Camping near Bear Lake

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Looking for the best camping near Bear Lake? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Michigan hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near Bear Lake.

98% (2.1K) 5,648 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bear Lake

Trail 76 Private Campground

1. Trail 76 Private Campground

98%
(26)
4.4mi from Bear Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Trail 76 Private Campground Remodeled old school camper is now available to add to your stay, bring your friends without a camper to the fun! (Book at checkout) 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/outhouse 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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OffBeat Acres - Camp Chill AF!

2. OffBeat Acres - Camp Chill AF!

100%
(16)
6.4mi from Bear Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
There are 4 secluded sites on 15 acres of woods and open land. Easy access to each site. Large communal campfire area with firewood available on site or very nearby. A camper is set up for restroom use and there is a hose available for water. There are a horseshoe pit, Yard Darts and Corn hole board and bags available to play. Centrally located to several attractions! Manistee Lake is about 2 miles away, Manistee River is just 15 mins away, a slow meandering river. Great for a lazy day floating on a tube, kayaking and canoeing. The infamous Torch Lake is about 30 mins away with it's Caribbean blue waters, equally beautiful Elk Lake 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 Mackinac Bridge is just 50 mins away. Visit the quaint Mackinac Island and pick up some of the famous fudge! Leetsville ORV trail head is a little over 6 miles away for ORV enthusiasts. Three golf courses within 9 miles. Cherry Street Market is 9 miles away for a large array of fresh local fruits, vegetables and flowers. Garden art and more! 13 Ski Resorts within an hr or less, mostly less. There are so many things to see and do year around here in beautiful Northern Michigan!
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RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

3. RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

98%
(78)
6.7mi from Bear Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Hartwick Pines State Park

4. Hartwick Pines State Park

100%
(1)
State park 14mi from Bear Lake · 101 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Hartwick Pines State Park.
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North Higgins Lake State Park

5. North Higgins Lake State Park

State park 17mi from Bear Lake · 176 sites
Discover North Higgins Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
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pineleaf.

6. pineleaf.

100%
(59)
10mi from Bear Lake · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE DO NOT!! USE PARTRIDGE LANE THE ROAD IS A SAND TRAP YOU WILL GET STUCK!! MUST USE SECONDARY DRIVEWAY!! WHICH IS TO THE EAST OF PARTRIDGE LANE IN THE DIP THERE'S A SIGN THERE!! 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!
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C & A Adventure

7. C & A Adventure

100%
(27)
11mi from Bear Lake · 2 sites
Chad and I are long-time residents of Kalkaska County. We are also avid kayakers, runners, and overall nature enthusiasts. We are blessed with an amazing property on the North Branch of the Manistee River! It isn't the main branch of the Manistee River, BUT it flows right into it and offers so much more privacy, quietness, and peacefulness. With the 8 acres, it's perfect for glamping camping! The amazing bath house is furnished with a roomy shower, toilet and sink. It also contains a kitchenette with a large sink, microwave, small refrigerator and breakfast table. Plug in your cell phones as well to recharge for the next day’s adventure! Coffee, spices, popcorn and breakfast treats may also be available :)
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Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

8. Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

98%
(21)
15mi from Bear Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:5 private acres hardwood forest to set up camp. Rustic off-grid camping, but we live across the street in case of any urgent necessities. 15 minute drive to Torch Lake sandbar or the town of Kalkaska. 30 minute drive to Traverse City, Bellaire (Shanty Creek), Elk Rapids, Alden and all the other amazing northern Michigan towns. Fishing, hiking, boating, paddling, hunting, sailing, snowmobiling, ORV trails, mushroom hunting or any outdoor activity surrounds this quiet spot. Or, hit the local shopping, awesome restaurants and multiple craft breweries that the area has to offer.
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HillCrest

9. HillCrest

100%
(47)
16mi from Bear Lake · 3 sites
Hosting May 22 - mid/Oct My husband Dan and I purchased this property 5 years ago and have totally restored the land, home and barn from its prior condition. Consequently, if you view the various on line satellite images be advised they are out of date and do not reflect the love we have put into our sanctuary. We are retired and live here with our two standard poodles Mila and Indiana. The property is 5 acres, mostly meadow with a maple grove as well as a wooded ravine. We have planted various fruit trees, cherries, apples, peach as well as pears. We also have a small grape and berry patch which is next to our vintage trailer. There is also an old abandoned trail through the forest that makes for a nice walk. Our location is convenient to Traverse City, Alden, Belaire, Kalkaska as well as the equestrian center and the casino in Williamsburg. There are various places to eat/drink within close proximity as well as places to purchase fuel, groceries and liquor. Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas are a convenient drive where you can visit the many vineyards, orchards and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the lake and bays, or shop some of the unique stores and galleries. There are many off road vehicle and bike trails that are not far away as well. As well as boating on beautiful Torch Lake and the chain of lakes. A day trip to Sleeping Bear dunes is well worth the drive. We would be happy to make suggestions on activities, dining, entertainment during your stay. We currently have three sites which are on seperate areas of the property. Lake View site is a Vintage 1985 Avion travel trailer which as been completely renovated with all new systems. It is located with a western view of Lake Skegemog and next to our grape and berry patch in our back yard. Maple Grove site is a new Coachmen Catalina Destination series RV. It is located on the front side of the property next to the maple tree grove. Lavender Lane is located in front of our barn with a view of our small orchard and the forest, close to the walking trail. All our sites are fully outfitted with quality linens, towels, dishes and cooking equipment. All of the units have Air Conditioned and heat.
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Huron-Manistee National Forests

10. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%
(29)
National forest 55mi from Bear Lake · 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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Otsego Lake State Park

11. Otsego Lake State Park

State park 19mi from Bear Lake · 156 sites
Discover Otsego Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
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Electrical hookup
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South Higgins Lake State Park

12. South Higgins Lake State Park

83%
(4)
State park 25mi from Bear Lake · 401 sites
Discover South Higgins Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
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Electrical hookup
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Traverse City State Park

13. Traverse City State Park

94%
(16)
State park 29mi from Bear Lake · 352 sites
Discover Traverse City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
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Uraharas On The Hill

14. Uraharas On The Hill

99%
(47)
17mi from Bear Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
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Sherwood Forest

15. Sherwood Forest

98%
(24)
18mi from Bear Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful property adjoining thousands of acres of state land, trails, and great views of lake Skegomog. Two rustic sites available with fire rings. We will allow horses must have own fencing systems. Access to the north country trail, and other orv trails system. 15 minutes to Torch lake, Elk Rapids, and Traverse city. Really a great location to get to almost anywhere in northern Michigan.
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Hammerhead Shark Ranch

16. Hammerhead Shark Ranch

100%
(19)
19mi from Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: We are located on 25 acres of Pine forest. We have a micro farm where we grow specialty berries. Luxurious rainhead shower in a modern bathroom located in our main retreat building close to your campsite. Firewood available at your campsite free. Across the road is a large lake. I offer onsite massage therapy and other spa treatments, red light therapy and infra red sauna for an additional fee. Hiking trails are located throughout our property. We are 15 minutes from downtown with numerous restaurants, breweries and wineries in the region. We also offer yoga depending on our work schedule as we are a working farm.
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CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

17. CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

99%
(51)
26mi from Bear Lake · 1 site
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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Fieldguide Farmhouse

18. Fieldguide Farmhouse

93%
(40)
26mi from Bear Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Up North Charm! Est 1910 fieldstone farmhouse on a hilltop overlooking Intermediate Lake. Learn more about this land:Camping is available east of our stone farmhouse in a meadow and grove of trees on 6 acres of private, scenic, hilltop and lakeside property.
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Bayside Base Camp

19. Bayside Base Camp

100%
(45)
27mi from Bear Lake · 1 site
As avid travelers and Hipcamp users ourselves, Bayside Base Camp is our dream come true. Nestled into the back of our property in Northern Michigan it allows us to share everything we love about where we live with people who travel like we do. We live simply and adventure big. We hope you are able to explore all of the great things our area has to offer. Learn more about this land: Nestled along the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, our Bayside Base Camp is the perfect spot to stay as you explore the wonders of Northern Michigan. We offer one tent site in the back of our property with access to our indoor toilet. Access to the bathroom requires two steps up to get into the house. Guests also have access to a fire pit, a large table to set up your camp stove or jet boil, as well as the ability to hang your own hammock among our trees. We are steps away from bay access for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and whatever other water hobbies you may have! There is access to two beautiful trails within a short walking distance from your camp. We are happy to provide directions as long as you promise to take care of them and leave no trace. The Northern Michigan community is incredibly active and values the Leave No Trace principles.  In addition to the natural beauty within walking distance from your site, the area has countless trails, paths and parks to explore. We are happy to provide additional recommendations based on your interests through email or upon your arrival.   Bayside Base Camp is located 15 minutes from Downtown Traverse City, a short 45 minute drive from Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, 50 minutes from Leland and 15 minutes from Old Mission Peninsula.  Guests will be responsible for disposing of their trash items in the designated trash bin on site. There is one parking spot in our driveway and you will need to walk back to your tent site. There is a home within view of your site, but it is a seldomly used vacation home. The walk will take less than one minute to get back to your tent site from the driveway.  We are beyond excited to share our property with you and welcome you to our little slice of paradise in Northern Michigan.
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Our Backyard

20. Our Backyard

99%
(71)
28mi from Bear Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We built our home 31 years ago on 8 acres of hay field. Everything you see on our property was put here by us!! We have had dogs, a couple of horses, cats of course and chickens too. The horses, dogs and chickens are gone but we still have cats...and we have a pond off our deck with about 50 goldfish and a couple dozen frogs!! Our kids are all grown and we are left wondering what is next. For the past 20 years or so we have had at least one or two camp outs a year on our property with just friends. Then we started thinking "why not invite others?" We know how difficult it can be to get camping reservations in the area....then I bumped into a Hipcamp Host who told me about this.... so here we are! We are animal and nature lovers and our gardens are here for you to enjoy. We'd love to give you a tour and tell you all about every plant if you are interested. Or we will ignore you and let you do your own thing in our 'backyard'! We offer rustic boondocks camping or set up nearer to our buildings and we can supply you with power....110, 30 and 50 available for a small extra charge Welcome to Traverse City and welcome to Camp David!! I have a Facebook page with lots of fun and interesting things to do and see as well as great restaurant recommendations for Traverse City and beyond, on my travel page...Towhead Travels....on Facebook. Please look me up! We have a porta potty on site and firewood (mostly oak) is available to purchase when you get here. (all campsites will be provided with a fire ring, a 5 gal bucket of water, and kindling no charge) https://m.facebook.com/100057592452231/
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field