Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe
The best camping in Petoskey State Park, MI
94% (16)
Bask on golden-sand beaches and hunt for rare fossils at Petoskey State Park.
94% (16)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Petoskey State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Petoskey State Park
Petoskey-Tannery Creek Campground
1. Petoskey-Tannery Creek Campground
100%
(7)
Snaking through the picturesque dunes of Petoskey State Park, Petoskey-Tannery Creek Campground is dotted with numerous campsites that offer fantastic views of nearby Little Traverse Lake
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Petoskey-Dunes Campground
2. Petoskey-Dunes Campground
89%
(9)
Waves crashing on the white sands, sunsets painting the encroaching tide with yellow hues that canvass the adjacent sand dunes, Petoskey-Dunes Modern Campground combines the best of both worlds: modern-day amenities and natural landscapes
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Petoskey State Park
Bear River Retreat
1. Bear River Retreat
94%
(24)
4.4mi from Petoskey State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Peaceful setting on Bear River,5 campsites total. Great for small campers and tents, very spacious lots. All sites have grill, fire ring, picnic table, garbage can. Minutes from downtown petoskey, nature and bike trails, great unique dining in town, grocery stores within 2 miles, Lake Michigan and waterfront some of the favorites, 35 minutes from the mackinaw bridge
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grateful Acres
2. Grateful Acres
94%
(88)
5.1mi from Petoskey State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello and Welcome to Grateful Acres!!
*Update* Wifi has been installed at Grateful Acres and is included with each booking. Message me prior to arrival for current password. Also new this year is a small bathroom house with a flush toilet (in season only) located on the back side of campsite #1 for use by all guests.
I have two sites available that will accommodate both travel trailers, as well as tents. Both have 30amp RV and 120v outlets, as well as lights for late arrival setup. In the welcome Hut, you will find dry firewood for purchase, as well as a refrigerator and freezer for use by our guests. Each site has its own labeled shelf to keep your perishables fresh. Also available for purchase are organic farm fresh eggs, cold soda, and bottled water, as well as bags of ice in the freezer. At Grateful Acres we aim to make your stay with us, as enjoyable as possible.
The two sites sit on 3 beautiful, quiet acres in Northern Michigan. Site #1 is flat, open, and spacious, while site #2 is a bit more enclosed and private tucked into the trees. Both sites come furnished with a picnic table, a fire ring with attached grill for cooking and 2 adirondack chairs. The Star gazing at night is absolutley Amazing!!
The property is centrally located between Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Alanson. Nearby are many lakes, rivers, state forests, mountain biking trails, golf courses and ski resorts. Come on up, Stay at Grateful Acres and enjoy all that Beautiful Northern Michigan has to offer.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Meadow
3. Hidden Meadow
99%
(152)
10mi from Petoskey State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Get ready for a peaceful camping experience in this one-of-a-kind setting! For all styles of camping units as well as rustic camping. We live in farming country, with only a few houses on our road. We know most of our neighbors as friends or relatives. Our camping area only has four sites so it’s cozy and private. We have about 5 acres land for use around the campsite and lots of wooded trails nearby. We are about 2 miles from Burt Lake, and about 10 miles from other waterways, rivers and streams, and Lake Michigan. we are also 4 miles from biking and ORV trails.
There is also a dedicated stargazing field with an amazing view of the night sky!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
4. Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
100%
(10)
10mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This enchanting prairie habitat is nestled between a small creek on one side while whispering aspens make up the opposing border. Centrally located between Charlevoix and Petoskey, only a 1 minute car ride from the walking/bicycle path that connects Charlevoix to Harbor Springs as well as the beautiful sunsets on Lake Michigan beaches.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
High Line Farm Stay
5. High Line Farm Stay
100%
(11)
11mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Located on a working farm with a rare heritage breed of cattle. Beautiful setting close to local attractions and lake but at the end of a scenic rural road. Located equal distance to Charlevoix, Petoskey and Boyne City.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Motorcycle Tent Camp
6. Motorcycle Tent Camp
100%
(47)
12mi from Petoskey State Park · 2 sites
Learn more about this land:A motorcycle only campsite.
Spent way too many nights on the road searching for a place just like this! 🏍️
Partially shaded, private, quiet.
Great trees for hammocks.
