Northern Michigan offers a mix of forested campgrounds and lakeside sites around Thompsonville, located in Benzie County at an elevation of about 860 feet. The area features sandy soils typical of glacial deposits with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping season. Glamping accommodations near Thompsonville provide access to both Lake Michigan beaches and inland lakes within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Fishing at Northern Exposure Campground: This campground sits on the Manistee River with sites right on the water. "Camp staff very friendly and park is well maintained. Nice hiking trails nearby and a 20 minute drive to a whole lot of entertainment!" notes Kris D. in a recent review of Northern Exposure Campground.
Biking from Betsie River Campsite: The paved trail that runs past this campground connects to Frankfort. "There is a nice trail to ride your bikes to Frankfort but we chose to drive this time through. If we were to stay again we would definitely take a nice ride to town," shares Marc W. who stayed at Betsie River Campsite.
Kayaking at Tippy Dam: The recreation area provides direct water access. "The campsites are spacious and feature trails that lead directly to the Tippy Dam Backwater. There's also convenient access for launching a boat on either the Manistee River or the backwaters side of the dam," explains J.B. who camped at Tippy Dam State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain high standards. At Northern Exposure Campground, one camper noted, "This campground has the cleanest restroom/shower facilities of any campground I have been too. Also the staff is very friendly and helpful."
Lake access: Water recreation options abound at most sites. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area," writes Edward C. about Duck Lake Campground at Interlochen State Park.
Family activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. "Great place to take a camper with family. The campground offers clean facilities, general store, rentals for the lake, and camp events like movie night," shares Dalton B. about his stay at Northern Exposure.
What you should know
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have closely spaced sites. At Orchard Beach State Park, one camper mentioned, "The sites are as compact and close together as possible. I usually enjoy the aroma of a campfire, but in the evening if all the sites are full, a smogtacular smoke cloud hovers over this campground."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. Northern Exposure Campground runs from May 1 to November 30, while Betsie River Campsite operates April 1 through October 31.
Reservation needs: Book early for summer weekends. "We were searching for a super last minute campground near Traverse City for Memorial Weekend and everything within a quick drive seemed booked," shared one camper about their experience finding a spot at Timber Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play equipment. "Nice spots both on the river show and across the road. Easy water access for very little children and non-motorized boats/Kayaks, etc. Nicely equipped playground and evening activities at the Camp Store/Office on special weekends," writes Anne G. about Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
Swimming beaches: Look for gradual water entry points. At Duck Lake Campground, the beach "is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area."
Kid-friendly glamping: For families wanting comfort, examine various options. "This place was wonderful. The staff was all very nice, the grounds were clean, and our lot was huge. We asked to be away from the lake because of our young kids but the lake lots looked beautiful," noted Beth G. about Northern Exposure Campground.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "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," shares Michelle S. about Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.
Hookup considerations: Full hookups vary by campground. At Holiday Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "Lot 188 area very tight with campfires and neighbors septic connection near your vehicles. The hookups and fire pit layouts don't make sense."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require adjustment. "Sites look level but it's deceiving," reported one camper about Betsie River Campsite, suggesting RVers bring adequate leveling equipment.
