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The best camping in Traverse City State Park, MI
94% (16)
Discover Traverse City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
94% (16)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Traverse City State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Traverse City State Park
Traverse City Campground
1. Traverse City Campground
94%
(16)
Lean back in your seat at the picnic table, dry your swimsuit by the glow of the fire pit, and you’ll completely forget you’re only two miles from the buzz of downtown Traverse City
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Traverse City State Park
Bayside Base Camp
1. Bayside Base Camp
100%
(45)
3.4mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Our Backyard
2. Our Backyard
99%
(71)
3.5mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Shade Tree Haven
3. Shade Tree Haven
97%
(15)
8.3mi from Traverse City State Park · 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.
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Showers
Pine Meadows
4. Pine Meadows
100%
(15)
10mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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The SOL Homestead
5. The SOL Homestead
100%
(30)
11mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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House of Bear
6. House of Bear
100%
(329)
11mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Sherwood Forest
7. Sherwood Forest
98%
(31)
12mi from Traverse City State Park · 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
Elm Valley
8. Elm Valley
100%
(180)
12mi from Traverse City State Park · 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
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Brown Family Farm
9. Brown Family Farm
98%
(28)
13mi from Traverse City State Park · 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
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Potable water
HillCrest
10. HillCrest
100%
(64)
14mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite
11. Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite
98%
(23)
15mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Mr. Joe's Campground
12. Mr. Joe's Campground
100%
(72)
16mi from Traverse City State Park · 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.
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Griff's Back 40
13. Griff's Back 40
96%
(203)
16mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Uraharas On The Hill
14. Uraharas On The Hill
99%
(47)
16mi from Traverse City State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Uraharas is a music venue that hosts events throughout the summer. We are happy to now open our space to campers on the dates that are not scheduled for events. We hope you enjoy our space as much as we have in creating it!
Learn more about this land:
*ADULTS ONLY CAMPING* Set up camp in our little wooded get away at the top of the valley. There are many great things near and many more within a reasonable drive. We are located just three miles from Torch Lake sandbar with several public access sites. Spend the day swimming or rent a kayak or pontoon to further explore. Check out Seven Bridges Nature Area just five miles away. Head over to Short’s Brewery in Bellaire. Take a drive to Turtle Creek Casino and Traverse City in thirty minutes or less. At the end of your exciting day come relax and build a fire in our communal fire pit. Enjoy the colorful sights as we light up the forest at night (weather permitting). Campsites are located in a specific area. You may have camp neighbors not so far away and will not be a guarantee that it’s completely silent or secluded. Please be mindful of one another. We love the sounds of a good time happening but we do ask that after 11 pm weekdays and 12 am weekends that you keep a respectable level. As title says this is camping for ages 18 and up. Front area can accommodate parking for your boat/kayak trailer.
Uraharas is an excellent setting to use as larger group camping. If you need bookings for your group beyond the max of the two combined sites please message me for details!
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Patchwork Camp
15. Patchwork Camp
100%
(10)
17mi from Traverse City State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our idyllic retreat nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan's countryside, where the beauty of a working crop farm awaits you. Surround yourself with the peaceful ambiance of corn, wheat, and hay fields stretching beyond the front yard, offering wide-open vistas and stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and gold.
Unwind by the campfire and let the crackling flames soothe your soul as you gaze up at the starry night sky. Whether you choose to relax in the serenity of our rural oasis or embark on an adventure to explore all that Northern Michigan has to offer, our farm provides the perfect backdrop for your getaway.
Conveniently located just 15 miles south of Traverse City and the renowned Interlochen Arts Academy, our retreat offers easy access to the best that the region has to offer. Spend your days exploring the pristine shores of Lake Michigan or discovering the beauty of the many inland lakes and beaches nearby. Hiking and biking trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the area, while nearby wineries, breweries, restaurants, and shopping venues promise endless opportunities for entertainment and indulgence.
At our farm, we offer two campsites equipped with water and electricity on grassy pads, nestled amidst the tranquility of nature with woods in the backyard. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or an action-packed adventure, our farm provides the perfect home base for your Northern Michigan getaway. Come and experience the charm and beauty of our countryside retreat, where relaxation and adventure await at every turn.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Tree Huggers Haven
16. Tree Huggers Haven
100%
(11)
18mi from Traverse City State Park · 1 site
Wilderness Lite, 38 acres of highland Maples and rustic river front Cedars. The property includes rolling terrain with walking trails.
Rustic camping in the comfort of a16’x10’ charming insulated Amish cabin with king size sleeping loft. Bring your rustic camping gear but leave the tent at home. Perhaps best of all you’ll be less than 2 miles from a gas station/ party store for your convenience.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
Fun on the Farm
17. Fun on the Farm
100%
(13)
19mi from Traverse City State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome!
