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Torch Lake

The best camping near Torch Lake , MI

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Stories from the community

Ben

3 weeks ago

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

Nice private little spot. Host gave good instructions on how to get there and the property was great if you want a minimal campsite + a fire pit.

Brian

November 2025

22 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Elm Valley

We had a fantastic stay at Site 1 – Elm Valley (hosted by Jayne). From the moment we arrived, Jayne greeted us warmly, offered firewood, and helped guide our 22-ft travel trailer into the perfect spot. The site was level, flat, with water & electric hookups—just what we needed. We were among the last campers of the season and feel grateful we were able to secure such a great location. The location was very convenient—several wineries were just a short drive away—making it easy to explore when time permitted. We were in town for the Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race and enjoyed chatting with Jayne about the event and her family/friends who’ve done it. Upon departure, her husband stopped by to ensure everything was good—it wrapped up the stay perfectly. Jayne is exactly the kind of host you hope for: friendly, attentive but unobtrusive. We’ll absolutely plan to return—maybe next summer to make fuller use of those nearby wineries. Highly recommended.

Alison

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Trail 76 Private Campground

Clay’s spot was awesome! We had full access to water, electric and sewer. Booking and communication was easy to do as well! We really enjoyed our time and will book again!

Kristin

October 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Elm Valley

The fall colors were incredible at our favorite Hip camp! Gorgeous weekend and wonderful place to camp!

James

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Secluded Hidden Gem in Leelanau CO

The tiny home was a delight for myself, my spouse, and our dog. The rolling hills offer incredible views and the house was a delightful refuge on our road trip. The host was very communicative and kind to us, we would recommend this stay to any and all!

Kris

October 2025

Weekend Trip to HillCrest

Hillcrest (Lake View) has a beautiful view. Chose this for a fall getaway. Great location central to Traverse City (asylum tour) and Boyne Mountain (Skybridge). Hosts are friendly and Avion RV was a cool experience, clean and well-stocked with everything you need. Hope to visit again in the summer to experience Torch Lake, which is very close to this.

Connor

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heart of Lake Charlevoix

Great view of the lake with so mouth space. Highly recommend if you have a big group! Easy to get to and loved the privacy. Will definitely book again!

Josh

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Elm Valley

We absolutely loved our stay here! The scenery was stunning—fall colors everywhere and peaceful views in every direction. It was incredibly quiet and relaxing, perfect for a weekend getaway. The campsite were large, clean, and perfectly level, which made setup a breeze. You can really tell the hosts take pride in keeping the place beautiful and well-maintained. We’ve done a lot of fall camping, and this was easily one of our favorites. We’ll definitely be coming back!

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Heart of Lake Charlevoix

I always love camping in Chuck’s property. The view is amazing and the privacy is always unmatched. Chuck is a great host and always has me coming back with his kindness.

Janna

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Elm Valley

Quiet, lovely site with water and electric and short trail to walk dog. Hostess was very friendly. Firewood and great fire ring. Great location too!!

tim

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Motorcycle Tent Camp

Ted is an incredibly wonderful person. Everything about his place is wonderful and his hospitality goes above and beyond expectation. I will definitely be back and will encourage others to visit as well. You don't meet very many people like this guy, and when you do, not only do you find a great place to camp but you also find a friend as well.

Paul

October 2025

39 ft Class A

Group trip

3 nights at Trail 76 Private Campground

I don't think we could hoped for anything more from the property as advertised. The shower ran hot, the power was easy to access, it was even easy to get more firewood delivered. Were already planning our trip back next fall.

Mary Kay

October 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Elm Valley

Jayne’s land was beautiful! The site was spacious and level! Jayne was friendly and welcoming. There were cute little pumpkins waiting for us on the picnic table. Tons to do in the area, but at the site it felt like we were truly away from it all. Would definitely stay there again!

Great views of round lake, and slivers of Elk lake, and Torch lake

Tess

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sherwood Forest

Great host! Lovely spot with beautiful native grasses, fire pits, national forest, and owls at night! We loved staying here - Tess and Fi

Andrew

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to HillCrest

Great set and beautiful spot Bill and Dan were amazing host. Would highly recommend their camping location

Nicole

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to pineleaf.

