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Best Campgrounds near Empire, MI

735 Reviews

Short drives from Empire, Michigan lead to multiple camping options, from basic sites to those with more facilities. Manton Trails RV Park has good-sized sites with modern bathrooms and sometimes hosts live music on weekends. Day Group Campground sits in a quiet wooded area close to some nice hiking trails. Many local campgrounds have things for kids to do, which works well for family trips. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is close by, with trails and some really nice views. The lakes and rivers around Empire are good for fishing if you bring your gear. The trees in this part of Michigan look particularly nice when the leaves change color in fall. Weather can change quickly here, so pack layers, especially if camping in spring or fall. Some of the back roads might be rough after rain, so check conditions if you don't have a truck or SUV. You can find groceries and restaurants in the small towns nearby. Empire's camping areas work for both people who want to hike all day and those who just want to relax by their campsites.

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Best Camping Sites Near Empire, Michigan (148)

    1. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "NOTE: The GPS location in this app is incorrect, the actual location is 5685 Lake Michigan Rd, Honor MI.

    This is a very nice wooded campground in within the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore Park."

    "One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."

    2. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    52 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $20 / night

    "This campground was in a great location, lots of signage helps you find it and navigate the roads without use of GPS. Seriously, you don’t need one. At least from Empire, anyway."

    "Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash."

    3. Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    22 Reviews
    Empire, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-5050

    "Close to Empire and Glen Arbor! We would stay here again!"

    "It has a fire pit, nearby bathrooms, WiFi, and was in short driving distance to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City."

    4. 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."

    5. Betsie River Campsite

    17 Reviews
    Elberta, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 352-9535

    $33 - $85 / night

    "Super close to Lake Michigan and the river. We had fun exploring the area. Bathrooms were clean and had hot water."

    "Location is close to so many great towns and attractions: Glen Arbor/Sleeping Bear Dunes, many Lake Michigan beaches, kayaking/canoeing/tubing river trips, great fishing if that's your thing."

    6. Empire Township Campground

    6 Reviews
    Empire, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-5285

    "Located just a short drive away from many attractions."

    "The campground is close to Sleeping Bear Dunes (15 mins) and Traverse City (30 mins). We enjoyed traveling to the city for Cherry Festival and returning to a quiet campground."

    7. Traverse City State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    25 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."

    8. South Manitou Island Group

    8 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $30 / night

    "The island does have drinking water but you have to hike from your sites ot get it our you can get water from Lake Michigan and make it drinkable."

    "A few sites offer amazing views of Lake Michigan atop some small bluffs which make this campground amazing."

    9. Leelanau Pines Campground

    10 Reviews
    Cedar, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 228-5742

    $103 - $130 / night

    "The campground was very shady and situated right on the lake. We stayed in Site #50 and could carry our kayaks across a small grassy field to put in at the edge of the lake."

    "Plenty of beautiful views of the lake! You’re tucked away from the main road but also close enough to enjoy nearby Sutton’s Bay ( which is worth a visit)"

    10. Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp

    9 Reviews
    Interlochen, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5280

    "We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback, therefore we were in the "horse" portion of the campground."

    "Off the beaten path but has great rustic campsites with firepits and there are restrooms and fresh water close by in each circle we will be back"

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Recent Camping Photos near Empire, MI

336 Photos of 148 Empire Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Empire, MI

735 Reviews of 148 Empire Campgrounds

Guide to Empire

Camping near Empire, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for you.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This national lakeshore is a must-see. One camper mentioned, "The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water" while enjoying the quiet beaches and beautiful views at D.H. Day Group Campground.
  • Hiking Trails: There are plenty of trails to hike, with one reviewer from Platte River Campground saying, "There's also a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan, about a 1.2-mile hike which was a nice little hike even in the rain."
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park, offer great fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms and showers were extremely clean and were cleaned daily. Lots to do outside of the campground in that general area as well, hiking trails and fishing opportunities everywhere."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "The campground was great with a lot of amenities for young and old alike."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor at Betsie River Campsite shared, "They went above and beyond to accommodate our last-minute arrival."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views. One happy camper at Leelanau State Park Campground said, "Beautiful location and beautiful views."

What you should know:

  • Privacy Levels Vary: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A reviewer at D.H. Day Group Campground mentioned, "You could definitely see and hear your neighbors."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground noted, "If you’re looking for quiet, nature, and easy access to swimming then it’s not my #1 choice."
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Whitewater Township Park Campground operates from May 9 to September 29.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool."
  • Plan for Privacy: If you want some space, check out reviews for site spacing. A camper at Betsie River Campsite mentioned, "Very few trees. Clean bathroom/showers."
  • Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for extra fun. A visitor at Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park noted, "The local grocery store is close, as well as a dollar store, mini golf, ice cream, and restaurants."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites can be small. A reviewer at Traverse City State Park Campground mentioned, "The spots are very small and you have to park sideways."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, make sure to check the campground features. A camper at Indigo Bluffs RV Park said, "This campground is absolutely beautiful! Tons of trees, large sites, well maintained."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or airports. A visitor at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park warned, "There are cars passing by frequently, but less in the evening."

Camping near Empire, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. Just be sure to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Empire, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Empire, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 148 campgrounds and RV parks near Empire, MI and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Empire, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Empire, MI is Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with a 4.8-star rating from 61 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Empire, MI.

What parks are near Empire, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Empire, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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