Betsie River Campsite Introduce
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For Michigan residents seeking an authentic and refreshingly clean outdoor experience in the heart of Northern Michigan, Betsie River Campsite in Frankfort, MI, offers an ideal escape. This isn't your average campground; it's a "nice small family owned campsite" that prides itself on cleanliness, comfort, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're looking to enjoy the rustic charm of tent camping, the convenience of an RV site, or the unique comfort of a "glamping" cabin, Betsie River Campsite provides a welcoming basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of our beautiful state.
What truly sets Betsie River Campsite apart, as enthusiastically highlighted by satisfied visitors, is its unwavering commitment to cleanliness and guest comfort. One review raves, "it was so clean! The restrooms and showers were better than some restaurants," a testament to the meticulous care taken by the staff. This dedication extends to their "Kamper Kabins" which are noted for being "super cute and comfortable," offering amenities like outlets, windows, a ceiling fan, and heating, making for a pleasant "glamping" experience even with pets allowed. This focus on providing a pristine and comfortable environment ensures that guests can fully relax and enjoy their time in nature, making it a reliable choice for Michigan locals who prioritize hygiene and ease.
Beyond the impressive facilities, Betsie River Campsite cultivates a "quiet and calm (but still fun!)" atmosphere. It’s designed as a peaceful "chill out kind of campground" where visitors can unwind by a crackling fire or embark on adventures without the overwhelming crowds often found elsewhere. The friendly and accommodating staff contribute significantly to this welcoming vibe, ensuring every guest feels valued. For Michiganders, this means finding a true haven where the stresses of daily life can melt away amidst the natural beauty of the Betsie River Forest Preserve and the nearby attractions of Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Betsie River Campsite is conveniently located at 1923 River Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635, USA. This prime address places it directly within the scenic Betsie River Forest Preserve, offering a genuine immersion in Northern Michigan's natural beauty. For Michigan residents, reaching this tranquil getaway is straightforward, with well-maintained state and county roads leading directly to Frankfort.
The campground boasts excellent accessibility to key regional attractions. It's nestled just two miles from Lake Michigan, providing easy access to the stunning beaches of Frankfort and Elberta. For those who love cycling, the Betsie Valley Trail is located directly next to the campsite, offering a convenient pathway for a "3 mile adventure to ice cream, beaches, shops" in Frankfort. Furthermore, the world-renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is within easy driving distance – about 10 miles to the first trail and 24 miles to the visitor's center, making day trips to this iconic Michigan landmark a breeze.
The journey to Betsie River Campsite from various parts of Michigan offers picturesque scenery, transitioning from urban or suburban landscapes to the serene forests and rivers of the northern Lower Peninsula. This blend of remote natural beauty with accessible routes ensures that Michiganders can enjoy a true escape without extensive travel complications, making it a highly convenient and desirable destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations.
Betsie River Campsite provides a range of services and amenities designed to enhance the traditional camping experience with added comfort and convenience. While it maintains a rustic charm, it ensures guests have access to essential and appreciated facilities:
- Kamper Kabins: Rustic, handmade log cabins available for rent. These "glamping" units are equipped with outlets, windows, a ceiling fan, and heat, and guests need to bring their own bedding. They are smoke-free and generally allow pets, provided they are kept off furniture and not left alone.
- RV Sites: Spaces for recreational vehicles, offering 10 and 30 amp electric hookups. (Note: 50 amp service is not available, but staff can recommend nearby alternatives if needed).
- Tent Sites: Designated areas for traditional tent camping.
- Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Consistently praised for their cleanliness, often described as being "better than some restaurants."
- Tiny Cafe: An on-site cafe that serves breakfast, including popular items like the "King sandwich."
- Fish Cleaning Station: A well-kept facility for anglers to clean their catch, with complimentary chest freezer space available.
- Kayak and Canoe Rentals: Available on the Betsie River, complete with all gear and shuttle service.
- Bike Rentals: Provides access to the adjacent Betsie Valley Trail.
- Free High-Speed Wi-Fi: Available throughout the property to keep guests connected.
- Community Fire-Pits: Multiple shared fire pits for relaxation and social gatherings.
- Campfire Wood for Sale: Conveniently available on-site near the front office.
- Dump Station: Available for RV waste disposal.
- Playground: A small fenced playground designed for children ages 2-12.
- Board Games, Cards, DVDs, and Lawn Games: A selection of entertainment options for guests.
- Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome at campsites and in cabins (with specific rules regarding furniture and leaving pets unattended), but must be leashed.
Betsie River Campsite stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Michigan locals seeking a memorable outdoor adventure:
- Exceptional Cleanliness: Consistently highlighted in reviews, the "spotlessly clean" restrooms and showers are a major draw, providing a level of comfort not always found at campgrounds.
