Tips for camping with kids
These are tips on how to make camping with kids easier and more enjoyable.
We’re just wrapping up Michigan’s 2025 camping season, but it’s already time to start thinking about 2026.
Campgrounds at Michigan state parks and recreation areas accept reservations up to six months in advance, so May reservations are already available.
Before you start to plan your trips, be aware that some campgrounds will be closed for portions of the 2026 season.
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
The east loop of the modern campground at Fort Wilkins State Park in Copper Harbor is closed for electrical system and campsite upgrades. It is expected to reopen in summer. The west campground, sanitation station mini cabin and Lake Fanny Hooe cabin will remain open.
Indian Lake State Park
The south campground at Indian Lake State Park in Manistique is closed to construct a new toilet and shower building. A 2026 reopening date will be announced later.
Ionia State Recreation Area
The modern campground and mini cabins at Ionia State Recreation Area in Ionia are closed to update the toilet and shower building, sanitation station, drain field and park’s electrical system. The campground is expected to reopen May 1.
Lake Gogebic State Park
The modern campground and cabins at Lake Gogebic State Park are closed through July 20 to upgrade the water, sewer and electrical systems.
McLain State Park
A portion of the modern campground and cabins at McLain State Park in Hancock will close during the 2026 season. As the project progresses, sites 1-91 will reopen in phases. Sites 100-135 (and the cabins) will remain open and are not impacted by the construction.
Mears State Park
The modern campground at Mears State Park in Pentwater will close April 22 through May 20 for electrical upgrades.
Otsego Lake State Park
The modern campground at Otsego Lake State Park in Gaylord is closed through late spring to update electric and septic systems and convert 44 campsites to full-hookup.
Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park in Petoskey is closed and is expected to reopen in mid-May.
Traverse City State Park
The Traverse City State Park campground in Traverse City is closed through the 2026 camping season. The park will get new camping amenities, enhanced day-use areas and improved vehicle and pedestrian access. The lodge will also be closed and torn down. The day-use area and beach will remain open.
Twin Lakes State Park
In Toivola, Twin Lakes State Park’s modern campground and mini cabin are closed for construction of a new toilet/shower building and an upgraded sewer system. The campground is expected to reopen around July 1.
Van Buren State Park
Van Buren State Park in South Haven Township, including the campground and day-use areas, are closed for a lagoon rehabilitation and beach access improvement project. A reopening date has not been set, but is anticipated for spring or early summer.
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