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Best Campgrounds near Traverse City, MI

961 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 (214)

    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. 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. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    9 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."

    "We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it."

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Recent Camping Photos near Traverse City, MI

415 Photos of 214 Traverse City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Traverse City, MI

961 Reviews of 214 Traverse City Campgrounds

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Government Landing Campground

    Nice offseason spot

    You have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve. Scenic spot right on the pond/dam backwaters. Very spacious and spread out sites. Many sites were full when I came on a crappy weather Thursday night in early September. Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond. Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

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

    Friendly Staff

    Staff was super helpful (loaned me a bear box) and friendly. Checkout was flexible. Lots of sites close together but each had plenty of space and flat ground. Ground soft enough for tent pegs. Each site has picnic table and fire pit. Bathroom and water fountain within easy walking distance. Fairly full on crappy weather Friday in early September. Very windy.

  • Byron S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Camp Grayling Trailer Park

    Great RV park

    This is a military base and need proper identification to enter. The sites are well maintained (sand pads). The beach area is well maintained and relaxing. The wireless internet is GREAT! Also have cell coverage. Clean and quite for only $20 per night (cash or check only). The camp site manager (Tim) was fantastic!

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Quiet is right!

    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. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.

    From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.

    I’d love to come again.

  • K
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    Awesome facility. Shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient.

  • Noel L.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    East Jordan Tourist Park

    Small town campground

    Right of charlevoix lake with a nice beach. Our site was level.Very clean and well kept campground. 20 minute walk to downtown East Jordan. Lots are small

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Old US-131 State Forest Campground

    Great spot!

    Nice campground. The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground. There is also Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing. Good sized campsites but some are directly across from each other. A little bit of noise off in the distance sometimes but not sure where it was coming from other than that it was quiet and peaceful

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Lime Lake

    Great Campsite

    The campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes.

  • Deb M.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Betsie River Campsite

    Nice location

    This is a nice little private campground. The people are friendly and it appears to be well kept. The sites are pretty close together, and with many people having a boat, and/or extra canopies, etc., on their sites, it seemed so. Very. Crowded. The location is great - right on a bike path and close to the super cute town of Frankfort and easy access to Sleeping Bear Dunes.

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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