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Best Campgrounds near Traverse City, MI

948 Reviews

In northern Michigan lies some of the best camping options in the state where you can stay by the lake or sheltered in the pine trees. Near Traverse City, MI, campers and RVers will find everything they need to make their camping trip a success. Campgrounds near the West Arm beaches give you a chance to relax and enjoy the water in the summer. You can walk, drive, or boat in to your campsite. Stay close to nature in a tent or rent a cozy cabin. Trails in the state forest are ideal for exploring on horseback or try one of the campsites at the fairgrounds where campers are close to the rides and the rest of the action.

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Best Camping Sites Near Traverse City, Michigan (212)

    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

    52 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. 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"

    10. Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    22 Reviews
    Empire, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-5050

    "It has a fire pit, nearby bathrooms, WiFi, and was in short driving distance to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City."

    "The campground is convenient to Sleep Bear Dunes, Traverse City and all the nearby activities. I would give it 5 stars but it is a bit pricey. We always stay at the RV Park and not the Resort."

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Recent Camping Photos near Traverse City, MI

413 Photos of 212 Traverse City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Traverse City, MI

948 Reviews of 212 Traverse City Campgrounds

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

What camping is available near Traverse City, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Traverse City, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 212 campgrounds and RV parks near Traverse City, MI and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Traverse City, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Traverse City, MI is Traverse City State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 51 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Traverse City, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Traverse City, MI.

What parks are near Traverse City, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Traverse City, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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