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Best Campgrounds near Traverse City, MI

972 Reviews

Traverse City serves as a hub for multiple camping destinations throughout northwestern Michigan, with options ranging from developed state parks to rustic forest sites. The region includes the popular Traverse City State Park Campground along US-31, with beach access across a pedestrian bridge, as well as more secluded options like Sand Lakes Quiet Area for backcountry tent camping. Campground types vary considerably, from the 366-site Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offering cabin and yurt rentals to the more rustic Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp nestled within the state forest system. Most established campgrounds provide electrical hookups and basic amenities, while several offer cabin accommodations for those seeking shelter-based options.

Seasonal operations affect campground availability throughout the area, with many sites closing between late October and early April. Traverse City State Park operates year-round, while others like Holiday Park Campground (April-October) and Leelanau Pines (May-October) have more limited seasons. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when tourism peaks in this popular vacation region. The proximity to Grand Traverse Bay and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore draws significant crowds between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Cell service remains reliable near town but may diminish in more remote forest camping areas. One camper noted: "Not the place to go if you want peace and quiet, but it worked well as our basecamp for visiting TC, Leelanau, and Sleeping Bear Dunes."

Campers consistently mention the strategic location of Traverse City campgrounds as a primary advantage when exploring the region's attractions. The Traverse City State Park receives mixed reviews regarding noise levels, with multiple visitors noting its proximity to both a highway and airport. As one reviewer explained, "The campground is located just 3 miles from downtown Traverse City but feels remote. The sites are large, shaded by tall trees." Several campgrounds provide direct water access, particularly valued for swimming and paddling opportunities. The TART bike trail connects many camping areas to downtown amenities, allowing for car-free exploration. Family-friendly amenities and clean facilities are frequently highlighted in reviews, though privacy between campsites is often minimal at the more developed locations closer to town.

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Best Camping Sites Near Traverse City, Michigan (215)

    1. Traverse City State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5270

    "Campground Review: This very popular campground is a few miles from downtown Traverse City, on the edge of Grand Traverse East Bay, Lake Michigan and fills up very quickly during the summer months."

    "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."

    2. Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park

    34 Reviews
    Interlochen, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 276-9511

    $20 / night

    "Lots of fishing opportunities on both lakes and has a boat launch. The sites aren’t too terribly close to one another, but relatively close. There’s pavement for biking and trails for hiking."

    "Not super close to Michigan cities, but can drive back and forth to Traverse City."

    3. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    21 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 947-2770

    $60 - $260 / night

    "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."

    "They have a pool, small lake/beach, jumping pillow, bike trails, dodgeball, etc. it’s right next to a dirt bike/atv trail. They have tc and tent fires along with yurts and all kinds of cabins."

    4. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    53 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $20 / night

    "Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash."

    "DH Day campground is the perfect rustic camping spot in Northern Michigan. All campsites are within easy walking distance to a beautiful Lake Michigan beach."

    5. Holiday Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Grawn, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 943-4410

    "Was able to check in early...because campers had checked out early and they had time to check the site...very clean...close to all the great sites around Traverse City...the only thing was where our site"

    "It has everything; off of Silver Lake to swim, fish or rent a boat. Their is no reason to leave this paradise (except for groceries/drinks)."

    6. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "We do a lot of camping all throughout Michigan. We are from Traverse city and this is our go-to campground. We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking."

    "We were so excited to explore the sleeping bear area and this is on the southern end and 40 minutes from Traverse City. You are near the Platte River which is perfect for kayaking and tubing!"

    7. Leelanau Pines Campground

    10 Reviews
    Cedar, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 228-5742

    $103 - $130 / night

    "The campground was very shady and situated right on the lake. We stayed in Site #50 and could carry our kayaks across a small grassy field to put in at the edge of the lake."

    "This is a great location based around Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes areas."

    8. Whitewater Township Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 413-1160

    $45 - $60 / night

    "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."

    "Nice quiet township park between Traverse City and Charlevoix. Clean restrooms and spacious lake view sites,"

    9. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    12 miles
    Website

    "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"

    10. Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp

    9 Reviews
    Interlochen, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5280

    "We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback, therefore we were in the "horse" portion of the campground."

    "Off the beaten path but has great rustic campsites with firepits and there are restrooms and fresh water close by in each circle we will be back"

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Recent Camping Photos near Traverse City, MI

419 Photos of 215 Traverse City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Traverse City, MI

972 Reviews of 215 Traverse City Campgrounds

  • Kammy H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park

    Beautiful fall morning, site on the lake

    Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, childrens playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails. I feel very relaxed here.

  • thomas D.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Great Circle Campground

    Do Not Recommend Camping Here

    The new management and owners are rude, non-friendly and have not kept up the campground. Not kept up and locked bathrooms. We have been camping here for almost 20 years and it was a home away from home. This is not a place I would bring a family. Do not recommend.

  • John H.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Great Circle Campground

    Do not recommend

    Been camping here for years and new ownership has ruined the experience. Do not camp here.

  • T
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Lake Marjory State Forest Campground

    It is not free to stay as online shows

    Lots of road noise and no water or electricity and it’s not free as stated online $20 isn’t bad per night but other places near charge $27-35 per night and have water and electric hookups there is tons of random traffic through the grounds which is a little uncomfortable. They do have bathrooms and you can fish but if your looking for a peaceful place this is not it or a free campsite it is not

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Young State Park Campground

    Nice Lakeside Campground

    Lovely campground right on the water and sandy beach. Nice, clean bathrooms with showers, sites had electric hookups, camp area had potable water and black water dump. We came at the very end of the season (October 4-5) and from what I could tell, the campsite was shutting down, so I’m unsure of the availability going forward until next season. Overall a beautiful spot!

