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The best camping in Michigan

Name: Michigan
Address: Michigan
Rating: 4.8325000000000005

When it comes to natural attractions, Michigan holds all the aces. This landlocked state has more state parks and state forests than any other, miles of coastline, and more than 10,000 lakes—which means you’ll never be more than six miles from the water. Some of the best camping is found on the beaches and islands of the Great Lakes, so plan a summer getaway to swim, fish, and kayak, or a fall camping trip to admire Michigan’s spectacular foliage. Winter is best suited for RV camping, with snow blanketing much of the state from November through March.

97% (16.1K) • 25,535 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Michigan

Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

1. Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

98%

(188)

Manistique, MI · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Beautiful campground located on the Westshore of Indian Lake in Manistique, MI near Big Springs ( Kitch-iti-kipi), Hiawatha National Forest and many ATV/Snowmobile trails.

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Full hookups

Blooming Bus Farms

2. Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(449)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Blooming Bus farms is a working urban flower, vegetable and fiber farm practicing sustainable, organic, natural farming practices. Spread out over 15 acres, upon completion, you’ll find 4 yurt sites and 3 byo tent sites. Working hard contributing to our compost are our alpaca and free range chickens. While this is a working farm, we try to not run any equipment before 10:00am! Inquire about reserving the entire property to host your group getaway!

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Million $ Sunset Camp

3. Million $ Sunset Camp

96%

(475)

Harbor Springs, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Pitch your tent and listen to the waves of Sturgeon Bay on Lake Michigan. Fantastic Sunsets. Located half way between Harbor Springs and Mackinaw City. Walking distance to famous Legs Inn in Cross Village, MI. The property currently includes 8 campsites with a board walk on the east portion of the Lake side portion of the property to access the Lake MI Beach.

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Huron-Manistee National Forests

4. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(29)

National forest in Michigan · 938 sites

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

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Isle Royale National Park

5. Isle Royale National Park

93%

(35)

National park in Michigan · 168 sites

Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.

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Showers

Lakeside Get Away

6. Lakeside Get Away

Charlevoix, MI · 1 site

If you don't feel like driving your camper up north or you want the camping experience without owning a trailer, this is the opportunity for you. This Lakeside Get Away is close to many hiking trails, several Lake Michigan beaches, Wineries and the harbor town of Charlevoix with its many shops and festivals. For biking enthusiasts the Little Traverse Wheel Way bike trail can be accessed just down the road. A visit to Petoskey is a must; only 12 miles away is another harbor town boasting many shops and restaurants. Set up on a large private grassy lot surrounded by woods facing Susan Lake. This 30 ft travel trailer is fully equipped and ready for your vacationing adventure. It is best suited for a couple or single with a queen sized bed, couch, 2 recliners, kitchen table and chairs. The kitchen is completely stocked with utensils, dishes, pots/pans, coffee maker, air fryer, microwave, stove and frig. Towels, sheets and pillows are provided. A large fire ring overlooking the lake is included. Bring your own firewood. The lake is accessible right in front of the trailer or 200yrds away at the public boat launch. The lake is great for kayaking. NOTE: Beware of the 3ft drop off in front of the trailer. There are stairs down to the fireplace on either side of the gravel in front of the trailer.

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Showers

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Pickerel Lakeside Campground and Cottages

7. Pickerel Lakeside Campground and Cottages

75%

(4)

Bitely, MI · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pickerel Lakeside Campground and Cottages offers a fantastic getaway for relaxing family vacations. Campground offers 26 lakefront, 15 spacious pull-through lake view and 4 rustic sites. Our "just like home" cottages are fully modern, spacious, neat and squeaky clean. Sliding glass doors overlook the lake and wooded settings. Each has fully modern bath and kitchen facilities, living/dining rooms with comfortable furnishings, private bedrooms, air conditioning, ceiling and/or floor fans, television, picnic table, fire pit and charcoal grill. There is also a swimming area, boat launch and dock usage. Everything you need to feel right at home! Fun family activities may include boating, fishing, swimming, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, hiking and biking. There is also a covered lakefront pavilion with electric and a fish cleaning station to clean your day's catch. Over 35 wooded acres and over 700 feet of Pickerel Lake frontage is the setting for our quiet, family orientated campground. Get back to nature while you sleep under the stars and wake to fresh air, warm breezes and birds singing. You may find yourself picking up a new hobby – studying our great Michigan wildlife or locating constellations in the star-filled sky! Our 45 site campground with level lakefront, pull-thru and rustic sites, has 20/30/50 amp electric, fire ring and picnic table on each site. There is a disposal station, centralized water, and extremely clean outhouses. We do not have flush toilets or showers. We have an expansive 700 feet of lake frontage with grassy beach, buoyed swimming area, covered lakefront pavilion, boat launch, beach volleyball, basketball, horseshoes and walking trails.

