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The best camping near Hiawatha National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hiawatha adventure.

The best camping near Hiawatha National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hiawatha adventure.

Camping near Hiawatha National Forest

92% (30 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hiawatha adventure.

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Hiawatha National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Hiawatha National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Hiawatha National Forest

95%
(344)

Superior Times Resort

24 sites ¡ RVs, Tents15 acres ¡ Au Train, MI
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
from 
$35
 / night
97%
(44)

Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Manistique, MI
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.
from 
$25
 / night

Camp Rock

1 site ¡ Lodging140 acres ¡ Rock, MI
Welcome to Camp Rock, your gateway to a bygone era of rustic charm and timeless adventure in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula! Nestled on a sprawling one-hundred and forty-acre tree farm, our classic deer camp offers a unique retreat where you can unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. Step inside our cedar log cabin, lovingly built in 1952, and feel the essence of a bygone era wash over you. While the cabin is remote and private, offering a true escape from the modern world, it's conveniently located just thirty minutes from some of the U.P.'s most coveted destinations. Disconnect from the digital realm as you immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of cabin life. Enjoy the warmth of the wood stove or propane heat in the living/dining/kitchen area, where you'll find all the essentials for comfortable living, including a full refrigerator, electric stove, running hot water, and ample space to prepare meals and dine with loved ones. Embrace the nostalgia of days gone by with four free-to-air television stations and a collection of classic movies, perfect for cozy evenings by the crackling fire. Retreat to the bunk room, where you'll find comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to four guests, complete with fresh linens and the option of additional cots. For added privacy, our spacious lockable shower room provides a tranquil oasis with modern amenities such as a twin bed, television, and DVD player, ensuring your comfort during your stay. Step outside to discover our named trails, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, or gather around the fire pit to share stories and marvel at the starry night sky. As morning breaks, venture to our unique insulated outhouse with a viewing window, adorned with amusing signs and stickers, for a truly memorable experience. Whether you seek outdoor adventure or peaceful solitude, Camp Rock promises an unforgettable U.P. escape for all who visit.
from 
$300
 / night
99%
(68)

Ted’s Farm

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ Munising, MI
Learn more about this land: This is an old family farm site near the heart of all there is to see here in Munising. We love to share the history and hope you enjoy all there is to offer in the community. There are water adventures galore. Trails for hiking and trails for side by side adventures. Many fantastic restaurants, breweries and pubs. Gifts and memorabilia shops galore.
from 
$25
 / night

Camp Bear Paw

1 site ¡ Lodging240 acres ¡ Garden, MI
Welcome to Camp Bear Paw, your off-the-grid retreat nestled on 240 acres of pristine wilderness in Michigan's picturesque Upper Peninsula! Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Our secluded property boasts a mile-long walking path where you can encounter a variety of wildlife, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration and adventure. Adjacent to numerous 4-wheeling trails and surrounded by public land, Camp Bear Paw offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Relax and unwind by the campfire, complete with provided firewood, or grill up a delicious meal on the propane griddle, conveniently located on the covered porch of our main living space. Our cozy bunkhouse comfortably sleeps 4 guests, with the option for an additional 2 on the pull-out couch. For larger groups, there's ample space to set up air mattresses for extra sleeping accommodations. Explore nearby attractions such as the Hiawatha National Forest, Kitch-it-a-Kipi and Indian Lake, and Peninsula State Park. Don't forget to indulge in some delicious ice cream at Rapid River Dairy Flo! As night falls, gaze up at the star-filled sky and keep an eye out for the enchanting Northern Lights dancing above. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful relaxation, Camp Bear Paw offers the perfect retreat for your Upper Peninsula getaway. We can't wait to welcome you to our slice of wilderness paradise!
from 
$110
 / night
100%
(86)

Cabin on the lake

2 sites ¡ Lodging130 acres ¡ Rapid River, MI
Learn more about this land: Cabin on lake with no public access. Owner's home is out of sight and sound 1/4 mile away.  Pasture and forest property borders 2500 feet of private lake front.  Property also borders the Hiawatha National Forest.  Great pike fishing on shallow lake with access to 10' jon boat with oars and four single seat kayaks.  Life vests beneath bunks. Cabin is one open room with bunk beds that sleep 4 plus a full size futon. Cooking and dish water is provided by hanging 7 gallon jug over kitchen sink. No indoor toilet, outhouse available. Gas cooking stove and wood burning stove/oven for heat and cooking. Battery powered electric lights and inverter for small devices. Wood burning sauna outside. Water, box of firewood, pots and pans, and utensils provided. Bring food, ice, and drinking water. Bring charcoal and lighter fluid if you want to use small grill outside. Dogs are welcome just not on beds or futon :)
from 
$75
 / night
100%
(305)

