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Barnes Park Campground (Antrim County Park)
Overview
Barnes Park Campground offers a classic Michigan camping experience tucked away in the northwest corner of the Lower Peninsula. Operated by Antrim County, this park spans over 100 acres of lush, wooded terrain alongside the pristine waters of Grand Traverse Bay. It is widely recognized for its balance of natural beauty and accessibility, providing a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate the Great Lakes landscape. Whether you are looking for a summer beach getaway or a quiet base for fall foliage tours, the park maintains a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy resort towns.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Eastport, Michigan, the park boasts an enviable position between the bay and the rolling hills of Antrim County. The highlight of the location is the expansive sandy beach on Lake Michigan, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water. The surrounding area is characterized by dense hardwood forests and proximity to the famous Chain of Lakes, including the crystal-clear waters of Torch Lake. This geographic diversity allows RVers to transition quickly from dense forest canopy to open shoreline, making it a premier destination for nature lovers.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground is designed to accommodate various camping styles with nearly 190 sites. Most RVers will appreciate the spacious, level campsites that offer 30-amp or 50-amp electrical hookups, while modern bathhouses provide clean restrooms and hot showers. For those traveling with families, the park includes a large modern playground and dedicated picnic areas with grills. While the park maintains a rustic charm, it provides essential conveniences like a dump station and potable water, ensuring that self-contained travelers have everything they need for a comfortable multi-day stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park boundaries, the region is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. A short drive leads to the turquoise waters of Torch Lake, ideal for boating and swimming. Golfers can find several world-class courses nearby, while foodies can explore the local orchards and farm stands that define this part of Michigan. For a day trip, the charming streets of Charlevoix and Elk Rapids offer unique shopping and dining experiences. Hikers and bikers can also take advantage of the various regional trails that wind through the glacial landscape of Northern Michigan.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is an ideal choice for families and nature enthusiasts who prefer a scenic, state-park-style environment over a commercial resort. It is perfect for RVers who enjoy beach access and wooded privacy without sacrificing basic electrical hookups. If you are a traveler looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of Lake Michigan while staying within reach of popular tourist destinations like Traverse City, Barnes Park provides the perfect middle ground. It is best suited for those who value quiet evenings by a campfire and slow mornings watching the waves.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Justin Banks
This campground is really nice, the staff are great and they do a really good job taking care of the place and keeping it clean. They have ice and firewood available. Make sure to bring plenty of fire starter as the wood tends to be a bit on the green side. There is a nice beach here too. The campground is pet friendly but pets are not allowed on the beach which is a plus for me.
Kaley Pray
Great little campground! Lot 60 is huge with a nice little walk down right to lake Michigan! Showers were nice. Not too many rules like some other campgrounds. Firewood was a bit pricey $6.50 for 5-6 pieces of wood. Would definitely come back!
Erin Reisner
The park was very clean and we liked how it was on the smaller side. We were walking distance to the beach and a nice playground. Our campsite had a good amount of space and privacy. Will be camping there again :)
Nickki Spott
We love this campground. Unfortunately, this week we have a neighbor who’s been quite inconsiderate, uneducated, and rude. They played a loud movie outside late at night, disturbing the peace. They also have children—hopefully, those kids will grow up with more awareness and kindness than their parents have shown. They’re staying at Site 4 this week. Best to steer clear of them.
courtney coyle
The sites are nice, shaded with lots of trees. The access point to the beach is really nice as well. Was not a fan of having to pay to shower. I didn’t see that advertised and I’ve never been to a campground that charges you to shower. 50c for 5 minutes of hot water which isn’t a lot but it’s not ideal. There are only 2 bathrooms on site for the entire campground and there were multiple times where we trekked the walk to a bathhouse only for it to be closed for cleaning, and the shower was still dirty after. There is firewood and ice available.
Kayla Smith
We come here every year multiple times a year and travel very far to get to it. It’s something we look forward to every single time. This park is beautiful and I love that it’s right on the water. The showers leave something to be desired but that’s the fun of camping I guess. I also wish dogs were allowed on the beach because we always have to go somewhere else during the day to take our dogs to play. I understand why they’re not allowed however it would just make this campground all the more better.
Madison Cooper
Got one of the off grid camping sites. Site 42 to be exact and all I have to say is I hope you know the people around you because your basically all in the same area. No trees or privacy separating the spots next to you at all. Place is very busy and noise level is pretty high. Overall don't think I'd book it again. Update, they have an overwhelming amount of roaches so be careful packing your stuff up to take home 🤮
Ray Sherman
Campground is affordable and very well maintained. Great location. Loved having beach access to swim and watch the sunset at night. Camping is a little too close together in the woods areas but other than that, the amenities we're great!
Morgan Miller
We needed a place to stay near torch lake and unfortunately only this campground was available. We booked it but before doing so we made sure this place was dog friendly. The man said absolutely we are very dog friendly. We get there and no dogs are allowed on the beach! Our dog loves water and you can't really leave your dog in a hot tent while you go play in the water. Also all they had available were walk in tent sites. NEVER AGAIN!!! Zero privacy we were practically camping on top of our neighbors and I heard our neighbor snore literally all night long! We will most definitely be finding a more accommodating campground next time.
Carl Jones
Beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline is a short walk. Sites may be smaller for some and it can get busy with families. The buildings and grounds were clean and adequate. Most spots have trees. I would recommend it because of the location.