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Electrical hookup

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Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

8. Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(167)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

40 acre secluded wood lot providing tent, RV, and cabin camping. 10 miles from Lake Michigan public beaches. 5 miles from Michigan’s Adventure amusement park. 4 miles from Thunderbird Raceway 2 miles from US 31 expressway. 3 miles from shopping, bars and restaurants. 1 mile from public golf course. 5 miles from downtown Muskegon. 8 miles from Lake Express cross lake ferry terminal. 10 miles from Winter Sports Complex at Muskegon State Park Firewood provided

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Camp Moonshadow

9. Camp Moonshadow

99%

(621)

Honor, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 -24 ft- 20 Amp service Only!!! The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. 20 amp Electricity and Water is included in the RV site.

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Electrical hookup

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Hiawatha National Forest

10. Hiawatha National Forest

92%

(32)

National forest in Michigan · 513 sites

This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.

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Electrical hookup

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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

11. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

100%

(61)

National park in Michigan · 211 sites

Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.

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Electrical hookup

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Ludington State Park

12. Ludington State Park

100%

(30)

State park in Michigan · 373 sites

Take a beach break at two lakes in one at this sandy state park.

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Electrical hookup

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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

13. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

94%

(41)

National park in Michigan · 65 sites

Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.

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Picnic table

B Mo's Hideout

14. B Mo's Hideout

99%

(170)

Columbiaville, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

42 private acres for day use or tent camping. This is a clothing optional green space, walk the trails, play horse shoes bean bag toss or just sit back and relax. It's a great place to hang a hammock and chill or explore the woods, pick wild strawberries early summer raspberries mid summer and blueberries mid summer. Can accommodate small pop up trailers less than 20ft. Check in times may very. Car campers welcome.

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Superior Times Resort & Campground

15. Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%

(457)

Au Train, MI · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

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Mr. Joe's Campground

16. Mr. Joe's Campground

100%

(50)

Interlochen, MI · 24 sites · Tents, RVs

Want to feel like you’re out of the city and nestled up in the woods? Come to Mr. Joe’s Campground. All sites back in the woods are 50-100 feet away from the next. Thick woods, playground, full 18-hole disc golf course, and beautiful trees. Minutes from dozens of beautiful lakes, golf courses, Sand Dune‘s, light houses, vineyards, or maybe you would prefer to just sit around the fire, and tell stories and laugh. Duck Lake, Green Lake, Silver Lake, Long Lake, Lake Ann, Lake Dubonet are minutes away. Interlochen Golf Course right down the road. Bradleys, Dilbert's, Hofbrau, and Oakys are great restaurants within 3 miles.

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Northern Oasis Camping

17. Northern Oasis Camping

97%

(181)

Negaunee, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We are 7 miles from downtown Marquette, 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! There is guest internet but its patchy in camping area-better closer to the house and large firepit area There is a charcoal grill near communal firepit area. We are near 2 river basins(McClure Basin and Dead River Basin) for fishing, swimming and boating ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a couple more private wooded sites. There are at least two areas for small campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks.. There is a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. We have nice fire wood available on site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is a "port-a-john" on site- extra TP is kept in red shed hanging on nail in a bag. Please let us know if this needs attention.

