Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

Camping near Bear Lake

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.

99% (2.5K) • 5,868 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bear Lake

Trail 76 Private Campground

1. Trail 76 Private Campground

98%

(32)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Camp Chill AF!

2. Camp Chill AF!

100%

(24)

6.4mi from Bear Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

There are 5 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. Campsites do have their own firepits if desired. A camper is set up for restroom use and there is a hose available for water. There is Disk Golf, a horseshoe pit, Yard Darts and Corn Hole 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 and River is about 20 mins away. 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!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

3. RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

98%

(84)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Woodhaven

6. Woodhaven

100%

(11)

9mi from Bear Lake · 1 site

40 acres of serene peaceful woods. This sight is restricted to trailers and motor homes with fully functional bathrooms. There are no toilet or shower facilities here. This sight is full hookup. Near many crystal clear sand bottom lakes with the nearest being 3/4 miles from your sight. There are trails and routes for all off-road vehicles less than a mile away as well as ice cream and gas for all your motorized toys. 🌲 Your Perfect Getaway Starts Here! Looking for the ideal spot to park your 5th wheel and unwind in nature? We have a spacious, full-hookup site designed with larger rigs in mind— a level pad and plenty of room to relax under the stars with your 5th wheel or motor home. Our property is 40 acres of woods, peace, and quiet to enjoy nature in Mancelona, Michigan. There is a home on the property, however it is vacant so you will have privacy. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of home. Whether you're here for a weekend retreat or an extended stay, our campground site offers: ✅ Full 30/50 AMP hookup ✅ Water and sewer connection ✅ Shaded lot and scenic views ✅ Pet-friendly space ✅ ️Fire pit with seasoned wood ✅️ Picnic table ✅ Nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, ATV trails, Jet skiing, Kayaking, Canoeing, and local attractions

Pets

Full hookups

pineleaf.

7. pineleaf.

100%

(69)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

C & A Adventure

8. 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 :)

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Tree Huggers Haven

9. Tree Huggers Haven

100%

(10)

12mi from Bear Lake · 1 site

Wilderness Lite, 38 acres of highland Maples and rustic river front Cedars. The property includes rolling terrain with walking trails. Rustic camping in the comfort of a16’x10’ charming insulated Amish cabin with king size sleeping loft. Bring your rustic camping gear but leave the tent at home. Perhaps best of all you’ll be less than 2 miles from a gas station/ party store for your convenience.

Toilets

Campfires

Cooking equipment

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

14. Private 5 Ac Wooded Rustic Campsite

98%

(22)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

HillCrest

15. HillCrest

100%

(63)

16mi from Bear Lake · 3 sites

Hosting May 22 - mid/Oct My husband Dan and I purchased this property 6 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, shops 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. New this year is our chicken coop and run. We (Bill) has always wanted chickens.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Uraharas On The Hill

16. 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!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Torch Lake Stays

17. Torch Lake Stays

100%

(10)

18mi from Bear Lake · 2 sites

Welcome to the Torch Lake Stays, your private streamside hideaway in the north woods, where you can relax alongside the peaceful sounds of the soothing babbling brook. Our off-grid site includes camp stove, solar-powered lighting, fire pit, as well as a separate propane hot water shower house and a composting toilet. Good cell signal (Verizon and more)! Located halfway between Alden on beautiful Torch Lake and Bellaire, with many popular businesses such as Short's Brewing. Stay right in the middle of northwest Michigan where outdoor fun is year-round with summer water sports like the annual Antrim Paddle, autumn color tours, art gallery and winery trips, skiing and snowmobiling in winter, and wildflower / mushrooming, hiking and biking in the Springtime.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Griff's Back 40

18. Griff's Back 40

96%

(200)

18mi from Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy a spacious forest getaway on 40 beautiful acres, less than 2 miles from Torch Lake. This property offers plenty of room to spread out, explore, and relax, with a peaceful wooded setting and an open field perfect for stargazing at night. Gather around the campfire, enjoy family time, and take in the simple fun of camping surrounded by nature. You’ll be close to some of Northern Michigan’s favorite spots, including Alden, Bellaire, and Elk Rapids for shopping, exploring, and small-town charm. Nearby places to eat include Johnny’s Riviera, Rapid City Tavern, and Alden Bar. Whether you’re here for Torch Lake adventures, a quiet night under the stars, or a fun family camping trip, this site is a great home base.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Sherwood Forest

19. Sherwood Forest

98%

(31)

18mi from Bear Lake · 3 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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hammerhead Shark Ranch

20. Hammerhead Shark Ranch

100%

(21)

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.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Maureen

2 days ago

Tent

With kids

4 nights at pineleaf.

This campsite is awesome. It’s super private and very wooded. It’s within a 15 minute or so drive of many different towns and beaches. We loved our stay.

Derek

4 days ago

32 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to Camp Chill AF!

