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98% (3.5K) • 4,760 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Traverse City
Bayside Base Camp
1. Bayside Base Camp
100%
(45)
5.2mi from Traverse City · 1 site
As avid travelers and Hipcamp users ourselves, Bayside Base Camp is our dream come true. Nestled into the back of our property in Northern Michigan it allows us to share everything we love about where we live with people who travel like we do. We live simply and adventure big. We hope you are able to explore all of the great things our area has to offer.
Learn more about this land:
Nestled along the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, our Bayside Base Camp is the perfect spot to stay as you explore the wonders of Northern Michigan. We offer one tent site in the back of our property with access to our indoor toilet. Access to the bathroom requires two steps up to get into the house. Guests also have access to a fire pit, a large table to set up your camp stove or jet boil, as well as the ability to hang your own hammock among our trees.
We are steps away from bay access for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and whatever other water hobbies you may have! There is access to two beautiful trails within a short walking distance from your camp. We are happy to provide directions as long as you promise to take care of them and leave no trace. The Northern Michigan community is incredibly active and values the Leave No Trace principles.
In addition to the natural beauty within walking distance from your site, the area has countless trails, paths and parks to explore. We are happy to provide additional recommendations based on your interests through email or upon your arrival.
Bayside Base Camp is located 15 minutes from Downtown Traverse City, a short 45 minute drive from Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, 50 minutes from Leland and 15 minutes from Old Mission Peninsula.
Guests will be responsible for disposing of their trash items in the designated trash bin on site. There is one parking spot in our driveway and you will need to walk back to your tent site. There is a home within view of your site, but it is a seldomly used vacation home. The walk will take less than one minute to get back to your tent site from the driveway.
We are beyond excited to share our property with you and welcome you to our little slice of paradise in Northern Michigan.
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Toilets
Potable water
Our Backyard
2. Our Backyard
99%
(71)
5.4mi from Traverse City · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We built our home 31 years ago on 8 acres of hay field. Everything you see on our property was put here by us!!
We have had dogs, a couple of horses, cats of course and chickens too. The horses, dogs and chickens are gone but we still have cats...and we have a pond off our deck with about 50 goldfish and a couple dozen frogs!!
Our kids are all grown and we are left wondering what is next.
For the past 20 years or so we have had at least one or two camp outs a year on our property with just friends. Then we started thinking "why not invite others?" We know how difficult it can be to get camping reservations in the area....then I bumped into a Hipcamp Host who told me about this.... so here we are!
We are animal and nature lovers and our gardens are here for you to enjoy. We'd love to give you a tour and tell you all about every plant if you are interested. Or we will ignore you and let you do your own thing in our 'backyard'!
We offer rustic boondocks camping or set up nearer to our buildings and we can supply you with power....110, 30 and 50 available for a small extra charge
Welcome to Traverse City and welcome to Camp David!!
I have a Facebook page with lots of fun and interesting things to do and see as well as great restaurant recommendations for Traverse City and beyond, on my travel page...Towhead Travels....on Facebook. Please look me up!
We have a porta potty on site and firewood (mostly oak) is available to purchase when you get here. (all campsites will be provided with a fire ring, a 5 gal bucket of water, and kindling no charge)
https://m.facebook.com/100057592452231/
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Campfires
Shade Tree Haven
3. Shade Tree Haven
96%
(14)
5.7mi from Traverse City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in Traverse City, MI we have lakes and hiking trails within biking or walking distance. Store and Ice cream shop also in walking distance. We share quiet areas here with friends and family. We have a community fire pit in the evenings. Grill available upon request. We have a peaceful mini chicken farm. Child Friendly. We are the only camping destination in Traverse City, MI.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Traverse City State Park
4. Traverse City State Park
94%
(16)
State park 2.7mi from Traverse City · 352 sites
Discover Traverse City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Interlochen State Park
5. Interlochen State Park
89%
(14)
State park 12mi from Traverse City · 447 sites
Michigan's first state park established in 1917 cost the Legislature $60,000 for the land.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pine Meadows
6. Pine Meadows
100%
(13)
8.8mi from Traverse City · 1 site
Escape the everyday hustle and bustle of the city and find peace beside the pond in your own private getaway! Minutes from Traverse City shopping and wineries, but close to many recreational activities like horseback riding, swimming, hiking, kayaking or canoeing. Lay back to the sounds of chirping crickets and croaking frogs and take in the view of endless stars. Free from light pollution, the Northern Michigan night sky offers an amazing view of the Milky Way and even an occasional view of the Northern Lights.