Bear Tree Homestead

3 sites ¡ Lodging50 acres ¡ Trowbridge Park, MI
Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain into Lake Superior. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. We have been inspired by these ancient rocks to build our homestead with materials gathered on our land. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The Pond Cabin is completely off the grid and the Orchard Cabin with electricity and handpump water. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.
from 
$87
 / night
100%
(21)

Forest Overlooking River

7 sites ¡ RVs, Tents360 acres ¡ Rapid River, MI
Learn more about this land:Beautiful backwoods birch forest with campfire spots on the edge of Rapid River. We’re within the hour of pictured Rocks National Park and many other beautiful places to visit...We’re only 2.5 miles off of main hwy, US 41 , We have kayaks, four wheelers and hiking /biking roads and trails available for guest..
from 
$40
 / night
98%
(67)

Blueberry fields campground

4 sites ¡ RVs60 acres ¡ Marquette, MI
Learn more about this land:Rustic grounds in the works to provide all the things one could want !! You can stay as long as you would like, we just ask you only have 2 tents per site ! We are 7 miles east of Marquette and 30 miles west from pictured rocks national lakeshore ! We are also within 1 mile of public accessible sandy shoreline of lake Supireor
from 
$20
 / night
97%
(93)

High Swamp Camp

9 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Seney, MI
*2023 👍100%* Very Close To The Pictured Rocks! Large Private Campsites! Flush toilet & shower! Morning coffee & weather! Sleep/Laundry/Wi-Fi Room! Private hunting property! Miles of Hiking Trails. Close to the Fox River Trout Stream. Close to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. 1.5 hours to the Tahquamenon Falls. 1.5 hours to the Big Springs. 2 hours to Mackinaw Island. 2 hours to the Soo Locks. Only 1\4 Mile From OHV Trail-88. Please review details using show more before booking! Text for details.
from 
$40
 / night
97%
(278)

Explore the U.P. from here!

5 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Newberry, MI
A simple PRIVATE and affordable campsite should be this easy! Come sleep in a tent already set up in a quiet, private location. If you like to be within sight distance of your unfamiliar campsite neighbors, this place is not for you. All sites have their own private entrances and you can’t see any other sites or buildings from each site, and they are very spaced-out. My location is situated PERFECTLY central to the major UP attractions Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls and Kitchittikippi. And there’s even a convenience store within walking distance! Showers are also available in town (Pickelmans gas station).
from 
$25
 / night
79%
(7)

Chocolay River

91 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Marquette, MI
Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Hiawatha National Forest guide

Overview

About

Woodlands, wetlands, and waterfalls are just some of the highlights of this sprawling national forest, and with more than 800,000 acres to explore, it’s a good job there are plenty of spots to camp. More than 100 miles of shoreline borders Lake Superior, Huron, and Michigan, affording endless options for boating, swimming, and water sports. Visit the six historic lighthouses, ride the ferry out to the Grand Island to camp by the beachside, then head inland to hike, horseback ride, or mountain bike along hundreds of miles of trails. Did we mention camping? There are a mind-boggling 60 campgrounds to choose from. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for lake explorers: Bay Furnace Campground has 49 non-electric tent/RV sites with easy access to Lake Superior and Grand Island. 
  • Best for peace and quiet: Tom’s Lake Cabin sleeps eight and has everything you need for a back-to-nature retreat by the lakeside. 
  • Best for backcountry campers:  Little Dune Campsite on Grand Island has hike-in tent-only sites right on the beachfront.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve a site at one of 60 campgrounds (including three camper cabins) at Hiawatha National Forest online via Recreation.gov. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so check ahead if you have a specific site in mind.
  2. Campsite reservations typically open six months in advance. 
  3. Some campgrounds are only open during the summer season (typically May through October); others stay open year-round.

When to go

Weather conditions can change quickly along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but as long as you come prepared, outdoor adventures can be enjoyed through all four seasons. Come in summer to cool off in the lakes or in winter to cross-country ski, snowmobile, and snowshoe. If you have to choose, opt for a fall visit—temperatures are ideal for hiking and camping, and the blazing fall foliage is a leaf-peeper’s dream. 

Know before you go

  • Hiawatha National Forest is split into two units, both located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The west zone lies about 50 miles west of Newberry, or about a 50-minute drive away, while the east zone lies about a 30-minute drive east of Newberry.
  • Permits are required for some recreation activities at trailheads, picnic areas, and river access sites. Camping reservation fees also apply. 
  • You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Hiawatha National Forest, and there are several boat launches along the lakefront. Be sure to follow localized rules regarding motorized boats and launch times. 
  • Dispersed camping is permitted in Hiawatha National Forest, but strict rules apply. Permits are also required for some sites.
  • Cell phone and GPS service is patchy throughout the forest.
  • There are accessible day-use areas, campsites, and restrooms at Hiawatha National Forest.

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