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Art Farm Fennville

18. Art Farm Fennville

94%

(156)

Fennville, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Fabulous Fennville Quiet end of the road property-Birders, Stargazing, Foraging. Workshops Seasonally thru Art duJour.org Birds abound. Migrating Sandhills through May. Bees abuzz and the milkweed full of Monarchs. The sultry evening air lengthens the day until the fire flies remind us to stop and enjoy the night-lite show. It’s an authentic slice of nature with a pond backdrop and a perch atop of a slope side forest. Enjoy a sunset stretch on a yoga mat in the near by Gazebo. Watch the morning sun creep over the pond with a cup of artisan crafted coffee roasted on site. Private yet so close to Saugatuck (10min) Douglas (5min) and Fennville. Cannabis friendly local musicians sometimes join us for fire pit impromptu when stars align. We’ve set aside a slice of Art Farm Fennville for quiet contemplation. 24 hrs access to the restroom and the shower. Communal kitchen space of the Art barn has toaster oven, electric tea kettle, mini fridge, rice cooker, grill and bbq. Basic condiments on table. You will find a no-mow pastural setting of permaculture principles with paths to explore. Bee hives. Ponds to fish. There's no spray gardens with walking path for exploring, birdwatching and spying shooting stars with no light pollution. We love to foodgeek-as we locavore the best of our neighboring farms offerings with a pop-up artisan goods CSA weekly featuring coffee beans artisan roast /grind/ french press right here on site. Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans in the a.m and firefly good-nights! Perfect for Bike Trekkers, Road Touring groups and nature seekers, this end of the road private space is 20 acres of gardens and ponds. The two large barns host art workshops and events. Bicycle storage and tools available for use. The welded sculpture is the work of Christine and painted steel work by the late Terry Thomas. The Saugatuck Interurban comes to our doorstep and takes you into Saugatuck and Douglas, load your bike upon the rack and for a buck you're car free. Lake Michigan is a few miles away. Your host is onsite. Headlamps encouraged. Proper footwear, if exploring..there is some poison ivy. Bugs birds and no AC... It's camping, in nature. We host pop up's thru October. Care to inquire about art offerings? Care to host an event? It's possible...

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Restful Camping Retreat

19. Restful Camping Retreat

98%

(73)

Marcellus, MI · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread Campground. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of breathtaking scenic spots. We are an alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and have a weight limit of 50 pounds for our camping (tent/camper) guests. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you! Our goal to provide a peaceful, quiet ambiance for all our guests and so we don’t allow loud music and we require adherence of our quiet hours from 10pm to 10 am. If you’re using a generator, please run it during the day until 10pm, so that it’s not running all through the night.

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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

20. Shivering Timbers Family Campground

100%

(57)

Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Shivering Timbers Family Campground, the closest private camp to Tahquamenon Falls (3 miles) and 15 minutes from Two Hearted River Trailhead and Crisp Point lighthouse access. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, access to water spigot, and portable toilets. We offer 4 primitive tent/van/small RVs to park on spacious sites in private spots surrounded by state land. Our boys sell firewood, delivered to your site! We can be your headquarters for all attractions that will make your stay enjoyable. Located only 5 minutes from Lower Falls State Park, 10 minutes from Upper Falls, we have a variety of trails, river access and lakes to get you going on a nice hike or a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Rustic it may be but the use of quiet generators are allowed and we are pet friendly. We have a community field with games and a fire pit to use. Self-contained trailers are welcome (no hookups yet). Steps from snowmobile trails and near Lake Superior (10 miles), Star gazing, rock hunting or bird watching are all ideal for family fun or quiet escapes. Showers and RV amenities are available at the state park (3 miles). Check back for new sites and book now for a much needed U.P. adventure!

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

2 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Camp Moonshadow

The tent sites were nice and separate from other groups. The kitchen had all you need to cook stovetop or over the common fire pit. Rob was really nice and made sure we had what we needed. The location is great in close proximity to the park and many outdoor activities. There's a great mix of wooded area and open space to star gaze at night. We had good weather but there's enough covered areas to compensate if the weather doesn't cooperate. A covered kitchen, dining area and canopy next to the fire pit.

