Leelanau Pines Campground Introduce
For local adventurers seeking an exceptional "camping near me" experience in the Traverse City region, Leelanau Pines Campground, located at 6500 E Leelanau Pines Dr in Cedar, Michigan, offers a delightful lakeside retreat. This campground has garnered positive reviews for its well-maintained grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and prime location near popular attractions like Leland and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Combining natural beauty with convenient amenities, Leelanau Pines appears to be an ideal choice for families, RV enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the stunning Leelanau Peninsula.
The environment of Leelanau Pines Campground is a significant draw, with multiple reviewers highlighting its lakeside setting. Being "right on the lake" offers campers the opportunity to enjoy picturesque views and potentially engage in water-related activities, although the specific type of lake and available activities aren't detailed in the provided reviews. The presence of a lake typically enhances the camping experience, providing a serene backdrop and opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.
The campground's facilities are consistently praised for their cleanliness and maintenance. One reviewer noted that "the grounds and facilities were clean and well maintained," indicating a commitment to providing a comfortable and pleasant environment for guests. Another camper specifically mentioned that the "facilities were clean," reinforcing this positive aspect. For many campers, clean and well-kept facilities, especially restrooms and showers, are a crucial factor in their overall camping experience.
The staff at Leelanau Pines Campground also receive positive feedback for their helpfulness. One reviewer mentioned that "the staff were helpful," suggesting that guests can expect a welcoming and supportive service during their stay. Friendly and accommodating staff can significantly enhance a camping trip, providing assistance with check-in, information about the area, and addressing any concerns that may arise.
For recreational vehicle (RV) owners, Leelanau Pines Campground appears to be particularly well-suited. One reviewer who stayed at campsite Y mentioned having a "full hook up with 30 amp service," indicating that at least some sites offer essential utilities for RVs. They also noted that their campsite was "level and bigger than most of this state campgrounds campsites," which is a significant advantage for those traveling with larger rigs, providing ample space and ease of setup. Another reviewer recommended the campground "to anyone who has a recreational vehicle and wants to camp in the Traverse City area," further emphasizing its suitability for RV camping.
A unique and memorable feature mentioned by a guest was the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights ("Aurora Borealis") from the "big field at the entrance of their campground." This suggests that the campground offers open areas with minimal light pollution, providing a potential vantage point for viewing this spectacular natural phenomenon, particularly during times of increased solar activity. This could be a significant attraction for those hoping to experience the Northern Lights while camping in Northern Michigan.
The restroom facilities at Leelanau Pines also received positive comments, particularly for their cleanliness and comfort during the cooler months. One October visitor noted that the "bathrooms were clean and heated," which is a significant amenity that enhances comfort during fall camping. They also mentioned having "two bathrooms, with plenty of toilets and urinals with two showers per bathroom and plenty of hot water," indicating that the facilities are well-equipped to handle the needs of campers, even during potentially busier times.
Leelanau Pines Campground also appears to offer promotional incentives, such as discounts for longer stays. One reviewer mentioned staying for five nights and receiving a "30% discount," which was a motivating factor for choosing this campground for their annual fall color tour. This suggests that local users planning an extended camping trip might benefit from inquiring about potential discounts, making it an even more attractive option.
The location of Leelanau Pines Campground is repeatedly highlighted as a major advantage. It is described as being in a "great location, quick drive to Leland and Sleeping Bear Dunes." This proximity allows campers to easily explore the charming town of Leland, known for its historic Fishtown and scenic harbor, as well as the breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. One reviewer mentioned taking "three day trips and walked many of the trails, including some of them around the sleeping bear dunes," further emphasizing the campground's convenient access to these regional attractions. This makes it an excellent basecamp for those wanting to experience the natural and cultural highlights of the Leelanau Peninsula.
It's worth noting that one reviewer estimated that "60% or more of the campsites had seasonal trailers on them." While this suggests a strong sense of community and perhaps a loyal customer base, it also indicates that availability for short-term campers might be influenced by the number of seasonal residents. Therefore, it is advisable for local users interested in staying at Leelanau Pines to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
In summary, Leelanau Pines Campground offers a compelling package for local campers seeking a "camping near me" experience in a beautiful and convenient location. Its key features and benefits include:
- A picturesque lakeside setting, offering scenic views and potential water access.
- Clean and well-maintained grounds and facilities.
- Helpful and friendly staff.
- Campsites with full hookups and ample space, suitable for RVs of various sizes.
- Potential for viewing the Northern Lights from an open field within the campground.
- Clean and heated bathroom facilities with sufficient amenities, even during the fall.
- Possibility of discounts for longer stays, such as the 30% discount mentioned for a five-night stay.
- A prime location with easy access to Leland, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the broader attractions of the Leelanau Peninsula.
- A significant number of seasonal sites, suggesting a popular and established campground.
For local users planning a camping trip in the Traverse City or Leelanau Peninsula area, Leelanau Pines Campground appears to be a highly recommended option. Its combination of natural beauty, convenient amenities, friendly service, and strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. Contact them at (231) 228-5742 or +1 231-228-5742 to inquire about availability and make your reservation for a memorable lakeside camping experience.
Leelanau Pines Campground Photos










Leelanau Pines Campground Location
Leelanau Pines Campground
6500 E Leelanau Pines Dr, Cedar, MI 49621, USA
Leelanau Pines Campground6500 E Leelanau Pines Dr
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Leelanau Pines Campground Reviews
We had a great stay at Leelanau Pines this past fall. The grounds and facilities were clean and well maintained. We really enjoyed being right on the lake and enjoying the views. The park was in a great location, quick drive to Leland and Sleeping Bear Dunes. Will definitely be back!
Apr 29, 2025 · Emily HarkemaMy wife and I recently camped at Leelanau pines, Lakeside camping resort. The facilities were clean, the staff were helpful. We stayed at campsite Y with full hook up with 30 amp service. The campsite was level and bigger than most of this state campgrounds campsites.We were able to watched the northern lights in the big field at the entrance of their campground.It was October bathrooms were clean and heated. They had two bathrooms, with plenty of toilets and urinals with two showers per bathroom and plenty of hot water.We stayed for five nights received a 30% discount one of the reasons why we decided to camp there for our annual fall color tour.We did three day trips and walked many of the trails, including some of them around the sleeping bear dunes. This campground is in a great location.I think 60% or more of the campsites had seasonal trailers on them. We recommended this campground to anyone who has a recreational vehicle and wants to camp in the Traverse City area.
Oct 15, 2024 · John RuttMy honest review. Overall, the place offers a beautiful lake view, with friendly and helpful staff. However, there were issues with an oil substance on the road caused inconvenience to visitors. It would be beneficial for them to offer a discount or close the park temporarily if such issues arise to ensure a better experience for all. As a first time camper this was not a great experience. I had to come home and spend money and time to get this removedI would also recommend clearing a path to chess pieces there was many weeds.
May 24, 2024 · Amber FloresOur family recently stayed at this campground and we couldn't have been more impressed. The facilities were impeccably clean, the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, (especially Griffin and Samuel) and the location was simply breathtaking. We enjoyed peaceful nights under the stars, and our kids had a blast exploring the nearby trails and playgrounds. The amenities were top-notch, from the well-maintained bathrooms to the convenient campfire pits. We will definitely be returning next summer for another memorable adventure. Highly recommended for anyone looking to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort
Jul 09, 2024 · GriffinEnjoyed our stay at Leelanau Pines. Campsite fit our 42' camper wonderfully, it had lots of big trees, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our younger kids loved their organized bingo games, outdoor movie nights, and craft activities.
Sep 12, 2024 · Mindy Zaborowski
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