Hidden Gems for Camping in Michigan
If you’re from the Midwest, chances are that a lot of your childhood memories include summer trips to your family’s favorite camping spot. For us it was just over an hour away, northwest of our home right on Lake Michigan’s beautiful coastline north of Muskegon and south of Pentwater. Despite the short distance, we felt transported to a simpler time, where days revolved around food, the lake, the fire, food, a good book, a friendly game of cards…and FOOD. The peace and calm found living closely with nature just cannot be found anywhere else. As nearly lifelong Michiganders, we present to you our favorite picks for your next rustic weekend getaway:
Best Campground on a Tight Budget:
Pioneer Park- 1563 N Scenic Dr, Muskegon, MI 49445 231-744-3580
Pioneer Park is located right on Lake Michigan and in addition to lakefront activities boasts facilities for tennis, basketball, softball and volleyball as well. All sites have water and electric, and they offer the ability to rent up to 15 sites together as a church, work or family group outing. Call for rates as there can be changes in the season.
Best Family Atmosphere:
Claybanks Twp Park- 6407 S Scenic Dr, New Era, MI 49446 231-861-8885- Tent and RV
So we may be at bit biased here, as this is the very spot described at the outset of our article. Our family, extended family, neighbors, and friends have made the weekend trip with us throughout the years and Claybanks never disappoints. Lake Michigan is a 5-8 minute walk with paths on either side of the campground, and facilities are adequate and clean. The best part about this place is the people- in decades coming here we have met nothing but kind folks eager to loan you their air pump when you’ve forgotten yours or to give you their firewood leftovers as they leave. The atmosphere is safe and jovial, with quiet hours respected.
Insider Tip: If reserving online, ask for a spot in the 1-10 row- great shade from the woods and sounds of the surf to lull you to sleep at night!
Best Natural Views:
Ludington State Park-8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431
This campground is set on the intersection of Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, providing sweeping panoramic water views and endless hours of sunbathing. The campground also includes dunes, a river and dam and lush forested areas. Spots fill up quickly on weekends so try to arrive early! Despite its northern lower peninsula location there are year-round activities at the state park to be enjoyed as well.
Best Glampground:
Dunes Harbor-2722 North Ridge Rd Silver Lake, MI 49436 231-873-3662
We do not judge those who choose to be fancier as they immerse themselves in the natural world. Heck, there was a time when those who owned an RV weren’t even considered to be “really camping” like the fundamentalists in tents and sleeping bags. We say camp how you enjoy it, and at Dunes Harbor the extras like utility hookups on all sites, the camp store and ice cream shop, heated pool & splashpad and other amenities really kick the experience up a few notches.
Dreaming of summer activities sure helps get through these long stretches of winter. We can’t wait for our next sing-along around the fire with marshmallows and those we love the most. No matter where your family chooses to pitch the tent or pull in the motor home next, we hope it’s a great time for making memories.
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