Thompsonville camping areas provide access to diverse outdoor recreation with the Betsie River running through the region. Surrounded by state forest lands, the area offers camping from May through late October with average summer temperatures ranging from 55-80°F. Fall camping brings spectacular color displays while requiring warmer gear for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
What to Do
Kayaking on Platte River: Located near Platte River Campground, visitors can experience unique paddling opportunities. "Go when they release the salmon from the hatchery - you feel all the salmon brush against your kayak as they swim upstream!" explains Joyce B.
Beach exploration: A 1.2-mile trail connects campers to Lake Michigan shorelines. "The trail from Loop 1 is 1.2 miles to Lake Michigan. If you like to walk, be sure to walk out there. The end is complete sand so be prepared to work hard!" notes Stephanie C. about D.H. Day Campground.
Traverse City activities: The region serves as a gateway to northern Michigan attractions. "Close to traverse city and sleeping bear dunes! We had a blast there," reports Jason C. from Turtle Lake Campground, noting its strategic location for regional exploration.
Biking on paved trails: The Betsie River Campsite connects to regional bike paths. "It's right on the local paved bike trail that goes into the town of Frankfort or out in the other direction. Easy for kids and adults alike," explains Allison H.
What Campers Like
Riverside camping sites: Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground offers full hookup capabilities. "Nice New campground. Big spacious lots. Full Hookup on back in and pull thru lots," reports Brad F., highlighting the generous site dimensions.
Night sky viewing: Several campgrounds offer excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "We went to the beach to skywatch and it was beautiful and worth every second," notes Doug P. about his experience at D.H. Day Campground, even during a cold October night.
Morning activities: Several locations offer breakfast options on-site. "There is a DELICIOUS little café serving up inexpensive, filling breakfasts each morning," shares Allison H. about Betsie River Campsite, noting this convenience for early risers.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness remains a priority across multiple sites. "Bathhouse has individual showers which I love and the entire campground is surrounded by state land," mentions kym about Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground.
What You Should Know
Wildlife encounters: Bears occasionally visit campgrounds in the region. "Was told a black bear visits the campgrounds at least once a week, but is not much a nuisance as long as campers store their food in the car," advises Joyce B. about her stay at Platte River Campground.
Site surfaces vary: Turtle Lake Campground offers grassy camping areas. "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt. While I understand that comes with the territory of camping, this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting," explains Ann D.
Firewood delivery available: Many campgrounds provide direct-to-site wood service. "$10 for a wheel barrow full and they stack it for you!" notes Liz E. about Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground, highlighting their convenient evening delivery service.
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities close earlier than others. "We stayed in the rustic sites as the modern ones were closed for the season," mentions Natalie S. about Green Lake Rustic South, indicating the need to check seasonal availability.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activities for rainy days: Kampvilla Park offers indoor options when weather turns. "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!" recommends Amy Y.
Plan for insect protection: Bug populations can be substantial in wooded areas. "Even after apply a ton of bug spray we felt like we were getting eaten alive on the trail," warns Katie D. about trails near Platte River Campground.
Playground availability: Recreation options for children vary between locations. "They have a nice beach area and areas to fish. All sites provide a good amount of shade," notes Chris R. about Turtle Lake Campground, highlighting its family-friendly features.
Ranger activities: Some locations offer educational programming. "The amphitheater with kid focused programs was a great bonus," shares Jeffrey R. about D.H. Day Campground's interpretive offerings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Traverse City KOA, location within the campground matters. "The front part of the campground is very well shaded, however, many sites are only a few feet away from M37, which can get noisy from the traffic," advises Chris R., recommending the back half for quieter stays.
Hookup options: Multiple campgrounds offer water and electric service. "Sites are large well maintained. We stayed across the street from the bath house and the pool," reports Liz E. about Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground.
Access for larger rigs: Several campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. "The campground is very well laid out and easy to maneuver any size rig," notes Chris R. about Traverse City KOA.
Winter accessibility: Not all locations remain open year-round. "Going there in late October of 2022 and man was it a cold night to stay in a tent," shares Doug P., indicating the need for proper equipment during shoulder season camping.
Legend
