The best camping in Barnes Park, MI

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Discover the serene beauty of Barnes Park on Lake Michigan's shore.  

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Top-rated campgrounds

Echo Valley Forest

97%
(109)
36mi from Barnes Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Empire, MI
Echo Valley Forest Reserve is a backcountry site located deep within the forest near the center of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, ten minutes from Empire Beach, Glen Haven, and Glen Arbor. The camp site is completely private, with only party rented to at a time. It is in the center of a 40-acre parcel, surrounded by thousands of acres of National Lakeshore and private forested land. Access is off of a rough seasonal two-track but most 2-wheel drive cars are fine. Watch out for rocks. There are solar lights, a pit toilet, a fire ring, and a ~8x8' deck. There is room for 4 cars, and as many tents as you can set up. We have 4 rules: 1) Leave no trace. Do not leave garbage at camp. DO NOT BURN garbage, people cook in that pit. 2) NO cutting into the live trees. You will get a 0-star review, 100% of the time. 3) Keep cars on the gravel driveway. 4) Put out all fires completely (COLD) and respect any Burn Bans that may be active at the time of your stay. These are issued by the fire department, not me.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

JCs Ooasis

93%
(14)
20mi from Barnes Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Leelanau, MI
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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night

Fern Gully Ranch, Jordan Valley MI

75%
(4)
13mi from Barnes Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · East Jordan, MI
Located on Deer Creek, you will have access to nearly 15 wooded acres! You are experiencing Northern Michigan’s finest! The property goes across the creek to Sloop road, so you are more than welcome to explore the forests and wetlands. Please do not trespass on adjacent properties. This campsite gives you direct access to M-32, which leads to 131, M66, Charlevoix, Petoskey, East Jordan, Traverse City, Mackinaw City, Mackinaw Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes, etc. The beautiful fern, filled property is rustic to a T! Outhouse on site, newly planted fruit trees on site, very rustic, serene, beautiful, access to the Milky Way, and meteoroid showers. One mile from launch into South Arm of Lake Charlevoix, and less than 0.5 mile to Jordan River Rogers Road access. Beautiful and peaceful area. Located in Lake Charlevoix Watershed Area. Visit some of the local beautiful farms such as Friske's, Lavendar Hill, local farmers markers, and vineyards! There is a casino located in Petoskey on Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan as well as Mackinaw, and are a short drive away! Take a jump off the breakwall, or visit the newest bridge at Boyne Mountain Resort, just a stone's throw away! Relax in peace, the woods, and enjoy a little slice of heaven. There is no electricity, running water, or trash services. Please pack in, pack out. Please do not leave discarded or broken beer or alcohol bottles on property. There are over 30 fruit trees on site, from Black Pearl and Bing Cherries, Apricots, Peach trees, Honeycrisp apples trees etc, 250 sunflower seeds were also planted this season. This is a very delicate area near a local watershed source, Deer Creek, wetlands on property, and also fruit tree farm in it's early stages, organic strawberries, and organic raspberries growing as well. If you can't respect the trees, plants, flowers, on property please do not book! Also with all of the fruit tree plantings, parking is limited to one to two vehicles inside property at site, other vehicles can park along the drive on M32. This is a pristine property off the grid, please do not leave any trash on site! The address is 5871 M32 East Jordan MI 49727. That is the mailing address, and what you can use in for google maps. Hip Camp calls M32 Rogers Road. text 7253267647 if you ?s.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

The Back Nine Camp

100%
(1)
38mi from Barnes Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Grayling, MI
Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. This property has TEN secluded acres for you to enjoy with whoever tickles your fancy. Close to thousands of acres of state land and trails. You're out in the sticks while still being within 30 minutes of town, lakes, and golf courses. This is rustic with no electricity and an outhouse Welcome to the Cabin at The Back Nine Camp in beautiful, secluded Frederic, Michigan. This 12x15 one room cabin is perfect for the outdoor enthusiasts to escape from it all. Lots to do locally with Gaylord falls 35 minutes away, 30 minutes to Grayling and 40 minutes to Lewiston. Golf Courses, Lakes, Trails, and Rivers galore! ***THERE IS NO PROVIDED ELECTRICITY, RUNNING WATER, OR INDOOR BATHROOM*** If you want a local ‘watering hole’, we recommend visiting The Swamp II Bar located just down the road. Food and Beverages are delicious. 4 wheel drive recommended! This experience is rustic with no (supplied) power, water or heat. There is an outhouse. The cabin IS hooked up for electricity with a plug on the outside of the cabin for you to hook your OWN generator to, if desired There is an ADDITIONAL cabin on the property that MUST be rented separately. If you do not, the space could possibly be shared with other guests. Guest access This cabin is located on 10 acres with 1 other cabin and a shared screened in Pavillion located nearby. 4wd is required to access. There is an outhouse just down the trail behind the cabins and the shared screened in pavilion. There is a charcoal grill (bring your own charcoal). There is a bonfire pit between the two cabins as well. There are plenty of fallen trees for you to use as firewood. A phone number/address will also be provided for wood pickup or delivery if you’d prefer to take that route. Guests also may enjoy the “LiL ATV Trail” that is cut onto the property. There are quite a few nice trees to hang hammocks
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

