Stay Awhile at Petoskey State Park: Michigan Camping Guide
Visiting Petoskey State Park: Why We Love It!
Step inside a Pure Michigan ad when you visit the Little Traverse Bay area. Petoskey State Park is an ideal memory-making destination for families. Prepare yourself for a true treasury trove of gorgeous sunsets, sandy dunes, beaches, bike paths, and rock hunting.
Petoskey State Park
A favored campground for rock hounds, Petoskey State Park’s one mile stretch of beachfront on Little Traverse Bay is a great spot for discovering Petoskey Stones. The beach has a combination of both sandy & rocky beach area, plus sandy dunes to climb and explore.
Little Traverse Bay
Nestled between two delightful beach towns of Petoskey and Harbor Springs, makes Petoskey State Park a prime spot for easy Michigan day trips to neighboring areas like Boyne City and Charlevoix.
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Additionally, those who love to be active can bike and explore along the Little Traverse Wheelway, which extends for 26 miles through several charming towns and is accessible right from the state park.
Home to two campground areas, Petoskey State Park, features 178 modern campsites, 2 mini cabins, a sandy day use beach area and 3 miles of hiking trails; it’s quite obvious why this is a much loved state park in the mitten state.
Best Things to Do at Petoskey State Park
This Great Lake’s paradise on Little Traverse Bay creates a wide variety of outdoor activities in the Petoskey area. As life long Michiganders, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do at Petoskey State Park while visiting.
Lake Michigan Beach on Little Traverse Bay
Diving into the salt free waters of Lake Michigan, scouring the beach for Petoskey stones and taking in the views of the glorious sunsets are just a few reason why Petoskey State Park is a favorite for beachgoers.
Sunset at Petoskey State Park
This Michigan State Park. has the best of both worlds- Petoskey’s day use beach has the soft sand. While the southern part of the park, you’ll find a rocky shoreline that will satiate the die hard rock hound enthusiasts. If you’re camping there are boardwalk pathways that lead from the campgrounds to the beach or you can easily drive and park in the day use lot.
When we visited over the 4th of July the water temperatures were around 65-68 degrees, which was quite refreshing! We brought our Aqua Lily Pad to the beach, since it’s a short walking distance from the parking lot, and had a blast in the waves.
TIP Bring water shoes, to save your toes in this area.
Avoid Crowds Although, the day use Petoskey beach can get quite busy, especially during holiday weekends. The rockier beach near the Tannery Creek Campground is less crowded.
Petoskey Beach Hours 8am -10pm
Petoskey Beach Amenities
Concessions, Restrooms and Rentals Available at Petoskey State Park’s Beach House
Kayak, paddleboard and bike rentals are available at the beach house
a handicap accessible cement path leads to the beach, in addition their is a handicap beach wheelchair
Bath house & Concessions and volleyball nets are located on site.
Boating & Paddling on Lake Michigan
Paddle till your heart’s content on Little Traverse Bay. With the protection of the bay, enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan in the calmer waters, ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Don’t have your own equipment? The beach house offers rentals for kayaking and paddleboards, which are available from mid-May through Labor Day.
Calm waters for paddleboarding at Petoskey State Park
Dogs
Pets are not allowed in the stretch of designated swimming beach between the buoys at Petoskey State Park. Although, dogs are allowed on other parts of the campground, but must be on a 6-foot leash at all times- this is incorrect. We spoke with the park rangers and they informed us to disregard the signs. Contrary to the “no dogs on beach signs”, This year they are trying out a new system and dogs are allowed on the beach, just not in the designated swim areas.
Beach Combing/ Rock Hunting
Petoskey Stones and Charlvoix Stones found at Petoskey State Park
Searching for Petoskey Stones during our stay at Petoskey State Park was a favorite past time for our family. Luckily, we scored big and found dozens of these unique fossilized coral.
This area is specifically known to have a large amount of elusive Petoskey stones, and the lesser known Charlevoix stone.
Boasting the title of Michigan’s state stone, Petoskey stones are a form of fossilized coral, that have a distinct 6 distinct sides like a honeycomb on their surface.
