Lake Michigan Recreation Area
One of Michigan’s largest federally-operated campgrounds, Lake Michigan Recreation Area is divided into four loops located along the shoreline between Ludington and Manistee. Two of the loops (Hemlock and Violet) operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while the Orchid and Oak loops require reservations from May 5 through Sept. 9. There are also three group campsites located north of the four single-site loops that can accommodate up to 50 people (fees range from $50-65 per night).
Hikers and beach-goers can follow the short Arrowhead Trail from the campground to Lake Michigan’s sandy shores, where swimming is the most popular activity, but fishing and kayaking are also options.
The campground also has a trail head for the adjacent Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area, which features six miles of pathways that wind through a dune ecosystem along Lake Michigan.
This is one of the more family-friendly campgrounds on the list due to the presence of a playground and an amphitheater that offers educational programs throughout the peak season.
