These days, everyone is searching for the best budget-friendly family vacation ideas. Families want the most bang for their buck, but aren't sure where to start and what to look for when booking a family getaway. We've compiled everything you should consider before booking your budget-friendly travel plans, as well as what's included in a stay at our Michigan camping resort!

Know When to Book Your Vacation
Understanding both when to book your family vacation, as well as what month your family vacation should take place are HUGE factors in determining the overall cost of your trip.
First, booking your family vacation all depends on what deals are available. Most of the time, businesses offer great Black Friday deals, as well as deals during the off-season of their business. For Leelanau Pines, we offer a wide variety of deals all camping season. Plus, the longer you stay, the longer you save!
Now onto when your family vacation should actually take place! Most of the time, summer months tend to be the most expensive time periods for travel. If you're looking for more affordable ways to vacation with family, we recommend looking during the spring, fall, or winter! Although our Michigan campground isn't open during the winter, our most affordable time of year to stay is during our non-peak season (5/10/2025 - 6/14/2025 & 8/27/2025 - 10/19/2025). This time period is the prime opportunity for budget-friendly vacation for families!
The Most Affordable Accommodations
Whether you're booking a hotel, Airbnb, or other accommodation type, every hospitality company has a few options that are the most affordable. With this being said, we recommend browsing every accommodation type to see what the total cost is - but, also keep in mind what your requirements are. For example, a basic hotel room with a queen bed may be the cheapest option, but if you'd be most comfortable in a suite with a separate bedroom with a pull-out couch, booking this option may be the best route to ensure the whole family is comfortable during your vacation.

Cabin Rentals
Leelanau Pines is one of the best campgrounds with cabins in Michigan. Check them out here:
White Pine Cabin
Our White Pine Cabin sleeps up to 8 with a loft, two private bedrooms, a queen bed, a double bed, two twin mattresses in the loft, and a sleeper sofa which sleeps 2. Amenities include a full bathroom, AC/heating, dining area, and a kitchen with refrigerator, sink, 4-burner stovetop & oven, microwave, and coffee maker. Enjoy a porch and an outdoor area with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
Rice Creek Glamping Pod
Wake up within steps from Lake Leelanau and on Rice Creek when you choose this unique, camping experience! You will enjoy this cozy glamping pod with sleeping arrangements for up to 4 with a Queen size bed and a futon. Conveniently located just steps from the bathhouse. This cabin comes equipped with a fire pit and grill, patio, outdoor seating, and electric and potable water access shared between sites.

RV Sites
Are you bringing your rig to our Michigan RV resort? Great choice! Now, all that you have to do is figure out which RV site type fits your RV as well as your needs. Back-in or pull-thru, gravel or paved, the options are endless!
Lakefront Standard RV
Located steps from Lake Leelanau, our Lakefront Standard RV sites sit alongside Lake Leelanau and feature 30 amp electric, water hookups shared between sites, picnic table, and fire ring.
Standard Back-In RV
Our Standard Back-In RV sites feature 30 amp electric (site 67 equipped with 50 amps), water hookups shared between sites, picnic table, and fire ring. Enjoy the basics while taking in the views of Lake Leelanau and the white pines.

Understand What's Included in Your Stay
Here at Leelanau Pines, we have a variety of attractions, activities, and facilities included with your stay!
Included Attractions
From Lake Leelanau access, to a large jumping pillow and sports courts, we have nearly 10 attractions that are completely free to use during your stay! View all of our attractions here - attractions with a green checkmark in the top-right corner are included with a reservation.
Included Activities
All season long, our Michigan campground has scheduled activities for the whole family, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a stress-free family vacation without the hassle of planning things to do!
Included Facilities & Amenities
From laundry services and a fully stocked camp store, our campground in Michigan has a variety of facilities and amenities for your family. Although some facilities may cost a few extra bucks, these services are here for you in case you need it.

The Option for Add-Ons
Although you may be searching for budget-friendly family vacation ideas that won't break the bank, it's also key to note that there may be some opportunities to pay a little more for a fun experience. Resorts or cruises may offer additional excursions for you to choose from, whereas our camping resort has a variety of add-ons to give your family vacation a little extra glam. From kayak and paddleboards to pontoon boat rentals, you'll have the option to add these onto your reservation if you wish. But don't worry if you decide not to invest in one of these add-ons, you'll still have an abundance of fun during your family getaway!
Whether you're cabin or RV camping in Michigan, or are booking a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or another type of vacation destination, we hope these tips & tricks will help you in booking the perfect budget-friendly family vacation.