Campgrounds in Leelanau County
If you’re headed north with your camping gear, Leelanau County—home to Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge—is a perfect spot to pitch a tent or park your RV.
Here, you’ll find peace, quiet, and wide-open spaces to roam and explore. The small towns that dot the peninsula have provisions, and friendly locals are happy to share advice on areas to visit.
CAMPING ON THE LEELANAU PENINSULA
To plan ahead (a good idea), consult this list of six campgrounds in Leelanau County and consider making a reservation. Some require a reservation and most book out weeks or even months in advance.
- Empire Township Campground
Quaint campground tucked in the pines just outside Empire, MI. Featuring 60 rustic sites, 9 sites with electricity, and three group sites. - Garey Lake State Forest Campground
Well-kept state campground just south of Empire sits adjacent to Garey Lake and has many trails that begin at the campground. - Indigo Bluffs RV Park and Resort
Higher-end RV campground with modern amenities. - H. Day Campground
The most popular campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes due to its proximity to the lakeshore. Great for both tents and RVs. Be sure to book ahead. - Leelanau Pines Campground
A family camping resort on beautiful Lake Leelanau, near Cedar. - Paradise Cove Campground
Quaint campground on the southern end of Lake Leelanau with a fantastic bar and restaurant. - Leelanau State Park
A beautiful campground on the tip of the peninsula just past Northport. Most sites provide a view of Lake Michigan. As far north as you can get in Leelanau.
LOOKING FOR DISPERSED CAMPING ON THE LEELANAU PENINSULA?
If you’re looking for a more rustic setup (without buzzing generators or noisy neighbors), dispersed camping is allowed on state forest land in Leelanau County.
Dispersed camping is camping on public land outside of designated campgrounds. There are no utilities, fire rings, or toilets, so come prepared. It’s also the only free camping you’ll find in Leelanau County. Please don’t try to camp anywhere else (you will get kicked out).
State land can be found on the southern border of Leelanau County, and there’s a lot more as you head south into Benzie County. Use this map to get started.
On state land, you’ll find a network of old logging roads and dirt two-tracks that wind their way through the forest that will lead you to great campsites. Four-wheel drive might be necessary for some areas, and these roads are not ideal for big rigs or RVs.
Before you go this route, consult the DNR’s dispersed camping rules and fill out the free camper registration card. Just like anywhere you go, leave the area better than you found it—pick up trash, put out your fires, and don’t drive off the trail.
STAY WITH US AT THE LEELANAU SANDS CASINO
Did you know you can park your RV at Leelanau Sands Casino & Lounge for just $10 a night? This cost includes access to the RV dump station, electrical hookups, and a potable water supply.
Once you get settled, our gaming floor and restaurants are just a short walk away. Give us a call at (800) 922-2946 to make a reservation.