TIP It’s easier to find Petoskey Stones when they are wet, so bring along a bucket or spray bottle. The south end has a rocky shoreline ideal for rock hounds. We had the best luck finding Petoskey in this stretch of beach. Other locations that we had success in finding Petoskey Stones were Magnus Park and Fisherman’s Island.
Climb the Sand Dunes
Grassy, forested sand dunes stretch along the shorelines of this area. These stunning dune formations along Lake Michigan were originally caused by glacial ice melting thousands of years ago forming diverse landscapes.
Picturesque Dunes at Petoskey State Park
During our stay, we made the most of this picturesque landscape and grabbed some family photos and pictures with my hubby, using our Tripod/ Selfie Stick timer. Here’s your reminder to capture those memories during your stay.
TIP Bring socks or shoes for walking on the dunes and beach when the sand is hot, hot, hot!
Grassy Sand Dunes at Petoskey State Park
Hike the Trails at Petoskey State Park
Go ahead and lace up those shoes or hiking sandals, grab a water bottle, and set out to explore the 3 miles of trails at Petoskey State Park that range from easy to difficult.
Steep incline on the Portage Trail at Petoskey State Park
Portage Trail (1 Mile)
Consisting of two trails, one rated easy and the other difficult. The portage trails lead visitors through a mix of towering hardwoods and sandy foredune paths with a view of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Old Baldy Trail (0.5 miles)
This short, albeit challenging climb has tons of stairs. The highlight is the overlook that reveals view of the Lake Michigan.
Campground Trail (0.5 miles)
A flat trail, that stretches for a half mile between the two campgrounds. Provides views of Lake Michigan and the dunes.
Additional Hiking Trails in the Area
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Bear River Recreation Area
Gnome Trail at Pond Hill Farms
Paint a Stone for the Rock Garden
Bright, colorful rocks with various designs are displayed outside the bathhouse in the Tannery Creek Campground. This vibrant rock garden is a hodge podge of rocks that campers have painted through the years. Get crafty and carve out some time to create a special rock to represent your family and time at Petoskey State Park.
Painted rock garden at Petoskey State Park
Find the Playground
The state park does not have a playground per se. Although at the beach, behind the beach house, there is a set of swings and a metal slide, buried halfway in the sand due to erosion. Go on a hunt with your children and try to find it. In addition, there are sand volleyball courts.
TIP Either bike or drive into the town of Petoskey to Bayfront Park, which has a lakefront modern playground and toddler playscape. It’s about a 2 mile bike ride from the woodchipped Portage Bike path on the Little Traverse Wheelway.
Petoskey Downtown Trolley
A great feature of the Petoskey State park, is the Petoskey Downtown Trolley periodically stops at the campground to transport campers from the state park into town. If you’re with a group, you may prefer to call and schedule a pickup.
Biking the Little Traverse Wheelway
Biking Little Traverse Wheelway
Without a doubt, bringing your bikes to Petoskey is a must. Little Traverse Wheelway is a expansive 26 miles paved bike path that links the charming towns of Petoskey to Harbor Springs and Charlevoix.
The Wheelway can be accessed from the last loop at the back of Tannery Creek Campground at Petoskey State Park. It’s a short mulched, wooded path. Many shops and parks are directly on the trail like Kiliwins, Petoskey Brewing, Bayfront Park and Magnus Park.
TIP In my opinion, the section between Petoskey State Park and Magnus Park is one of the most scenic portions of the entire bike trail. Enjoy the cooling breezes coming off the bay while cruising past vibrant wildflowers, the rocky shoreline and gorgeous views of the bay. Then explore the downtown area of Petoskey, the harbor and Bayfront Park’s playground.
Cost to Enter Michigan State Park
Entrance to a Michigan State Park requires a Recreation Passport, which can be purchased for $13.00 with your vehicle registration. Non residents can purchase a daily pass for $11 and an annual pass for $40 as of 1/1/24.
Campgrounds at Petoskey State Park
Centrally located between the beach towns of Petoskey and Harbor Springs, choose from 2 campground options at Petoskey State Park. This popular state park offers 178 modern sites and two mini cabins with access to the lovely Little Traverse Bay.
