Torch Lake is in Northern Michigan, but you’d think it’s a Caribbean beach. If you’re in the area, you’ll want to spend at least a weekend or more experiencing this beautiful lake. To help you do so, we want to share with you 10 campgrounds near Torch Lake.
Why You Should Visit Torch Lake in Michigan
Torch Lake is the second-largest inland lake in Michigan and is known for its crystal-clear waters. The lake has attracted not only a handful of large resorts, but famous Michiganders like Kid Rock, Eminem, and Michael Moore have built homes on the lake.
The lowest underwater point is 285 feet, which also makes it Michigan’s deepest inland lake.
At 19 miles long, this lake is perfect for jet skiing, tubing, and many other aquatic activities. With so many small towns to see and things to do, you’ll want to rent a cabin or camp at one of the campgrounds near Torch Lake.
Best Time of Year to Visit Torch Lake
The summer (June-August) will provide the best weather to experience the lake’s offerings. The average high temperatures during the summer range from 78-85 degrees F, with cooler nights that average 48-55 degrees F.
It should be no surprise that these incredible temperatures will attract larger crowds wanting to enjoy the lake.
10 Best Campgrounds Near Torch Lake
When you book your trip to Torch Lake, having an excellent place to stay is imperative! You’ll enjoy the activities even more with the right location and a comfortable area to park your RV.
Here are some of our favorite places to camp there.
1. Torch Grove Campground
Address: 6815 Crystal Beach Rd NW, Rapid City, MI 49676
About the Campground: Torch Grove Campground is the closest seasonal camping location to Torch Lake. It’s so close that there’s a public access beach with a picnic area across the street from the park entrance.
This 10-acre campground caters to RVs with its 54 full hook-up sites. You’ll watch TV and stay connected with available cable TV and WiFi.
During July and August, there’s a required seven-night minimum for each booking. Nightly rates vary based on the season but range from $40-$45 in the off-season, $60-$65 in the peak season, $65 per night for holiday weekends, and $70 per night July 1-July 9.
2. Honcho Rest Campground
Address: 8988 Cairn Hwy, Elk Rapids, MI 49629
About the Campground: Honcho Rest Campground is a seasonal campground that’s 13 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park. It has 97 full hook-up sites, seven electric-only sites, and six rentable cabins. Rates vary by season, and if it’s a holiday, they can range anywhere from $40-$65 per night.
The campground has a playground, laundry facilities, and eight bathrooms, two of which are heated and air-conditioned. A fish-cleaning station is available to aid you in cleaning your trophy catch from Bass Lake or Torch Lake.
Whether you plan to enjoy the lake, a round of golf, or hike a trail, Honcho Rest Campground is a fantastic place to call home during your trip to Torch Lake.
3. Whitewater Township Park
Address: 9500, Park Rd, Williamsburg, MI 49690
About the Campground: Whitewater Township Park is on Elk Lake and is 19 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park. Due to the proximity to several boat-friendly lakes, it’s an excellent spot to hit the water in your boat.
A small playground and hiking trails are excellent for younger campers to burn off energy. Campers rave about the family-friendly service they’ve received from the staff. Many campers choose this location due to the proximity to both Torch Lake and Elk Lake.
4. Everflowing Waters Campground
Address: 5481 Brackett Rd, Williamsburg, MI 49690
About the Campground: Everflowing Waters Campground is in Williamsburg, Michigan, approximately 23 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park. In their 55 sites, you’ll find everything from bicyclists camping in small tents to large RVs, and your furry friends will love the large grass sites at this pet-friendly park. Plus, you can visit the five nearby lighthouses while you’re there.
If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing, and well-maintained campground, Everflowing Waters Campground will check all your boxes. Rates for tent sites are $25, and RV sites are $30-$40 per night. They’ll have a comfortable spot for you, whether your needs are 20, 30, or 50 amps.
→ Once you find your perfect Torch Lake campground, check out these Cozy Campsite Decorating Ideas to make your site feel like home.