Amy

3 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

We had an excellent stay at Camp. Every claim about each amenity was just as described - or better. To have access to a hot shower, a working, well- equipped kitchen, a cozy community campfire was spectacular. But our tent site took first price - tucked in the quiet pines - incredibly tranquil and fresh air-filled, we slept great. Our fellow campers were very neighborly; everyone friendly and helpful. Overall, camp Moonshadow offered a warm, welcoming, and rejuvenating but relaxed vibe. Thanks!!

Steve

3 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Robb and Jeanne's camp site was by far the best camp site I have visited. If you want a clean quiet camping experience that includes hot showers, outdoor kitchen, private sites with no cars riding by your site then this is the place for you. It is at a perfect location within a few miles from Sleeping Bear Dune National Park. Robb and Jeanne was very accommodating and I would highly recommend this camp site.

Sean

4 days ago

10 ft campervan

3 nights at Camp Moonshadow

The camp balanced a primitive camp feel with all the luxuries of glamping including clean bathrooms, shower house and kitchen. Minutes from beaches that rival the Caribbean and cute small towns such as Empire, Frankfort and Glen Arbor this was a perfect home base for an amazing introduction to Michigan. Rob was also especially kind in checking in without encroaching on privacy. We had the RV site and set up our tent on a wooden platform that kept us dry and on level ground. Top notch!

Danielle

1 week ago

2 nights at Tiki Hut Yurts

It was really quiet at the site and everything was kept clean.

William

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Camp Moonshadow

My friends and I had a great time here! The campsites and facilities were very well kept. Robb was great to talk to and was able to give us some recommendations on places to visit during our trip!

Kathryn

1 week ago

1 night at Tiki Hut Yurts

The Yurts were nice and a perfect glamping experience

Erica

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at Tiki Hut Yurts

Yurts are so cute, super clean well appointed and comfortable. The bathrooms designated for yurt guests are also very nice and clean. Great attention to detail and I appreciate that we didn’t see the RV part of the property. I Ben if close to town it still felt peaceful and in nature. Very happy we found this special spot to spend a night.

Mandy

1 week ago

1 night at Tiki Hut Yurts

Very comfy place to stay. Love that they have lights, fan, heater, coffee pot and nice fire pit with outdoor strings lights.

Ron

1 week ago

18 ft travel trailer

1 night at Camp Moonshadow

Great host and a neat spot. Would be great spot to camp with friends. Beautiful woods.

Kyle

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

My group of 6 lifelong friends and a dog spent the weekend here on our annual camping trip and had a blast! The campground is absolutely beautiful and the fire pit, showers, and kitchen are such wonderful inclusions. Our experience was nothing but positive and we will 100% be coming back!

Brian

1 week ago

15 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to B Mo's Hideout

We were in site 1. We had the most amazing time we have ever had camping.

Steve

1 week ago

Tent

6 nights at B Mo's Hideout

What can I say once again an excellent, time on Bryan's land. No matter how many times you walk the trails you'll have a different experience . Can't wait to get back.

Julianne

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Andy’s Wolf Traxx

Great site for tent camping, very private and peaceful. Andrew was very helpful and accommodating.

Lindsay

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

We had a great time! The amenities were very nice! Easy walk to the sites with a cart available to help make the walk in even easier. Great camp games! Nice, hot showers!

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

15 ft rooftop tent

With pets

1 night at Shivering Timbers Family Campground

The campground was easy to find, navigate and set up in. Stephanie came out to greet us and she was a delight! The firewood already bundles and the little gift for our stay were a lovely touch and I would definitely stay there again. I will say that the skeeters were relentless, but welcome to the UP😂. It was about an 18 minute drive to Whitefish Point as well so that was a highlight! Check in was simple and Stephanie responded to my messages quickly and clearly.

ashley

2 weeks ago

1 night at Tiki Hut Yurts

I stayed in a yurt for two nights and I loved it! The bed and pillows were so comfy! They even provided the firewood :)

ashley

2 weeks ago

1 night at Tiki Hut Yurts

I absolutely loved the yurt! There was firewood and an electric tea kettle provided. All linens were provided and it was clean and quiet! 10/10

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Explore the U.P. from here!

