Northport camping options extend beyond the Leelanau State Park area, with several rustic and developed campgrounds located within a 30-minute drive. The region sits on a peninsula surrounded by Lake Michigan, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions year-round. Fall temperatures drop quickly after sunset, often requiring additional layers even during September camping trips.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Leelanau State Park Campground, trails accommodate various skill levels with clear signage. "Hiking is available in the park, and kayak and bike rentals are available in Leland," notes Kenneth K., who enjoyed the waterfront tent sites.
Beach exploration: Visit shorelines for distinctive rock hunting opportunities. "The beach was clean and made for a great time," shares Andrea F. about her family's experience finding "different kinds of vegetation" growing along Leelanau's shores.
Mountain biking and wine tours: Combine outdoor exercise with local tastings. "We took our sea kayaks out to Suttons Bay and spent the day kayaking around the bay," reports Shari G., who stayed at Wild Cherry RV Resort and appreciated its location "just a couple miles from either Suttons Bay and Lake Leelanau, and within walking/biking distance of 2 local wineries."
Sunrise viewing: Northern Michigan's position creates spectacular dawn views over water. "The sites in the Spruce loop don't have a designated 'pad' so you can arrange your RV or tent any way you like," explains a reviewer at Young State Park Campground, allowing campers to position for optimal morning views.
What campers like
Waterfront privacy: Campsites along Elk Lake provide natural separation between sites. "Sites are nice and large, however, I thought we would have better access to Elk Lake," notes Sarah P. about Whitewater Township Park Campground, which offers electric hookups with toilet facilities.
Local town accessibility: Many campgrounds sit near small townships with essential services. "Close to Northport with cute shops. A great way to experience Lake Michigan," writes Jami M. about her family's stay at Leelanau State Park Campground.
Lake sounds: Falling asleep to natural water sounds ranks high for visitors. "Tent camping on the water, it does not get any more beautiful than this!" mentions Melissa M., highlighting the simplicity of waterfront sites that provide natural soundscapes without fancy amenities.
Rustic yurt camping options: For those seeking alternative shelters beyond traditional camping, multiple Northport area campgrounds offer yurt accommodations. "There are 2 rustic cabins and 1 yurt nestled among the tent sites for those who aren't interested in roughing it as much," notes a reviewer about Wild Cherry RV Resort's accommodations.
What you should know
Seasonal weather patterns: Late summer brings temperature swings requiring preparation. "We stayed here on a chilly late September weekend with very few other campers around," shares Mary H. from Leelanau State Park, who found the "remote, rustic" setting perfect despite cooler conditions.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for curious local animals. "Perfect views, secluded sites and hilariously aggressive squirrels," warns Mark L. about Leelanau State Park, suggesting proper food storage practices.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathroom options range from primitive to full-service. "Outhouses always clean," reports Kenneth K. about Leelanau's maintenance, while Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort includes more developed facilities for longer stays.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires significant advance planning. "Make sure you visit the small towns and wineries/cideries. There is a lot to do on this peninsula," advises Art S., who recommends securing spots early for popular weekends at Leelanau.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "The new playground was a hit for the kids, one of the best playgrounds we have experienced at a state park," mentions a reviewer about Leelanau State Park facilities.
Beach proximity: Select sites minimizing walking distance to water. "I loved the clear blue water down the big dropoff hill and how heavily wooded this entire park was," writes Kelsey P. about Thurston Park Campground, noting its suitability for "hammock camping."
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into outdoor experiences. "The camp site could NOT get any closer to Lake Michigan," writes a visitor about waterfront camping, allowing children immediate access to shoreline exploration.
Evening activities: Plan for cooler evenings with prepared entertainment. "Guided stargazing sessions" occur at several locations during summer months, providing structured activities after sunset when temperatures drop.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Research specific site characteristics before booking. "Our site had nice distance between the next camp but others are closer together," explains Art S. about Leelanau State Park, recommending sites with "lots of room" for larger RVs with pets.
Hookup realities: Verify available connections match your needs. "The water, sewer, and electric were all placed appropriately in the site so no extended hoses were needed," reports a reviewer about Holiday Park Campground, which offers full hookup sites for RVs of various sizes.
Off-season advantages: Consider camping outside peak months for less crowding. "We visited Wild Cherry RV Resort on the recommendation of some friends and found the park to be nicely maintained, sites were well-spaced," notes Nancy W., who appreciated the "quiet" atmosphere during shoulder season.
Maneuverability: Check access road width before committing to sites. "The roads are very wide and there are not too many trees so maneuvering big-rigs is not a problem," explains a reviewer about Wild Cherry RV Resort, making it suitable for larger vehicles.
