Silver Lake Sand Dunes area offers diverse camping options with accommodations that extend beyond traditional sites. Located along Michigan's western coastline at approximately 630 feet above sea level, the region's temperate summer climate and sandy terrain create ideal conditions for outdoor recreation from late spring through early fall. The area's campgrounds provide easy access to both inland lakes and Lake Michigan beaches, with average summer temperatures reaching the mid-70s°F.
What to do
Beach access within walking distance: Whispering Surf Campground offers proximity to multiple water bodies. "Whispering Surf has a private beach on Bass Lake--great fishing, sandy bottom, kayak and canoe rentals--plus 2 Lake Michigan beaches within walking distance. Perfect sand beaches, nice, quiet campground with friendly staff," notes Brenda S.
Dune adventures beyond riding: Silver Lake State Park offers numerous dune activities beyond motorized recreation. The shoreline provides opportunities for dune hiking, photography, and wildlife observation. "If you enjoy sunshine, beaches, trails and camping...this is the best place for you! Bring your bike, enjoy the sand, water and people watching along the shores of Lake Michigan!" shares Becky P.
Family entertainment centers: Several campgrounds provide direct access to entertainment venues with reasonable prices. Dune Town Camp Resort connects to nearby attractions. "The campground is next to a activity center with go karts a zip line a small coaster, bumper boats and mini golf!! The campground itself had a playground for the kids and a decent sized pool with a kiddie pool next to it!!" explains Sheldon E.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area offer direct fishing access without leaving the property. "There is a fishing pond, ice cream counter, store with some merchandise and camping essentials," notes a visitor to Kibby Creek Campground.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Dunes Harbor Family Camp maintains exceptional standards. "I originally was a little bit wary of coming to this campground because I didn't know if it would be great with our tent, but it was great! Our site was wooded for the most part and a decent size too, albeit on the smaller side... Very impressed with the cleanliness and modern facilities too (individual showers, brand new pool, etc.)," shares Alexandra O.
Multi-generational activities: Many campgrounds offer activities suitable for all ages. "We've camped at Dunes Harbor since it opened. It's our favorite campground. 2021 is our 2nd year with 5 grandkids for our annual Cousins Camp. Location can't be beat. Facilities are 5 star as is staff. It's a great place to come as a couple, the fam or all of your relatives, too," explains David M.
Unique accommodations: While traditional camping dominates, yurt camping near Mears, Michigan and surrounding areas is growing in popularity. Several campgrounds offer alternative accommodations including yurts and platform tents. "The tent sites and full-hookup camper sites are separate (but there were a couple campers and plenty of pop-ups in our area) and the tent sites are grassy/wooded and on the edge of the campground," notes a camper at Dunes Harbor.
Proximity to small towns: Kibby Creek Campground offers convenient access to nearby communities. "It's close to Pentwater and Ludington for shopping, restaurants and breweries. They are currently expanding the campground to add on another 100 sites or so," shares a visitor.
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Make sure to book a site near the dunes. This place is perfect and books up quickly," advises Lorn B. about Ludington State Park.
Site characteristics vary significantly: Mears State Park Campground and others have diverse site types. "The campground is located next the beach near the town of Pentwater. The location is beautiful and sandy with easy access from the paved road. They have internet but quite slowly due to the fact that many are connected. The spaces are a bit tight and it is not very easy to back up from the narrow alleys if you have a big rig," reports Raul O.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited or no services during off-season. When considering yurt camping in Mears, Michigan or platform tent options, note these specialty accommodations often have even more limited seasonal availability.
Differing alcohol policies: Some campgrounds prohibit alcohol while others permit it. "Just FYI. No drinking of alcohol is allowed. Perfect for my family, but just FYI," mentions Marla S. about Stony Haven Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: Hill & Hollow Campground & RV Park offers excellent play facilities. "The campground offers many amenities. Clean facilities. Large campsites. Heated pools. Adjacent to playground, go carts, arcade and putt putt. Only two miles to the beach. It's perfect," explains Gina S.
Look for scheduled activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer organized programs. "The campground does fun activities with the kids, we made tie dye shirts at one of their activity nights!! Silver Lake has shops and good restaurants and playing on the sand dunes was a blast!!!" shares Sheldon E.
Sand management strategies: Many campgrounds have sandy sites that require planning. "However, there is no grass and is pretty much all sand. As long as that doesn't bother you, you will have a great time camping here," advises Martin W. about Mears State Park.
Security considerations: Some campgrounds implement safety measures for families. "Campers returning after dusk use a key code to open the front gate of this secure campground. Unlike camping at Silver Lake State Park, this location is quietly tucked off the main, very busy stretch of town," notes Sarah S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Some sites offer better amenities for larger rigs. "I did a through investigation of all the sites for when we come back and found these to be the best for various reasons. But since you can't reserve specific site you can request them. Here they are in no particular order. Best RV sites: 50, 39, 76, 32," advises Brad S. about Dunes Harbor.
Hookup variations: Water and electric options differ between campgrounds. "All sites have electric and water. The campground itself is on a river/lake which was great for those who wanted to fish," explains Alexandra O.
Spacing considerations: Some campgrounds have tight configurations. "Don't camp here unless you are part of the sand dune ORV club. It's a great home base for these enthusiasts but if you're looking for a relaxing atmosphere, this isn't it. The campground is very tight. Your neighbor's fire ring will be literally 5' from your slideout," warns David S. about Hideaway Campground.
Amenity access: Campgrounds offer various services for RVers. "This private campground is the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at. The bathrooms are cleaned frequently and the grounds are well taken care of. The campground is only a few years old. There is a nice pool, ice cream shop and camp store. There is a nice lake for fishing and kayaking," shares Stu E.
