds feature generous site dimensions. One camper at Arbutus Lake noted: "I've camped here so many times throughout my life—it's my go to when I can't think of somewhere to camp. It's situated on Arbutus Lake in Traverse City, MI (my hometown). It's a calm lake with easy same-day registration for camping."
Proximity to attractions: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers a convenient base for exploring the region. "We were searching for a super last minute campground near Traverse City for Memorial Weekend and everything within a quick drive seemed booked. The campgrounds were easy to navigate and even with all the activities available it never seemed too busy or too crowded or too loud," reports one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Whitewater Township Park, "Reservations are first come first serve and aren't taken until early April. So book early," advises one camper.
Primitive facilities: Most state forest campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Scheck's Place State Forest Campground, "Primitive means vault toilets, no power and hand pump water. No reservations — FCFS. Negatives: can be noisy at times with the ATVs and also large camping groups. But for the most part I've found ppl to be respectful."
Seasonal differences: Late spring through early fall provides optimal camping conditions. One visitor to Guernsey Lake reports: "Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Traverse City State Park Campground offers convenient beach access and recreation facilities. "Great place to camp in traverse! I prefer state parks to private campgrounds, and I don't mind the crowds, but it is a very busy place to camp in the the summer. Basic state park facilities, with a fire ring and picnic table combo at every site, as well as electric."
Recreation amenities: Timber Ridge provides dedicated kids' activities. "This campground is great for what it is, a resort type campground with tons of activities and opportunities for fun. It is not a typical campground for people looking to get lost in the woods. There are trails if you want to get away from all the action, however the main campground area is usually quite busy."
Site selection strategy: For families with younger children, proximity to bathrooms matters. At Traverse City State Park, "Sites are small and pretty close together but shaded with electric at site (134) and centrally located bathhouse with hot water and well kept. Dish washing station available. Clean campground; even with lots of people, pretty quiet."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Everflowing Waters Campground provides basic services for smaller RVs. "We Loved the campsite and the family that lives, owns, operates the grounds are fantastic! Water and electricity with plenty of pressure for the water. Yes it is basically a large yard turned into a campground, but it is done well and easy in/easy out."
Site leveling considerations: Some forest campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "Campsites are clean, restrooms are within a few minute walk, and a water pump is available. A couple walk-to sites are difficult to make the trips up and down the stairs if you have a lot of gear…but they are secluded and peaceful," notes a visitor to Arbutus Lake State Forest Campground.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full sewage services. "No dump station was the only downside," reports a camper at Everflowing Waters. Many RVers plan dump station stops at larger facilities when staying at more primitive sites.