Outdoor furniture on site.
Firewood available! 🔥
Close to town and the famous ride - The Tunnel of Trees.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Wildwood Harbor Hideaway Boyne City
7. Wildwood Harbor Hideaway Boyne City
100%
(10)
12mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The site is at the back of my personal property of 20 acres. 2453 Wildwood Harbor Road.
It is a quiet, peaceful spot that is only minutes to Boyne City town. There is a firepit at the site with a sign Wildwood Harbor Hideaway. There is no electricity or water but all the firewood you need! Please feel free to take some downed wood with you when you go.
Only one mile from Boyne City town center, we are super close to all the festivals and events that Boyne City hosts, like 4th of July, Boyne Thunder, Stroll the Streets, Pirate Festival and live music everywhere. We are also only five minutes to Young State Park that has RV water and waste facilities, a beautiful beach and showers. We are surrounded by great hiking, golfing, wineries and only minutes away from top-tier mountain biking. There is nearby access to boat launches, kayaking, fishing and more. Also great for an Autumn getaway. You'll be surrounded by color!
Petoskey - 20 minutes
Charlevoix - 30 minutes
Harbor Springs - 40 minutes
Gaylord - 40 minutes
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Kruz Camping
8. Kruz Camping
93%
(37)
13mi from Petoskey State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a unique piece of property inside of the beautiful. City limits of Boyne city. There is plenty of open space and wetlands for wildlife. This was once a horse farm.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent. Enjoy your walk to the lake nearby. Enjoy wildlife and peaceful vibes at our great property! We are excited to welcome you to visit with us.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Blissfest Festival Farm
9. Blissfest Festival Farm
95%
(136)
16mi from Petoskey State Park · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Campfires
Full Bucket Farmstead
10. Full Bucket Farmstead
100%
(31)
16mi from Petoskey State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Over 7 acres of gentle sloping meadow with views of Lake Michigan, beside a growing family farm and homestead. Our gently sloped meadow and shady pine grove are perfect for campers seeking more private, quiet camping, and the Upper Room invites you indoors, while enjoying the outdoors.
In the pine grove, a freestanding deck overlooks Lake Michigan, with views of Beaver Island and Great Lakes freighters. On clear nights you can glimpse beams from a handful of lighthouses. The pine trees offer shade and protection from weather without blocking the breeze (and the pine duff creates a spectacularly soft ground for sleeping on). Or set up your tent on the hillside--open your flap to Lake Michigan's famous sunsets, or face south to see a blanket of treetops.
Near the barn, your RV has a flat spot to park at the base of the "Southern Slope" meadow full of wildflowers and monarch butterflies.
For guests wanting more creature comforts, the Upper Room Glamp Apartment has all the amenities--television, queen bed, dry kitchenette, and access to the main house bathroom and shower.
All options have access to fire rings and views of countless stars on a clear night.
You'll be staying minutes from multiple beaches for swimming, boating, fishing, and rock-hunting. Our sites make a great HQ for day trips to Mackinac Island, Beaver Island, Mackinaw City, Petoskey, and Charlevoix, or a way-point on Fall Color Tours or drives up the Tunnel of Trees on M-119. The famous Legs Inn and Petoskey Brewing Company's 2nd location are only a mile away, Moose Jaw Junction is close, and one can walk to the Crow's Nest Restaurant. From here, it's only a short drive to downtown Harbor Springs for additional fine dining and shopping.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Modd's getaway a dark sky camp site
11. Modd's getaway a dark sky camp site
98%
(28)
16mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site
Camp amongst our apple trees with a view of the woods with your own picnic table, fire pit, hammock, marshmallow sticks and grill. 20 and 30amp electric and water is available but no sewer. Pets under 30lbs are welcome. Farm fresh eggs, meats, produce and firewood available from our family farm.
We are close to the Mackinaw bridge and the ferries to Mackinac island are only 12 minutes away. We are also close to shopping, dining and the UP.
We have walking trails and are in a dark sky area if you're a sky watcher.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Rooster Ridge
12. Rooster Ridge
100%
(10)
17mi from Petoskey State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Come relax on our 20 acres of wooded paradise, surrounded by thousands of acres of State land. You can enjoy any of our well maintained campsites in peace and quiet!
