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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.

100% (1 reviews)
100% (1 reviews)

Discover the natural splendor of Hartwick Pines State Park.  

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Community favorites near Hartwick Pines State Park

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Top-rated campgrounds near Hartwick Pines State Park

99%
(52)

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.
from 
$47
 / night
Booked 1 time

400 acres of private forest-Tent-RV

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents406 acres ¡ Mancelona, MI
Over 400 acres of private land of upland forest and cedar swamp with many campsites separated apart for tents and RV's to choose from. Outdoor enthusiasts of all types will enjoy their stay at this secluded and large acreage forest Up North! At nightfall, you will enjoy a starry night sky free from city lights. This is perfect for folks who want to camp but do not wish to be crammed in next to other campers. We offer over 400 acres and 4 sites at a time for campers but we have many more areas that you can camp at to choose from. You will have a lot of room to breathe the fresh forest air. You’ll have excellent opportunities for wildlife photos. This is a wilderness area and you will have cell phone reception mainly on the higher ground areas of the property. We have campsite maps soon online. Please contact us for hunting opportunities for deer season. If you need a break from the quiet and relaxation, you can drive over to Kalkaska (12 miles), Mancelona (8 miles), or Traverse City (30 miles) for dinner and shopping. We have been working on many large and small projects all over our property. We have recently majorly upgraded our road and trail system. Please drive on it gently, respectful of the work we have put into it and of other campers with pets and children. Another project is the rustic boardwalk down to Manistee Lake. This walkway is accessible via Cunningham Rd (the far western border of the property). Bring along some boots that can get a bit dirty, if it rains then it will be muddy, and bring your bug spray. The boardwalk building materials are constructed entirely of onsite native cedar hand-sawn timber – built by your host, Bryce. We now have 4 outhouses dispersed throughout the property for your convenience. Please understand we are not able to maintain these outhouses and campers must be respectful and clean up after themselves. Bring toilet paper in case there is none in the outhouses. Please respect our Leave-No-Trace policy and remove all trash from your campsite and area. Your leashed pets are allowed but you must be respectful of other campers with pets as well. Do not let your pets run loose and to other campsites. All children and pets must be attended at all times for safety reasons. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, fox, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave children or pets unattended! The northernmost opening has honey bees maintained by an electric fence. Please keep pets and children away from this area. You are welcome to look at it but do not touch the fence or bother the bees, they are busy making honey for all of Michigan. There is direct access to 100s of miles of snowmobiling trails spanning from Leetsville to Kalkaska (MCCCT Access). You’ll have access out the eastern gate but please remember to shut the gate going in and out. Otherwise outside ATV traffic will come in off of state land. All motorized vehicles must stay on the trail system, do not spin tires or tear up the bare ground. The trail system has recently been updated at owner's expense and maintained for your convenience but it is easily rutted. Please be respectful of our trails. You must drive under 10 mph on the property due to safety and insurance regulations. There are areas along the trails that have deep holes close by the trails. Watch your step or driving around these areas. Safe, sober and responsible behavior and driving is imperative on the trails. No alcohol or drug use. Do not put nails or metal in the trees. Do not use firearms without express written permission from the owners and when other campers are around. Hunting season is set for hunting rental on this site. No additional campsites will be offered during this time. Please contact us (owners) for available hunting dates and rates. This property can accommodate up to 8 hunters. After 1 1/2 years of completely remodeling our cabin, we now can offer you a lovely stay in a snug, warm 2 bedroom 700 sq foot cabin, comfortably sleeps 6, 1 queen bed in one bedroom, 1 queen and 1 full sized bed in the other bedroom. The cabin is a 2-night minimum stay. It comes with all the amenities, wifi, hot shower, linens, bedding, towels wood stove, electric heat, a completely stocked full kitchen and much, much more. This is our personal family cabin so please treat it gently. Please contact us for scheduling the cabin. Traveling with more than 6? Reach out to us about the additional accommodations available on-site, including 120V RV hookups (addt'l fee). The cabin has internet and internet cell phone connection at the cabin. We are in the wilderness, so the internet is functional but not excellent. There is only cell phone reception on the higher elevations of the property. Please contact me with your specific questions and needs. We have nearby amenities- LAKES- Manistee Lake (southern most boundary of the property), Twin Lakes (3.1 miles), Pickerel Lake (4.1 miles), Starvation Lake (5.5 miles) BEACHES: Pencil Lake Beach (23.3 miles), Grand Traverse Bay (31.9 miles), Peninsula Beach (35.9 miles), Clinch Park Beach (36.1 miles), Torch Lake (36.1 miles), Lake Michigan (41.4 miles) BLUE RIBBON TROUT STREAMS: Manistee River (11.7 miles), AuSable River (16.7 miles) SKI DAYS: Mt Mancelona (9.1 miles), Shanty Creek Resort (16.6 miles), Hanson Hills (22.9 miles), Boyne Mountain Resort (30.0 miles), Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area (31.3 miles) WINE + BREW: Short's Brewing Company (19.7 miles), Rolling Oak Brewing Co (23.2 miles), Paddle Hard Brewing (23.5 miles), Torch Lake Cellars (23.7 miles), WaterFire Vineyards (30.6 miles), Snowbelt Brewing (32.6 miles) CASINOS: Turtle Creek Casino (24.6 miles), Odawa Casino (44.0 miles), Leelanau Sands Casino (55.7 miles) SEASONAL: National Trout Festival - Kalkaska (Apr), National Cherry Festival- Traverse City (May), Bow Hunting Season (Oct 1—Dec 1), Hunting Season (Nov 15—Dec 1) AIRPORT: Cherry Capital Airport (34.2 miles)
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(1)

