Local Attractions - Timberline

Reservations

Discover Greater Benzonia

We may be sparsely populated, but we go for quality not quantity. And the very community in which we are privileged to live was founded on bringing the richness of culture and education to the outermost, untouched reaches of the most beautiful state in the North. So, you and the kids will have plenty to see right here in our intimate community. But, you will be here for the immediate surroundings, we assume. On this page, we can offer but a drop in the Great Lake Michigan where local attractions are concerned. Fishing is such a huge pastime around here that it deserves its own list. Explore, friends. Your Timberline campfire awaits your return.

Swimming

Just follow Michigan Avenue north to Beulah Public Beach on Crystal Lake for a great swimming spot with lots of spots for hungry swimmers to dine. Perfect beaches, swimming-designated and lifeguarded, populate the shores of Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan, all within a few minutes of camp.

Canoeing

Really, the only question is, how far can you paddle? The Betsie River is a canoer’s dream, and there are always the lakes, of course. There’s no shortage of paddle-able water. And the Michigan Avenue thoroughfare is dotted with rental shops for everything you need.

Hiking

Google some images of hiking in the Betsie Valley and see if your hiker’s heart can resist the wanderlust inspired by miles of forested, unpeopled splendor. Emerge from the cover of the wood long enough to stop at fascinating, beautiful landmarks like the Frankfort lighthouse.

Mushrooming

We think mushrooming is a word. We definitely know it’s a thing. In fact, it’s a favorite family summer adventure. May is Mushroom Month in Michigan. Morel mushrooms love the warm and wet and, well, that’s Michigan in the summer.

Golfing

Water sports in our neck of the woods include many water hazards. You can’t swing a 9-iron around here without hitting a championship golf course. There are three inside 10 minutes.

Scenic Day Trips

You don’t have to drive very far to see some of the most beautiful lake country in the Great Lakes. Just head up or down the scenic highway that follows the shore of Lake Michigan and you’ll hit the Betsie River State Game Refuge surrounding the river and Betsie Lake. Investigate the shipwrecks of Green Point Dunes. Have miles of lakeshore to yourself.

Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore

Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

DNR Fish Hatchery

A fish hatchery is a facility where fish eggs are hatched and the fry (baby fish) are raised, mostly to stock lakes, streams, and ponds.

Interlochen Arts Academy

A global destination for artists and arts enthusiasts for nearly a century, Interlochen Center for the Arts empowers emerging artists to transform their passion into purpose, and unleash their capacity as creative changemakers.

Traverse City

Where the road stretches ahead, taking you to endless fall color, lakeside vistas, historic lighthouses, and rolling vineyards.

Little River Casino

There’s a jackpot around every corner.

Dining & Shopping

Experience some of the best restaurants & shopping Benzie county has to offer.

Interlochen State Park

Bass, pike and bluegill can be found in both lakes during the summer months. Smelt and pike are favorites of anglers who like ice fishing.

Tippy Dam State Recreation Area

Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River is a world-class fishing hotspot. It offers year-round fishing opportunities for species such as trout, walleye, steelhead, and salmon.

Orchard Beach State Park

Orchard Beach State Park is situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. A stairway leads from the campground to the beach and self-guided hiking trails are adjacent to the park.