The best camping near Bessemer with swimming

·

In Bessemer, swimming takes centre stage, with over 1,300 campsites designed for easy water access. Expect a wide range of site styles, from wooded hideaways to grassy clearings, many just steps from lakes or riverbanks. Prices start at $20 a night, with the average hovering around $36. You’ll find basics like showers, pet-friendly spots, and toilets at most sites. Top picks include Bad River Wilderness (362 reviews) for its wild river bends, Beach Camp (65 reviews) for sandy shores, and Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping (42 reviews) for its low-key vibe. Fishing, snow sports, and hiking round out the local scene—so pack for more than just a swim.

97% (632) 52 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bessemer

Presque Isle Campground

1. Presque Isle Campground

91%
(34)
22mi from Bessemer · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Haugen Road Campground

2. Haugen Road Campground

98%
(24)
29mi from Bessemer · 1 site
Come enjoy 4 acres of beautiful Red Pine woods on a dirt road corner. 2 minutes from Copper Falls State Park where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking the falls, biking, and enjoying a day in the park area with family and friends. Come back to camp and have a beer and cook some food by the fire.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$20
 / night
Bad River Wilderness

3. Bad River Wilderness

98%
(536)
34mi from Bessemer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Update: This property was awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been unused since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north into the national forest. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$23
 / night
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

4. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(29)
State park 25mi from Bessemer · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Gogebic State Park

5. Lake Gogebic State Park

State park 23mi from Bessemer · 128 sites
Discover Lake Gogebic State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beach Camp

6. Beach Camp

100%
(94)
38mi from Bessemer · 1 site · Tent, RV
This little slice of heaven is owned by Doug and April Berg. Located on a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Superior. West of Ontonagon, MI, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This premium Lake Superior waterfront property has 200 feet of sandy shoreline, a flat grassy lot and marsh framed by large pine, cedar and birch trees for privacy from neighbor cabins and breathtaking beach sunsets! Beach comb, build a driftwood fire, or hang your hammock and watch the waves on this majestic lake. Miles of shoreline to walk or snowshoe in the winter. Great base camp for all the adventure the UP has to offer! Close to the Porcupine Mountains, ski resorts, and cross country, snowshoe, mountain bike and snowmobile trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

7. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%
(89)
41mi from Bessemer · 3 sites
Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Butternut Lake Camping

8. Butternut Lake Camping

95%
(40)
43mi from Bessemer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Waterfront campsite with 140 feet of level shoreline. Plenty of room for up to 4 RV's or travel trailers. Located on 1000+ acre Butternut Lake with a abundant fishing and watersports activities. Rowboat, Firepit and firewood available at no charge on site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort

9. Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort

100%
(16)
46mi from Bessemer · 1 site
Big Rig Friendly RV Resort with full hookups at every site. The Land O’ Lakes Nature RV Resort is not a typical campground. The vision is to create an exclusive escape for adults (25+) only. Tranquil privacy and a relaxing atmosphere. Escape from the ordinary! 215-acres with miles of nature trails, beautiful views from two observation towers, and kayaking in Blue Diamond Lake. We do not have public bathrooms and showers. Self-contained RVs only. Thank you!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$67
 / night
Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

10. Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

89%
(9)
State forest 33mi from Bessemer · 719 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Northern Highland American Legion State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Copper Falls State Park

11. Copper Falls State Park

93%
(7)
State park 30mi from Bessemer · 51 sites
Discover Copper Falls State Park's ancient lava flows and scenic trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chequamegon National Forest

12. Chequamegon National Forest

75%
(4)
National forest 66mi from Bessemer · 351 sites
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, what a unique name and deservedly so as the forest itself is as diverse and attention getting as it’s namesake! The deep northwoods of Wisconsin offers a ton of hiking, biking, and camping to get stoked about; there’s 800 miles of hiking trails alone. But if you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, try offroading or cross country skiing old military roads in the winter. There’s stunning Lake Superior views from St. Peter’s Dome and 70 foot Morgan Falls is sure to cool you off on a hot summer day. We dig the Quartz Trail where you can see giant quartz deposits discovered by the Native Americans who used to inhabit the area. There’s plenty of camping options to make this a wilderness weekend (or more) and with over 1.5 million acres to explore, we doubt you’ll be running out of rad things to discover!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Big Bay State Park

