Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Betsie River Canoes & Campground
★4.9(103 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 2 to 4 hours depending on which river trip you choose. The shorter trips are perfect for families with younger children.👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Children who can sit still in a boat for extended periods will enjoy this most, though younger kids can ride as passengers in canoes with adults. Older kids (10+) may be ready to paddle their own kayaks with supervision. The calm, shallow river makes this an excellent choice for families new to paddling.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Betsie River Canoes & Campground offers families an unforgettable paddling adventure on one of Michigan's most beautiful and gentle rivers. With crystal-clear waters, sandy bottoms perfect for wading, and calm currents ideal for beginners, this outfitter makes it easy for families to experience the magic of canoeing or kayaking together. The friendly staff provides all the gear and shuttle service, so parents can focus on creating memories while floating through stunning natural scenery.
Highlights
- ✓Floating down the crystal-clear, calm Betsie River with sandy bottoms perfect for wading
- ✓Spotting wildlife like turtles, fish, herons, and occasionally deer along the riverbanks
- ✓Stopping at sandbars for picnic breaks, swimming, and sandcastle building
- ✓Family-friendly camping facilities for extending your outdoor adventure
- ✓Friendly, helpful staff who make first-time paddlers feel confident and safe
Pro Tips
- 1.Book your trip early in the day (morning launches) to avoid afternoon crowds and have a more peaceful experience on the river.
- 2.Bring water shoes for everyone since you'll likely get in and out of the boat, and the sandy river bottom is perfect for wading.
- 3.Pack snacks and drinks in a waterproof dry bag. The outfitter provides dry bags, but bringing extra ziplock bags for phones and valuables is smart.
- 4.Apply sunscreen before you go and bring more. The sun reflects off the water and you'll get more exposure than you expect.
- 5.Consider camping onsite to make it a full weekend adventure. Kids love the combination of paddling during the day and camping at night.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best water levels and weather. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds. July and August have the warmest water temperatures, perfect for kids who want to swim and splash, while June offers beautiful scenery with fewer people.
What to Know
All equipment, including life jackets and paddles, is provided in the rental cost (moderate pricing at $$). Shuttle service to and from the river is included. Limited snacks available onsite, so bring your own food and plenty of water. Life jackets are required for children and provided in all sizes.
Seasonal Notes
Open seasonally from late spring through early fall, typically May through September, depending on weather and water conditions. Peak season is July and August when water is warmest. Early season (May/June) may have cooler water but offers excellent wildlife viewing and wildflowers. Call ahead in shoulder seasons to confirm operating hours.
Follow Betsie River Canoes & Campground
Nearby Eats
Stop at the Roadhouse Mexican Bar & Grill in nearby Beulah (about 15 minutes away) for family-friendly tacos and burritos. The Cherry Hut in Beulah is also perfect for post-paddling treats with their famous cherry pie and kid-friendly diner menu.
More Activities Near Thompsonville
Adventure
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry
★4.7$$❤️175
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry whisks families on an exciting 16-minute boat ride to the car-free Mackinac Island, where kids can experience a bygone era with horse-drawn carriages, unlimited fudge samples, and exploring a real 18th-century fort. The ferry ride itself is an adventure, with indoor and outdoor seating options and stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac that keep children entertained from shore to shore.
Theater
Michigan Legacy Art Park
★4.6$❤️203
Michigan Legacy Art Park offers a unique blend of art and nature with over 50 large-scale sculptures spread along forested trails in Northern Michigan. This outdoor museum lets kids explore contemporary art installations while hiking through beautiful woodlands, turning a typical museum visit into an adventurous treasure hunt where creativity meets the outdoors.
Entertainment
Pirate's Point Adventure Golf
★4.6$$❤️40
Set sail for swashbuckling fun at Pirate's Point Adventure Golf, where themed mini golf meets high-seas adventure! This elaborately designed 18-hole course features cascading waterfalls, pirate ship obstacles, and treasure-themed challenges that keep kids engaged from the first hole to the last. With its impressive 4.6-star rating and affordable pricing, it's a perfect choice for family game night out or a fun afternoon activity in the Westland area.
Cafe
Cherry Republic - Glen Arbor
★4.2$$❤️10
Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor is a delightful destination where families can sample and shop for everything cherry imaginable, from chocolate-covered treats to cherry salsa. Kids love the bright, playful atmosphere, generous sampling stations, and the chance to try unique cherry ice cream flavors, while parents appreciate the quality local products and fun gift options that make great souvenirs from northern Michigan.