Best Campgrounds near Williamsburg, MI

Williamsburg, Michigan serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Grand Traverse region, with options ranging from rustic tent sites to full-service RV resorts. The area includes established campgrounds like Whitewater Township Park Campground with its 55 sites along the water, and Traverse Bay RV Resort offering premium amenities. Camping areas near Williamsburg provide access to both inland lakes and nearby Lake Michigan shorelines. Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers backcountry tent camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience, while several mixed-use campgrounds accommodate various camping styles including cabins at Everflowing Waters Campground and glamping options at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort.

Seasonal considerations shape the camping experience in this region of northern Michigan. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Whitewater Township Park open from May through September, while others like Traverse City State Park remain open year-round. Summer brings warm temperatures ideal for water activities, while fall offers spectacular color displays throughout the forested areas. Winter camping is limited to select locations with appropriate facilities. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Access to most established campgrounds requires no special vehicles, though backcountry areas may have more limited access. As one visitor noted, "The region includes many Michigan wineries. Also not far from Glen Arbor and Sleeping Bear Dunes."

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Williamsburg area, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. Campers frequently mention the proximity to both inland lakes and Lake Michigan as key highlights of their experience. The area's mixed-use campgrounds typically provide fire rings, picnic tables, and basic amenities, with varying levels of hookups for RVs. Several visitors commented on the region's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. According to one camper, "This part of Michigan, you should definitely come for a visit." Proximity to attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Traverse City, and the Leelanau Peninsula adds to the appeal of camping in this region, allowing visitors to combine outdoor experiences with cultural and culinary exploration.

Best Camping Sites Near Williamsburg, Michigan (226)

    1. Traverse City State Park Campground

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

    "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."

    "Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."

    2. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

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

    $60 - $260 / night

    "We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."

    "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."

    3. Whitewater Township Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    3 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."

    "The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake. We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend."

    4. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    4 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"

    5. Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park

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

    $20 / night

    "Every year I camp on the Green Lake side of Interlochen State Park, and this year was the first year I allowed a guest - my fiance."

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

    6. Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Boardman, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    "One is reservable and drive-in with access to the lake. We decided to backpack about 3 miles in and camp in the rustic hike in sites."

    "Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded."

    7. Scheck's Place State Forest Campground

    5 Reviews
    Kingsley, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5280

    "It's fairly wide open, with trees around, but this was great as it made stargazing easy."

    "I like the location; very secluded in the State Forest but only a half hour from downtown Traverse City. This facility meets the recreation need of a diverse cross section of Michigan residents."

    8. Arbutus Lake State Forest Campground

    5 Reviews
    Kingsley, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5280

    "It’s situated on Arbutus Lake in Traverse City, MI (my hometown). It’s a calm lake with easy same-day registration for camping."

    "Campsites are clean, restrooms are within a few minute walk, and a water pump is available."

    9. Traverse Bay RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 938-5800

    "We attend a horse show circuit near by. It is the creme de la creme of RV parks. The sites are individually owned (and leased out) and many of the owners have made their lots very nice."

    "This is close to Traverse City which we love."

    10. Everflowing Waters Campground

    3 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 938-0933

    $30 - $40 / night

    "Was not crowded when we went around Laborday and easy quick access to getting to Traverse city/winerys/ local state forest areas while not spending as much on the camping costs."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 226 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Williamsburg, MI

1004 Reviews of 226 Williamsburg Campgrounds


  • Kathie M.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Leelanau State Park Campground

    Beautiful small rustic campground

    This campground is my all time favorite. I don't think there is a bad site (51 sites plus 3 cabins). Very beautiful in the fall with outstanding forest hiking south of campground. I stayed in Cedar Cabin, sleeps 5, with heat, lights, fridge, microwave. Love that this cabin has a covered awning porch. Very short walk to Lake Michigan- you can even see if you have a clearing. Vault toilets so clean! Lighthouse is breathtaking. Rangers friendly. Highly highly recommend!

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    Lots of activities

    We just needed a spot for the night near Traverse City, and this fit the bill.
    It is a huge campground, with lots of activities for kids, but we have none. It was not high season, so it was not crowded and it was quiet. Our site was full service, but we only need electric for our van. The bathrooms were clean, but we were disappointed that the showers require quarters, as we had none. It was a great last minute opportunity, but I'm sure in high season you need a reservation.

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Petoskey KOA

    Beautiful setting in woods

    This campground was close to the town of Petoskey, had clean showers and bathrooms, which were toasty in the cool October night we stayed! Kudos! Our site was level, shaded, and close to the facilities, as we are van campers this was nice.

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Lively Acres Campground

    Clean, new, quiet

    We visited in mid October, out of season, but the phone reservation that same day was easy and helpful. Verizon cell service was good, and the Porta potties were clean. There were no plumbed toilets or showers. The planted trees and shrubs are young, so there is no shade or privacy between sites yet.

  • Erin F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

    Off the beaten path

    Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded.

  • 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.


Guide to Williamsburg

Camping near Williamsburg, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful nature, fun activities, and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This stunning national lakeshore is just a short drive away. Visitors rave about the breathtaking views and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “The campground is beautiful with large well-treed sites and amazing rangers with tons of info!” at Platte River Campground.
  • Visit local beaches: Many campgrounds, like Young State Park Campground, are located near sandy beaches. A reviewer noted, “The beach is long and sandy, and there are lots of hiking and biking trails.”
  • Fishing and boating: Lakes in the area provide great opportunities for fishing and boating. One camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground said, “The park has a small sandy beach, and the swim area is sandy.”

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Indigo Bluffs RV Park mentioned, “Nice campgrounds, clean restroom and showers.”
  • Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy. A reviewer at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground said, “Each site is secluded, and there are about 10 sites that are directly on Lake Michigan.”
  • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort noted, “The cleanliness and friendliness clearly shows.”

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or airports, which can be noisy. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground mentioned, “The park is right next to a busy road and near an airport, so it was a little noisy.”
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A visitor at D.H. Day Group Campground pointed out, “It’s the tradeoff for no electricity or running water.”
  • Reservations recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Leelanau State Park Campground advised, “You’ll likely have to book in advance.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, “It’s super great for kids. My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool.”
  • Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Green Lake Rustic South mentioned, “The campground has a lot to offer. It’s tucked away in the perfect spot with plenty of trees.”
  • Pack snacks and meals: Having food on hand can save time and money. A camper at Young State Park Campground noted, “Clean and nice bathrooms and showers.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be small, so make sure your RV fits. A reviewer at Traverse City State Park Campground said, “The spots are very small and you have to park sideways.”
  • Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups and dump stations. A camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, “There are two water fill stations as you enter the park.”
  • Be prepared for bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground noted, “The outhouses were some of the nicer ones I’ve used.”

Camping near Williamsburg, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Williamsburg, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Williamsburg, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 226 campgrounds and RV parks near Williamsburg, MI and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Williamsburg, MI?

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

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Williamsburg, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Williamsburg, MI.

What parks are near Williamsburg, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Williamsburg, MI that allow camping, notably Sleeping Bear Dunes and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.