1. Refined Travel
  2. Parks Near Me
  3. Michigan
  4. Benzie County
  5. Thompsonville
  6. Parks in Lindy Road
  7. Betsie River Canoes & Campground

Betsie River Canoes & Campground

Betsie River Canoes & Campground 1Betsie River Canoes & Campground 2Betsie River Canoes & Campground 3Betsie River Canoes & Campground 4Betsie River Canoes & Campground 5Betsie River Canoes & Campground 6Betsie River Canoes & Campground 7Betsie River Canoes & Campground 8Betsie River Canoes & Campground 9Betsie River Canoes & Campground 10

Betsie River Canoes & Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (231) 629-0165

Address 13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA

Website http://www.betsierivercanoesandcampground.com/

Hours

Betsie River Canoes & Campground Location & Map

MichiganBenzie CountyThompsonvilleLindy Road

Betsie River Canoes & Campground About

Are you a Michigander yearning for an authentic outdoor adventure, where the serene sounds of nature replace city clamor and endless recreational opportunities await? Look no further than Betsie River Canoes & Campground in Thompsonville, Michigan. This exceptional destination offers more than just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to exploring the stunning natural beauty of Northern Michigan, all while enjoying top-notch amenities and unparalleled hospitality.

Betsie River Canoes & Campground has garnered a reputation for being a meticulously maintained and incredibly welcoming haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the genuine warmth of the owners and staff who go above and beyond to ensure every guest has a comfortable and memorable stay. Whether you're a seasoned camper, an avid paddler, or a family seeking a fun-filled escape, this campground provides the perfect setting for making lasting memories amidst Michigan's breathtaking landscapes.

Location and Accessibility

Betsie River Canoes & Campground is perfectly situated at 13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA. This advantageous location places it directly on the banks of the picturesque Betsie River, offering immediate access to one of Michigan's premier paddling destinations. Thompsonville, a charming community, provides a tranquil backdrop for your outdoor adventures while still being conveniently accessible via well-maintained roads.

One of the most significant advantages of this campground's location is its proximity to a wealth of Northern Michigan attractions. You are just a mere 40 minutes away from the awe-inspiring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a must-visit for its massive freshwater dunes, scenic overlooks, and beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. Equally close is the vibrant city of Traverse City, known for its delectable dining scene, unique shops, microbreweries, wineries, and lively cultural events. This makes Betsie River Canoes & Campground an ideal base for exploring the "northwestern shores, lush forests, and charming beach towns of Michigan," as one satisfied guest enthusiastically pointed out. Whether you're looking for serene river activities, exhilarating off-road adventures, or a taste of urban sophistication, everything is within easy reach from this perfectly positioned campground.

Services Offered

  • Canoe and Kayak Rentals: As the name suggests, the campground specializes in canoe and kayak rentals, providing direct access to the Betsie River for unforgettable paddling trips.
  • River Trips: They offer various river trip options, including shuttle services, to make your paddling experience seamless and enjoyable.
  • Electric Hookups: Campsites are equipped with electricity, providing convenience for RV and tent campers who need power for their devices and appliances.
  • Well-Maintained Restrooms and Showers: Guests consistently praise the immaculate condition of the bathrooms and showers, which are frequently cleaned and even feature high-quality air fresheners, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience.
  • Pet-Friendly Environment: Your four-legged family members are welcome at Betsie River Canoes & Campground, making it easier for the whole family to enjoy the outdoor adventure together.
  • Reasonable Daily Rates: The campground offers competitive and reasonable daily rates, providing excellent value for the extensive amenities and experiences available.
  • Firewood Sales: Conveniently available firewood sales mean you can enjoy cozy campfires without having to bring your own supply.
  • Ice Sales: Ice is available for purchase, essential for keeping your coolers stocked.
  • Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV campers.

Features / Highlights

  • Direct River Access: The campground's prime location directly on the Betsie River is a major highlight, offering immediate opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Extensive ATV and Golf Cart Trails: A unique feature for off-road enthusiasts, the campground provides access to a vast network of trails perfect for ATVs and even golf carts, allowing for exhilarating exploration of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Immaculate Facilities: The exceptional cleanliness and meticulous maintenance of the grounds, bathrooms, and showers are consistently highlighted by visitors as a major draw. As one guest noted, "The facilities are immaculate and meticulously maintained, ensuring that we never once felt uncomfortable during our stay."
  • Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: The owners, including Amy, and the camp host are lauded for their extreme hospitality, helpfulness, and local knowledge, making guests feel truly welcomed and well-informed.
  • Swimming Opportunities: While on the river, there are opportunities for swimming, providing a refreshing way to cool off on warm days.
  • Volleyball Court: A dedicated volleyball court offers a fun activity for campers of all ages.
  • Hiking Trails: Beyond the ATV trails, there are opportunities for hiking, allowing guests to explore the beautiful surrounding forests on foot.
  • Proximity to Key Attractions: Its strategic location offers easy day trips to world-class destinations like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the vibrant city of Traverse City.
  • Peaceful and Scenic Setting: Surrounded by lush forests and the gentle flow of the Betsie River, the campground provides a tranquil and picturesque environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Promotions or Special Offers

