Lake Michigan Camping On the Beach
Stunning Lake Michigan Camping on the Beach or Close by
Trying to decide where to camp this summer? It can be quite overwhelming deciding what Michigan campgrounds to add to your list.
I’ll let you in on a secret!
West Michigan has some of the best swimming beaches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline! You seriously can’t go wrong. These state park campgrounds our decently priced and located close to some of the best Michigan beach towns to explore. We’ve camped for the last 12 years and have rounded up our favorite Michigan state parks situated along the stunning shoreline’s of Lake Michigan.
Beach camping in Michigan is truly a memorable experience. This trip guide will help you plan your trip so you can spend less time researching and more time relaxing this summer. Before you know it, you’ll be sitting with your toes in the sand gazing at the views along the refreshing clear waters of Lake Michigan.
Map of Lake Michigan Beach Campgrounds
How to Book a Campsite
Michigan state park campgrounds fill up fast, so plan to make reservations 6 months in advance from the date you plan to camp. Jump online at 8:00am during the week and 9:00am on weekends for the best chance to nab your site. To secure a campsite, go to MI DNR State Reservations. If you have missed your 6 month window, not all is loss. Check back the month before your desired dates. Many people often book 2 weeks and then will cancel part of their reservation, so check back near that time frame.
Additionally, you can also sign up for notices of cancellations by signing up to receive text alerts. The “Notify Me” feature allows campers to sign up for an email notification when a site becomes available for specified dates. Texts also includes when there are happenings that could impact your visit, such as detours, weather events, beach or parking lot closures, large events and more.
West Michigan Camping
Van Buren State Park, South Haven
Overlook of the beach in South Haven
Located near the beautiful beach town of South Haven. Van Buren State Park is a 4.5 mile bike ride to South Haven’s downtown area. The campsites are not directly on Lake Michigan, but it’s only a short walk to get to the day use beach area. The beach is one of the best for families who love finding unique rocks. The state campground has trails that lead throughout the park and over sand dunes, plus there are some play structures for kids and a newly renovated handicap bathhouse. It’s also a great campground that’s only minutes from downtown South Haven beaches where they launch the fireworks for the Fourth of July. Check out this detailed Trip Guide for Camping at Van Buren State Park
Ludington State Park, Ludington
Ludington State Park
Adventures are endless at Ludington State Park. This park is situated between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake which is ideal for climbing sand dunes, swimming in Lake Michigan and grabbing an ice cream at the large beach house. Families will love riding bikes to Hamlin Dam, playing on the playground and fishing. Rent kayaks or paddle boards as you explore between islands. Don’t skip touring the historic Big Sable Lighthouse or hiking the Lost Lake & Island Trail Loop. With 21 miles of beautiful trails winding throughout the park you won’t tire of places to explore. Check out the the full Trip Guide for Ludington State Park with pictures, camping reviews and nearby activity suggestions.
PJ Hoffmaster State Park, Muskegon
Hike and explore the dunes at PJ Hoffmaster State Park
Despite being located in Muskegon, Hoffmaster State Park is situated on 1,100 acres in a shady, wooded area which creates the feeling that you’re camping “up north”. This park has not one, but two beaches, the campers beach and public beach to enjoy during your stay. Campsites are not directly on the beach, but beach access is only a short distance away. During your stay, make sure to allot ample time to visit the Gillette Visitor’s Center, which has interactive exhibits and beautiful hiking trails along Lake Michigan. Kids can enjoy a modern playground and play in Black Creek, which runs through the campground and makes for a unique spot to swim. Read here for the full PJ Hoffmaster State Park review.
Muskegon State Park, Muskegon
Another state park in Muskegon that has options for beach camping is Muskegon State Park. This state park has 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. The Beach Campground offers an option of camping on the beach or along the ship channel that connects Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. Visitors will enjoy viewing the boats along the channel during their stay. If you love camping on the beach, then the Lake Michigan North and South loops are a great fit. The state park is also home to the Muskegon Adventure Park, which offers tons of winter sports and summer activities from zip lining to archery.
Holland State Park, Holland
Big Red Lighthouse at Holland State Park
Home of the Big Red Lighthouse and Ottawa Beach makes Holland State Park a popular destination. Two loops for camping, one right on the beach and the other a mile down in the woods provide lots of site options. Make sure to grab some ice cream and stroll along the canal while the sun sinks down into the water during your stay. Outdoor enthusiasts will love biking to Tunnel Park and climbing Mt Pisgah at Holland State Park. Only a short distance to downtown Holland allows opportunities to explore the quaint shops and grab food at one of the many restaurants. With ample activities nearby like the Outdoor Discovery Center and Saugatuck Dunes State Park there are endless thing to do! Read the full review and Trip Guide to Holland State Park.
Petoskey State Park, Petoskey
Rock Hounds Will Love Petoskey State Park
A popular campground for rock hounds, Petoskey State Park’s one mile beach on Little Traverse Bay is the place to find Petoskey stones. The park has 168 sites between two campground loops, which include modern campsites. If you’re lucky, you might be able to grab one of the few spots with views of the beach, although most are just a short walk to the beach. Those who enjoy biking can explore scenic views along the Little Traverse Wheelway, which extends for 26 miles. Petoskey is a central spot to take day trips to nearby towns like Harbor Springs and Charlevoix. Make sure to stop at nearby Pond Hill Farm during your visit. Desiring to camp at Petoskey, here is a full trip guide to Petoskey State Park.
North & South Manitou Island
Sunset at Manitou Island
If you enjoy tent camping and don’t mind roughing it, then head to South or North Manitou Island for some breathtaking views where you can pick your own campsite on this secluded island. The island is part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and has over 23 miles of trails to explore. It is located only 40 minutes from Traverse City. To gain access to the island, take a ferry ride over to the island. Nature lovers will appreciate all the wildlife, birds and unique plants on the island. Here is a detailed trip guide for Camping at North Manitou Island.
Wilderness State Park
Find your own secret spot at Wilderness State Park
Looking for a quiet location and campsites right on the beach, then head to Wilderness State Park. Despite its remote location it’s only a short 15 minute drive to visit Mackinaw Island and Mackinaw City. With an expansive 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, including Sturgeon Bay, you can discover some unique spots to explore. The park has regular programming and the camp hosts provide nature crafts and activities. A wide variety of options for campsites, from hike-in tent sites to full hook up, there is a spot for everyone, some which are located right on the beach! Make sure to check out Headlands Dark Sky Park and the Outdoor Discovery Park. Here you can check out the full Review of Wilderness State Park, with tons of tips and activity suggestions.
Closing Thoughts
The West side of the Mitten State is one of the most beautiful places to visit, you're sure to find a new favorite park to explore. What campgrounds on Lake Michigan would you add to the list?
Follow Discovering Anew for more campground reviews, hikes, and outdoor activity suggestions. Make sure to pin and save this post for later to help you decide on where your next adventure will be. From our family to yours. Happy Camping!
These campfire games are perfect for your next camping trip. These fun group activities are guaranteed to provide laughs, fun and silliness. Ideal to play with the whole family and large groups around the campfire. They will keep kids and adults entertained for hours, plus they require minimal prep and supplies.