Dark Sky View

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Lewiston, MI
A Clean, Safe Relaxing Atmosphere located in Northern Michigan Located on the outskirts of beautiful Lewiston Michigan .We are in a dark sky viewing area. Close to world class fishing, many lakes and rivers. Across from state land, ORV trails and snowmobile trails, hiking, snowshoeing, and a golf resort. We have rustic spots for tents and larger spots for travel trailers and RV's up to 50' .No hook ups, however we do have fresh water for filling tanks . We will RSVP on a first come first served bases. Amenities: Community fire pit and site fire rings. Secure Location, Free fire wood (you pick). Golf carts ATV orv sxs jeeps snowmobile are welcome if you can tread lightly. Pets will be allowed on a case by case basis. All pets will be on a 6' leash and under the direct control of the owner. Pest will NOT be left alone. Sites will be kept clean and orderly by registered camper. Trash and litter will be placed in the cans provided. If you chose to take your vehicle to your site it must be all the way off of the trail. No loud Noise after 10 pm Fire rings are provided however during DNR burn bans we reserve the right to prohibit their use. Fire wood can be found all around. Only harvest dead and down trees. Do not cut any standing timber. No fires will be left unattended. A person must be present at all times when a fire is going. All fires must be fully extstiquised. Rules: No one under 21 years old ever Generators use 2 hours max during the hours of 10 am to 5pm Respect theProperty lines Respect our neighbors Clothing is optional in certain"areas" not everywhere Free On site air for filling tires or toys. Gated entrance during private events. No one will enter upon this property without the owners permission. Poop, pee and TP are the only things that go in the potty. Potty is well lit inside and out. Clean and stocked with good TP let's keep it that way. There is also a # on the wall to text if there is a problem. No it's not 867-5309 ; ) Each fire ring has a full bucket of water near it when there is a fire going. No bucket No fire.
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(1)

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
from 
$79
 / night
92%
(25)

South Torch Lake Sugarbush

1 site ¡ Tent5 acres ¡ Rapid City, MI
Learn more about this land:Located a few hundred feet from blue ribbon trout stream the Rapid River. Also less than a mile away is the carribean of the north, south torch lake sandbar. Nestled in a 5 acre grove of maples, You can find the perfect quiet spot in the woods for wildlife viewing or camp closer to the road with easy access to camp van on the property incase of inclement weather. Three sites to choose from. Potable water from my well and firewood from my woods are also available.  Please note: you may hear deer and other animals walking around your site, remember, they were here first. :-) Please leave a note in the guestbook provided and happy camping. (Guest tour of the floura/fauna upon request).
from 
$20
 / night
100%
(6)

Hammerhead Shark Ranch

2 sites ¡ Tents25 acres ¡ Gaylord, MI
Learn more about this land:We are located on 25 acres of Pine forest. We have a micro farm where we raise animals and grow specialty berries. Across the road is a large lake. I offer onsite massage therapy for an additional fee. Hiking trails through our forest are available. We also offer yoga depending on our work schedule as we are a working farm.
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(30)

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.
from 
$47
 / night
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.
from 
$75
 / night
99%
(189)

Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley

5 sites ¡ Lodging, 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.
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(4)

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
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(17)

pineleaf.

4 sites ¡ Lodging10 acres ¡ Mancelona, MI
Pineleaf is a private setting in the forest with rolling hills and trails on the property. There's an abundance of wildlife consisting of, but not limited to bears, bobcats, porcupines and deer. It's a true nature lover's dream! For the rockhounds, there are Petoskey Stones, Emeralds, Opals and many other gems to enjoy finding among the trails and beaches. Our trails lead right off the property among the lakes and streams. All side x sides, ATVS, dirt bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, or fishing boats Welcome! We are located close to Torch Lake, Elk Lake, Otsego Lake, and many more! Come enjoy Lake Michigan beaches, lighthouses, parks, restaurants, casinos, and local shopping. Nearby cities include Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord, and Boyne City. Pineleaf has a total of 4 campsites! 3 are primitive and 1 rustic cabin with more cabins to come in the near future. The primitive sites sleep up to 15 people and 8 tents. The cabin sleeps up to 5 guests and is handicap accessible! and can also put tents near the cabin. The camp is cannabis friendly for 21+ with id and complimentary with the exception if you dont want to smoke/cunsume cannabis its optional. No alcohol allowed at the camp but you may go up town or down to The Hideaway Bar & Grill for a bite and a drink!
from 
$61
 / night
Saved 1 time

The Wood Ranch Cabin

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Roscommon, MI
Have fun with the whole family and friends at the stylish Wood Ranch Cabin! Just a 3 minute walk to Higgins Lake at Maplehurst Dock. Cozy yet small bedrooms with closet space. A 30 foot boat, RV or camper can easily fit in the backyard along with a truck, trailer and a car. The remodeled cabin is quaint with a chef's kitchen. There's room for 5 guests to sleep comfortably and offers nice amenities throughout. The space is calming, chic and well thought out to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay. The cabin is located just 3 minutes walking distance to Higgins Lake at Maplehurst Dock. Guests have access to the entire cabin and exterior property. Crystal-clear, Higgins Lake has been noted as one of the world's most beautiful lakes. As the seasons change, there is still much to do; from hitting the greens at Forest Dunes Golf Club, fishing, kayaking, boating, cross country skiing, ATV and four wheeling to enjoying delightful meals at the Cut River Grille, Fred's or the Silver Dollar Pub & Grill.
from 
$110
 / night

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.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry.
  • Trail lengths vary, so choose one suited to your fitness level.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for your visit.
  • Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm.
  • Remember to leave no trace and dispose of trash responsibly.

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