Former Tentrr site with 5 star rating
Local Attractions:
Interlochen State Park (Swimming at Duck Lake) - 7 Minutes
Traverse City's Front Street (Loaded with Quaint Shops & Restaurants) - 20 Minutes
Riverside Canoe & Kayak Rentals on Platte River - 27 Minutes
Frankfort Pier - 35 Minutes
Sleeping Bear Dunes - 37 Minutes
Old Mission Lighthouse Park - 40 Minutes
Leland's Historic Fish Town & Ferry to Manitou Islands - 42 Minutes
Mackinaw City & Ferry to Mackinaw Island - 2 Hours & 17 Minutes
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Campfires
Toilets
House of Bear
7. House of Bear
100%
(328)
10mi from Traverse City · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The House of Bear is located on a spectacular 97-acre, fourth generation working Tree farm in Northern Michigan’s Grand Traverse County. Stunning Northern Michigan wildlife with creeks and an old natural beaver pond, what a wonderful place to relax, and soak in the surroundings. Step out of the hectic stress of the everyday and take a moment at one of the many areas to soak up what you have disconnected from. Feel the wind across your skin, the Earth beneath your feet and the Sun shining down. Hear the birds singing, the trees swaying in the wind and what animal was that? See the deer frolicking, birds flying, trees growing and how nature all comes together. Smell the Earth, the Pine from the trees and the wild flowers. Take some time and wonder, lose yourself in Nature and get refreshed. Natural Rustic Camping, wake up to a beautiful sunrise, listen to the birds singing away, with the chance of seeing any of Northern Michigan’s awesome wildlife. Sunsets are spectacular with so many different colors, and on a Clear night look up at the stars without the lights of a big city.
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Elm Valley
8. Elm Valley
100%
(177)
10mi from Traverse City · 2 sites
I am 4th generation to live on our property. we are very lucky to have been able to keep 20 acres where I grew up.
We are surrounded by Cherry orchards and vineyards.
There are 4 wineries within a mile and the bike trail in half a mile away
Boat launch on Lake Leelanau 3 miles away
A boat launch on Grand Traverse Bay is 1/2 a mile awayLearn more about this land:We have a large hard pack gravel area surrounded by rolling hills and lots of trees. Our house is near by with trees in between.
There is a good 60 ft between campers and each site has water and 30 amp. Their own fire pit.
We are half a mile from the Leelanau Trail. 10 miles into Traverse city.
5 miles to Suttons Bay
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Brown Family Farm
9. Brown Family Farm
98%
(26)
11mi from Traverse City · 1 site · Tent, RV
8-acre gentleman’s farm covered in beautiful, drooping Norway Spruce. 40,000 acres of state land accessible by dirt roads directly from the property. Equidistant from Traverse City night life and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 2 miles from quaint downtown Lake Ann and Lake Ann Brewery. Small town Michigan at its finest.
Choose to park on a level concrete pad near the horses and likely be woken up by our rooster, chickens, and ducks, or pull back into the woods for a peaceful oasis and view of the back field. Running water and power available at the barn (no hook ups).
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
10. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
100%
(62)
National park 24mi from Traverse City · 211 sites
Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Huron-Manistee National Forests
11. Huron-Manistee National Forests
83%
(29)
National forest 87mi from Traverse City · 938 sites
You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.
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Toilets
Campfires
Leelanau State Park
12. Leelanau State Park
100%
(9)
State park 30mi from Traverse City · 54 sites
Discover Leelanau State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mitchell State Park
13. Mitchell State Park
State park 36mi from Traverse City · 223 sites
Discover Mitchell State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The SOL Homestead
14. The SOL Homestead
100%
(28)
11mi from Traverse City · 1 site · Tent, RV
The SOL Homestead is a small but growing homestead with a focus on community. We raise chickens, ducks, pigs and cattle on pasture.
The property is rolling acres with hardwood, pine, brush and open land with several miles of mowed trails. The terrain makes is very private and secluded, not a building or road (other than the driveway) is visible from the campsite. Wildlife abounds with regular sitings of deer, turkey, bald eagles, redtail hawks, grouse, pheasant, songbirds, and the list keeps going. The stars explode overhead when the sun drops behind the hills.
The farm is over the hill and through the woods, you might occasionally hear a rooster crow, but otherwise you won't even know we are there.
Located a short 20-25 minutes south of Traverse City, all the area attractions including Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Manistee River, wineries, fishing, boating and countless other attractions. The Kingsley Farm Market on Wednesdays from 3:00pm to 7:00pm is a fun local event featuring great local farmers and often live music.
We are currently offering one basic/rustic campsite, on a large flat(ish) site with picnic table and fire ring. There will be a Porta John for a toilet (May-October) and no access to water or electric at this time. There is plenty of room for any type of camper or several tents. If there is enough interest, we plan to add several more campsites and perhaps a glamping site, water, electric, and an outdoor shower in the future.
Included with each stay is a rack of seasoned firewood and one dozen farm fresh eggs. Other farm products may be available upon request, you never know what might be ready in the garden!
