Michigan’s public and private campgrounds are rolling out more age-friendly upgrades—from paved RV pads to beach wheelchairs—as the state responds to the demand from senior campers, according to officials and resort operators.
From paved pathways to full-hookup RV sites and peaceful, activity-rich environments, campgrounds are increasingly tailored to the preferences of older adults who are returning to or continuing their camping adventures.
“Camping is different when you’re older,” Jeremy Spell told The Oakland Press. Spell is the central reservation system analyst with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Parks and Recreation Division.
“It’s about ease, comfort, and accessibility. And that’s exactly what we’re building into the system,” he added.
While the state hasn’t designed every improvement specifically for older campers, many updates—like paved campsites and roads—have made navigation easier, particularly for those with mobility issues.
Spell notes that these features are “especially good for folks with mobility issues. You’re less likely to trip, and it’s easier to get around.”
The addition of full hookup sites has been a key amenity upgrade.
As Spell points out, “If you’ve got your own bathroom in your RV, you don’t have to use the campground facilities. That’s a huge plus for a lot of seniors.”
Michigan state parks are also adding more ADA-accessible bathrooms, beaches, and beach wheelchairs to create a more inclusive camping environment, The Oakland Press reported.
“We’ve made accessibility a priority,” Spell said. “We’re trying to build an inventory of places that work for everyone.”
Campgrounds like Algonac State Park and Tawas Point State Park have emerged as senior favorites, offering tranquility, riverside or lakeside views, and paved infrastructure that promotes ease of use.
“It’s laid-back and right on the river—people can watch the freighters go by all day,” said Spell of Algonac.
Private RV Resorts Embrace Senior Campers as Long-Stay Guests
For private operators like Indigo Bluffs RV Park & Resort near Empire, Michigan, older guests represent a loyal, long-staying customer base—and their expectations are reshaping design and service delivery.
“Seniors spend more time on the property than younger campers,” said Indigo Bluffs’ Gary Becker. “They want comfort, space, shade — and they want it quiet.”
With proximity to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Indigo Bluffs has emphasized atmosphere and multigenerational hospitality.
“They’re not looking to be near the playground. Or maybe they are. It depends on what they want. That’s what we’re here to support,” Becker told The Oakland Press.
The park’s amenities reflect that flexibility: shuffleboard, cornhole, and a pavilion with over 60 board games and books offer relaxing downtime options that grandparents and grandkids can enjoy together.
“On a rainy day, you’ll see kids coloring, families playing games. It’s downtime with options,” he said.
Extended Stays & Community Integration
Another trend Becker highlighted is the shift toward seasonal-style stays among seniors, with some guests turning their RV sites into cottage-like bases.
“They’re here for a week, maybe three. It’s not just a place to park—it’s a lifestyle,” he explained. These campers may even engage with the local community, from attending town book clubs to exploring regional events.
Atmosphere plays just as critical a role as amenities.
“Camping is a front porch,” said Becker. “You’re looking at who your neighbors are, how people behave, how clean the park is, and how friendly the staff is. Seniors know what they like—and what they want to avoid.”
This sense of intentional travel is mirrored by Spell’s advice to prospective campers.
“Do your homework before you make a reservation,” he said. “Use our online tools. Look at the map. Make sure it’s the right place for you.”
Business Takeaways: Opportunities in Senior-Friendly Design
For campground owners and operators, the insights from Michigan’s evolving landscape offer tangible strategies:
- Prioritize ADA-compliant infrastructure (paved surfaces, accessible restrooms, ramps).
- Promote quiet, comfort-oriented site layouts that cater to longer stays.
- Curate multigenerational amenities like game spaces or shaded communal areas.
- Focus on atmosphere, cleanliness, and friendly service—key to long-term guest satisfaction.
- Support informed travel decisions by improving campground maps, online reservation tools, and clear amenity listings.
- Offer practical RV advice or resources, as many seniors are new to the RV lifestyle. As Becker notes, “Don’t buy a trailer your car can’t tow. You’d be amazed how many people do that.”
The Bottom Line
Senior campers are not simply looking to “rough it”, but are seeking an intentional blend of comfort, nature, and connection. Whether returning to camping after years away or embracing RVing in retirement, they bring with them distinct preferences that are reshaping the outdoor hospitality landscape.
As Michigan’s parks and resorts show, adapting to this shift isn’t just good hospitality—it’s good business.