Betsie River Canoes & Campground

For Michiganders searching for the quintessential Up North camping experience, Betsie River Canoes & Campground in Thompsonville is a hidden gem that promises a memorable and genuine outdoor escape. This isn't your typical crowded RV park with concrete pads; it's a family-owned and operated campground that embraces a quiet, calm, and friendly atmosphere. Nestled right on the banks of the scenic Betsie River, this spot is an ideal basecamp for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. The owners, Ryan and Amy, along with their manager, are known for their exceptional hospitality and their genuine care for every guest's experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel a sense of peace and a welcoming community. The campground is designed to be a comfortable retreat where you can relax by a crackling fire and unwind, but also to be a springboard for all your local adventures. Its blend of serene surroundings and convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities makes it a top choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Betsie River Canoes & Campground is perfectly situated at 13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA. Its location provides the best of both worlds: a secluded, natural setting with easy access to the region's main attractions. While it feels a bit out of the way, it's conveniently close to major roads, making it a quick and stress-free drive from various parts of the state. The campground is also just a short distance from the charming towns of Frankfort and Elberta, offering access to local restaurants, shops, and the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan. For those looking for local exploration, the campground is a perfect hub. It's close to popular destinations like Crystal Mountain Resort and the world-renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The campground is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance to ensure that all visitors can easily get on and off the grounds and enjoy their stay. This thoughtful approach to accessibility ensures that everyone has the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Betsie River Canoes & Campground is dedicated to providing a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience with a variety of site options and services.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a range of camping experiences to suit every preference. You can choose from electric sites, perfect for RV campers who want the convenience of power hookups, or go for rustic sites for a more traditional, primitive camping experience. The campground accommodates both tents and RVs, with most sites having room for a tent or a camper, along with a vehicle and a boat.

• RV Hookups: For RV campers, the park provides RV camping and RV electric hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay with access to power. Many of the sites are large and can accommodate various sizes of campers, making it a flexible option for RVers.

• Clean Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities. The grounds, bathrooms, and showers are all well-maintained. The presence of hot showers is a particularly valued amenity after a long day of outdoor activities, offering a refreshing end to your day. The campground also features a fish cleaning station for anglers.

• Pet-Friendly: Betsie River Canoes & Campground is a welcoming place for your furry companions. The policy of "dogs allowed" means you can bring your pets along to enjoy the outdoor adventure with you. This is a huge bonus for pet owners who want to share their love of camping with their dogs.

• On-Site Parking: On-site parking is available for all guests, providing convenience and security. You can park your car directly at your site, which makes unloading and loading gear a breeze and gives you easy access to your vehicle throughout your stay.

The unique features and on-site activities are what make Betsie River Canoes & Campground an exceptional choice for your next getaway.

• Direct River Access & Outfitters: A key highlight of this campground is its location right on the Betsie River, which is a designated Scenic and Wildlife Area. While the campground itself may not have direct access from every site, the owner also operates a canoe, kayak, and tube rental business, making it incredibly easy to get out on the water. The river is known as a scenic, winding waterway that is great for paddling and is home to salmon and steelhead trout, attracting anglers from all over. The owner’s knowledge and friendly service are a major part of the experience.

• ATV and Golf Cart Riding: The campground offers access to a network of trails for ATVs and even golf carts, a popular activity with visitors. There are hundreds of acres of nearby state forest land that you can access, making it a fantastic destination for off-road enthusiasts. This feature provides an exciting way to explore the beautiful wooded areas surrounding the campground.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground is noted for being "good for kids." It has a small playground for children to enjoy, and the safe, peaceful environment is perfect for families. The on-site camp store and a tiny cafe offer snacks, ice cream, and homemade breakfast, which are a major hit with both kids and adults.

• On-Site Cafe and Store: A standout feature is the on-site camp store and a tiny cafe. The store is stocked with local goods, snacks, and camping necessities like firewood and ice. The cafe offers a delicious menu with homemade biscuits and local coffee, making mornings a treat. This added convenience means you don't have to leave the campground for a great breakfast.

• Proximity to Betsie Valley Trail: Just a short distance from the campground, you can access the Betsie Valley Trail, a scenic route perfect for walking and biking. A three-mile adventure on the trail can lead you to ice cream shops, beautiful beaches, and local boutiques, providing a perfect blend of outdoor activity and local exploration.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact the campground directly.

Address: 13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA

Phone: (231) 629-0165

What truly makes Betsie River Canoes & Campground a top choice for your next trip is the combination of its serene natural setting and the exceptional hospitality of its owners. This is not a generic, impersonal campground; it's a place where you are made to feel like part of the family. The friendly and helpful staff are consistently praised by guests, and their dedication to ensuring a great experience is a huge reason for repeat visits. The direct connection to the Betsie River, a designated scenic and wildlife area, provides a unique and valuable opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing right from the campground. The fact that they offer their own outfitting services for river trips is an added convenience that simplifies the planning process for an aquatic adventure.

Furthermore, the campground offers a diverse range of on-site and nearby activities, from ATV riding on state trails to biking on the Betsie Valley Trail. The clean, well-maintained facilities, including the bathrooms and showers, ensure a comfortable stay for all campers. The on-site cafe and store are a welcome convenience, providing delicious food and essential supplies. While it’s "good for kids," it also caters to a quiet and calm atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking a more tranquil experience. In a region filled with outdoor options, Betsie River Canoes & Campground stands out for its personalized service, beautiful location, and a perfect blend of peaceful relaxation and exciting adventure. It is an ideal basecamp for exploring all the wonders that Northern Michigan has to offer, and its welcoming community spirit will have you wanting to return year after year.

Betsie River Canoes & Campground

13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA