Best Campgrounds near Thompsonville, MI
Camping options near Thompsonville, Michigan range from established campgrounds to rustic state forest sites along rivers and lakes. Platte River Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides drive-in sites for tents and RVs about 20 miles west of Thompsonville. Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park in Mesick offers electric hookups and accommodates tents, RVs, and cabins. Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground and Turtle Lake Campground provide full-service alternatives with amenities like showers, fire rings, and picnic tables. Several campgrounds in the area feature waterfront locations on rivers and inland lakes.
Michigan state forest campgrounds like Platte River State Forest and Grass Lake State Forest Campground provide more rustic camping experiences with vault toilets and limited amenities. "Michigan state forest campgrounds are now $20/night with no RV dump or hookups of any kind," a camper shared about Grass Lake State Forest Campground, which sits on the Betsie River. Most state forest sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with payment via envelope into a lock box. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with some campgrounds open year-round. Winter camping options are limited, though some private campgrounds like Mountain Valley Lodge are developing additional accommodations for cold-weather stays.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Thompsonville area. The Betsie River corridor provides popular fishing and paddling opportunities, with several campsites offering direct river access. One visitor noted, "This camp is on the Betsie River and the Grass Lake Flooding. There is a gravel/sand ramp to launch smaller fishing boats. Great area to kayak and float tube." Campers frequently mention the spacious sites at newer facilities like Mountain Valley Lodge, where "sites are large and nice looking" with "full hookup on back-in and pull-thru lots." Proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, including trails for ATVs, hiking, and biking, adds to the appeal of camping in this region of northern Michigan. The area's natural features—including inland lakes, rivers, and extensive state forestland—provide diverse camping experiences within a short drive of Thompsonville.