To inquire about any current promotions, special offers, or group rates, it is best to contact Betsie River Canoes & Campground directly. They may offer seasonal discounts, package deals for extended stays, or special rates for booking multiple canoe/kayak trips. Checking their official channels or calling them directly will ensure you get the most up-to-date information on any available promotions that can enhance your Northern Michigan adventure.

Contact Information

To book your next outdoor escape or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

Address: 13598 Lindy Rd, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA

Phone: (231) 629-0165

Mobile Phone: +1 231-629-0165

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michiganders seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience, Betsie River Canoes & Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Its location in Thompsonville makes it a convenient drive from many parts of the state, offering an ideal escape without requiring extensive travel. Locals will particularly appreciate being "right on the river," providing immediate access to paddling opportunities on the Betsie River, a beloved natural resource in Michigan. The extensive network of trails for ATVs and golf carts also caters directly to a popular recreational pursuit among Michigan residents, allowing for easy exploration and fun right from their campsite.

The consistent feedback from local visitors highlights the campground's dedication to cleanliness and hospitality, with "Grounds, bathrooms and showers were kept clean" being a recurring sentiment. This commitment to maintaining pristine facilities, even down to the "high-quality air fresheners used in upscale hotels" in the bathrooms, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay that meets the high standards of experienced campers. The friendly and knowledgeable owners and staff, described as "extremely hospitable" and "fantastic," add a personal touch that makes every guest feel welcomed and well-supported, a quality highly valued by those seeking genuine local service. Furthermore, the "reasonable daily rates" combined with the extensive amenities and activities – from kayaking and hiking to swimming and volleyball – offer incredible value for a local getaway. Its strategic position just 40 minutes from both Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City provides an unparalleled opportunity for Michigan residents to easily access and explore some of the state's most iconic destinations. In essence, Betsie River Canoes & Campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and outstanding service, making it an ideal, go-to destination for Michiganders looking for their next memorable outdoor adventure.

Customer Reviews

4.0
97 reviews
R
Rachelle C
May 26, 2025

Great campground. Right on the river and lots of trails to ride ATVs or even your golf carts! Owners were very friendly and extremely hospitable! Grounds, bathrooms and showers were kept clean. Our family will be back!

G
Garrett Moots
Jul 23, 2024

My friend and I recently spent four days and three nights at this campground, and it was an absolutely excellent experience from start to finish. The facilities are immaculate and meticulously maintained, ensuring that we never once felt uncomfortable during our stay. The bathrooms, in particular, were a highlight – each one equipped with the same high-quality air fresheners used in upscale hotels, leaving them smelling fresh and clean at all times. The campground offers electricity on-site and is pet-friendly, which made our stay even more convenient and enjoyable. The daily rates are quite reasonable, providing great value for the extensive amenities and activities available. There's no shortage of things to do: from kayaking, canoeing, and hiking to swimming and playing volleyball. The owner, Amy, and the camp host (whose name escapes me, but he was incredibly friendly and helpful) are both fantastic. They made us feel welcomed and were extremely knowledgeable about the local area, offering great tips and insights. The campground's location is also worth highlighting. It’s perfectly situated just 40 minutes from both Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City, making it an ideal base for exploring the northwestern shores, lush forests, and charming beach towns of Michigan. We will definitely be returning next year, as this campground has set a new standard for our outdoor adventures.

r
rebecca
Aug 05, 2024

We stayed at the two group sites and had the most amazing time with our friends! There was so much space and the sites were set up perfectly for us. We did several rounds of disc-golf and went kayaking down the river. We had an absolutely amazing time and would definitely recommend this campground to anyone! Amy and Ryan take great care of their guests and were very attentive when we had any questions or needed some help setting things up. Wonderful people and a wonderful place!!

W
West Michigan Wild Boys
Aug 26, 2024

Amazing owners, great place to be! Excellent kayaking experience! Highly recommend! We brought our hockey team (13 of us) and they were super accommodating! πŸ‘Œ we will definitely be back next year!

B
Bryan Pitsch
Jul 31, 2024

Nice, clean campground. We camped here over the weekend on site 14. Nice open site with just enough trees for a couple hammocks. We hit the dirt bike trails right off the back of the campground, which was very convenient. Kayak trip down the river was a blast, especially the swim hole by the old train trussel. We will be back!