Campsite 151 at Petoskey State Park- Tannery Creek Loop
*For reference we camped in a 27ft trailer with our family of 6 in site 151 for 5 days at Petoskey State Park over the 4th of July weekend. We camped in the Tanner Creek Campground. Our site had a spot that we could set up our 3 hammocks in a stacked position and ample space. We appreciated being near the Bike pathway for easy accessibility to the Little Traverse Wheelway to explore downtown Petoskey.
Tannery Creek Campground
(Modern campsites with 20/30/ 50 amp electric hookup, modern restrooms)
Boardwalk path to the beach from Tannery Creek Campground Loop
Located at the south end of the state park, the Tannery Creek Campground is best for larger campers and RV’s. Set up with four D shaped loops with 87 sites, each site has a cement pad. As a whole the majority of the sites have tall mature trees that provide shade, although you can see other campsites. There are a few open areas which large groups may prefer. The sites feature a camping pad, fire ring and picnic table.
We appreciated that at the end of each loop there are access boardwalk paths with a platform overlook and stairs leading to the beach. This stretch of beach by the Tannery Creek Campground was more secluded, with a rocky shoreline, perfect for rock hunting and enjoying a sunset. Tannery Creek Campground is ideal for those who enjoy biking or running and plan to access the Little Traverse Wheelway for the 2.5 mile path to downtown Petoskey. Here is the online campground map to help familiarize yourself with the layout.
Dunes Campground
(Modern campsites 20/30 amp electric hookup, modern restrooms)
Containing one large loop with 80 available sites that are shady sites with decent pockets of privacy. Some sites are smaller and hillier so this area is best for tents or smaller campers. The road is a bit tighter for parking too. In addition, there are several paved handicap sites in this area. The pathway to the beach leads to the day use area by the parking lot. Sites include camp fire ring and picnic table. If you plan to spend most of your time by the sandier beach area, this is a great location for beach goers.
Mini Cabins
The state campground has 2 mini cabins available ($52 per/ night).
Located within the Tannery Creek Campground near the bike pathway. The Trillium and Orchid Mini Cabins can sleep four people per cabin. The cabins have electricity, a small refrigerator, picnic table, campfire ring, grill, and an electric wall heater. Campers must bring their own bedding/ linens.
Deciding Between the Two Campgrounds at Petoskey State Park?
Here’s a few tips when deciding. If you plan to spend your time at the public beach or tent camp then you will most likely prefer the Dunes Loop. The sites are definitely more hilly and private in the Dunes loop. The wooded boarded pathway to the beach, spits you out in the sandy fore dune, by the parking lot of Petoskey beach. The Tannery Creek is better for RV’s or larger campers and those wanting easy access to bike the Little Traverse Bay. Also, the boardwalks by these loops lead to the quieter, rocky beach area.
Amenities
Sanitation station with potable, non-potable water, and sewage dumping.
Modern restrooms with flushing toilets and hot showers
Electric hook up
shower/ restroom which has a handicap accessible bench.
Picnic tables and fire rings at each camp site.
Good cell reception
multiple access pathway to beach
overflow parking
Other Nearby Campgrounds
Sometimes it can be difficult to obtain sites at this popular state park. (Generally reservations need to be made 6 months in advance). Luckily there is a variety of additional campground options in the area.
Jelly Stone Park Petoskey Private campground with tons of family-friendly amenities
Young State Park Located on beautiful Lake Charlevoix, its a popular state park for boaters or those looking to enjoy the many attractions of the area.
Fisherman’s Island State Park Rustic state campground
Where to Stay /Accommodations
Bay View Inn in Petoskey
Petoskey has an inviting town that offers a variety of accommodations. Looking for cozy cabins, bed and breakfasts or hotels with pools make sure to check out the best deals at Bookings.com. If you prefer to have a bit more space, a house in walking distance of the beach, or a private hot tub then VRBO makes it easy to find just what you’re looking for during your vacation.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Petoskey An IHG Hotel that is located only 7 miles from the state park, the Holiday Inn is in a great location to explore the area. With an indoor pool, included breakfast and all the modern amenities its a great options for families.
Crooked River Lodge 15 minutes from Petoskey, this rustic lodge features an indoor swimming pool, breakfast and firepit to enjoy some campfires and the beauty of the starry sky.
