Camping in Ludington State Park

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Top camping in Ludington State Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ludington State Park adventure.

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Community favorites near Ludington State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Ludington State Park

98%
(69)

Up North Rivers Camping

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
We have 20 Acres of rolling hills, mostly forested, nestled on the banks of a flowing creek, we are also a budding flower farm, this summer there will be hundreds of dahlias blooming, along with many other flowers. If you have a special occasion, that calls for fresh flowers, be sure to let us know! Our setting is quiet, private and scenic. We occasionally see the Aurora Borealis right from our house. We are located in beautiful Manistee, Michigan where outdoor adventures abound!! Manistee is a peaceful, quaint Northern Michigan town with shopping, antiquing, fine dining and a River Walk. We are minutes from award winning fishing spots on the Big Manistee, Little Manistee, Bear Creek Trout Streams and the Platte River. There are many opportunities to canoe, kayak and paddle board. We are 10 minutes from the Lake Michigan shore, and many beaches are close by. You have a choice of gorgeous sand beaches with picturesque dunes, and rocky beaches for those looking for fossils, agates, beach glass and beautiful beach stones. We are within an hour of Sleeping Bear Dunes which has award winning hiking. Traverse City is 40 minutes away with many activities, especially the Cherry Festival. The area is known for live music venues, and lots of weekend art festivals. Manistee is also home to the Little River Casino. We have firepits at each campsite, dry firewood is available to purchase, feel free to pay by cash, Venmo or CashApp, cost is $11.00 a wheelbarrow. Fresh flowers are available to purchase, seasonally. An outhouse is available for use and is supplied with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. There is a garbage can and recycling bin near the outhouse. We installed a water hydrant so you can get potable water to bring back to your site, or hose off with on the spot. A scenic small creek runs by many of the campsites. We live on the property and are here to answer your questions. Feel free to text us. We hope you enjoy your stay!! Dean and Jackie
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$26
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99%
(44)

Gypsy Hill

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Honor, MI
Gypsy Hill is a secluded 10 acres of field and forest with five private campsites. Perfect for simple tent camping or parking an RV ready to boonedock. Gypsy Hill is just outside the village of Honor, MI which boasts a great grocery store and many other conveniences. Your hostess Margaret has lived and explored the area that was named “The most beautiful place in America” by Good Morning America, for 23 years . Margaret would love to share hints and tips for the best places for hiking,paddling,swimming, biking, driving, eating, and playing. Gypsy Hill’s five campsites are close to Lake Michigan, many inland lakes and rivers, and numerous trails and parks. All campsites have a picnic table and a fire ring with your first campfire on the house! Additional wood is available onsite for sale. Also available for loan are kayaks and a canoe. Seasonal wood fired sauna . Looking forward to meeting all of you happy campers! Cheers!
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$40
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(145)

Sportsman's Port Wellston PineRiver

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Wellston, MI
Gearing up for our 5th season as the new owners of The Sportsman's Port. We have made many updates and will continue to do so. We take pride in a clean bath house, and want everyone to have a great time at our campground. Sometimes it's crazy booked up and other times it may just be you. Feel free to ask any questions you may have and we will answer them as soon as we can. We look forward to meeting lots of new faces and hopefully starting family traditions for you and yours. We have spacious sites that are all different shapes and sizes. Depending on the site it may have 20/30/50 amp service depending on the site. There are currently only three that have 50 amp service. Also some sites have a septic hookup. Water fill station is located near the bathhouse. There is a private dump station also available for use just ask.
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$25
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Booked 1 time

The Farm On Bear Lake

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Bear Lake, MI
A large property on private land bordered by apple orchards, state pine woods with a gentle sloping hill towards the trees. The area boasts salmon fishing, lake perch, walleye and the best Steele head trout fishery to be had. Deer hunting in the fall and winter as well as a large wild fowl population. Swan can be observed in pairs on the small lakes while other wild life can be seen on Lake Michigan only a few miles away. A public boat launch is just around the corner on shore drive. We boast bears, coyote sightings as well as other wild life on and off the property. Sleeping Bear Sand dunes are just up the coast. A large fresh water sand dune and national park this nods to the ancient history of Lake Michigan as as a once inland sea. Altas Michigan boasts pro quality golf courses right on the coast with beautiful weather in summer that is neither too hot or too cool. A Buffalo farm can be seen from outside Traverse City which sits on the Grand Traverse Bay. All bodies of water offer a clean fresh swimming experience with Caribbean blue waters clear to the bottom. Cute restaurants, friendly locals, fishing, sailing , waterskiing in summer and snow mobiles and ice fishing in winter. Available porta potty, generator and water.
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$32
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100%
(6)

Bear Woods Resort

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents65 acres · Bear Lake, MI
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan, our enchanting 65-acre property offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature's beauty. Situated amidst rolling hills and woods, our property serves as a basecamp for your Northern Michigan adventure. From here, you'll find yourself conveniently positioned to explore all the region's hotspots, including the pristine Lake Michigan beaches, a round of golf at the acclaimed Acadia course, the iconic M22 drive, and visits to charming cities such as Frankfort, Traverse City, and Bear Lake. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, golfer, beach lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, our property offers the perfect starting point for your daily excursions. For those who prefer the comforts of home on the road, we offer three spacious RV full hook-up sites, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. These sites provide all the essential amenities, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, making it convenient for RV enthusiasts to relax and recharge. Additionally, we offer a unique glamping experience with canvas tents that allow you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the comforts of a cozy retreat. As the sun sets, gather around a campfire, stargaze under the vast Michigan sky, and savor the tranquility of our secluded haven. Whether you're embarking on a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends and family, or a solo retreat, our 65-acre property welcomes you to experience the best of Northern Michigan.
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$30
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92%
(24)