The host was excellent, super chill. Def recommend and it’s in a super beautiful spot. If we go back that’s DEF where we are staying ✌️

Dusty

4 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Woodhaven

Great place to stay. Quiet. Private. Host was very helpful. Would definitely recommend. I have no complaints

Patrick

5 days ago

Tent

3 nights at Sherwood Forest

Boondocks was a nice spot on Samuel’s property. Easy to find and close to some really nice lakes and downtown Traverse. The fire pit, grill and restroom in the camp is a nice touch. Thanks for a great weekend

Valerie

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Tree Huggers Haven

Todd’s place was the perfect getaway from the city. Tucked away in the woods but close enough to access the beaches in the area. Thanks so much.

Jordan

6 days ago

Weekend Trip to pineleaf.

Cozy and secluded. I wishI would have booked another night.

Great views of round lake, and slivers of Elk lake, and Torch lake

Jamie

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Sherwood Forest

We had a great stay at Sherwood Forest and would definitely come back. The campsite was well laid out, easy to access, and everything felt thoughtfully arranged (loved the flowers :)). The property itself is beautiful, and the view from the hill at sunset is worth taking the time to see. It was quiet, peaceful, and we felt very safe throughout our stay, making it an easy place to settle in and enjoy camping. Overall, this is a well-maintained, welcoming Hipcamp that we'd happily recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing stay near Traverse City.

Janet

1 week ago

37 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

7 nights at Trail 76 Private Campground

This is our second year spending time at Trail 76. We love the privacy and the location to golf, fishing and swimming. Full hookup sites provide a worry free stay in my camper. The large trailer onsite allowed us to play cards during a rain storm. The fire pit was great for cooking dinner and making s'mores. Thank you Clay for another great stay.

Rachel

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at HillCrest

Amazing stay! Bill and Dan have thought of every detail! The kitchen is stocked with everything needed to make breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The location is central to many hikes, nature preserves, and beaches. We slept great and were able to fully relax!

2 weeks ago

1 night at pineleaf.

The woods were gorgeous here, and Timothy is a super sweet guy. Great place for an overnight pit stop!

Kevin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Chill AF!

Jackie is gracious, kind and my stay at her campsite was absolutely Chill AF!

Adria

2 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Woodhaven

Campsite was large, easy to find, easy parking, and a nice quiet space. We were greeted by the nice owners who told us about local places to visit/eat. So welcoming! We would’ve loved to stay longer to enjoy a campfire with the wood provided, the walking path and beautiful surroundings. We would definitely recommend this place.

Curtis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Chill AF!

This site was just what I needed - a place to pitch my tent without all of the frills and extra price. This hipcamp worked out great! It was outside of town, and not hard to find off of a main road. I did have some trouble locating my site at first, but Jackie was quick to meet me and make sure I had the right place. No firepit on my lot, which was okay for me. Water and restroom was a short walk away if I needed them. I shop a lot of my stays by the location and the price and this hipcamp hit the spot!

Kory

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Camp Chill AF!

Super chill & super quiet! We stayed one night & slept in our Jeep…..we plan to visit again when we’re in the area. Host was very friendly and made sure we had what we need for the night.

nicole

2 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at HillCrest

Dan and Bill’s land is beautiful! We had an excellent time and they are fantastic hosts. The place is quiet, serene, and close to town. Pictures truly don’t do this place justice. The RV is gorgeous and fully stocked, just bring clothes and food! We loved hanging on the deck to enjoy the sunset and hot tub. Our son had a wonderful time sleeping in the second loft and can’t stop talking about wanting to go back to the RV- including to see the chickens! Dan and Bill are the friendliest hosts I’ve ever met and we would love to go visit them again at HillCrest!

Teagan

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at HillCrest

This was my second year coming to stay with Dan and Bill, and it did not disappoint! We stayed in the Lake View Avion trailer, which was just perfect. Dan and Bill are attentive hosts, and their property is full of beautiful wonder. It was the perfect place to come back to after a day of exploring around Traverse City. 10/10 recommend!

Macy

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Arcala Bunkhouse

Absolutely beautiful stay, even with a little smoke. We stayed with our two pups and we had an amazing stay at the bunkhouse. A peaceful retreat and getaway for us and the dogs. We celebrated our pup Milo's first birthday with a grilled hamburger and Carole and Art really went above and beyond with our stay. They had extra water for our dogs outside and really anything and everything you could need for your stay. The trails were clearly marked and we had fun eating wild raspberries and watching the butterflies in the fields. We will definitely be back for another stay sometime, as we could not get enough of it in just two days!

Courtney

3 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sherwood Forest

We had a last minute cancelation due to air quality warnings. Samuel was generous and understanding. Even before the cancelation, Samuel worked with us to make sure he had a spot that would work for our trailer. If you want a host with integrity and who will bend over backwards so you have a good experience, choose Samuel!

Dylan

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Tree Huggers Haven

Absolutely beautiful cabin! It was peaceful and definitely felt like a getaway from the hustle of city life. Todd was very accommodating and very prudent with communication. I would definitely stay here again!