Bay View Inn With stunning views of the bay and a top notch breakfast, Bayview Inn is a great choice for those visiting Petoskey and desiring to stay near shopping, restaurants and Little Traverse Wheelway.
PROS/ CONS of Petoskey State Park
No Michigan state park is perfect. Here our some pros and cons to aid you while making the decision.
CONS
No Playground
Beach can be quite crowded
No park/ranger programming
Can be a long wait to get into the park beach on the weekends
PROS
Dog-friendly
Easy access to nearby restaurants, activities, and bike path
Bike into town of Petoskey, Harbor Springs on the Little Traverse Wheelway
Good rock hunting for Petoskey Stones
Handicap accessible cement path to beach and beach wheelchair available
The sites were wooded with mature trees providing decent shade, campground sites have a path to the beach
Bathroom facilities were clean/ concession/ rental stand at beach house
Overflow parking available
Climb small dune
Good cell reception
Can view fireworks, both Petoskey and Harbor Springs, on the 4th from the beach, albeit they are off in the distance. Or you can easily bike into Petoskey for the celebration. Looking for additional places for the 4th of July, check out this detailed list of The Best Places to Camp in Michigan During the 4th of July.
What to Pack / Tips for Visiting Petoskey State Park
Bikes Having bikes is an ideal way to navigate around the campground and the local area has tons of opportunities to explore via bike paths.
Beach Toys Pack your coolers, beach towels, swim suits, toys and chairs for a day at the beach.
Sandals/ Water Shoes If you plan to search for Petoskey stones - your toes will appreciate water shoes or sandals
Bucket/ Sprayer / Sifter If you wet rocks it makes it easier to spot Petoskey stones or Charlevoix stones. A bucket to dump water and comes in handy to collect your treasures. We love this collapsible bucket and rock collecting kit
Explore Nearby Towns If you can, set aside time to visit the lovely beach towns in near vicinity. During your stay, don’t skip a trip into downtown Petoskey. There’s a paved path from the campground to the downtown area of Petoskey, or a trolley can take you to parks, restaurants and shops.
Nearby Activities/ Things to Do Near Petoskey State Park
Petoskey Bayfront Lighthouse
Set aside time to explore the many attractions, restaurants and parks in Petoskey. It’s only a 2.5 mile bike ride into the Petoskey on the Little Traverse Bay. Here are the unmissable spots to hit when visiting this area.
Petoskey Harbor Breakwater and Bayfront Lighthouse
After parking our bikes, we walk out on the breakwater and lighthouse in the Petoskey Harbor, where Bear River enters the Little Traverse Bay. The Bayfront Lighthouse is still owned and operated by the Coast Guard. The open grassy space east of the breakwater is a great spot for a picnic, and where may gathered to watch the 4th of July fireworks. On the west side of the the Petoskey Harbor Breakwater is Magnus beach that is popular for rock hunting
Bayfront Park
Located right on the water, Bayfront Park is a popular spot for those wanting to enjoy some time outside. With the striking clock tower and grassy open space, every year people gather to watch the Petoskey fireworks from this beautiful spot. There is also a pedestrian tunnel that leads to downtown Petoskey’s shopping area.
Fred Fiedli Playground
Looking for a great waterfront playscape, within Bayfront Park is the Fred Fiedli Playground, which definitely checks all the boxes. This modern playground has both a toddler playscape, larger playscape, plus swings for the kids. Parents will appreciate the cool breezes of the lake and lovely views of the ships next to the Marina.
Sunset Park & Waterfall
Sunset Park Overlook Staircase
Find the waterfall and climb the stairs at Sunset Park. Located across from the restrooms, it’s a great quick stop along the Little Traverse Wheelway.
Bear River Recreation Area
Following along the river, this scenic trail rewards you with views of the rapids, takes you under bridges and through wooded forest trails.
Petoskey Pretzels
Right by the sign for downtown is the Petoskey Pretzels. Treat yourself to these warm, soft pretzels while visiting the marina.
