Best Camping for Families in Michigan: 12 Easy-Win Campgrounds

Last updated: January 20, 2026

Amenities-first camping picks (bathrooms, playgrounds, calm water) with simple planning tips.

These picks skew toward places that are rewarding without requiring expert skills—plus a few “worth the effort” classics for when you want a bigger day.

Quick orientation

Michigan outdoor days go best with two things: an early start and a flexible backup plan. Conditions can change fast near big water—pack layers and don’t underestimate wind.

Map tip: Create a Google Map list with these stops, then sort by “closest” from your lodging to build a low-driving itinerary. Here’s one from us:

Best picks (12)

1) Ludington State Park — Ludington

Why it’s on the list: Come for camping, dunes, and a beach in one spot. Ludington State Park offers the best of Michigan’s inland rivers, lakes and sandy Great Lakes beaches
Good for: hikers, tubing enthusiasts, kayakers and homeschoolers
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

2) Holland-area camp bases — West Michigan

Why it’s on the list: Holland State Park Beach Campground and the Holland State Park – Macatawa Campground offers the best of lakeshore camping and recreation near Holland
Good for: Beachgoers, dog owning families and boaters
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

3) Wilderness State Park — Near Mackinaw City

Why it’s on the list: West of Mackinaw City, the various campsites offer different amenities including historic rustic cabins and splendid views of the lake as well as hiking; plus dark sky preserve
Good for: hikers, swimmers, beachgoers and stargazers
Best time to go: Mid-May to Mid-October
Map: Open in Google Maps

4) Interlochen State Park — Near Traverse City

Why it’s on the list: Come for lakefront modern and rustic camping close to a major arts hub; Interlochen State Park is close enough for a day trip to Traverse City
Good for: Paddlesports, swimming, fishing
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

5) Tawas Point State Park — Lake Huron

Why it’s on the list: Come for a sandspit beach feel with campground access; Tawas Point State Park offers is an idyllic place to stay and enjoy the shallow water
Good for: swimming, sailing, hiking
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

6) Harrisville State Park — Lake Huron

Why it’s on the list: Good for those who want to camp near town—Harrisville State Park offers modern amenities near Harrisville witch access to paddling and swimming
Good for: metal detectors, paddlers and beachgoers
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

7) Muskegon State Park — Muskegon

Why it’s on the list: Muskegon State Park delivers camping plus beach and winter activity options with nearby family stops like Michigan’s Adventure
Good for: thrill seekers, beachgoers, fishers, hikers
Best time to go: Camping is best from late spring through early fall, but winter activities are available year-round
Map: Open in Google Maps

8) P.J. Hoffmaster State Park — Norton Shores

Why it’s on the list: If dune hikes plus a solid campground is on your Michigan wishlist, put P.J. Hoffmaster State Park on the short list.
Good for: dune climbers, hikers and beachgoers
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall
Map: Open in Google Maps

9) Silver Lake State Park area — Oceana County

Why it’s on the list: Silver Lake State Park area offers massive dunes with tons of amenities like fishing, swimming, ORV trails, mountain biking, hiking and more
Good for: Pet-owners, outdoor enthusiasts, off-roaders
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall (although fat bike and other winter amenities are open)
Map: Open in Google Maps

10) Tahquamenon Falls State Park — Paradise (U.P.)

Why it’s on the list: Start here for waterfalls + modern campground convenience—Tahquamenon Falls State Park has a new boardwalk coming in 2026 with boating options
Good for: waterfall enthusiasts, hikers, paddlers
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall, with lower temperatures than in the Lower Peninsula
Map: Open in Google Maps

11) Porcupine Mountains camp areas — Western U.P.

Why it’s on the list: Porcupine Mountains camp areas are near the iconic Lake of the Clouds and breathtaking Bonanza Falls within a short drive to Lake Superior
Good for: hikers, paddlers, hunters, boaters and fishers
Best time to go: Late spring through early fall for camping, but the winter sports complex offers winter fun
Map: Open in Google Maps

12) Sleeping Bear Dunes (Platte River area) — Northern Michigan

Why it’s on the list: Sleeping Bear Dunes (Platte River area) offers RV hookups as well as backcountry camping spots for older kids who are comfortable in the woods and looking for adventure
Good for: older kids, RV enjoyers and avid hikers
Best time to go: Open year-round
Map: Open in Google Maps