The best camping near Hartwick Pines State Park

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

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Discover the natural splendor of Hartwick Pines State Park.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Hartwick Pines State Park

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Hartwick Pines Campground

101 sites · RVs, Tents In Hartwick Pines State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Hartwick Pines State Park

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RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

1 site · RV, Tent23 acres · Grayling, MI

Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful. The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level. Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through. You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use. There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.

Booked 2 times

Waterfront RV / Camper Property

1 site · RV2 acres · Frederic, MI

Camping in a secluded location along one of the county's best fly fishing rivers, such as the Manistee River, offers a multitude of benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. Firstly, the seclusion allows campers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness, individuals can enjoy a sense of peace and solitude, providing an excellent opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Away from the noise and distractions of modern life, campers can truly unwind, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the simple pleasures that nature has to offer. Furthermore, camping near the Manistee River, renowned for its exceptional fly fishing, provides a unique experience for fishing enthusiasts. The river's pristine waters offer abundant opportunities to catch various species of fish, including trout and salmon. Fly fishing in this picturesque setting not only presents an exciting challenge but also allows individuals to develop their angling skills and reconnect with nature. The rhythmic casting of the fly line and the anticipation of a bite create a sense of thrill and satisfaction. Whether one is an experienced angler or a novice looking to learn, the Manistee River offers an idyllic backdrop for a memorable fishing adventure during a camping trip. The location has everything your camper/ RV needs: Water, electricity, and sewage.

Basecamp on Au Sable North Branch

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Grayling, MI

Basecamp is turnkey RV camping at its best right on the banks of the North Branch of the Au Sable River. Walk down and access the river for world-class fly fishing and enjoy the quiet peaceful surroundings of northern Michigan. Basecamp is a fantastic 26 foot RV in mint condition that comfortably sleeps up to 2 people. It has a great floorplan layout with plenty of space and we provide everything you need for an easy totally turnkey RV camping experience.

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Trail 76 Private Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Kalkaska, MI

Trail 76 Private Campground Includes 2 full hook-up sites, water/sewer/electric 20/30/50 amp When you book the site, you are renting the entire 6 acre campground Get a group of friends and stay at this private campground all to yourselves Pets allowed Outdoor shower 8x40’ Storage container for guests to use as they please, store offroad vehicle or use as a patio to keep you out of the weather Secluded 6 wooded acres at end of private drive 1000s of acres of State land nearby Plenty of parking for extra trucks/trailers/friends with tents 2 miles Manistee lake boat access/beach/park Ride directly to Groomed Trail 76 for snowmobiles/sxs/dirtbikes Awesome hiking trails at upper manistee headwaters 10 minutes Grandview golf course* Timberwolf golf course Twinbirch golf course 15 minutes Shel-haven canoe/tubing rental 30 minutes Turtle creek casino Torch lake Shanty creek 45 minutes Traverse city Higgins lake Boyne

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CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

1 site · Lodging120 acres · Roscommon, MI

Learn more about this land:This cozy off-grid rustic Cut River Cabin has a Sauna 3 bedrooms and a loft that will sleep 10. 120 acres with over 1.3 miles of private riverfront on the pristine Cut River that flows out of beautiful Higgins Lake Michigan. Approximately 10 minutes/7 miles from the beaches of South Higgins Lake State Park, or the Village of Roscommon which has a full-service supermarket (Family Fare) hardware and outdoor supply stores, and a handful of restaurants. It's a great spot for a quiet retreat away from people, traffic, pollution, and the stresses of modern digital life with the closest neighbor being over 2 miles away. Enjoy the river, paddling in our canoes, fishing, and swimming. Get out in the woods by hiking or biking through nearly 2,000 acres of public state land and trails surrounding the property. Included are SNOWSHOES in the winter and CANOES in the summer The Cut River Cabin is a completely off-the-grid property that relies on solar power. Inside you will find NO TV’s, NO WiFi, and NO Modern Luxury Amenities. 😁 You WILL find solar power to charge any devices that you just can’t live without for a weekend getaway, 😉 Manual operated water well pump (Pitcher Pump), Wood Burning Stove to keep warm on them chilly nights (starter/logs included), Well-equipped kitchen with stove Due to its simple and rustic features, the cabin is most appealing to hikers, campers, and people who love the outdoors and don't mind the lack of conventional amenities. A few things included to distract you from the busy world outside are many Books, Board Games, Playing Cards.

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Uraharas On The Hill

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Alden, MI

Uraharas is a music venue that hosts events throughout the summer. We are happy to now open our space to campers on the dates that are not scheduled for events. We hope you enjoy our space as much as we have in creating it! Learn more about this land: *ADULTS ONLY CAMPING* Set up camp in our little wooded get away at the top of the valley. There are many great things near and many more within a reasonable drive. We are located just three miles from Torch Lake sandbar with several public access sites. Spend the day swimming or rent a kayak or pontoon to further explore. Check out Seven Bridges Nature Area just five miles away. Head over to Short’s Brewery in Bellaire. Take a drive to Turtle Creek Casino and Traverse City in thirty minutes or less. At the end of your exciting day come relax and build a fire in our communal fire pit. Enjoy the colorful sights as we light up the forest at night (weather permitting). Campsites are located in a specific area. You may have camp neighbors not so far away and will not be a guarantee that it’s completely silent or secluded. Please be mindful of one another. We love the sounds of a good time happening but we do ask that after 11 pm weekdays and 12 am weekends that you keep a respectable level. As title says this is camping for ages 18 and up. Front area can accommodate parking for your boat/kayak trailer. Uraharas is an excellent setting to use as larger group camping. If you need bookings for your group beyond the max of the two combined sites please message me for details!

