224 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Rapid City, Michigan provides a range of camping experiences along the shores of Lake Michigan and inland lakes. Torch Grove Campground, located directly in Rapid City, offers private camping facilities, while nearby options include Sand Lakes Quiet Area for backcountry tent camping. The region includes several established campgrounds with varying amenities, from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks. Campground options within a short drive include Traverse City State Park, Whitewater Township Park, and Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, which offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional tent and RV sites.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the area, with many facilities operating from May through October. Winter camping options are limited, though some year-round facilities exist at Traverse City State Park and Timber Ridge Resort. Water access represents a significant draw for campers, with numerous sites providing proximity to Lake Michigan beaches or inland waterways. A visitor noted that "Barnes Park has some strong sites right on Lake Michigan, you can just walk on a path through some trees right up to the water." Reservations are recommended during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Campers consistently highlight water access as a primary attraction in the region. Several campgrounds feature direct Lake Michigan frontage, offering swimming and paddling opportunities. As one camper described, "This is a cute little campground located in Central Lake. Many of the water sites are very close together, but it offers you access to the lake for fishing, paddling and more." Developed campgrounds in the area typically provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with some offering electric hookups and shower facilities. More primitive camping experiences can be found at Sand Lakes Quiet Area, which provides free backcountry campsites accessible by hiking trails. The proximity to Traverse City and smaller communities offers convenient access to supplies and services while maintaining a natural setting.
"Located on busy US-31, but with pedestrian bridge over 4 lanes to beach. TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) access from campground. Easy biking to Traverse City or Acme."
"Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."
from $45 - $100 / night
Check Availability"We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."
"There is a pool, jump pad, miles and miles of mountain biking trails and hiking trails, a man made lake which has some inflatable water toys."
from $60 - $260 / night
Check Availability"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."
"The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake. We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend."
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability"Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."
"great spots near lakeside hiking nearby
quiet, hardly saw anyone"
"It is situated on a small lake that is great for fishing, boating, or kayaking. There are also little cabins you can rent that are very cute."
"Slow, Grandparents at Play” are what the signs around the campground boast, which tells you a bit about their target audience at this lovely little RV only lakeside campground in the heart of Elk Rapids"
"Chain O'Lakes Park has it all: trails to hike, horses to ride, boats to row, and fish to catch! After an adventure- packed day, you can return to your nearby campsite for some rest and relaxation."
"Rooms: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Location: 5/5 Nearby activities Super close to torch lake and lots of great small towns."
from $29 - $44 / night
Check Availability"One is reservable and drive-in with access to the lake. We decided to backpack about 3 miles in and camp in the rustic hike in sites."
"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."
"1/2 hr outside Traverse City. Nice away from the busy areas.
The campground needs some attention which will be addressed by the new owners. Very dusty, loose sand uneven entrance.""Nice beautiful campground situated in a nice woods setting. Sprayed for bugs so the bugs were not much of a nuisance. The camp sites are a nice firm gravel and pretty level."
"Some of them are so close to Lake Michigan, you can just walk on a path through some trees right up to the water! There are restrooms here, and a general store nearby."
"Beautiful park on the shore of Lake Michigan. Great for kids, as a sand bar goes out quite a **distance. **"
"Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games! This campground is extremely clean and has beautiful bathrooms/showers."
"They made us feel like family the minute we walked through the door. We would defiantly visit again!"
from $35 - $50 / night
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ScoutI have a Skokie conversion 44ft. The area was easy to back in to, bathrooms were clean and nice, well lit.
It’s a quiet campground for sure, but it’s nice and dark at night to see the stars and you can get good rest here.
ScoutWe looked into this location but from the information we found, it's closed and was purchased for private use. Too bad, looks like it could have had some great potential.
ScoutTons of fishing spots and trails around to ride. We come every summer with kids and they love to fish and head into town and find things to do. Its a rustic campground so no hookup. You do have to scan a code when arriving or call the state park office to get a permit before you set up! This was new to us this year but wasnt too hard to get done! We have a 30 ft 5th wheel and we fit beautifully on site 29. Most sites seem to have a small fishing access along the water and some sort of view of the water.
TravelerOur site, and most sites, we're very shaded. Bathrooms and showers were very clean. The rangers working were fantastic. In a great location to visit nearby sites!!!
LegendJuly 8, 2026, 82 degrees Make sure you goto michigan reservations as it’s confusing for first come first serve.
Site 22, 2 bars 5G on T-Mobile Flat Sandy grass, pit toilets. Trash dumpster on the way out. Good rustic camping, bugs were not bad, mostly flat and only a few campers during the week. Horse, bike and hiking trails right next to the CG. We saw a few loons near the boat launch.
TravelerThis campground was absolutely breathtaking. The showers and bathrooms were so clean and easily accessible. 10/10 experience all around.
LegendJuly 3-7th, site 489, Easy check in and the water fill up was next to the dump station.
The dump station only has two drains and the cap is in the middle of the island to dump. The site was flat with trees, our 21’ fit well with our truck.
30amp, metal fire ring with old picnic table. Looks like water will puddle during rains.
Newer shower and bath facilities are amazing. The showers are separate and private from the shitters. The lots are Michigan sand and rock, very little gravel and grass, bring ant killer for the site.
Some sites are paved asphalt.
Firewood was$23 for 3 bundles Cash App or Venmo near the general store.