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Toilets
Campfires
Mr. Joe's Campground
15. Mr. Joe's Campground
100%
(61)
14mi from Traverse City · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Want to feel like you’re out of the city and nestled up in the woods? Come to Mr. Joe’s Campground. All sites back in the woods are 50-100 feet away from the next.
Thick woods, playground, full 18-hole disc golf course, and beautiful trees.
Minutes from dozens of beautiful lakes, golf courses, Sand Dune‘s, light houses, vineyards, or maybe you would prefer to just sit around the fire, and tell stories and laugh.
Duck Lake, Green Lake, Silver Lake, Long Lake, Lake Ann, Lake Dubonet are minutes away.
Interlochen Golf Course right down the road.
Bradleys, Dilbert's, Hofbrau, and Oakys are great restaurants within 3 miles.
Pets
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Sherwood Forest
16. Sherwood Forest
98%
(29)
14mi from Traverse City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
HillCrest
17. HillCrest
100%
(59)
16mi from Traverse City · 3 sites
Hosting May 22 - mid/Oct My husband Dan and I purchased this property 6 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, shops 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.
New this year is our chicken coop and run. We (Bill) has always wanted chickens.
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JCs Ooasis
18. JCs Ooasis
95%
(22)
17mi from Traverse City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
26 acres of forest, wetlands, pasture, creeks, and a pond. We are a working farm: raising goats, and chickens. We live on site. We are also a County destination as a Petting Farm by appointment; providing personalized and private tours of our farm. Home to dogs, cats, miniature pigs, miniature horse and donkey, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, goats, rabbits, a small cow, and guinea pigs, & more
The camp site is tucked in off the main road nearly 300 feet but accessed from our driveway. It is a 45 x 15' gravel pad behind a row of trees that runs parallel to the drive. If you park facing west your doors will be facing an old growth forest in which lies a beautiful sandy bottom creek that flows in to Lake Leelanau. We provide an off-the-ground fire pit. Wood is available for purchase at the roadside stand. When the chickens are laying we have fresh eggs available as well for sale. Potable water is available at the barn.
We do provide a porta potty at the barn, as well as, filtered well water at the barn.
Wineries, water, and distilleries abound in every direction. Many are within walking and biking distance. The farm is walking distance to Lake Leelanau and Schneider township park. Walking/hiking trails are available throughout the property and nearby areas. Provemont Pond which lies across M-204 is a lovely natural area with many trails. Shopping or rock hunting in historic Fishtown, aka, Leland is 6 minutes by car, a bit longer by bike. We are just minutes to several Lake Michigan beaches, Suttons Bay and Northport. Drive 25 minutes to Traverse City to the Southeast or 33 minutes Southwest to Sleeping Bear Dune climb and the quaint village of Empire.
Lots to enjoy for the foodies as well. Aside from the many wineries and distilleries, you can find Nittollos italian fare and stone fired pizza. Dicks Pour House where all the locals go, and Fiddleheads which features many local farm foods in their pop-up weekend menus. In Leland you can dine at The Cove, or Leland Lodge. For quick
bites try The Sandwich Shoppe and Carlsons smoked fish during the late spring/summer/early fall times. Fischers Happy Hour on hour way to Northport has the best broasted chicken around. And the VI Grille in Suttons Bay has enough delicious appetizers you could make a meal.
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Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite
19. Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite
98%
(22)
18mi from Traverse City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Griff's Back 40
20. Griff's Back 40
95%
(199)
18mi from Traverse City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy a spacious forest getaway on 40 beautiful acres, less than 2 miles from Torch Lake. This property offers plenty of room to spread out, explore, and relax, with a peaceful wooded setting and an open field perfect for stargazing at night. Gather around the campfire, enjoy family time, and take in the simple fun of camping surrounded by nature.
You’ll be close to some of Northern Michigan’s favorite spots, including Alden, Bellaire, and Elk Rapids for shopping, exploring, and small-town charm. Nearby places to eat include Johnny’s Riviera, Rapid City Tavern, and Alden Bar. Whether you’re here for Torch Lake adventures, a quiet night under the stars, or a fun family camping trip, this site is a great home base.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Courtney
1 week ago
Tent
Great little spot in a very convenient location. Loved the soung if the burbling creek to fall asleep to. The farm animals were adorable and friendly. The farm/site is very near 204, so there was road noise but that was an okay trade for such a prime spot in the middle of summer. I'd take that over the racket of a state park cg this time of year. It's a 5 minutes walk to lake leelanau public access. Firewood, water, and port o john were all easily accessible. I especially loved the mulch trail from our site up to the barn. Hosts were welcoming and responsive. We'll definitely be back.
