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Village Campground - North Manitou Island
Public Campground

Village Campground - North Manitou Island

Glen Arbor, Michigan
4.8 (21 reviews)

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

About Village Campground - North Manitou Island

Federal campground in Michigan.

North Manitou Island represents a truly unique RV camping destination for those seeking to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. Located off the coast of Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula, this island campground offers a distinctive experience that combines the solitude of remote island living with access to some of the Great Lakes region's most stunning landscapes.

Getting to Village Campground requires a ferry journey, which itself becomes part of the adventure. This transition from mainland to island sets the tone for a camping experience that feels genuinely removed from everyday hustle and bustle. The ferry ride across Lake Michigan's crystalline waters provides stunning views and a sense of arrival that makes your camping trip feel like a real getaway.

The island setting creates a special atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hikers will find themselves surrounded by pristine forests, rocky shorelines, and trails that showcase the raw beauty of the Lake Michigan coastline. The island's interior offers opportunities to explore lighthouses, historic structures, and diverse ecosystems that tell the story of Michigan's maritime heritage. Birdwatchers and wildlife observers appreciate the abundance of native species found on this protected island environment.

The camping experience here appeals to those who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Whether you're interested in hiking, photography, fishing, or simply enjoying peaceful evenings on an island far from city lights, North Manitou Island delivers. The clear night skies far from light pollution make stargazing particularly rewarding. Summer visitors enjoy swimming and water activities, while cooler seasons attract those seeking solitude and contemplative natural beauty.

This destination works wonderfully for experienced RV campers who appreciate more rustic, nature-focused accommodations and don't require extensive amenities. The island community of visitors creates a friendly, purposeful atmosphere where fellow campers share a passion for outdoor adventure and appreciation for Lake Michigan's grandeur.
4.8

Rating

21

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Glen Arbor 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 Glen Arbor.

Explore the Area

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

Village Campground - North Manitou Island Reviews

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Brent Little

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Brent Little

We took our 2 kids and we planned to stay one day but the waves were too big. Luckily we packed 2 days. And they had emergency supplies. We stayed in the campground. We loved the views. The boat ride was rough. I recommend taking 2 Dramamine if you are sensitive.

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Matthew Alvarez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Matthew Alvarez

Great campground with a pit toilet nearby as well as 2x communal fire rings. Beach access is right nearby from this campground for relaxing, bathing. Or water. Potable Water is available on the island about 0.5mile away from the village campground. The campsite we stayed at had a nice apple tree right above us. It was great cause eqxh morning you can grab an apple off the tree and eat it. They hav... Great campground with a pit toilet nearby as well as 2x communal fire rings. Beach access is right nearby from this campground for relaxing, bathing. Or water. Potable Water is available on the island about 0.5mile away from the village campground. The campsite we stayed at had a nice apple tree right above us. It was great cause eqxh morning you can grab an apple off the tree and eat it. They have several apple trees on the island.

G
Fei Fei Metzler

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Fei Fei Metzler

Quiet island. Nice hike in woods, through meadows. Interesting weather and light.

G
Nick Fischer

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Nick Fischer

This is a great hiking/ backpacking destination! There are miles of groomed and not so groomed trails. It was pretty neat learning the history from the logging days around the turn of the century. There are a bunch of historic cottages on the island to check out though you cannot go in them. There's also a beautiful lake in the middle of the island with great smallmouth bass and perch.

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James McKee

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by James McKee

The village campground is an easy half mile hike from the ranger check in building. There are 8 sites, fairly well spaced out. Each has a different feel. Site 1 is closest to the village, and 8 the furthest away. The campground has 2 communal fire rings shared between the 8 sites. There is a vault toilet near the middle of the campground. This is a good option for those who may not want to carry a... The village campground is an easy half mile hike from the ranger check in building. There are 8 sites, fairly well spaced out. Each has a different feel. Site 1 is closest to the village, and 8 the furthest away. The campground has 2 communal fire rings shared between the 8 sites. There is a vault toilet near the middle of the campground. This is a good option for those who may not want to carry a full pack across the island. Camping here allows access to potable water at the ranger station as well. If camping here be sure that one of your day hikes is to Lake Manitou! You will not regret it!!

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