Buttersville Campground

For Michiganders seeking an unparalleled camping experience that combines stunning natural beauty with a peaceful atmosphere, Buttersville Campground in Ludington is a true standout. Perched above the majestic shores of Lake Michigan, this campground offers breathtaking views and direct access to a pristine beach, making it a dream destination for anyone who loves the big lake. It's a place where the sounds of the waves and the gentle breeze through the trees define your stay, creating a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Many local families and seasoned campers have discovered Buttersville Campground to be one of Michigan's best-kept secrets. Reviewers consistently praise its remarkable cleanliness, quiet environment, and the sheer beauty of its location. The recent upgrades to facilities, including brand-new showers and bathrooms, further enhance the comfort and convenience, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors. If you're looking for a tranquil camping spot with direct access to Lake Michigan's wonders and all the charm of Ludington nearby, Buttersville Campground is waiting to welcome you.

Buttersville Campground is perfectly situated at 991 S Lakeshore Dr, Ludington, MI 49431, USA. This prime location places it directly on the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, offering campers unparalleled views and immediate proximity to one of Michigan's most iconic natural treasures. The campground is nestled on the Buttersville Peninsula, south of downtown Ludington, which allows for a slightly more secluded feel while still being incredibly accessible to all the amenities and attractions of the city.

Access to the stunning Lake Michigan beach is a major highlight, available via approximately 80 steps that lead down from the campground bluff. While this provides a good workout on the way back up, the reward of a super clean and breathtaking beach makes it entirely worthwhile. In addition to Lake Michigan, the campground's location also offers proximity to Pere Marquette Lake, with opportunities for boat launching and different waterfront activities. The convenience of being just a short drive from downtown Ludington means campers can easily access shops, restaurants, the S.S. Badger carferry, and other local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the entire area.

• Camping Sites: Buttersville Campground offers 60 sites, including both electric and non-electric options. These sites are designed to accommodate a primary unit (RV, trailer, pop-up, truck camper, or tent) plus one additional tent. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: A frequently praised feature, the campground provides flush toilets and clean, well-maintained shower facilities. These are noted to be newly updated, ensuring a comfortable experience for all campers.

• Fresh Water Access: Fresh water spigots are located throughout the park, including near the office, pavilion, and play area, ensuring easy access to drinking water.

• Sanitary Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is available on-site for waste disposal.

• Playground: A centrally located playground ensures that children have a fun and safe area to play and burn off energy, making the campground very family-friendly.

• Ice and Firewood Sales: Essential camping supplies like ice and firewood are available for purchase at the office, eliminating the need to leave the campground for these necessities.

• Trash and Recycling: Dumpsters for trash and marked barrels for returnable bottles and cans are conveniently located within the park, promoting cleanliness and responsible waste disposal.

• Wi-Fi Access: While details on coverage strength vary, Wi-Fi access is typically available, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

• Breathtaking Lake Michigan Beach Access: The absolute highlight of Buttersville Campground is its direct access to a "super clean" and "breathtaking" Lake Michigan beach. While there are steps involved, the effort is widely considered "so worth it" for the stunning views and pristine sands.

• Amazing Lake Michigan Views: Many sites and common areas offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan, including the Ludington channel and the iconic Ludington North Breakwater Lighthouse in the distance, providing picturesque sunsets.

• Clean, Quiet, and Not Crowded: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and relatively uncrowded feel, offering a serene escape.

• Brand New Showers and Bathrooms: The recent upgrades to the restroom and shower facilities are a significant advantage, providing modern, super clean, and comfortable amenities.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground readily accessible from all sites and a generally quiet atmosphere, the campground is well-suited for families with children.

• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Buttersville Campground and on the beach, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them, making it ideal for Michiganders traveling with their furry companions.

• Friendly Staff/Management: The management is noted as being very nice and helpful, contributing to a positive and welcoming experience for campers.

• Shaded and Wooded Setting: The campground is set in a densely forested area on a knoll, providing natural shade for many campsites, which is appreciated during warm Michigan summers.

• Proximity to Ludington Attractions: While offering a quiet retreat, the campground is just minutes away from Ludington's vibrant downtown, state park, and other recreational opportunities.

Buttersville Campground, being a Pere Marquette Township Park, offers straightforward and competitive rates for its campsites. For the 2024 season, electric sites were priced at $35 per night, and non-electric sites at $30 per night. Reservations typically begin in mid-March, with a minimum payment (e.g., first 3 nights) plus a reservation fee due at the time of booking. It’s important to note that a "no refunds" policy is usually in place, so careful planning is advised. While the campground may not feature seasonal "promotions" in the commercial sense, its consistent "very good rates" offer inherent value, especially given its prime Lake Michigan location and well-maintained facilities. For the most current pricing, reservation policies, and any specific details on seasonal availability, potential campers are strongly encouraged to visit the Pere Marquette Charter Township Parks website or contact Buttersville Campground directly via phone. Booking well in advance, especially for peak summer dates, is highly recommended due to its popularity.

Address: 991 S Lakeshore Dr, Ludington, MI 49431, USA

Phone: (231) 843-2114

Mobile Phone: +1 231-843-2114

For reservations or any specific inquiries about the campground, including site availability, rules, and current rates, contacting the campground management directly by phone is the best way to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

For Michigan residents, Buttersville Campground offers an ideal opportunity to experience the very best of what our state's natural beauty has to offer, particularly the grandeur of Lake Michigan. Its unparalleled location on the bluffs, providing breathtaking views and direct access to a "super clean" beach, makes it a prime destination for anyone looking to truly connect with the iconic Great Lakes shoreline. The effort to traverse the steps to the beach is consistently deemed "so worth it" by locals who appreciate the unspoiled beauty awaiting them below.

The campground's commitment to cleanliness, especially in its brand-new showers and restrooms, ensures a comfortable and pleasant stay, elevating the typical camping experience. This attention to detail, coupled with a generally quiet and uncrowded atmosphere, allows Michiganders to truly relax and unwind, free from the distractions often found at busier tourist hubs. Families will particularly appreciate the dedicated playground and the welcoming environment for children and even pets, making it easy to bring the entire family along for the adventure.

While there might be some harbor noise, it's generally considered minimal and does not detract from the overall peacefulness. The "very good rates" offered by this township park make it an accessible and affordable option for quality camping in a highly desirable location. Whether it's for a weekend escape to witness stunning Lake Michigan sunsets, a week-long family vacation filled with beach activities, or a peaceful retreat to simply enjoy the quietude of the Michigan woods, Buttersville Campground offers a truly memorable and highly suitable experience for any local looking to embrace the outdoor wonders of our great state.