We had an amazing weekend! Tim is such a great host!

Aidalys

October 2025

Weekend Trip to HillCrest

We had a great time! The camper is cozy and has all the necessities. The host was lovely and the views were amazing. Would definitely stay again!

Kate

October 2025

1 night at HillCrest

The property was so stunningly beautiful and the accommodations were so comfortable that we decided to skip going out for dinner and hang out in the Avión.

Jennifer

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Elm Valley

Conveniently located between Suttons Bay and Traverse City. Campsite and surroundings were very nice. We enjoyed our stay here!

Douglas

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Dhaseleer Farm

Super quiet and pastoral scenes. We really enjoyed this place. Carl is a good guy, very accommodating and generous with his time.

Top-rated campgrounds

Fieldguide Farmhouse

93%

(40)

3.9mi from Torch Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Central Lake, MI

Up North Charm! Est 1910 fieldstone farmhouse on a hilltop overlooking Intermediate Lake. Learn more about this land:Camping is available east of our stone farmhouse in a meadow and grove of trees on 6 acres of private, scenic, hilltop and lakeside property.

Chain of Lakes Camp Six Mile Lake

98%

(66)

8.4mi from Torch Lake · 4 sites · RVs · East Jordan, MI

We are closed seasonally from October 15th until May 1st. WE DO NOT OFFER FIREWOOD ANY LONGER! PLEASE DO NOT TAKE MY OLD MAN'S FIREWOOD. Four full hook-up sites. Max RV length is 38' depending on what site you book! Sites #1 and #2 can accommodate a 32' RV and Sites #3 and #4 can accommodate a 38' RV. If your RV is over 38' we cannot accommodate you. You must back into the driveway from the road (there are no pull through sites). Our driveway is 15' - 20' wide for ease of backing up. 20/30/50 amp electrical, sewer, water, internet WIFI (100mbs), fire pit (please do not move fire pits), and a picnic table are included for each site. Trash bin is at the road. The sites are level, consist of crushed concrete gravel covered by 6a stone, and are 12' wide. One family per site unless you are booking as a group. Check-In is 1:00 p.m. and Check-Out is 11:00 a.m. At this time, we DO NOT accommodate stand alone tent camping as we have no restroom facilities. Pets are welcome but we ask that you clean up after them, be mindful of other guests, and be respectful of our neighbor's property. IF YOUR PET IS ON THE NEIGHBOR’S PROPERTY YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE and no refund will be provided. You are in a land carved by glaciers, seriously! A place away from the rest of the world, but within a short drive to the best Northwest Michigan has to offer. We are on a quiet road away from the hustle and bustle. Peaceful, quiet, one acre property surrounded by deep wooded forests. If you are looking to get away, this is it! A private, full hook-up, RV campground with all the amenities including high speed internet. This is glamping at its BEST! You will not find a more charming place so close to the lakes of Northwest Michigan's lower peninsula and all within driving distance to the coolest cities. In full disclosure, we are not a commercial resort campground or a state park: this is our family property. We are excited in the joy and happy moments this land brings to our family and others. If you want a place with a hundred sites and tons of people around you this is not going to be a place you want to stay. Bring your boats, canoes, kayaks, bathing suits, and fishing poles! Less than a 3 minute walk to Echo Township Park (Six Mile Lake) with beach, playground and boat launch (yes, you can literally walk there). 25 minutes to Torch Lake Township Day Park (Torch Lake), Antrim Creek Nature Area (Lake Michigan), Norwood Township Park (Lake Michigan), Elm Pointe Recreation area (Lake Charlevoix's South Arm), or Notewares Landing Beach (Lake Bellaire). This is by far the coolest place east of the Mississippi to hit rivers, streams, and lakes. Hiking at its best! Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead (Bellaire); Avalanche Preserve (Boyne City); Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve (East Jordan); and Northpoint Nature Preserve (Charlevoix). Go shopping or out to eat! 15 minutes to East Jordan (breakfast at Southarm Cafe is a must / dinner at Las Maracas for tacos), Bellaire (Short's Brewery), Central Lake (visit Bachmann's Five and Dime) or Ellsworth (Front Porch Cafe Breakfast). 25 minutes to Charlevoix (don't forget to visit Castle Farms on the way). 30 minutes to Boyne City (Indo China Gardens has great Asian cuisine). 35 minutes to Elk Rapids (Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen). 45 minutes to Petoskey. 1 hour to Traverse City. Hour and a half to Mackinaw City. Wine and beer are good! Hit up Cellar 1914; the Cellars at Royal Farms; Bier's Inwood Brewery; 1918 Cellars; Chateau Lake Charlevoix; Waterfire Vineyards Torch Lake; Torch Lake Cellars; Vista Ridge Vineyards; and Short's Brewery! Things for kids to do! Ravenhill Discovery Center in East Jordan! Hungry Ducks Farm to pet some animals and go trout fishing. Visit Castle Farms!