We offer a common area with games, bathroom facilities, hand washing station, picnic tables, and a gas grill for cooking.
We have four campsites available and each site has a fire pit and cooking grate. We have 2 tent only sites, one site that'll fit a pop-up camper and/or a tent, and a fourth that will fit a tent, pop-up, or camper/RV.
One of our sites is very remote and is walk-in only, so we do provide wheeled carts to make hauling your gear easy! The other 3 allow for vehicle access.
Stop by our storefront for firewood, fresh organic chicken eggs, local honey, and more for purchase. You can also find wild strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries during the spring/summer months.
We are dog friendly, but all pets must be on a leash at all times, to respect other campers.
With the maps provided, feel free to walk our cut trails that wind throughout the property. Enjoy the serenity of our rippling creek, and watch for wildlife such as grouse, deer, bear, bobcat, elk, and more!
We do raise pheasants for release, so don't be shocked if you spook one up on the trail!
You can also hit the public trails next door on State Land and walk for miles and miles.
We are only 4.4 miles to and from I75, with easy access to Gaylord, Petoskey, Mackinac, and just down the road from downtown Wolverine and Indian River.
Check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566756576617
*Note: Tents are not provided. Used for staging purposes in photos only.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Heart of Lake Charlevoix
13. Heart of Lake Charlevoix
99%
(64)
17mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 and QUIET TIME at 11pm please, elder couple owns the farm at the hill below
Please be mindful it is a mowed field with a hill to the top, 4wd or awd vehicle are suggested especially after a rain and if towing a camper to the top please make sure the vehicle can handle a hill, mini vans with campers are NOT suggested at this site.
Get out and explore what Northern Michigan has to offer!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Silverleaf
14. Silverleaf
93%
(15)
18mi from Petoskey State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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 in the forest. The front 8 acre parcel is available for camping. There are 52 adjacent acres that are owned by a land conservancy and available to explore, forage, and hike.
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.
Pets
Million $ Sunset Camp
15. Million $ Sunset Camp
96%
(512)
18mi from Petoskey State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Pitch your tent and listen to the waves of Sturgeon Bay on Lake Michigan. Fantastic Sunsets. Located half way between Harbor Springs and Mackinaw City. Walking distance to famous Legs Inn in Cross Village, MI. The property currently includes 8 campsites with a board walk on the east portion of the Lake side portion of the property to access the Lake MI Beach.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
16. Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
100%
(222)
19mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
If you are looking to connect with nature, we think you'll love Camp 437. Currently we are offering our property solely to you! As our only guests you will enjoy a very private, secluded experience at our 40 acre camp. Our property is undeveloped, so you will need to bring your own drinking water, but there's no need to worry about finding firewood before you arrive as we supply you with all you need.
Be sure to bring along your water shoes because our wooded trails will guide you right to the river's edge where you can enjoy the beauty and wildlife along the West Branch of the Sturgeon River, with no roads or houses in sight! This is also a great spot for stargazing and to watch the perseids meteor shower.
For your convenience, a short walk from your campsite is a spacious rain shelter that includes 2 picnic tables, extra chairs, solar lights, and lots of books and games for rainy days. There's also a swing, a hammock, and a charcoal grill available.
Please note, Camp 437 is completely off grid and offers a primitive camping experience; you will be in direct contact with nature and it might feel as if you are in the middle of nowhere, yet the convenience of the village of Vanderbilt is just three miles away. Please be aware that with rustic camping brings unique experiences, such as our 3 sided, open air pit toilets made from repurposed materials.
We are located just three miles off of I-75 and the larger city of Gaylord is only a 15 minute drive south. There's lots to do here in beautiful Northern Michigan... only a few miles from our camp you can go for a swim at Thumb Lake Park or take a bike ride along the North Central State Trail in Vanderbilt. Drive 15 minutes north and you can canoe or kayak the main branch of the Sturgeon River in Wolverine. There are many great hiking trails in the Pigeon River State Forest and the North Country National Scenic Trail is only 6 miles away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Dhaseleer Farm
17. Dhaseleer Farm
98%
(226)
21mi from Petoskey State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Treehouse Convertible A-Frame Cabin
18. Treehouse Convertible A-Frame Cabin
96%
(13)
24mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site
This convertible A-frame treehouse is ideal for both families and couples, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the Northern Michigan landscape.
