Camping near Buckley, Michigan offers access to the Manistee National Forest with over 540,000 acres of public lands. The region sits at elevations between 580-1,280 feet, creating varied terrain for camping from riverside flats to forested hills. Winter camping options are limited, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Northern Exposure Campground, visitors can find nearby natural features. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" notes a camper who explored the Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area.
Kayaking and tubing: The Platte River provides water recreation opportunities. "We camp on full moon nights and hit the river for night kayaking. We have our favorite site too!" shares a visitor to Platte River Campground.
Music and arts: The region offers cultural experiences alongside outdoor activities. "Next to a band camp too so it's fun enjoying the music in the distance while camping or around the fire," explains a camper at Interlochen State Park.
Fishing access: Camping sites with water access provide fishing opportunities. "Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, children's playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails," reports a visitor at Northern Exposure Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at many campgrounds provide room to spread out. "We asked to be away from the lake because of our young kids but the lake lots looked beautiful. We will be back," notes a reviewer at Northern Exposure Campground.
Trail connections: Some campgrounds connect directly to hiking networks. "The trails are very nice. 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!" advises a camper at Platte River Campground.
Privacy between sites: Forest coverage provides separation at certain campgrounds. "This campground has great amenities without feeling like urban camping. The sites in the three loops are nicely placed so that you have foliage and space between sites," explains a visitor to Platte River Campground.
Water views: Lakefront options are available at several campgrounds. "Small campground with absolutely stunning views of the lake! The 'beach' area is a bit rocky and I wouldn't recommend actually swimming there, but there's decent fishing and it's very quite," shares a camper at Green Lake Rustic North.
What you should know
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Some of the sites are located right off the main road, which leads to lots of noise during the day and night," notes a visitor to Green Lake Rustic North campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bears have been spotted in the area. "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," reports a camper at Platte River Campground.
Tick precautions: Ticks are present in warmer months. "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike," mentions a visitor to Manistee River Trail.
Site flooding risk: Weather can impact ground conditions. "The sites weren't bad but one of our sites turned into a small pond overnight during a rain storm," warns a camper at Green Lake Rustic North.
Seasonal crowds: Most popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "Did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night," says a visitor to Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play facilities. "Great site for first time campers or when you want to just get away quickly without having to take lots of equipment and supplies. Nice little camp store and pizza restaurant on site. Great playground, evening activities," recommends a visitor to Northern Exposure Campground.
Swimming safety: Families should research water conditions. "The Green Lake is clean but no beach. There aren't any trails or activities," notes a camper at Green Lake Rustic North.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families. "This place was wonderful. The staff was all very nice, the grounds were clean, and our lot was huge," shares a visitor to Northern Exposure Campground.
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences. "I highly recommend taking the time to travel up the Leelanau Peninsula and visiting Fishtown and the Sutton's Bay Farmers Market on Saturdays during the summer," suggests a camper at Interlochen State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking. "We stayed at the the north end of the campground in back which was very quiet during the weekday. My kids had a blast, paved roads, beaches, camp store," advises an RVer at Northern Exposure Campground.
Pull-through options: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Long, level, pull through. A lot of wonderful things to say - but you'll have to see for yourself!" notes a camper at Traverse City KOA in Buckley.
Hookup variations: Service levels vary by campground and site. "Sites are stone and not muddy (it did rain). There were a lot of play grounds as well," reports a visitor to Holiday Park Campground.
Site spacing: RV sites vary in proximity to neighbors. "This is your typical KOA campground. Sites are close together with not a lot of trees. Activities for the kids are numerous and they really enjoyed the large jumping pillow," explains a visitor to Traverse City KOA.