Water fill stations throughout the park but the spigot does not allow a house hookup. Fill up at the dump station. The south lot area was full and very crowded, narrow asphalt road with lots of trees, larger 5th wheel campers would be better on the north section.
There is a Pine Nature Trail that runs on the west side of the south area. About 2 miles but part of the trail has not been cleared from recent storms. A great place to bring your SUP and kayak. Peaceful lakes in the area.
TravelerSix or so full hook up sites in the campground (several are seasonal/permanent sites). The sites are spacious, woodsy, shaded with nice grass for the kiddos to play in. The owners, Rocky and Richard were friendly and available if needed. They even filled our campfire ring with wood before we arrived. There is a porta potty on site, but otherwise expect to use your camper for bathing needs. The 25 min drive into traverse city felt easy even with toddlers in toe. The town of Cedar is small but quaint.
TravelerNice clean campground with modern bathrooms and showers. Plenty of shade and great views of Otsego Lake. Beach access and boat launch right in the park.
Rapid City, Michigan sits in the forested hills of Antrim County, approximately 15 miles northeast of Traverse City. The area features numerous inland lakes connected by rivers and streams that eventually flow into Lake Michigan. Most campgrounds in the region operate at elevations between 600-800 feet above sea level, contributing to cooler summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
Hiking trails: Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers multiple backcountry hiking trails with lake access. "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," notes one camper about this backcountry site.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing. At Log Lake Campground, there's a "clear beach" that's "good for kayaking" with fishing opportunities in the small lake. Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground offers a more secluded experience where "the lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing."
Downtown exploration: Campers staying at Traverse City State Park Campground can access urban amenities. "You can catch bus for ride into town where there are lots of shops, breweries, etc - very nice town," explains one visitor. Another camper highlights that "one of our favorite things is being connected to the bike paths so we can bike to downtown area while staying on bike trails!"
Access to multiple lakes: The region's interconnected waterways allow campers to enjoy different water experiences. At Whitewater Township Park Campground, "Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used," according to one reviewer.
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural settings. "Sites are nice and large" at Whitewater Township Park, while at Timber Ridge, one visitor noted it's "not a typical campground for people looking to get lost in the woods" but "there are trails if you want to get away from all the action."
Beach access: Barnes County Park Campground offers direct Lake Michigan shoreline. "Just steps to the lake from any campsite, this campground is wonderful!" writes one camper. Another notes the "private beach" with "multiple trails" leading to the waterfront.
Reservation timing: For popular campgrounds near Rapid City, early booking is essential. At Whitewater Township Park, "Reservations are first come first serve and aren't taken until early April. So book early."
Varied bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across the area. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, facilities are well-maintained: "The bathrooms were well kept and showers were clean, although we had a hard time keeping hot water." However, at Log Lake Campground, "The bathrooms were dirty and left with no soap."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds near Traverse City can be busy and noisy. One camper described Traverse City State Park as a "Super lively campground with lots of people and campsites close to each other. The airport is nearby as is the main road so don't expect much peace and quiet."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. At Timber Ridge, there's "no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Playground options: Chain-O-Lakes Campground provides numerous recreational options. "Chain O'Lakes Park has it all: trails to hike, horses to ride, boats to row, and fish to catch! After an adventure-packed day, you can return to your nearby campsite for some rest and relaxation," reports one visitor.
Swimming considerations: Water access varies by location. At Whitewater Township Park, one camper liked "the clear blue water down the big dropoff hill," while at Log Lake Campground, the swimming area has "a sign posted in front stating the water is not checked (for bacteria) so swim at your risk."
Site leveling: Come prepared for varied site conditions. At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, "Site is gravel and dirt. It is a pull through site that required us to do quite a bit of leveling. The hookups are rather far away so we needed extensions."
Full hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the region. At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, "They only have 15 full hookup sites and none were available for our time frame. They have several long term tenants. Roads are narrow but most sites are ample. They have a pump out service twice a week for $10 each time."
Pull-through access: Some RV parks offer easier access for larger rigs. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, "My husband loved this place because most of the sites are pull-through ones. The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prices for cabins at Rapid River Campground near Rapid City?
Based on current information, cabin prices at campgrounds in the Rapid City area vary by season and amenities. At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, cabin prices typically range from $85-150 per night depending on size and amenities. For more rustic options, Chain-O-Lakes Campground offers cabins at lower rates. It's best to call directly for current pricing as rates change seasonally and may include additional fees for extra occupants or pets. Most campgrounds in the region require a 2-night minimum stay for cabin rentals, especially during peak summer months.
What amenities are available at Rapid River Campground in Rapid City, Michigan?
Campgrounds in the Rapid City area offer various amenities to enhance your camping experience. Torch Grove Campground provides basic facilities as a privately owned campground. For more amenities, Petoskey State Park Campground features modern restrooms, shower facilities, picnic areas, and beach access to Lake Michigan. Most campgrounds in this region offer fire rings, picnic tables, drinking water, and waste disposal. Some provide electrical hookups, while others maintain a more rustic experience. Check with specific campgrounds before your trip as amenities may vary by season.
What camping is available near Rapid City, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Rapid City, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 224 campgrounds and RV parks near Rapid City, MI and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Rapid City, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rapid City, MI is Traverse City State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 51 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rapid City, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Rapid City, MI.
What parks are near Rapid City, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Rapid City, MI that allow camping, notably Sleeping Bear Dunes and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
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