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Penny Park Campground

    Decent Little Campground

    Flat camp area on the lake. Some of the spaces have electric hookups. We came in the off season so it’s not too crowded, but the spaces are small so I imagine it would be tight in peak season. Bathrooms are currently locked, but there is a potable water spigot available. Reasonable camp fee - $20.

  • Ken D.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Great Circle Campground

    Best to look at other Higgins Lake camping options

    Not what your camping experience should be…the male owner is rude, disrespectful, and completely unbecoming of a campground host— showers…yep, but the he prefers to lock them, porta pots…yep, but locks them too…camp store…yep, good luck getting service, need ice? Ice machine never has bags of ice,  horrible customer service.   His wife openly condones his rude behavior and they both lack any skills required to serve the camping customers and their needs.  It is crystal clear this is how they choose to run the place.  Ya, look elsewhere.

    When you pull in, it looks like a junkyard…old construction equipment parked for years covered in blue shrink wrap is one of the first things you see upon arrival, overall its a dirty unkept park.  Why? They cant keep help because they are rude to staff as well.

    Your camping experience should be one of relaxation and having a pleasant, welcoming host.  Unfortunately, you will not find that at the great circle campground.

    Stay away and look elsewhere!

Guide to Traverse City

Camping near Traverse City, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a family-friendly spot, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This stunning national lakeshore is a must-see. One camper mentioned, “The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water,” highlighting the natural beauty despite some rustic amenities.
  • Visit local beaches: Many campgrounds, like D.H. Day Group Campground, offer easy access to quiet beaches. A reviewer said, “Quiet park, quiet beaches, beautiful views,” making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
  • Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the area. One camper at Platte River Campground noted, “There's also a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan,” making it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Traverse City State Park Campground said, “It’s nice to have well-maintained showers to feel fresh after.”
  • Friendly staff: Many reviews mention helpful campground staff. One camper at Indigo Bluffs RV Park said, “Clean restroom and showers. Swimming pool very nice friendly staff.”
  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Leelanau State Park Campground offer beautiful lakeside spots. A reviewer shared, “Our site was perfect with gorgeous views of the sunrise/set over the water.”

What you should know:

  • Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Barnes County Park Campground mentioned, “Sites are pretty close together in some locations.”
  • Rustic amenities: Many campgrounds, like Northern Exposure Campground, have limited amenities. One visitor noted, “The bathrooms and showers were extremely clean and were cleaned daily,” but be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Noise levels can vary: Campgrounds near busy roads or airports may have some noise. A camper at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park said, “There are cars passing by frequently, but less in the evening.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Look for family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offer plenty of activities for kids. One parent shared, “My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool.”
  • Choose sites with space: Some campgrounds have larger sites that allow for more privacy. A camper at Betsie River Campsite mentioned, “There are no activities, pools, etc! But there is a DELICIOUS little café serving up inexpensive, filling breakfasts each morning.”
  • Plan for meals: Many campgrounds have stores nearby. A visitor at Northern Exposure Campground said, “Anything you could want you would find in their store.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be small for larger RVs. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground noted, “The spots are very small and you have to park sideways.”
  • Look for electric hookups: If you need power, make sure to choose a campground that offers electric hookups. A reviewer at Indigo Bluffs RV Park appreciated the “FHU, level, absolutely would stay here again!”
  • Be prepared for leveling: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort mentioned, “The lots were not very level so the setup was a bit more difficult.”

Camping near Traverse City, Michigan, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any beachfront campgrounds in Traverse City?

Traverse City State Park Campground offers beach access via a pedestrian bridge over US-31 that leads directly to Grand Traverse East Bay on Lake Michigan. The campground is open year-round and provides easy access to the Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART), making biking into downtown simple. Though sites can be tight and the campground sits along a busy road, its beach access is unmatched for convenience. D.H. Day Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also offers proximity to Lake Michigan beaches with morning beach walks and refreshing swims just a short distance from your campsite.

What are the best campgrounds near Traverse City, Michigan?

The Traverse City area offers several exceptional camping options. Platte River Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a local favorite about 40 minutes from Traverse City, featuring clean facilities, updated bathhouses, and perfect access to river kayaking and tubing. For a more urban experience, Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort provides convenient access to city amenities while still offering outdoor recreation opportunities. Many campgrounds in the region fill quickly during summer months, so advance reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Where can I find tent camping sites near Traverse City?

Tent campers will find excellent options near Traverse City. Chain-O-Lakes Campground offers tent sites with a great camp store, friendly staff, and reasonable prices. They allow one tent and one car per site and provide a fantastic base for exploring nearby Torch Lake. For a more rustic experience, Lake Ann State Forest Campground sits on a ridge overlooking Lake Ann with basic amenities including outhouses and water hand pumps. Nearby hiking on the Lake Ann Pathway makes this an ideal spot for tent campers seeking a more secluded natural setting.

What camping options are available in the Traverse City area?

The Traverse City area offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. Green Lake Rustic South at Interlochen State Park provides a well-wooded setting with playgrounds, kayak launches, fishing opportunities, and bike-friendly paved areas. For those seeking smaller, more intimate experiences, Betsie River Campsite offers a friendly atmosphere with clean facilities, on-site wood and ice sales, a small general store, and a café. The area also features rustic forest campgrounds, full-service RV resorts, and national lakeshore camping, with options ranging from primitive sites to those with full hookups, ensuring every camping style is accommodated.

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