Village Campground - North Manitou Island
4.627 reviews9922 Front Street, Empire, MI, 49630, USA
Village Campground - North Manitou Island
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation Use Fee varies by location and activity. Reservation service fees are $8 if made online, $9 via contact center, and $3 in person. Cancellation fees may apply for late cancellations and modifications.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of North Manitou Island, where The Village Campground offers an intimate retreat with just eight secluded, first-come, first-served campsites. This hidden gem provides the perfect balance of rustic simplicity and natural beauty, featuring shared fire rings for evening gatherings, basic facilities, and easy access to untouched beaches. Here, you'll discover the rare luxury of true solitude, making it the perfect destination for adventurers seeking an authentic, crowd-free camping experience on one of Lake Michigan's most unspoiled islands.
The Village Campground offers primitive camping with first-come, first-served tent sites. RVs, group camping, and glamping accommodations are not supported.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore an island steeped in Michigan's logging heritage. The Village Campground sits amidst echoes of the past, where turn-of-the-century logging operations once thrived and historic cottages still stand as silent witnesses to bygone eras. While these preserved structures remain closed to protect their integrity, their weathered facades tell stories of island life from over a century ago, adding layers of historical intrigue to your camping adventure. Every trail might lead you past remnants of the island's industrious past, creating a unique blend of natural beauty and human history.
Weather and SeasonsThe journey to this island paradise begins with an adventure across Lake Michigan's waters, which can challenge visitors with rolling waves that add to the expedition's excitement. Late spring through early autumn unveils the island at its finest, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. Winter transforms the landscape into a windswept wonderland blanketed in snow, though harsh conditions make it suitable only for the most intrepid cold-weather enthusiasts. The island's exposed location means breezes are constant companions, keeping summer temperatures comfortable while reminding visitors of nature's powerful presence.
ElevationThe campground rests at the gentle elevations characteristic of North Manitou Island's rolling terrain, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape without challenging climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of natural wonders where dense forests give way to stunning Lake Michigan vistas. Ancient apple trees, remnants of former settlements, dot the landscape with unexpected charm, their gnarled branches telling stories of seasons past. The island's diverse ecosystems create an ever-changing canvas of colors and textures, from the deep greens of old-growth forests to the brilliant blues of the Great Lake stretching to the horizon. Beach access reveals pristine shorelines where driftwood sculptures and smooth stones create natural art galleries, while inland trails wind through cathedral-like forests that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, North Manitou Island showcases the dramatic geological history of the Great Lakes region. The island's forests grow atop ancient glacial deposits, while its shores reveal the ongoing sculpture work of Lake Michigan's waves. This protected wilderness offers campers a front-row seat to the natural processes that have shaped Michigan's coastline for millennia, from the towering dunes visible across the water to the island's own varied terrain carved by ice, wind, and water over countless generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is a short hike (approximately 0.5 miles) from the ranger check-in building, which may make it accessible for those who do not wish to hike far. Specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as well-spaced, each offering a distinct feel.
Sites PrivacySites offer some privacy due to spacing, but complete solitude would require hiking further into the island.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 8 for maximum seclusion. Site 1 for proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesSite 8 is mentioned as the most secluded site, while site 1 is closest to the ranger station building.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not applicable for first-come, first-served sites.
Check-out
Not applicable for first-come, first-served sites.
Stay Limit
Two tents and four people per site limit. No duration limit provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two tents and four people per site.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutEight campsites are fairly well spaced out with different feels at each site.
Open and Closed SeasonThe North Manitou Island village and dock are closed for the 2025 season for construction. Potable water is not available during this closure.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the Village Campground is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityVillage Campground is first-come, first-served only.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations may incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees if canceled after 12:00 AM local time the day before the reservation start date. No reservations allowed for Village Campground as it is first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground serves as a starting point for exploring North Manitou Island’s trails, historic sites, and natural attractions. Activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and day trips to Lake Manitou. The island is known for its peaceful and remote setting, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Multiple trails are available, ranging from well-maintained to rugged. Reviewers noted the historical significance of the island, with references to historic cottages from logging days. Lake Manitou is a highly recommended destination for day hikes.Fishing
The lake in the center of the island provides excellent fishing opportunities, including smallmouth bass and perch.Wildlife viewing
The island offers significant opportunities for wildlife observation in its natural, untouched setting.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified. However, the campground may be less accessible in winter due to weather conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are only permitted in the two communal fire rings shared among the eight campsites.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotable water is unavailable during 2025, requiring campers to bring water or treat natural sources. Boat rides to the island can be rough; sensitive individuals may need motion sickness medication.
Active alertsNorth Manitou Island village and dock are closed for the 2025 season due to construction. Potable water is not available during this period.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Empire, MI (nearest population center) has emergency services. Specific details regarding the closest hospital or police station are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned. Campers are advised to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Lake Michigan and proximity to Lake Manitou, a recommended hiking destination.
Common complaintsComplaints include the rough ferry ride and lack of potable water during the 2025 season.
Campground Map
9922 Front Street, Empire, MI, 49630, USA
Driving directionsFrom Traverse City, Michigan, take M-22 to Sutton's Bay. Go west on M-204 from Sutton's Bay towards Leland. Turn north at the junction of M-22 and M-204 to Leland. Take the ferry from Leland to North Manitou Island.
The campground requires ferry access from Leland to North Manitou Island. Personal boat docking is not available, and private boaters must anchor offshore and come ashore in smaller vessels.Nearby supplies
Potable water is unavailable in the village during 2025
campers must bring treated water or treat natural sources. Camping supplies are best procured before arriving on North Manitou Island.
Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Village Campground - North Manitou Island is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the serenity and natural beauty of the Village Campground. The campground is appreciated for its proximity to the ranger station and the ease of access to North Manitou Island’s trails and attractions.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the campground’s quiet environment, accessibility, and proximity to hiking trails. Many appreciated the historical aspects of the island and the ease of access to Lake Manitou.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of potable water on-site and basic amenities like showers were common complaints. Some users noted that solitude seekers might prefer hiking further into the island for camping.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to visit Lake Manitou and bring their own water or water treatment options. Early arrival is recommended to secure one of the eight campsites.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is likely more accessible and enjoyable during the warmer months, as winter conditions on the island are harsh and may restrict access.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The village campground is an easy half-mile hike from the ranger check-in building. There are 8 sites, fairly well spaced out. Site 1 is closest to the village, and 8 the furthest away.' - James...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is noted for being the closest to the village, while Site 8 is the furthest away. Each site reportedly has a unique feel.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences related to pets.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025