The Shelby, Michigan area sits at the junction of forests and Lake Michigan coastline, with moderate summer temperatures rarely exceeding 85°F and cool lake breezes in the evening. Glamping near Shelby offers access to Michigan's sand dunes while providing climate-controlled accommodations during the region's frequent summer thunderstorms. Most luxury camping options operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Lake Michigan beaches and dunes: Just minutes from Mears State Park Campground, visitors find crystal clear water and sandy beaches. "Beautiful small state park campground. Very well maintained, clean facilities, beautiful beach. Easy walk into town to shops and restaurants," notes one camper.
River adventures: The White River offers kayaking opportunities with convenient access from White River RV Park & Campground. "We brought our kayaks and just brought one vehicle up the river to the start point to put in and got out right at the campground," reports a visitor who appreciated the convenient river access.
Winter activities: Contrary to popular belief, camping continues year-round in the area. Muskegon State Park offers winter camping with nearby seasonal recreation. "Across the road is the Winter complex, sledding, skating, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and luge course. Our kids had a blast here, they have tons of bonfire pits as well," explains a winter visitor.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Luxury camping sites prioritize clean, modern facilities. At Dunes Harbor Family Camp, "Very impressed with the cleanliness and modern facilities too (individual showers, brand new pool, etc.)," writes one camper, highlighting amenities not common at standard campgrounds.
Entertainment options: Families appreciate on-site activities during rain days. Kibby Creek Campground offers "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," according to a satisfied visitor.
Dual lake access: Some campgrounds offer multiple water experiences. "This place looks impressive at first as you drive in through closely packed seasonal campers.... But it improves dramatically as you drive over the hill and into the hollow where there are nicely spaced sites scattered across a field with a great playground and a path to Bass Lake. The best thing by far is the dual access to the STUNNING beach on Lake Michigan."
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Not all campgrounds permit alcohol. "This private campground is the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at... This is campground is part of a Christian camp near by and is a dry campground," explains one Dunes Harbor visitor. Check rules before packing coolers.
Reservation timing: The most desirable sites book months in advance, especially waterfront locations. "We were on a waitlist and did not expect to get in but received a call a week later that there was a cancellation," notes a lucky camper at Dunes Harbor Family Camp.
Visitor fees: Some campgrounds charge for day visitors. At Hill & Hollow Campground, "They are extremely strict on their visitor policy. We had some friends show up that were camping near by... The office wouldn't let them in unless they paid $5 per person."
Tips for camping with families
Winter camping options: Cold weather shouldn't stop family adventures. "Stayed in Mini Cabin #16 over New Years. Hoped to try Luge at the adventure park but no snow and temps too warm prior to our trip. Cabin sleeps 4 in 2 bunk beds. Mini frig, microwave and table with chairs. Electricity and heat. Great choice for winter camping."
Rustic tent platforms: Families appreciate dry tent floors during rainy weather. At Stony Haven Campground & Cabins, "Tent camping has platforms, so your tent is off the ground," which helps prevent moisture issues common in Michigan's humid climate.
Playground proximity: Younger children need entertainment within sight of campsites. "Pool & play area very close as well as bathrooms," notes one camper about site selection at Kibby Creek Campground, allowing parents to supervise from their sites.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal site selection: Sites without tree cover get hot in summer. At Dune Town Camp Resort, "We were lucky to get a shaded spot but several are pretty exposed," reports a visitor, highlighting the importance of requesting shade when booking.
App functionality: Some campgrounds offer digital services. Kibby Creek users note, "If you download the campersAPP, you can even have things from the store or wood delivered to your site! It was incredible and convenient."
Quiet hours enforcement: Peace matters for family RVing. "This place has everything you need and nothing you don't. It is busy with dune buggies and the like but it is still quiet at the same time, you have to be in the campground by 11pm and in your camper by 1am so there aren't idiots driving in and out and making noise all night."
