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Betsie River Canoes & Campground
Public Campground

Betsie River Canoes & Campground

Thompsonville, Michigan
4.9 (103 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Betsie River Canoes & Campground

Campground in Michigan.

Nestled in the heart of Michigan's natural landscape, Betsie River Canoes & Campground offers a perfect retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of river camping. This public campground provides an ideal base for exploring one of Michigan's most cherished waterways, the Betsie River, which winds through stunning forests and pastoral countryside.

The location captures the essence of Michigan's outdoor heritage, where pine-covered banks meet crystal-clear waters. Whether you're an experienced paddler or someone taking their first canoe journey, the Betsie River provides an accessible and scenic route for water adventures. The river's gentle current and well-maintained banks make it suitable for families and groups of varying skill levels. Camping directly near the river means you can wake up to the peaceful sounds of flowing water and the calls of native wildlife.

This campground serves as the perfect launching point for exploring the broader Betsie River region. The area is known for its diverse ecosystem, abundant bird watching opportunities, and chances to spot deer, beaver, and other native Michigan wildlife. The surrounding community embodies that authentic small-town Michigan charm, with local establishments offering everything from hearty meals to supplies you might need during your stay.

The camping experience here appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families appreciate the accessible water activities and safe environment for children to enjoy outdoor adventures. Fishing enthusiasts find excellent opportunities to catch various fish species in the river. Canoeists and kayakers consider this region a gem for paddling enthusiasts. Nature photographers and bird watchers discover endless subjects throughout the seasons. Those seeking peaceful retreat from urban life find solace in the natural surroundings and slower pace.

The Betsie River area represents quintessential Michigan camping, where outdoor recreation meets natural beauty. Staying at this campground allows you to experience river life at your own pace, whether you're spending days on the water or simply relaxing by your RV listening to nature's symphony.
4.9

Rating

103

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Thompsonville is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Michigan weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Thompsonville.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Thompsonville. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Betsie River Canoes & Campground Reviews

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Brandon Allwood

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Brandon Allwood

We came here and went kayaking for my friends bachelor party. The family and their friend that run it were such a nice group of people. The river the sent us down was very fun and offered a bit of a challenge at times. The owner even gave us a ride back to our AirBnB about a mile away. Thanks a ton.

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Kyle Dolan

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kyle Dolan

Ryan and Amy are absolutely fantastic, great people, and an amazing campground, they really care about your experience there, even the camp manager Adrian, was fantastic, if I could give them 6 stars I would!!!! We will definitely be back next year!!!

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Garrett Moots

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Garrett Moots

My friend and I recently spent four days and three nights at this campground, and it was an absolutely excellent experience from start to finish. The facilities are immaculate and meticulously maintained, ensuring that we never once felt uncomfortable during our stay. The bathrooms, in particular, were a highlight – each one equipped with the same high-quality air fresheners used in upscale hotels... My friend and I recently spent four days and three nights at this campground, and it was an absolutely excellent experience from start to finish. The facilities are immaculate and meticulously maintained, ensuring that we never once felt uncomfortable during our stay. The bathrooms, in particular, were a highlight – each one equipped with the same high-quality air fresheners used in upscale hotels, leaving them smelling fresh and clean at all times. The campground offers electricity on-site and is pet-friendly, which made our stay even more convenient and enjoyable. The daily rates are quite reasonable, providing great value for the extensive amenities and activities available. There's no shortage of things to do: from kayaking, canoeing, and hiking to swimming and playing volleyball. The owner, Amy, and the camp host (whose name escapes me, but he was incredibly friendly and helpful) are both fantastic. They made us feel welcomed and were extremely knowledgeable about the local area, offering great tips and insights. The campground's location is also worth highlighting. It’s perfectly situated just 40 minutes from both Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City, making it an ideal base for exploring the northwestern shores, lush forests, and charming beach towns of Michigan. We will definitely be returning next year, as this campground has set a new standard for our outdoor adventures.

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Sarah Lentz

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Sarah Lentz

Betsie River Canoe & Campground (BRCC) was the perfect place for our weekend trip with friends to Northern Michigan! We were going to Sleeping Bear Dunes on the 4th of July, so campgrounds closer to the park were taken, but we were lucky to get the last spot at BRCC! It was a very convenient drive to Sleeping Bear and the surrounding areas. The campgrounds were nice and quiet, with bathroom and sh... Betsie River Canoe & Campground (BRCC) was the perfect place for our weekend trip with friends to Northern Michigan! We were going to Sleeping Bear Dunes on the 4th of July, so campgrounds closer to the park were taken, but we were lucky to get the last spot at BRCC! It was a very convenient drive to Sleeping Bear and the surrounding areas. The campgrounds were nice and quiet, with bathroom and shower facilities that were very clean and relatively bug-free for a campground! Amy and her family were very welcoming, checking us in when we arrived late and offering to drop off wood to our campsite for a fire. Since we were there for Sleeping Bear, we did not utilize the campsite for more than just sleeping and eating, but the entire grounds are very nice with corn hole, disc golf, and more activities for the whole family. Thanks, BRCC!

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rebecca

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by rebecca

We stayed at the two group sites and had the most amazing time with our friends! There was so much space and the sites were set up perfectly for us. We did several rounds of disc-golf and went kayaking down the river. We had an absolutely amazing time and would definitely recommend this campground to anyone! Amy and Ryan take great care of their guests and were very attentive when we had any quest... We stayed at the two group sites and had the most amazing time with our friends! There was so much space and the sites were set up perfectly for us. We did several rounds of disc-golf and went kayaking down the river. We had an absolutely amazing time and would definitely recommend this campground to anyone! Amy and Ryan take great care of their guests and were very attentive when we had any questions or needed some help setting things up. Wonderful people and a wonderful place!!

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