Used To Be Timber Shores Campground

For many Michiganders, the name "Timber Shores Campground" evokes a wave of cherished memories. Tucked away in the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula, near the picturesque town of Northport, this was once a vibrant hub of family fun, laughter, and quintessential Michigan summer vacations. While the campground as many knew it is no longer operational in its traditional form, its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who experienced its magic. This article aims to honor those memories, provide context on the site's journey, and highlight why this particular piece of Michigan land holds such a special place for local residents.

Used To Be Timber Shores Campground was, in its heyday, a destination that captured the essence of a perfect Michigan getaway. It was a place where generations made lasting memories, from lakeside strolls to evening activities that brought families together. The spirit of those times, the sense of community, and the connection to the stunning natural environment of Northern Michigan are what truly defined Timber Shores for countless campers. It served as a testament to the simple joys of camping and the profound impact a well-loved place can have on individuals and families.

The site of the Used To Be Timber Shores Campground is located in Northport, Michigan, specifically at 20950 Dubose Rd, Summerdale, AL 36580, USA. This Northport address, nestled within the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including the pristine waters of Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan, rolling orchards, and charming small towns. The location itself was a significant part of the campground's appeal, offering easy access to the region's abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.

The Leelanau Peninsula is a popular destination for Michiganders, accessible via well-maintained state highways such as M-22, which offers a picturesque drive along the coastline. While the campground itself is no longer active for public camping as it once was, its former location was ideal for exploring Northport's quaint shops and eateries, visiting nearby wineries, enjoying the beaches, or venturing further south to Traverse City. Its positioning allowed for a sense of escape while still being conveniently connected to the amenities and attractions of Northern Michigan. For those reminiscing about past visits, the drive to Northport remains a journey through Michigan's most beautiful landscapes, bringing back memories of anticipation and relaxation.

Based on the fond recollections of past campers, the appeal of Used To Be Timber Shores Campground lay in its family-friendly atmosphere and the array of activities and conveniences it offered. While the specific details of all historical services are not extensively documented in public records, the reviews provide a glimpse into what made it a beloved spot.

• Kids Movies: A highlight for many younger campers, evening movies provided entertainment and a communal gathering point for families after a day of outdoor activities.
• Hayrides: These traditional, fun-filled excursions were a quintessential campground activity, creating cherished memories for children and adults alike.
• Camp Store: The presence of a convenient store, particularly one "by the lake" where children could get candy, suggests it offered basic necessities and treats, adding to the overall camping experience.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The overarching theme from reviews indicates a focus on creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for families, emphasizing fun and togetherness.
• Camping Sites: Historically, it would have offered various camping options, likely including sites for tents and RVs, equipped with necessary hookups to accommodate different camping styles.
• Lake Access: Given its location and the mention of a store "by the lake," it's highly probable that direct or very convenient access to Grand Traverse Bay was a major feature, allowing for swimming, boating, and other water activities.

The true highlights of Used To Be Timber Shores Campground, as remembered by those who experienced it, extended beyond mere amenities to encompass the feeling and atmosphere it cultivated. It was a place that fostered connection, both with nature and with loved ones.

• Nostalgic Family Fun: The recurring theme in reviews is the "fantastic place" it was, providing "a bunch of fun with my family." This underscores its success as a multi-generational vacation spot.
• Kids' Activities: The specific mention of "kids movies and hayrides" highlights a commitment to engaging younger visitors, creating lasting positive childhood memories.
• Sense of Community: Campgrounds often foster a unique sense of camaraderie among campers, and the fond recollections suggest Timber Shores successfully cultivated this feeling.
• Picturesque Northern Michigan Setting: Located in Northport, the natural beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula and Grand Traverse Bay was an undeniable draw, offering stunning scenery and outdoor opportunities.
• Proximity to Northport Village: Campers could easily access the charm of Northport, with its local businesses, enhancing the overall vacation experience.
• A Beloved Local Institution: For many Michiganders, Timber Shores was more than just a campground; it was a cherished tradition and a significant part of their personal and family history.

As the "Used To Be Timber Shores Campground" is no longer operating as a public campground in its traditional sense, there is no direct contact information for public camping reservations. The address associated with the former site is: Northport, MI 49670, USA. While redevelopment efforts and land transfers have occurred, changing the future use of this property, this address indicates the geographic area of the beloved former campground.

For those interested in the ongoing developments of this specific site, it is advisable to consult local government websites for Leelanau Township and news sources pertaining to Northport and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, as they are now involved in the stewardship and future of this significant land.

While the Used To Be Timber Shores Campground is no longer open for camping, its profound suitability for locals, particularly Michiganders, is a story rooted in its history and the aspirations for its future. For many growing up in Michigan, Timber Shores was synonymous with summer. It was a local landmark, a convenient and beloved destination that didn't require extensive travel, allowing families to maximize their precious vacation time close to home, yet feeling miles away from the everyday hustle. The direct testimonials of Michiganders who "remember camping at Timber Shores when I was a little girl" and had "fantastic" times with their families perfectly illustrate its deeply embedded role in local culture and leisure.

The site's strategic location in Northport, within the captivating Leelanau Peninsula, meant easy access for residents across Michigan, offering a stunning backdrop of natural beauty that is uniquely ours. It fostered a sense of community and provided wholesome, memorable activities that resonated with Michigan values—simplicity, outdoor enjoyment, and family togetherness. The collective memory of hayrides, kids' movies, and getting candy at the lakefront store paints a picture of an idyllic, accessible escape that truly served the local population.

In recent developments, the former Timber Shores site has undergone significant changes. The land, recognized as ancestral tribal land (Mashkiigaki, meaning marsh lands and place of the medicine), has been acquired by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in partnership with local nonprofits like New Community Vision. The vision for this site is now focused on preservation and restoration as a nature preserve, with some areas potentially becoming accessible for hiking and birdwatching. While this means the traditional campground experience is not returning, this new chapter ensures that this cherished land will continue to be a valuable resource for Michiganders, offering different forms of connection to its natural splendor. The legacy of family fun and connection to this beautiful Michigan landscape will continue, albeit in a transformed capacity, ensuring this special place remains suitable and beneficial for generations of locals to come.

You can see a public hearing regarding the proposed Timber Shores Family RV Camping & Beach Resort from 2023 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-A1BWq0n9U).

Used To Be Timber Shores Campground

Northport, MI 49670, USA