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Paula
1 week ago
21 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a great time camping here with our granddaughter. She loved the horses and the cats and just everything about the place. The outhouse even got her seal of approval and she is really a city girl. Monique the host and her family were so gracious, friendly and helpful. I work at a zoo so I just peppered her with questions about the horses and the farm and she took her time and showed us everything. We got the big spot by the barn for our trailer and hooked up to electric and had the water there also. What a beautiful view when you walk out the door. Really nice picnic table, fire pit, a hammock and there is an old fashion tire swing which my granddaughter had never seen before and loved !!! There are trails for horses and ORV's you can walk at the back end of the property and they are beautiful and only saw one ORV and some horse tracks. We went kayaking (Monique's husband helped us find a small quiet lake) went to a beach on lake Michigan, went to Interlochen and next time to St. Ambrose Cellars for mead. We already booked for next time with grandson in 3 weeks. He saw the pictures and said that was he new place to go. There is some traffic noise during the day but at night it goes way down. Heard a whippoorwill and coyotes! We loved it and are excited to go back and explore even more places.
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D
Deb
2 weeks ago
Tent
Love camping there, side by side a great bonus! Clean, quiet, will be back
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C
Courtney
2 weeks ago
26 ft travel trailer
We had a last minute cancelation due to air quality warnings. Samuel was generous and understanding. Even before the cancelation, Samuel worked with us to make sure he had a spot that would work for our trailer. If you want a host with integrity and who will bend over backwards so you have a good experience, choose Samuel!
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P
Paula
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
It was so peaceful and quiet and private. Our site backed into a small hill and the woods was right behind us. Close to many wineries and the bike trail. Jayne was very friendly from the first minute we arrived. The camp host Marty was also very friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend staying here.
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A
Auzahnee
2 weeks ago
24 ft pop-up camper
When you first pull into Mr. Joe’s Campground in Interlochen, you might not know what to expect at first glance. But as soon as you settle in, you realize you’ve landed in one of the most awesome and beautiful camping spots around. The surroundings are gorgeous, the atmosphere is super peaceful, and Mr. Joe is an exceptional host who genuinely cares about his guests and makes you feel right at home. Hands down, this has become one of my absolute favorite places to stay. If you're looking for a great place to pitch a tent or park your rig in Northern Michigan, don't pass this one up!
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J
John
2 weeks ago
Tent
The site was great, quiet and clean. Had a good fire, very private and saw many deer! We will be back! Thanks Griff!!
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A
Ashton
2 weeks ago
22 ft truck camper
Great spots if you like seclusion from other campers, other sites are not visible. Close to Torch Lake! Was offered the ability to rome the property if desired. He provided a stack of wood that was not expected.
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Kenneth
2 weeks ago
Tent
Visited with another friend, had a very quite and private camping experience. A lot of trees and readily available firewood with bathroom and shower, definitely would recommend!
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L
Laura
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Good instructions and friendly signage. Loved the secluded feeling of the site which was very pretty. And REALLY loved the solar-powered shower. It was hot while we were there so it was nice to be able to clean up and cool down.
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Cynthia
3 weeks ago
Tent
It was perfect! I had a field and trees and a view of horses, the stars were out, it was easy to book, the porta potty was close but not too close with lovely thoughtful touches. Will def come back!
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J
Jayme
3 weeks ago
Tent
Had a great experience staying here! Worked out perfect for what I was needing:) beautiful property, and so close to the lake!
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E
Elizabeth
3 weeks ago
1 night at HillCrest
I loved Dan and Bills oasis. It was clean, quiet, safe, inviting and they were the most kind hosts. The tiny home was comfortable and had everything you would need during your stay.
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Deb
3 weeks ago
Tent
Love camping here, close to lakes, so peaceful and clean
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K
Kim
3 weeks ago
With pets
Dan and Bill are excellent hosts. This is the second camper of theirs I've stayed in and I liked this one even more. The little patio area was perfect for doing some computer work outside.
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Dawn
3 weeks ago
Tent
Absolutely a beautiful place to camp! Private and quiet, with a great valley view and lots of stars all night!
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D
Deb
3 weeks ago
Tent
Peaceful, clean, shower is awesome! Close to lakes, beaches, sleeping bear dunes and Leland
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L
Liz
3 weeks ago
36 ft travel trailer
With pets
We loved Mr Joes Campground. Huge, private sites that are well laid out. Clean porta-potties and frisbee golf and playground. Great location to stay when exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National lakeshore. Mr Joe was incredibly friendly and helpful!
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E
Erik
3 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Absolutely perfect weekend. Jayne’s sites are excellent, easy to get into, and accessible to so much in the area. Getting in was a breeze and Jayne was a perfect host.
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Kevin
3 weeks ago
Tent
I got in late so Bill hung balloons so I could easily find the spot. The site was as advertised and perfect.
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