Platte River State Forest Campground

Platte River State Forest Campground offers families an authentic Michigan wilderness experience where kids can disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. Set along the scenic Platte River near Lake Michigan, this rustic camping area provides the perfect base camp for families who want to explore hiking trails, spot wildlife like deer and bald eagles, and teach children essential outdoor skills in a beautiful natural setting.

• ✓Hiking trails through diverse forest ecosystems perfect for nature scavenger hunts
• ✓Wildlife observation opportunities including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species
• ✓Access to the Platte River for wading and exploration
• ✓Stargazing with minimal light pollution on clear nights
• ✓Teaching kids camping skills like fire building and outdoor cooking

1. 1.Bring bug spray and long sleeves for evenings, as mosquitoes can be active near the river especially in summer months.
2. 2.Pack all your own supplies including firewood, as this is a primitive camping area with no camp store nearby.
3. 3.Download offline maps before arrival since cell service can be spotty in the state forest.
4. 4.Arrive early on Friday afternoons during peak summer to claim the best riverside campsites.
5. 5.Bring bikes for kids, as the forest roads make excellent family biking routes with minimal traffic.

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best weather for camping with kids. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. September is ideal for families wanting beautiful fall colors, fewer bugs, and cooler temperatures for hiking.

This is a rustic, primitive campground with vault toilets and no showers or electric hookups, so come prepared with camping gear and supplies. Camping is free but requires a Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry ($12 for residents, $34 for non-residents).

Best visited from late spring through fall (May to October). The campground is technically open year-round but winter camping requires advanced skills and equipment. Fall offers spectacular color changes and fewer insects. Spring can be muddy but brings wildflowers and migrating birds.

Head to Beulah (about 15 minutes away) for family meals at the Cherry Hut for their famous cherry pie and comfort food, or grab pizza and ice cream at L'Chayim Delicatessen before heading back to camp.