Uraharas On The Hill

99%

(47)

12mi from Torch Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Alden, MI

Uraharas is a music venue that hosts events throughout the summer. We are happy to now open our space to campers on the dates that are not scheduled for events. We hope you enjoy our space as much as we have in creating it! Learn more about this land: *ADULTS ONLY CAMPING* Set up camp in our little wooded get away at the top of the valley. There are many great things near and many more within a reasonable drive. We are located just three miles from Torch Lake sandbar with several public access sites. Spend the day swimming or rent a kayak or pontoon to further explore. Check out Seven Bridges Nature Area just five miles away. Head over to Short’s Brewery in Bellaire. Take a drive to Turtle Creek Casino and Traverse City in thirty minutes or less. At the end of your exciting day come relax and build a fire in our communal fire pit. Enjoy the colorful sights as we light up the forest at night (weather permitting). Campsites are located in a specific area. You may have camp neighbors not so far away and will not be a guarantee that it’s completely silent or secluded. Please be mindful of one another. We love the sounds of a good time happening but we do ask that after 11 pm weekdays and 12 am weekends that you keep a respectable level. As title says this is camping for ages 18 and up. Front area can accommodate parking for your boat/kayak trailer. Uraharas is an excellent setting to use as larger group camping. If you need bookings for your group beyond the max of the two combined sites please message me for details!

HillCrest

100%

(47)

15mi from Torch Lake · 4 sites · Lodging · Rapid City, MI

Hosting May 22 - mid/Oct My husband Dan and I purchased this property 5 years ago and have totally restored the land, home and barn from its prior condition. Consequently, if you view the various on line satellite images be advised they are out of date and do not reflect the love we have put into our sanctuary. We are retired and live here with our two standard poodles Mila and Indiana. The property is 5 acres, mostly meadow with a maple grove as well as a wooded ravine. We have planted various fruit trees, cherries, apples, peach as well as pears. We also have a small grape and berry patch which is next to our vintage trailer. There is also an old abandoned trail through the forest that makes for a nice walk. Our location is convenient to Traverse City, Alden, Belaire, Kalkaska as well as the equestrian center and the casino in Williamsburg. There are various places to eat/drink within close proximity as well as places to purchase fuel, groceries and liquor. Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas are a convenient drive where you can visit the many vineyards, orchards and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the lake and bays, or shop some of the unique stores and galleries. There are many off road vehicle and bike trails that are not far away as well. As well as boating on beautiful Torch Lake and the chain of lakes. A day trip to Sleeping Bear dunes is well worth the drive. We would be happy to make suggestions on activities, dining, entertainment during your stay. We currently have three sites which are on seperate areas of the property. Lake View site is a Vintage 1985 Avion travel trailer which as been completely renovated with all new systems. It is located with a western view of Lake Skegemog and next to our grape and berry patch in our back yard. Maple Grove site is a new Coachmen Catalina Destination series RV. It is located on the front side of the property next to the maple tree grove. Lavender Lane is located in front of our barn with a view of our small orchard and the forest, close to the walking trail. All our sites are fully outfitted with quality linens, towels, dishes and cooking equipment. All of the units have Air Conditioned and heat.

Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

98%

(21)

15mi from Torch Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rapid City, MI

Learn more about this land:5 private acres hardwood forest to set up camp. Rustic off-grid camping, but we live across the street in case of any urgent necessities. 15 minute drive to Torch Lake sandbar or the town of Kalkaska. 30 minute drive to Traverse City, Bellaire (Shanty Creek), Elk Rapids, Alden and all the other amazing northern Michigan towns. Fishing, hiking, boating, paddling, hunting, sailing, snowmobiling, ORV trails, mushroom hunting or any outdoor activity surrounds this quiet spot. Or, hit the local shopping, awesome restaurants and multiple craft breweries that the area has to offer.

Sherwood Forest

98%

(24)

16mi from Torch Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rapid City, MI

Beautiful property adjoining thousands of acres of state land, trails, and great views of lake Skegomog. Two rustic sites available with fire rings. We will allow horses must have own fencing systems. Access to the north country trail, and other orv trails system. 15 minutes to Torch lake, Elk Rapids, and Traverse city. Really a great location to get to almost anywhere in northern Michigan.

Schoolie Bus Camp & Camping Area

92%

(25)

16mi from Torch Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Charlevoix, MI

Enjoy the quiet side of Charlevoix right off Highway 31 just a few miles from downtown Charlevoix. Experience "Bus Life" in a nicely wooded area with fire pit, chairs, table and plenty of spots for tents and hammocks for friends and family. Bus sleeps 3-4 with 12 volt and 110 power, A/C and housed water for kitchen and bathroom (NOT FOR DRINKING). Originally Old Orchard Farms but we still have free range chickens and gardens for some seasonal U-Pick fun. Just minutes from many Public Beach Areas and amazing Trail Systems. Be in the center of the best Charlevoix has to offer!

Silverleaf

93%

(14)

17mi from Torch Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Boyne City, MI

Learn more about this land:Named after a hilltop of poplar trees visible from the front of the property, Silverleaf is a relaxing and serene camping area perfect for appreciating all that Northern Michigan nature has to offer, while still being close to nearby entertainment and dining. Summer offers grassy fields and lush green treetops, long summer nights, big skies for stargazing, and plenty of wild berries--strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are plentiful depending on the season. In the winter, appreciate the crunchy frozen landscape and the contrast of dark sleeping hardwood forests against the snow-covered sparkling rolling hills. Choose a campsite near the road in the wide open meadow for easy access to nearby amenities. If you prefer more privacy, follow either driveway to the valley for a cozy spot to set up camp. Or follow a trail and choose a backcountry site deep in the forest. The property is located 5 minutes to Boyne City, with access to outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, or cook at your campsite. In winter, Boyne Mountain is very close or stay on the property for snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

pineleaf.

100%

(59)

18mi from Torch Lake · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Mancelona, MI

PLEASE DO NOT!! USE PARTRIDGE LANE THE ROAD IS A SAND TRAP YOU WILL GET STUCK!! MUST USE SECONDARY DRIVEWAY!! WHICH IS TO THE EAST OF PARTRIDGE LANE IN THE DIP THERE'S A SIGN THERE!! Pineleaf is a private setting in the forest with rolling hills and trails on the property. There's an abundance of wildlife consisting of, but not limited to bears, bobcats, porcupines and deer. It's a true nature lover's dream! For the rockhounds, there are Petoskey Stones, Emeralds, Opals and many other gems to enjoy finding among the trails and beaches. Our trails lead right off the property among the lakes and streams. All side x sides, ATVS, dirt bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, or fishing boats Welcome! We are located close to Torch Lake, Elk Lake, Otsego Lake, and many more! Come enjoy Lake Michigan beaches, lighthouses, parks, restaurants, casinos, and local shopping. Nearby cities include Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord, and Boyne City. Pineleaf has a total of 4 campsites! 3 are primitive and 1 rustic cabin with more cabins to come in the near future. The primitive sites sleep up to 15 people and 8 tents. The cabin sleeps up to 5 guests and is handicap accessible! and can also put tents near the cabin. The camp is cannabis friendly for 21+ with id and complimentary with the exception if you dont want to smoke/cunsume cannabis its optional. No alcohol allowed at the camp but you may go up town or down to The Hideaway Bar & Grill for a bite and a drink!

Heart of Lake Charlevoix

99%

(64)

18mi from Torch Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Charlevoix, MI

A quaint 70 acre family run horse/ hobby farm nestled in the hills of Northern Michigan, a retired couple that wanted to get away from the metro area after 30+ years in the factories and live year round were many call a four season paradise, Come enjoy what their retirement dream location has to offer! Learn more about this land: Beautiful parcel that overlooks Lake Charlevoix and the Northern Michigan hillsides, the parcel resides in a mowed hay field behind a horse farm, when you step outside your tent or camper you have a million dollar view of Lake Charlevoix, 5 minute walk to the historic ironton ferry and the Landing bar and grill, there is a state boat launch just over a mile away (perfect for kayaks) 15 minutes away from downtown Charlevoix, and 25 minutes from Boyne City with the ferry crossing. Perfect off grid solitude, there is a fire pit with provided wood, picnic table also a clean tidy outhouse on the property and fresh water can be provided in 7 gallon containers upon request Pet are allowed but please respect the property owners request and keep them within the camping sites boundaries *also host has a camper listed on rvshare and outdoorsy that can be arranged to be rented on the property as well for the full accommodation experience, just show up and camp! Get out and explore what Northern Michigan has to offer!

Dhaseleer Farm

98%

(211)

18mi from Torch Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlevoix, MI

Established in 1874 Dhaseleer Farms is a century old organic produce farm located on Northern Michigans scenic bike route 35 just 3 miles from downtown Charlevoix and its beaches. The farm features an old 1874 dairy barn converted into an event and wedding location. Flower and vegetable gardens to enjoy, fresh produce usually available. Mens and Women's bathrooms w/ shower are located inside the Events Barn. Electricity is available. Sites 1, 2 3 have a fire ring and fire wood included. Site 4 does not include a fire ring but there is usually access to one in front of the Events Barn. Extra tables and chairs are provided. Coffee and refrigeration available inside the Events Barn. A sink for washing dishes is provided inside the barn. NO cooking equipment provide. No cooking allowed inside the Events Barn any cooking needs to be done at your campsite. Wifi works at the campsites.

Secluded Hidden Gem in Leelanau CO

100%

(11)

18mi from Torch Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Northport, MI

When we bought our land 7 years ago, it was on old apple orchard turned vineyard. In the time since, we have put our all into it to build a home and create a forever homestead to raise our family. To us, it’s the greatest place on Earth. We absolutely love where we live and think you will too!Learn more about this land:Newly built tiny house 2 miles south of Northport. Nestled in the woods overlooking a pond and surrounded by an organic vineyard/farm. Short walk to organic winery, 5 minute drive to quaint town of Northport, 15 minutes to Leland and Fishtown, and 20 minutes to Sutton’s Bay. The tiny house sleeps 2 on a queen sized bed in loft and another 2 on a futon on main floor. All linens are included. The kitchen is equipped with refrigerator/freezer, 2 burner hot plate, electric skillet, and coffee maker. There is water in the tiny house, but there is not a toilet or shower inside. A portable restroom is located right outside.

The best camping near Torch Lake , MI guide

Overview

About

A hidden gem in the Great Lakes region, Torch Lake is a great alternative to the bustling vacation spots visited by most tourists. Commonly known as the "Caribbean of the North", Torch Lake's crystal clear blue waters are surrounded by cozy campsites and miles of easily accessible hiking trails. Torch Lake's clear waters have been a local secret for ages and with little urban development in the surrounding area, the lake is easily accessible from some of the world-class camping locations in the lakeside hills.

When to go

The best times to visit Torch Lake are during the spring and fall when the trails are less crowded and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm weather for hiking, but be prepared for more visitors. Winter snowshoeing is magical, though some may find the cold challenging.

Know before you go

Preserve hours are from dawn until dusk, perfect for day trips amid the beauty of nature.
Dog walking is permitted, but keep your furry friends on a leash to protect the local wildlife.
Remember, no camping, fires, or hunting is allowed, preserving the tranquility of the preserve.
For those interested in flora and fauna, join the iNaturalist community to share your observations.
Accessibility may vary, so check the preserve map and contact the conservancy for the latest information.

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