We have a small chicken farm that we’d love to share with you — whether you’re passing through for a night or staying a few days to enjoy the local attractions. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire Bluffs, Traverse City, Glen Arbor, Lake Ann, and much more are all within a 10–30 minute drive, depending on where you’d like to go.
There are no water, electric, or sewer hookups, but potable water is available from the outdoor house spigot. A porta potty is provided on-site for your use and is equipped with hand sanitizer.
You’ll find several roadside stands nearby selling baked goods, local produce, meat, cheese, flowers, and more. A small store about 2 miles away carries basic necessities.
There are exterior cameras on property to monitor home and chicken coops.
There is a dog on property that loves attention and thinks everyone that visits is just coming to see him! Please don't feed him any human or doggie snacks!
There are many beautiful lakes and trails in the area for kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming.
Please put all trash in provided trash tote next to house. Fees may be added for any destruction or clean up needed due to guest messes. Thank you for respecting our home, property and animals!
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Michael O.’s Land
18. Michael O.’s Land
96%
(28)
19mi from Traverse City State Park · 2 sites
Beautiful farm.. mowed pathway to the woods
of 90 acres, nice path for your dog walks or yourselves.
Easy access from paved road to your campsite.
Water and electric sites.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
JCs Ooasis
19. JCs Ooasis
96%
(27)
19mi from Traverse City State Park · 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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Torch Lake Stays
20. Torch Lake Stays
100%
(11)
20mi from Traverse City State Park · 2 sites
Welcome to the Torch Lake Stays, your private streamside hideaway in the north woods, where you can relax alongside the peaceful sounds of the soothing babbling brook. Our off-grid site includes camp stove, solar-powered lighting, fire pit, as well as a separate propane hot water shower house and a composting toilet. Good cell signal (Verizon and more)! Located halfway between Alden on beautiful Torch Lake and Bellaire, with many popular businesses such as Short's Brewing. Stay right in the middle of northwest Michigan where outdoor fun is year-round with summer water sports like the annual Antrim Paddle, autumn color tours, art gallery and winery trips, skiing and snowmobiling in winter, and wildflower / mushrooming, hiking and biking in the Springtime.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mercer
4 days ago
T
Thomas
6 days ago
Tent
Stacey met us when we arrived, and she was very friendly and welcoming. She helped us get settled in and pointed us to a great spot for dinner. The campsite was comfortable, and the chickens had us up on time for the next morning’s ride!
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A
Alice
6 days ago
Tent
Amazing and huge camping spot. Lots of fun character and the small details/amenities were really great.
Loved my time spent here!
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D
Darrin
1 week ago
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
It’s nice when you find a beautiful place to camp and relax but when you find a great campsite with exceptional hosts, now that’s treasure!
Bill and Karen were overly accommodating to our each and every need while providing a beautifully private campsite for us to overnight in Traverse City!
Big thumbs UP
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M
Melanie
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Tree Huggers Haven
I just got back from an awesome stay at tree hugger. I cant say enough about this property. Perfect. Cabin was great, beautiful trails to hike and everything you could need for a peaceful relaxing weekend. Highly recommend for anyone that enjoys getting away and enjoying nature. Todd is an excellent host. Will be back to visit again!
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A
Alexis
1 week ago
Tent
Great hosts! Great location! Amazing. The location is prime for biking.
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Neil
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
Loved this campsite!! Very private, short walk in (~2min) but a wagon is provided. The shower was really nice for a campsite, and everything was clearly built by the owners with lots of love. Lots of space and more than enough parking. The tents provided were great, too. We loved the koi pond, there were tons of frogs and a few different species of turtle. I am so grateful to have found this spot, my friends were as well. It's around 20-30 minutes from all the sights in TC, Glen Lake and Frankfort.
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B
Blandey
1 week ago
16 ft travel trailer
I had a wonderful week playing around Northwest Michigan - made all the better by staying at the Okon Farm. My RV site was tucked in by the barn, gardens, and mature trees, giving it a peaceful, private feel and making it a great little home base for exploring the area.
Michael showed me my site and Fay brought me oatmeal cookies and fresh tomatoes - a pretty wonderful way to be welcomed to the farm!
But the highlight of my stay was definitely Goodie Goodie, the resident farm cat. She quickly decided my Airstream was worth adding to her daily rounds and would make herself at home on my step. If I didn’t notice she’d arrived, a soft meow took care of that. Obviously, Goodie took her hosting duties - the lovely creature quickly became my little camping buddy.
The location was great for exploring too. I was within 35-50 minutes of mountain biking (Palmer Woods Forest Reserve, Arcadia Dunes), Sleeping Bear Dunes, the scenic M-22 drive through the quaint little harbor towns (with my favorite being Glen Arbor, for lunch and gallery perusing). There’s also Traverse City if you need a bigger town.
A peaceful, welcoming place, a great location, and one very memorable farm cat. I miss you, Goodie Goodie!