The private site is fully equipped with power, an electric stove, a Bluetooth radio, dining essentials, and a water basin. Located just below the treehouse is a separate bathroom outbuilding with a sink and water. The property also provides ample space for parking, hammocks, and tents.
In addition to the many onsite amenities, you’ll find incredible hiking trails and beaches nearby. Bier's Inwood Brewery, offering great drinks and food, is less than a mile away, and downtown Charlevoix is only a five-minute drive.
We look forward to sharing this private slice of paradise with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Schoolie Bus Camp & Camping Area
19. Schoolie Bus Camp & Camping Area
94%
(34)
24mi from Petoskey State Park · 2 sites
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
LTBB Rental Cabins
20. LTBB Rental Cabins
95%
(106)
24mi from Petoskey State Park · 1 site
Tribal Property to share with others. Wonderful spot right on the Straights of Mackinaw within the Wilderness State Park private enclave. Come stick your toes in the water. Two of three cabins available for rent. Views of the Mackinaw Bridge.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Christopher
5 days ago
With pets
The A frame was the coolest place to spend the weekend. It was close to Charlevoix, but still felt extremely secluded and peaceful. John was very responsive as a host and made us feel welcome. We will definitely be back in the future!
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S
Sally
1 week ago
30 ft toy hauler
Sites were generous size, one of our favorite Hipcamps. It was peaceful and quiet and felt very safe. Phil greeted us upon arrival and told us to park however we felt comfortable in sight #1, he was around working on the property and available for questions. We enjoyed the firewood provided by Phil at no extra charge. Also we were able to see a number of shooting stars out in the field. A generous sized picnic table with umbrella was also provided.
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R
Rebecca
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Schoolie Bus Camp & Camping Area
Gorgeous night sky views and close to town and the beautiful Fisherman’s Island state park. Perfect spot for a weekend bus camp trip 😁
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L
LJ
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Treehouse Convertible A-Frame Cabin
john was incredibly accommodating, from immediate tips & directions upon booking to fast responses while camping. we felt incredibly safe, and the treehouse is truly something special-my partner & i will hold our time spent previously and are so grateful to john and his family for sharing it with us <3 we have every intention of returning in the future !!
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M
Michelle
1 week ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
Hidden Meadow is perfect. We came up for a family party and this was the perfect campsite. It’s clean, quiet and Phils directions helped a lot! We will definitely be back!
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K
Kelsey
2 weeks ago
Tent
Really enjoyed camping and star gazing on the property! We were lucky enough for clear skies for beautiful views of the meteor shower. So much nature surrounding and lakes to fish in we found so many great places to explore with very few other people around. Lots of wild life! There were only a few other campers when we went so it was nice although if it was more I think it would’ve been a bit crowded as there is no separation between sites. Didn’t interact with the host at all, but everything was very clear and we had no questions. The big house with restrooms and WiFi was super nice and not too far a walk. Would stay again! Make sure u stock up on what u need before you get in as it is pretty remote and far away from supplies.
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S
Shelby
2 weeks ago
2 nights at Treehouse Convertible A-Frame Cabin
10/10, great little cabin getaway! John was super friendly and accommodating. The cabin itself was awesome, well crafted and decorated. Location was perfect for both relaxing and adventuring! Will definitely choose again!
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S
Schedule
2 weeks ago
Tent
Karen and the spot were both great.
She was incredibly hospitable and had no problem with us staying for an extended period of time. The location was close enough to Petoskey to get all the essentials, but far enough away to truly feel out in nature. Being both beautiful and peaceful, and with how packed and fully booked most campgrounds get this time of year it was a great find. We would definitely come back again.
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P
Paul
2 weeks ago
Tent
Ted is an excellent host had a super time camping and visiting with him. Site are well maintained and very peaceful. We will definitely be back camping there.
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A
Amy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful propery in a great location!
There was an outhouse near the tent sites and the washroom is lovely -- shower, toilet, sink, and changing area.
The washroom is single use only, so guests may have to factor in a wait time if it's occupied. Also, the washroom is at the top of a hill, which may be challenging for people with disabilities. Neither was an issue for me, just something to be mindful of.
Would definitely stay here again
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Sally
2 weeks ago
19 ft travel trailer
One of my all-time favorite campgrounds! Everything was wonderful.