- Comfortable "Kamper Kabins": These rustic yet well-appointed cabins offer a fantastic "glamping" experience with essential amenities like electricity, ceiling fans, and heating, making camping accessible and comfortable even for first-timers.
- Direct Access to Betsie Valley Trail: The campground's immediate proximity to this scenic trail provides easy access for biking, walking, and exploring the area, leading to beaches, shops, and ice cream in Frankfort.
- Prime Location for Area Attractions: Situated within the Betsie River Forest Preserve, it's just two miles from Lake Michigan beaches and a short drive to the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, making it an ideal base for exploring Northern Michigan.
- "Small Family Owned" & Peaceful Atmosphere: Guests appreciate the quiet, calm, and family-friendly environment, fostering a relaxed "chill out" vibe away from crowded party scenes.
- Friendly and Accommodating Staff: Numerous reviews praise the staff for being "friendly and accommodating," ensuring a welcoming and helpful experience for all visitors.
- Delicious On-site Breakfast: The presence of a cafe offering an "outstanding" breakfast, including the recommended "King sandwich," adds a convenient and delightful culinary touch to the stay.
- Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes dogs (with leash rules and specific cabin policies), allowing Michigan families to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.
- Kayak and Canoe Rentals: On-site rentals with shuttle service on the Betsie River provide an easy way to experience the local waterways.
For more information, to inquire about availability, or to make a reservation at Betsie River Campsite, please use the following contact details:
Address: 1923 River Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635, USA
Phone: (231) 352-9535
Mobile Phone: +1 231-352-9535
It is always recommended to call ahead to secure your reservation, especially during peak seasons, as this popular spot fills up quickly. The friendly staff will be happy to assist you with any questions regarding site types, cabin amenities, pet policies, and local attractions to help you plan your perfect Northern Michigan getaway.
Betsie River Campsite is an exceptionally suitable destination for Michigan locals seeking a high-quality, comfortable, and authentic outdoor experience. For Michiganders, its prime location in Frankfort offers convenient access to some of the state's most beloved natural attractions, including the pristine beaches of Lake Michigan and the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This means less time spent traveling and more precious moments immersed in the beauty of our own backyard.
The campground's commitment to exceptional cleanliness, as consistently highlighted by visitors, provides a level of comfort and peace of mind that truly elevates the camping experience. Whether you choose a traditional tent site, an RV spot, or one of their charming "Kamper Kabins," you can expect well-maintained facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, the on-site amenities like the tiny cafe with its outstanding breakfast, the Betsie River access for kayaking, and direct entry to the Betsie Valley Trail offer diverse recreational opportunities right at your fingertips.
This "small family owned" and peacefully run establishment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Michigan's outdoor recreation, providing a serene escape where local families and individuals can create lasting memories, all while enjoying the comforts of a clean and friendly environment. Betsie River Campsite truly offers a slice of Northern Michigan paradise, tailor-made for our state's outdoor enthusiasts.
Betsie River Campsite Photos










Betsie River Campsite Location
Betsie River Campsite
1923 River Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635, USA
Betsie River Campsite Reviews
My first time “glamping” in a cabin. Plenty of outlets, windows and a ceiling fan. Mattresses were ok. Camping space was good. Recommend renting a cabin and an open space next to the cabin for a better experience. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The breakfast was outstanding. Recommend the King sandwich! Most importantly, it was so clean! The restrooms and showers were better than some restaurants.
Jun 29, 2025 · Kelly OneillNice little campground. I enjoyed being able to have pets in the cabin. I thought quiet time was a bit late at 11 pm, but things were quiet before that.
Jun 25, 2025 · Brenda DonahueVery friendly and professional family run owned campground, breakfast was the best, many choices, cabin was very clean and cozy, grand daughters were treated like queens, Would recommend this place 110% ,the only thing I can say is there should be another set of bath house back by the cabins, little far to send two girls by themself, which we didn't
Jun 26, 2025 · Kenneth KaminskiWithout a doubt, my favorite Campground so far! So clean, very kid friendly and nice sized camp sites. We stay in a cute cabin, which had nice newer vinyl floors, a queen bed and even a refrigerator! Not exactly ruffing it 😂 They also have tent sites, "glampers" (super cute) and tents with built in beds ready to go. Beyond the sites, the staff was awesome, there was a convenience store and even a Cafe! Bathrooms were clean and showers were nice (I've seen some scary ones) Less than 5 minutes from Frankfort. We will be back next year!
Aug 09, 2024 · Matt MansfieldStayed here in our camper for 10 days in July , 2024. Great atmosphere, good mix of long term/short term guests, fun vibe. Excellent location right on the bike trail, short ride to Frankfort. Family owned and operated which is evident by the condition of the grounds, care, and attention to detail. Really cool café for breakfast and lots of great items for sale in the camp store. Bathrooms were clean and well kept, never had to wait for a shower. Great experience overall!
Jul 23, 2024 · Dave Mandel
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