Winding River Campground

70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Benzonia, MI
Majestic River Centric Campground is nestled on 11 acres of land overlooking the Betsie River. We are right off of US-31 before downtown Beulah. We are known as a fishing destination and many locals have said our 1900ft of frontage on the Betsie has the best fishing holes of any stretch from Homestead Dam to Grace Road. We have over 100+ camping sites with approx. 75 sites available for daily, weekly, and monthly rentals with a variety of stay options that meet your needs including RV rentals, tenting and car camping sites, river sites, highland sites close to the pool and camper amenities, glamping options, two cabin rentals, and one frame rental. Weekly and monthly activities include live music, food trucks, fishing lessons, tap takeovers, electric bikes, kayak rentals, hay rides, farm animals, crocket/horseshoe/bags tournaments and much more. Make your next Northern Michigan Visit HERE at Winding River Campground! For seasonal rates please call our main office and our staff can provide you with information. Open Dates: March 16 to November 1
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$52.25
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98%
(63)

Northern Michigan Getaway

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Frankfort, MI
My rural property is nestled between cherry and apple orchards. We have two large, level RV/Tent sites. Site 1 is a pull in site on a gravel pad, with a large level grassy area next to it. Site 2 is a grassy back in site. Both have 30 amp power, water and wifi. The sites are nice and partially shaded, with fire ring and picnic table. In view of quiet rural road on one side, forest on the other. Surrounded by 600 acres of cherry and apple orchards. Quiet Wooded Frankfort Campsite - Private tent only camp site (supply your own tent) in the woods. Just a short 200 foot walk up the hill into the woods from your parking spot. Water spigot on your site, and 12v solar generator supplied to provide lighting and USB charging of your important devices. There is an outhouse (commercial porta-jon serviced after each weekend) and an outdoor heated shower in a private stall between the sites.  IF YOU WANT TO CHECK IN AFTER NINE PM, YOU MUST PREARRANGE IT WITH US.
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$30.60
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(7)

Deer Run Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
Escape the hustle and bustle at Deer Run Retreat, a haven for those seeking tranquility and new memories in the embrace of nature. Here, you can wake up to the sight of deer grazing in the pasture and spend your evenings by the fireplace, gazing up at a sky adorned with countless stars. Our retreat offers a serene environment to unwind and relax, providing a peaceful getaway from the demands of everyday life. Whether you're drawn to the Little River Casino, historic downtown Manistee, or the array of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, tubing, and hiking, you'll find something for everyone in the surrounding area. We provide two gravel pads with full hook-ups for RVs and an additional grassy area with electric and water hook-ups. For those without their camper, we offer the option to rent a beautiful camper on-site. Deer Run Retreat is designed to be family-friendly, creating the perfect backdrop for building lasting memories with your loved ones. Come and rejuvenate at Deer Run Retreat, where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of a welcoming retreat. We can't wait to host your stay!
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$50
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Rustic Pines

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Beulah, MI
Escape to a private rustic camping experience in Northern Michigan at our peaceful, wooded property near Beulah, MI. Whether you’re looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax, this campsite is perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and natural beauty - all while having good cell service for peace of mind. This property is ideally located within 10 minutes of outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Crystal Mountian is just down the road. The scenic Betsie Valley Trail offers biking and hiking routes, while nearby Crystal Lake in Beulah is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. You’ll also find charming local shops and great spots for dinner or drinks in Beulah or the surrounding towns. We have a list of our favorite spots. Platte River Park is less than 10 minutes away for kayak launches, fishing, and hiking trails. Just a block down the road is St. Ambrose Cellars — a great stop for wine, mead, and live music. And at the end of the driveway, you can explore acres of beautiful state land. Want to venture further? In just 20 minutes, you can be at the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — one of the area's top destinations and a personal favorite.
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$24
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Camping in Ludington State Park guide

Overview

About

Miles of sandy shores, forested dunes, and marshlands stretch between the east bank of Lake Michigan and the west bank of Hamlin Lake at Ludington State Park. Take your pick of lakeside beaches to swim, canoe, or boat, then head inland to tube, paddle, or fish along the Big Sable River. Prefer hiking? There are more than 24 miles of trails to explore, so perhaps hike to Big Sable Point Lighthouse or spot bald eagles along the Island Trail. Campers have options, too, with three campgrounds providing easy access to both lake shores, plus hike-in tent sites hidden away in the dunes. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for beachside camping: Pines Campground has 100 sites, all with electric hook-ups, within a short walk of the beach
  • Best for winter campers: Cedar Campground is the only one of the campgrounds open year-round, although facilities are limited from November through March. 
  • Best for boat access: Beechwood Campground has 148 sites, all with electric hook-ups, close to the swimming beach and boat launch on Hamlin Lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve sites at any of the three campgrounds at Ludington State Park via the Michigan State Park & Harbor Reservations website. 
  2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance.
  3. Campsites and cabins can fill up quickly for summer and holiday weekends, and it’s not uncommon for sites to book up as soon as they’re available. Plan well in advance and book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. 

When to go

There’s outdoor fun to be had in all four seasons. While the swimming beaches pull in the crowds in summer, leaf-peepers will want to hit the trails in fall, and come winter; there’s cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Camping is possible year-round, but two sites are seasonal—Beechwood opens from June through October only, while Pines opens from April through October.

Know before you go

  • Ludington State Park is on the east shore of Lake Michigan, seven miles north of Ludington or about a 10-minute drive away.
  •  A Recreation Passport is required to visit all Michigan state parks. Camping reservation fees also apply. 
  • Facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, and food concessions at both beaches. Hamlin Lake also has a boat launch and kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
  • There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and swimming beaches at Ludington State Park.
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29 ratings · 8 reviews
  1. Ludington State Park