See moreK
Kit
1 week ago
17 ft campervan
We had a great experience at Stacy's place. She greeted us upon arrival, and was very hospitable. It was a beautiful spot, very quiet, it had a very clean portiepoti, access to water, picnic table and an amazing host. Definitely a great stop.
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Tessa
2 weeks ago
Tent
Area was clean and quiet. Easy walk to the public lake access and porta potty was very nice!
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K
Kelsey
2 weeks ago
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay! The hosts were incredibly friendly and welcoming, met us when we arrived to show us around, and gave us some great recommendations for places nearby. The site was clean, peaceful, and very well cared for, and they made sure we had everything we needed throughout our visit!
We especially loved falling asleep to the sound of the stream each night. The string lights inside and out made the site feel so cozy, and the hot outdoor shower was another favorite! We had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend it.
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Marvin
2 weeks ago
23 ft travel trailer
It kind of hurt to pay $55 for a campsite with no water, elec, or sewer, etc., but this is Leelanau County and facilities with all those amenities cost well over $100 a night.
Steve met us and was very helpful. Linda was at the county fair all week so we never met. Sorry we could not make it to the fair to see her, and JC's chickens.
The campsite was just 4 miles from a home our extended family had rented, so it was a perfect site.
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Joe
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
You can’t beat the convenience of how close Stacy’s is to Sleeping Bear Dunes but with lots of privacy. As a host she is easygoing. Facilities are exactly as advertised. Good communicator and prompt. Thanks!
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Fennigan
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a great time! The site is pretty easy to get to, but may be a bit of a squeeze for bigger vehicles. The trees are beautiful, the clearing was a good size, and fairly level. There were a LOT of mosquitos, but that's not unexpected. Just don't forget the bug spray :) We had fun taking a short walk to visit the horses, chickens, and ducks. We will likely return in the future when we have a chance! We didn't meet Dillon, but he was informative, friendly, and made sure we knew to reach out if we needed anything.
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J
Julia
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Nice secluded area. Campground was quiet and had a nice view. There was a nice fire pit too.
See moreJ
Joshua
2 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
Stacey is the best! Would definitely recommend staying here.
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N
Nikole
2 weeks ago
Tent
The owner is very cool. I had trouble finding the place so I would recommend going to this place in the daylight. But he answered very promptly and helped me find it. We also had wood waiting. We booked this place last minute so I did not get the best site but would recommend if you’re looking for a quick place to stay that’s near torch Lake.
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P
Patrick
2 weeks ago
Tent
Boondocks was a nice spot on Samuel’s property. Easy to find and close to some really nice lakes and downtown Traverse. The fire pit, grill and restroom in the camp is a nice touch. Thanks for a great weekend
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B
Brandie
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to HillCrest
One of the best (if not the best) experiences we've had with hosted stays! My husband and I stayed at Hillcrest for 2 nights and didn't want to leave. The property is stunning; it's obvious from the moment you arrive that so much intentional care has been put into curating a beautiful and peaceful environment. Dan and Bill are both warm, welcoming, and easy to communicate with. From a detailed tour of the grounds and unit itself to local recommendations , all our needs were met during our stay. It's in a great location to several towns and lakes nearby, or just hanging out on the property itself for a quiet getaway. We hope to visit again in the future and would truly recommend to anyone.
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D
D
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
We parked in the side yard. It was the perfect spot for us. Close to downtown and the areas we wanted to see. Loved the area and didn’t see or do everything we wanted but I’m sure we will make another trip.
See moreTraverse City State Park camping guide
Overview
About
All you city-dwelling nature seekers out there will no doubt appreciate Traverse City State Park’s two-mile proximity to the action of one of Michigan’s most bumpin’ resort towns. Brushing up against the Grand Traverse Bay, which provides this beautiful park with a ¼ mile of shoreline, this 47-acre urban escape is home to a National Cherry Festival and self-guided tours of fall tones, and near to wineries and casinos that can sure make for a memorable stay. Year-round camping with heated restrooms (Really? Yes!), this former home of the Ottaway branch of the Algonquin Indians now welcomes folks like you to enjoy the essence of the Great Outdoors.
When to go
The ideal time to visit Traverse City State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the park is in full bloom. Fall also offers a spectacular display of changing leaves. Winters can be harsh, and some facilities may be closed, so it's best to check ahead if planning a visit during the colder months.
Know before you go
- Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for all visitors.
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for your adventure amid the park's diverse landscapes.
- Trail lengths vary, so choose a hike that matches your fitness level and time constraints.
- Remember to carry out all trash and keep the park pristine for fellow explorers.
- For any inquiries or assistance, the park's contact information is readily available for your convenience.
Reviews for Traverse City State Park Campgrounds
94%
16 ratings · 4 reviews
Not recommend
· April 2026
wasn't open
Recommends
· September 2017
Great Lakes beaches! 🌊
Recommends
· September 2017
Great Lakes beaches! 🌊
Recommends
· August 2017
Shower facilities are a little dingy but otherwise a great park just a couple miles outside the city proper
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