5. Traverse Bay RV Resort
Address: 5555 M-72, Williamsburg, MI 49690
About the Campground: Traverse Bay RV Resort is in Williamsburg, Michigan, and is approximately 25 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park.
If you want a luxury RV resort during your stay, this is the resort you’ve been looking for! All 217 full hook-up sites are paved and come with complimentary high-speed internet and cable television. Don’t worry about becoming a couch potato, though–tennis courts, pickleball, and a state-of-the-art fitness center will help you stay active during your visit.
Rates vary depending on the season but range from $69-$95 per night. You’ll feel spoiled during your stay at this well-manicured and landscaped resort.
6. Barnes Park Campground
Address: 12298 Barnes Park Rd, Eastport, MI 49627
About the Campground: Barnes Park Campground is in Eastport, Michigan, and is a short, five-minute drive to Torch Lake Day Park. The campground is between Grand Traverse Bay and Torch Lake, and you won’t be disappointed if you book one of the 83 sites, whether you want rustic or electric.
Take a stroll along the 0.25 mile of beach on Grand Traverse Bay or Lake Michigan, or enjoy the lake’s scenic beauty on the handicap-accessible paved trail. Whether you plan to walk, bike, or rollerblade, it’s a great place to spend your time. Barnes Park Campground is a must-stay campground near Torch Lake.
7. Timber Ridge Campground and Resort
Address: 4050 Hammond Rd East, Traverse City, MI 49696
About the Campground: Timber Ridge Campground and Resort is in Traverse City, Michigan, approximately 29 miles southeast of Torch Lake Day Park. It has an abundance of activities for everyone in your family, including a bike park, swimming pool, splash pad, water trampoline, and even more beach activities.
Timber Ridge Campground and Resort is a premier campground where your family can make memories for years to come. Prices vary based on the season and range from $40-$90. Whether you want a basic site or a super site, they’ve got it.
→ Pro Tip: Traverse City is one of the best Michigan beach towns for summer fun!
8. Traverse City State Park
Address: 1132 US-31, Traverse City, MI 49686
About the Campground: Traverse City State Park is on the Grand Traverse Bay’s east arm, 27 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park. This 75-acre expanse has a campground and easy access to 0.25 miles of beach.
The campground has three loops, ranging in prices from $33-$37 per night. It’s a quiet spot with bathrooms and showers updated in 2020. It’s a state park, so out-of-state campers must buy a $34 state recreation pass as well.
→ Traverse City is a great starting point to explore northwest Michigan. Add one of these Traverse City campgrounds to your road trip to continue your exploration of this beautiful area.
9. Rapid River Campground and Cabins
Address: 7182 US-131, Mancelona, MI 49659
About the Campground: Rapid River Campground and Cabins is a 26-acre campground 30 miles south of Torch Lake Day Park. This campground has 20 modern campsites and 25 rustic campsites. Guests repeatedly praise the owners for being great hosts.
Bring your hiking/walking shoes or even your bicycle to enjoy trail time. You’ll love the coziness and be treated like gold at this mom-and-pop-run campground.
10. Starlight Campground and RV Park
Address: 3060 Mancelona Rd, Mancelona, MI 49659
About the Campground: Starlight Campground and RV Park is a family-friendly campground located 30 miles from Torch Lake Day Park. It was formerly Whispering Pines RV Resort, but they rebranded it starting with the 2021 season.
You’ll nestle amongst abundant mature pines and vintage RVs available for rent. Whether you’re looking for trails to hike or star-filled skies to enjoy, Starlight can provide it.
The campground welcomes guests with three pieces of firewood in every campfire ring. Check out their activities page for many family-friendly activities before planning your trip, too.
Sites vary in price depending on electrical and sewage connections but range from $38-$48 per night.
Torch Lake: A Great Place to Make Memories
Torch Lake is a gorgeous destination you can make into a weekend visit or an annual tradition. You’ll never run out of fun activities, things to see, and places to stay at nearby campgrounds.
If you’re looking for a great place to make memories, Torch Lake is it! Have you experienced the beauty of Torch Lake? Drop us a note in the comments section below.
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