Tiki Town & Tracks

8 sites · RVs10 acres · Kalkaska, MI

Convenience meets charm, as TikTown is a mere 5-minute drive to town, providing easy access to amenities and local attractions. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities, beachside tranquility, or a quick jaunt to nearby destinations, Tiki Town is your ticket to a unique and unforgettable experience in Kalkaska. Tiki Town & Tracks located in Kalkaska, MI offers 5 private campsites with electric and water. While most reservations come in groups we welcome individuals. Located just 5 minutes from town, shopping and dining is within a stones throw reach. Boaters love our location as we’re only 15 minutes from the atorch Lake Sandbar public access. Access snowmobile, ATV, and ORV trails right from property. We can accommodate up to 50’ rvs. Located on 10 private acres, well groomed and landscape. With a tropical theme we offer a beautiful swimming hole with white sandy beach and slide. Outdoor Tiki bar with tv, music and beach front fire pit. Hottub on premises. Beach Cornhole. Private ATV trails and a motocross track. If you’re looking for a fun place to stay without the riff raff of a conventional campground, you’ve found it! Nightly rates are $75 and Weekly is $350. Full payment is required at time of reservation and made through cash app or Zelle. Weekends book fast.

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OffBeat Acres - Camp Chill AF!

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Manistee Lake, MI

Centrally located to several attractions! Leetsville trail is just a stones throw away for all your ORV pleasures. Manistee river, just 15 mins away is a slow meandering river. It is great for a lazy day floating on a tube, kayaking and canoeing. The infamous Torch Lake is about 25 mins away with it's Caribbean blue waters along with the beaches of Lake Michigan. Traverse City and Gaylord are 35 mins away and historic Grayling is about 25 mins away. The mighty Mackinaw Bridge is just 50 mins away. Visit the quaint Mackinaw Island and pick up some famous fudge! So many things to do and see!! There are 4 sites, each secluded, on 15 acres of woods and open land. Easy access to each site. Wake up to fresh eggs with an endless supply from my beautiful ladies. When in season, fresh vegetables from the garden will also be available. Access to water and camping restroom

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Clearwater Heights

2 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Rapid City, MI

I own and live on 190 acres but am beginning my Hip Camp experience with allowing camping on 120-acres. The property is hilly and wooded with miles of trails on the property as well as access to nearby state trail-systems. The Skegemog Swamp Preserve trailhead is several miles away and downtown Traverse is a 30-minute drive. A little over a mile from the campsite is an artesian well along a public roadway that is popular with campers and the site is mowed by a neighbor; this is quirky little water-source that has been there for well over 50 years. The Skegemog Swamp Preserve is home to bears that visit my property for the many raspberry and blackberry opportunities, so be aware.

Booked 1 time

Red squirrel squad

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Bear Lake, MI

So the story is about my land that we bought the land from a friend of my dad and he sold it to us we put the house and the land I just want to help people find places that are close by to where they need to stay but away from the city and I thought what a great way to invest into my land and get back to my own father father.Learn more about this land:we are ten acra of land and we are on state forest we also 5 miles from bear lake and we also 45 mins to tc, we are near river to for fishing and conning

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Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley

5 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Vanderbilt, MI

We book only 2 sites at a time on our 40 acre property so you can enjoy a more secluded experience in the woods. Our property is undeveloped, so you will need to bring drinking water, but there's no need to worry about finding firewood before your arrive as we supply you with a free bundle that is waiting for you when you get here! There are 1 1/2 miles of marked, wooded trails that will guide you to the river's edge where you can enjoy the beauty and wildlife along the West Branch of the Sturgeon River. It will feel as if you are in the middle of nowhere, yet the convenience of the small town of Vanderbilt is just three miles away. We are located just three miles off of I-75. The larger town of Gaylord is only a 15 minute drive south. There's lots to do here in beautiful Northern Michigan! Only a few miles from our camp you can go for a swim at Thumb Lake Park or take a bike ride along the North Central State Trail in Vanderbilt. Drive 15 minutes north and you can canoe or kayak the main branch of the Sturgeon River in Wolverine. There are many great hiking trails in the Pigeon River State Forest and the North Country National Scenic Trail is only 6 miles away. This 40 acre parcel has been in our family since the 1950s. My grandparents originally designated it as a tree farm and planted and harvested lumber from it. As a boy scout leader, my grandfather hosted many boy scout troops here and even hosted a boy scout Jamboree in the 1970s. Back then the property was referred to as the "Tree Farm", but after my husband John and I inherited it in 2014 we started calling it Camp 437. Before we inherited the property we spent time camping there and building trails. One of the trails we built was named the "Burns Trail" in honor of my grandparents. Since we acquired the property we have added a one mile loop that circles the perimeter of the property, and a total of about 1 1/2 miles of trail.

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Sunshine Pond View

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

The best camping near Hartwick Pines State Park guide

Overview

About

The bigger the better we always say—9,672 acres of Old Growth Pines makes Hartwick Pine among the giants in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan—more for you to ‘splore! The forest was once home to a booming lumber industry. Revisit through master storytelling the tales of the “shanty boys” who turned the forest into timber land. Step into a time machine and dig into rich history from the Visitor’s Center museum that recreates the vibe of the old town, then get your socks and shoes outside! With rolling green hills and ancient groves of trees, Hartwick is a photographer’s dream. Enjoy numerous habitats to explore and hit the trails that accommodate any level of hiker or biker. Big adventure is calling. Your move.

When to go

The best time to visit Hartwick Pines State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park is fully accessible. Fall also offers a stunning display of changing leaves. Winters can be harsh, and some facilities may be closed, so check ahead.