Fun Stops in Nearby Towns
This area is teeming with beautiful towns along the coast including: Charlevoix, Harbor Springs, Boyne and Mackinaw City that offer a host of outdoor activity options including; beaches, shops, wineries, nature preserves, farmers markets, delicious restaurants and coffee shops.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Situated in nearby Harbor Springs, this wooden nature preserve contains a small nature center packed with interactive nature displays and multiple trails which include boardwalks, creek crossings and a lovely stretch of shoreline on Lake Michigan. Easily spend a half day exploring so pack a cooler and beach toys as you enjoy the beach.
Tunnel of Trees This popular drive is gorgeous in the Fall, spend the day driving through the colorful tunnel of trees on M-119 up from Harbor Springs until you reach Mackinaw City.
Boyne Mountain Take a ride up the chair lift during the summer for a sky high view. Stop by and have a beverage at the top of the mountain or rent a golf cart and explore the place. One of the newest attractions is the Boyne Sky Bridge, which boasts the 1,023 foot suspended pathway in the sky.
Pond Hill Farm Explore this lovely property where kids can search for hidden Gnomes homes along a trail. Enjoy wine tasting as you try their scrumptious pizza, delicious grilled cheese and homemade roasted tomatoe soup. With petting farm animals, a nature playscape, and live bands during the summer- there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Pond Hill Farm Gnome Hunt
Mackinac Island Every Michigander needs to visit Mackinac Island, this iconic island is accessible by a ferry boat ride. Two great ways to explore the island is by horse drawn carriage or biking around the 8 mile island loop. During your stay hike Arch Rock, savor delicious Mackinac Island Fudge, and be in awe at the butterfly house or learn history at Fort Mackinac. Here’s a Guide to visiting Mackinaw Island for the Day.
Avalanche Peak On the South side of Charlevoix Avalanche Peak is a 320 acres natural space with hiking trails, a 4.2 mile mountain bike trail, disc golf course and a sweeping overlook of Lake Charlevoix. Our group decided to split up due to our children’s ages and abilities. We did some hiking, while the older children and parents mountain biked.
Oden’s Fish Hatchery Visitor Center Take a tour of the facility and head down to the big ponds, where massive trout are visible. During your Oden Fish Hatchery Tours bring money to purchase feed for the the fish at the pond.
Restaurants Nearby
Petoskey Pretzel Co These incredible soft pretzels are a much anticipated treat when visiting Petoskey.
Petoskey Brewing Company Craving a burger- head here for some of the best cheeseburgers in Michigan.
Petoskey Corner Scoops Grab a delicious ice cream treat while in downtown Petoskey.
Pipers Wanna skip cooking, order pizza at Pipers.
Leggs Inn Head to Cross Village, to Leggs Inn for authentic Polish Food.
Tom’s Moms Cookies in Harbor Springs This well- known local spot has awwmazing cookies. Order ahead of time and be prepared for a long wait, but its worth it.
Back Lot Yum! Enjoy a great atmosphere, food and drinks!
MIMs Get your seafood kick, by stopping at MIM’s restaurant for the best perch fry!
Lavender Hill Farm Michigan Lavender hit their bloom time in July. On Fridays in the summer, they celebrate “Fridays on the Farm” with crafts for the kids, activities, yoga, and more.
FAQ’s
How is the Cell Reception at Petoskey State Park? Cell service was good throughout the park
Are dogs allowed at Petoskey State Park? Yes, dogs are allowed at the campground and trails, but cannot be on the designated swimmers beach area. All pets must be on a 6 foot leash.
Where can you fish near Petoskey State Park? Oden Fish Hatchery is nearby and is a wonderful spot to learn how brook and brown trout are raised.
Can you bring alcohol into Petoskey State Park? Yes, alcohol is permitted.
Can you have a campfire at Petoskey State Park? Yes, at the designated campfire rings at the campground. Do not leave fires unattended.
Final Thoughts
Calm morning at Petoskey State Park on Little Traverse Bay
Discover the abundance of outdoor activities at Petoskey State Park and the vast beauty of the Great Lakes. Centrally located for easy Michigan day trips to neighboring towns like Harbor Springs, Boyne City and Charlevoix. You’re bound to have a memorable experience in the Little Traverse Bay area. As you begin planning your vacation to this destination in Michigan, make sure to Pin and Save for later. If you found this guide helpful, follow Discovering Anew for more campground reviews and Michigan adventures. From our family to yours. HAPPY CAMPING!
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