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j
james
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Excellent camp site just as indicated on site and reviews. Easy set up. Peaceful clean and well equipped with easy access to power and water and firewood! It was just an overnight stay but could have kicked back for days at this super base camp. Thanks Chris!!
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Steve
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class B
With pets
Nice flat sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Very quiet area and set in the middle of between Petosky and the coast going north. The first day we explored the Petosky area and then we took a drive up the coast to Cross Village and then back through the Tunnel of Trees. Very quiet at night and I got to watch some meteors during the Perseid Meteor Shower
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T
Todd
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Super chill, lots of open , firewood provided, host met us at the site and was great
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T
Todd
2 weeks ago
Tent
Super chill, lots of open , firewood provided, host met us at the site and was great
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M
Matt
2 weeks ago
Tent
A perfect spot for camping. The property is absolutely beautiful. It felt (and was) very private. The included firewood was a nice touch. The trails were clearly marked and the river that runs through the property was picturesque. So quiet and so peaceful. As we were leaving, i told my partner this place is what Hipcamp is for. We will be back!
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M
Mikay
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved camping here and will definitely be back. We’ve gone to the festival before, but have never camped in the off season. It was so beautiful. If you are on the fence, just go for it! You will not be disappointed.
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M
Mikay
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had a wonderful time camping on the festival grounds. There is a solar shower, and flushing toilet if needed. The port-a-potties were kept clean. The night sky is unbelievable. We traveled all the way up from Grand Rapids, and it was well worth the drive.
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Brian
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Phil thought of everything. Great place!! His property was peaceful and private. We used and appreciated the electric and water as well as a quick pump out before departing. We will return.
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R
Rodger
2 weeks ago
24 ft pop-up camper
With pets
The camp was outstanding. The bathroom was not. And make sure to check all luggage for golden hitch hiker's
See morePetoskey State Park camping guide
Overview
About
On the inside shore of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey State Park welcomes campers with over 300 acres of beaches perfect for swimming and paddling. The waters are tame due to the lack of a boat launch (but you can head to nearby Harbor Springs if you’re looking for a liftoff). Two excellent campgrounds draw overnight tent and RV camping trips, while a concession stand with kayak and canoe rentals operates during the summer season. Just outside the park, art and culture boom in Harbor Springs. This is the only place on earth where the rare Petoskey stone fossil is found.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for waterfront action: Tannery Creek Campground.
- Best for dune dwelling: Dunes Campground.
- Best for glamping: The two mini cabins at Tannery Creek Campground.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Tent and RV campsites at Petoskey State Park can be reserved six months in advance, but the two mini cabins in the Tannery Creek Campground can be reserved 12 months in advance.
- Reservations must be made online or by calling (800) 447-2757.
- We recommend booking as early as possible for the park’s busy summer season.
When to go
The Petoskey State Park campgrounds are typically open from May through October, as Memorial Day to Labor Day marks the park’s summer season. During this time, visitors can take advantage of rentals for kayaks, standup paddleboards, and bikes from the concession stand. Even outside of summer, Petoskey is worth a visit—fall is a popular time as many of the area’s deciduous tree leaves alight in hues of red, orange, and yellow. The park’s day-use parking lot is typically open from the end of April to the beginning of November, depending on the snow pack.
Know before you go
- Rockhounders flock to the shores of Lake Petoskey in hopes of locating a rare Petoskey stone, a rock covered in hexagonal, tessellated coral fossils that can only be found in this area. Keep your eyes peeled along the shore and you may find one too!
- The park contains a few short trails to stroll through dunes and woods (Portage and Old Baldy), but it also links up to two long-distance paved trails that cyclists and joggers love—the 26-mile Little Traverse Wheelway and the 32-mile North Western State Trail.
Reviews for Petoskey State Park Campgrounds
94%
16 ratings · 3 reviews
Great little campground just outside of downtown Petoskey. Quiet and semi private with a great view of the bay. Clean area and nice bike paths. Definitely will return next year.
Recommends
· September 2023
The Dunes campground is the most spacious. Electric only. The north end is closest to the path to the beach. We stayed at sites 36 and 32 which were very nice.
Recommends
· July 2017
Petoskey Stones Rock
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