The site is beautiful. The skydome was comfortable without any added padding, sturdy, and the lights were convenient and fun. The location is easy to get to Newberry. Would definitely stay again!

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Gypsy Hill

This place is a gem. My 2 year old had a blast running around the trails, Had a nice woodsy shady spot. We heard an owl while falling asleep and saw one raccoon late at night by the camp fire, he was spooked by our head lamp. The birds were singing in the morning time, it was very lovely definitely would come back.

Michigan camping guide

Where to go

Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula is Michigan’s wild toupée, with swathes of old-growth forests, sandy beaches, and inland lakes stretching along the southern shore of Lake Superior. This is the spot to escape the crowds, whether pitching your tent by the sand dunes in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, parking your RV by a waterfall in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, or yurt camping in the Porcupine Mountains. For the ultimate camping experience, the Hiawatha National Forest has some 60 campsites to choose from.

Northern Lower Peninsula

Bordered by Lake Michigan to the West and Lake Huron to the east, the northern Lower Peninsula has the highest concentration of Michigan state parks. Miles of mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking trails await in the Huron National Forest, where you can choose from modern campgrounds or backcountry camping. Along the coast, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see, Wilderness State Park is a dark sky reserve, and Ludington State Park Beach is a family favorite.

Southwest Michigan

Grand Rapids is the gateway to Michigan’s southwest, where the shore of Lake Michigan provides plenty of options for a summer camping trip. Lakefront cities such as South Haven, Benton Harbor, and Holland have sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, and seafront campgrounds. Forget tent camping in the wilderness—RV sites come equipped with full hookups, playgrounds, and watercraft rentals.

Southeast Michigan

Michigan's "Thumb" juts out along the west shore of Lake Huron, where Sleeper State Park and Port Crescent State Park are the big draws for campers. Below this, the west coast is ideal for a road trip, peppered with shipwreck dive sites, secluded beaches, and golf courses. South of Detroit and Lake St. Clair, Sterling State Park is the only state park on the shore of Lake Erie, with a mix of RV and tent sites by the beach.

Top camping destinations around Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Hiawatha National Forest

Isle Royale National Park

78 campgrounds

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Fife Lake

224 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I camp freely in Michigan?

In Michigan, you can often camp for free in designated areas or dispersed camping zones within its national forests, such as the Hiawatha National Forest and the Huron-Manistee National Forest. However, some areas may require fees or permits. These forests offer dispersed, primitive camping with no facilities. You'll need to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, some state forest lands also allow free dispersed camping, but it's essential to check the specific regulations for each area before setting up camp.

Does Michigan have good camping?

Yes, Michigan offers excellent camping opportunities, with diverse landscapes, numerous state parks, and beautiful natural attractions. You'll find over 1,000 campgrounds throughout the state, ranging from rustic and primitive sites to well-maintained and modern facilities. Michigan is home to two peninsulas, each with its own unique camping experiences.

The Lower Peninsula boasts beautiful lakeshores, sand dunes, and bustling cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids. Popular camping destinations include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Ludington State Park.

The Upper Peninsula offers a more remote and rugged experience, with vast forests, waterfalls, and the shores of Lake Superior. Must-visit camping spots include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or glamping, Michigan has something for everyone. For more camping options in Michigan, you can explore Hipcamp.

What month is best to camp in Michigan?

The best month to camp in Michigan is typically September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. Additionally, September offers beautiful fall foliage, fewer bugs, and less crowded campgrounds compared to the peak summer months. However, if you prefer warmer temperatures for swimming and water activities, consider camping in Michigan during the summer months of June, July, or August.

Is boondocking legal in Michigan?

Yes, boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is legal in Michigan on public lands, such as national forests and some state forests. In Michigan, you can boondock in areas like the Huron-Manistee National Forests and the Hiawatha National Forest. There are also private properties available for boondocking through Hipcamp. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations for each specific area, such as staying within designated areas, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and adhering to any fire restrictions.

Where can I camp in Michigan in the fall?

In fall, camping is available in many of Michigan's various state parks, such as Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ludington State Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Michigan camping is especially beautiful in fall thanks to vibrant fall colors.