HillCrest

100%
(47)
23mi from Barnes Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Camp Moonshadow

99%
(599)
40mi from Barnes Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Honor, MI
Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night

Jackson Station Leelanau

99%
(354)
30mi from Barnes Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Maple City, MI
Our sites accomodate 2 adults & their minors, with 1-2 vehicles at each site's entrance. If you're traveling with more than 2 adults please book more than one site. Enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience in beautiful Leelanau County via Agritourism at Jackson Station! Our property has 4 private tent sites situated among a dense pine forest on our small-scale farm.  We're located between the two popular vacation destinations of Glen Arbor and Leland, MI - both a short scenic drive in either direction. The peninsula has tons of recreation: hiking, biking, beaches, boating, fishing, dining, shopping, wine tasting, and visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes! Our farm produces pastured, all natural meat, including pork, beef, goat and fresh eggs/seasonal veggies. See the hens roaming, cows and goats grazing in the fenced-in pasture. A variety of cuts of meat from our freezers are available for sale or get a tour of the farm ~ Just ask! You may simply enjoy the scene at your leisure. SITE DETAILS: Each camp site has woodchips, gravel surrounding a bonfire ring, a clothesline and neatly stacked firewood for sale. Our sites accomodate 2 adults and their minors. We recommend that larger groups or multiple adults book more than one site next to each other (sites 1 and 2 or 2 and 3 are good for this). Quiet hours are enforced between 10pm-7am. This is our home and farm, not a campground, please think of staying here that way. A short walk from camp, you'll find access to a water pump for delicious drinking water straight from our well, so that you may fill containers of water or utilize for rinsing.  Our land borders the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You'll be just a few miles from access to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. Relax in the sand, hunt for rocks, hike a trail, kayak or paddle-board and watch an epic sunset.  School Lake, known for its fishing from non-motorized boats or a quiet place to paddle. 2 Miles away, access the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a non-motorized 27 mile groomed trail that follows the scenic M-22 from our location all the way to Empire, MI. 2.8 miles from our camp, you'll find a Mountain Bikers paradise at Palmer Woods Forest Preserve, with various hiking trails and a 6 mile mountain bike trail.
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

House of Bear

100%
(319)
38mi from Barnes Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Grawn, MI
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Blissfest Festival Farm

95%
(117)
39mi from Barnes Park · 74 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cross Village, MI
Welcome to the picturesque countryside of rural Northern Michigan and the Blissfest Festival Farm. Campers have access to 200+ acres including an 18-hole disc golf course and many trails, including North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the property. Active agricultural projects include an orchard, vineyard and shitake garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our hardwood forests, witness stunning fall colors and marvel at the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Choose from 25 drive-up or 10 walk-in sites with access to potable water, regularly serviced portajons and solar showers. Within five miles, you'll find great restaurants and craft brews, sandy Lake Michigan beaches and the famous Tunnel of Trees. Sunsets paint the western horizon in beautiful displays of magenta and gold; our dark and starry skies are a sight to behold.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

The best camping in Barnes Park, MI guide

Overview

About

For those who love lakeside lounging, a Barnes Park camping trip is the answer for you. Strategically positioned on Grand Traverse Bay, this park merges woodland tranquility with the vastness of the bay. With its expansive campsites tucked away among the trees, this location provides an ideal blend of seclusion and accessibility. One of the park's highlights is its extensive 1200-foot sandy beach. This isn't just any beach; it's the stage for some of the most stunning sunsets over Lake Michigan. These mesmerizing displays of nature are a sight to behold and provide a perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. Camping at Barnes Park isn't just about serene beaches and spectacular sunsets. It also boasts a picnic area, a play area, and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. These features make the park an ideal spot for families and groups, offering a variety of outdoor activities to keep all campers entertained and engaged. The hiking and bicycle trails, in particular, are a camper's dream. They allow for an immersive experience, traversing through the park's vibrant scenery, which forms a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a thrilling bike ride. Whether you're seeking a spot for your next family picnic, a playground for the kids, a serene setting for a relaxing walk, or the best sunset views over Lake Michigan, camping near Barnes Park promises a fulfilling and engaging outdoor experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as Barnes Park is a sought-after destination for its spacious campsites and scenic views.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, especially during peak seasons when sites may become available last minute.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case Barnes Park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Barnes Park is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for camping and outdoor activities. However, the park's beauty can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Winter visitors should be prepared for colder temperatures and snow, which can add a magical touch to the landscape but may limit access to certain areas.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly in Michigan.
  • Ensure you have a valid park pass and are aware of check-in and check-out times for campsites.
  • Be mindful of wildlife and practice safe food storage to protect both you and the animals.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with features designed to accommodate all visitors.
  • Remember to leave no trace and dispose of trash responsibly to preserve the park's natural beauty.
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