Silver Lake State Park and the surrounding area in Mears, Michigan offer varied camping options within Michigan's western dune country, located at approximately 650 feet above sea level. The region's sandy terrain creates unique camping conditions with temperatures averaging 75-80°F in summer and cooler evenings near Lake Michigan. Campgrounds throughout the area maintain specific pet policies while providing access to both inland lakes and Lake Michigan beaches.
What to do
Hiking to Big Sable Lighthouse: At Ludington State Park, campers can access an iconic trail leading to the historic lighthouse. "A super well organized state park with clean facilities... Easy walk to the beach for beautiful views, or into Pentwater to go to boutiques, restaurants and ice cream shops," notes Elizabeth G. about Mears State Park Campground.
Dune exploration and off-roading: The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are a major attraction for visitors seeking adventure. "A popular 'duners' destination, the campground was a bit crowded and busy if you're looking for a quiet getaway," says Jennifer H. about Dune Town Camp Resort. The area supports both motorized and non-motorized dune activities.
Paddling on inland lakes: Several campgrounds offer lake access for kayaking and fishing. "The campground is on Silver Lake and offers a beach and playground for the kids. Full of tall trees for shade and perfect for a hammock beside Silver Lake," explains Jennifer H. Bass Lake also provides paddling opportunities with "a nice sandy beach and good fishing, and only a 10 minute walk to Lake Michigan's sandy beaches," according to Brenda S.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at campgrounds in the area. "The bathrooms are the cleanest bathrooms I've seen at a campground. Everything at the campground was very clean and well maintained," reports Clint about Hill & Hollow Campground & RV Park.
Family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events and amenities specifically for children. "This is a super clean family friendly campground! It is one of our favorite places to camp and go back every year. The pool is not a large swimming pool but an activity pool with a kids area that is walk in shallow, a whirlpool circle, basketball area and a water slide!" shares Cassondra P. about Dunes Harbor Family Camp.
Beach access: Proximity to Lake Michigan is a key feature for campers visiting the Mears area. "You can paddle through Bass Lake and into the river straight down to the dam at the big lake, where you are met with beautiful dunes and a little swimming hole. The rivers confluence with Lake Michigan makes the water warmer there, and the lake water is so clear," describes Greg S. about Whispering Surf Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours, particularly important during busy summer months. "After it gets dark about 10pm the whole campground seems to go to bed. I stayed over the 4th holiday weekend and the place was completely full and all you here is crickets," says Brad S. about Dunes Harbor Family Camp.
Site spacing varies significantly: Campsites in the area range from spacious to tightly packed, affecting privacy levels. "The sites were not that big and most of the sites are electric only. Our electric box for our site was in the front passenger side of the lot," notes Clint about Silver Lake State Park Campground.
Campsite surface types: Many campgrounds in the area feature sandy sites due to the dune environment. "Most campgrounds you go to have grass on the sites. The majority of the sites we saw were completely dirt including ours," reports Erica K. about Cedar Campground at Ludington State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Book well ahead for seasonal visits: Popular family campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer. "We were on a waitlist and did not expect to get in but received a call a week later that there was a cancellation," explains Brian H. about his experience at Dunes Harbor Family Camp.
Consider pet-friendly cabins: Several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations that welcome pets. "Dunes Harbor Family Camp would be great because everyone had something to do. From reading a book in a hammock to going down the water slide, no one was bored," notes Alexandra O.
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Recreational amenities provide entertainment when not exploring dunes or beaches. "This campground has SO much to offer. There are two basketball courts (half courts), a volleyball court, shuffle board, mini golf, a pool, a train ride for kids, a private fishing pond, playgrounds, sand boxes, and various other planned activities," shares Amanda L. about Kibby Creek Campground.
Tips for RVers
Check hookup locations: Some RV sites have utilities positioned in non-standard locations. "Aren't most RV plugs in the rear driver side? Anyway when I went to complain the response I got was basically 'oh well'. Ended up having to buy a $75 extension cord so we could stay here," warns Clint about Silver Lake State Park Campground.
Consider site terrain: The sandy environment can create leveling challenges. "Sites are large and level. Easy in and out. Clean. Quiet," mentions BC— G. about Sandy Shores Campground, highlighting the importance of finding a properly leveled site.
Verify size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Sites are pretty standard - fire-ring, picnic table, electrical hookups, but I don't think there was a parking pad... Tight for large campers...better for pop-ups, hybrids and tents," notes Nick S. when describing accommodations in the area.
