Often, RVing is all about the journey—the open roads, spontaneous detours, and unforgettable pit stops. But every once in a while, the real magic is the destination. A place so special you’ll want to stop and stay for a bit. One such destination is Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor in northern Michigan. Nestled along the sparkling waters of Little Travers Bay, this idyllic campground offers a blend of natural beauty, luxury, and endless opportunities for the entire family.
A Gem of an RV Resort
With spacious RV sites and upscale amenities, Petoskey Bay Harbor captures the charm of the northern Michigan coastline. The area is surrounded by stunning views of Lake Michigan and some of the best outdoor recreation in the Midwest. The campground itself stands out for its well-manicured grounds and resort-style amenities.
The history of the area dates to the 19th century, and the laid-back luxury and quaint small-town feel can still be experienced today. Enjoy afternoons exploring the vibrant downtown and a wide range of activities, followed by quiet evenings by the bay.
Activities and Amenities Galore
Well beyond the “average” campground, Petoskey Bay Harbor offers a long list of activities and amenities designed for a most enjoyable stay. That includes:
- Waterfront fun, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the view. The water’s calm surface is inviting for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
- A heated, resort-style pool and hot tub provide the opportunity to splash around or kick back poolside with a good book to soak up some sun and allow your body and mind to fully relax.
- Pet-friendly dog parks and other areas make the campground welcoming to pets and their companions.
- Stay active with fun sports and games, like pickleball, basketball, horseshoes, and more. They even have a nine-hole putting green to stay in practice. Got kids? There are plenty of activities for them to burn off extra energy when you’re not out exploring. Or meet up in the game room for some fun and laughter.
In addition, you’ll find numerous conveniences onsite, from a welcoming camp store that carries the essentials you need to laundry facilities to a fitness center. You’ll even find a movie theatre.
Plus, the campground provides Wi-Fi and cable TV access, recycling facilities, showers, and more. You can even purchase (and have delivered) firewood for relaxing at your own campsite.
Out and About the Petoskey Area
While there’s plenty to keep you entertained at the campground, the area also has a lot to offer. For instance, stroll through downtown Petosky, including the historic Gaslight District, to discover boutique shops, restaurants, breweries, wineries, and art galleries. Other nearby towns to experience include Charlevoix, Boyne City, and, right across the bay, Harbor Springs.
Nature lovers can find nearby hiking at Petoskey State Park or enjoy beachcombing on the shores of Lake Michigan. You may even come across some Petoskey stones, a unique fossilized coral found in the area.
Just an hour’s drive and ferry ride away, you can visit Mackinac Island, known for its horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, historic sites, and yummy fudge shops. Car-free for over 100 years, this island is a world apart. It won’t take you any time to realize why it’s consistently voted a top summer travel destination.
When Should You Visit?
The beauty of Petoskey Bay Harbor changes with the seasons, and it becomes a winter wonderland with skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. That said, the resort is not open year-round, so to take advantage of the amenities at Petoskey Bay Harbor, you’ll want to plan your visit in the spring, summer, or fall. (Open season is April 25 – October 31 in 2025.)
Visit in the spring to avoid the crowds and watch nature come alive with blooms.
For water sports, the best time to visit is during the summer months. The warm weather makes it an ideal place for swimming, boating, and relaxing in the sun.
Michigan is famous for its fall foliage. Visit during this time of year for a visual feast. You’ll find vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows lighting up the surrounding forests.
Your Next Favorite Destination?
Petoskey Bay Harbor offers everything you could want in an RV destination: stunning scenery, world-class amenities, and easy access to all that Northern Michigan has to offer. Create your own adventure—whether that’s relaxing on the beach or by the pool, strolling through history, enjoying outdoor activities, or catching a movie. Who knows? Petoskey Bay Harbor might just become your next favorite destination.