13. Big Bay State Park

100%
(6)
State park 37mi from Bessemer · 61 sites
Discover Big Bay State Park's scenic shores and lush campgrounds.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
AJ's Lodge and Oven

14. AJ's Lodge and Oven

23mi from Bessemer
AJ’s Lodge & Oven stands out as a unique all-season resort nestled on the picturesque North Shore of Lake Gogebic, surrounded by nearly a million acres of the Ottawa National Forest. This stunning location offers guests a serene escape into nature, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. Our lodge features newly renovated units and spacious suites designed for relaxation, all while providing breathtaking views of the lake. In 2020, we proudly opened our new lakefront restaurant, where guests can savor delicious meals and exceptional service against the stunning backdrop of Lake Gogebic. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, ATVing, or snowmobiling, our resort is perfectly situated for exploring the nearby Porcupine Mountains and visiting beautiful waterfalls like Bond Falls and Black River Harbor. Fishing, ice fishing, motorcycling, and skiing are also popular activities in the area. We invite you to unwind in our comfortable lakefront setting and experience the year-round beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Nicolet National Forest

15. Nicolet National Forest

69%
(13)
National forest 66mi from Bessemer · 556 sites
The Nicolet National Forest is gonna leave you with a thick grin across your face! A deepwoods paradise, Nicolet offers a smorgasbord of game and fowl for those who like to hunt and over 800 miles of trails, off roading, and snowmobiling for those who like to wander! Canoe out into the Blackjack Springs Wilderness for some serious trout fishin’ or just to be inspired by Mama Nature herself. With unique overnight options like ATV or horse camping, you’re sure to find some rest after your days adventure and there’s plenty of regular campgrounds for families and groups. There’s no coming back from a Nicolet National Forest adventure, when you smile so much your cheeks hurt, you know you’ve found “the” place.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

16. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

96%
(12)
National park 49mi from Bessemer · 2 sites
Shipwrecks, sea caves, and sandy beaches provide a spectacular setting for an island camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets

In Bessemer, swimming takes centre stage, with over 1,300 campsites designed for easy water access. Expect a wide range of site styles, from wooded hideaways to grassy clearings, many just steps from lakes or riverbanks. Prices start at $20 a night, with the average hovering around $36. You’ll find basics like showers, pet-friendly spots, and toilets at most sites. Top picks include Bad River Wilderness (362 reviews) for its wild river bends, Beach Camp (65 reviews) for sandy shores, and Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping (42 reviews) for its low-key vibe. Fishing, snow sports, and hiking round out the local scene—so pack for more than just a swim.

97% (632) 52 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bessemer

Presque Isle Campground

1. Presque Isle Campground

91%
(34)
22mi from Bessemer · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Haugen Road Campground

2. Haugen Road Campground

98%
(24)
29mi from Bessemer · 1 site
Come enjoy 4 acres of beautiful Red Pine woods on a dirt road corner. 2 minutes from Copper Falls State Park where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking the falls, biking, and enjoying a day in the park area with family and friends. Come back to camp and have a beer and cook some food by the fire.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$20
 / night
Bad River Wilderness

3. Bad River Wilderness

98%
(536)
34mi from Bessemer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Update: This property was awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been unused since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north into the national forest. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$23
 / night
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

4. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(29)
State park 25mi from Bessemer · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Gogebic State Park

5. Lake Gogebic State Park

State park 23mi from Bessemer · 128 sites
Discover Lake Gogebic State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beach Camp

6. Beach Camp

100%
(94)
38mi from Bessemer · 1 site · Tent, RV
This little slice of heaven is owned by Doug and April Berg. Located on a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Superior. West of Ontonagon, MI, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This premium Lake Superior waterfront property has 200 feet of sandy shoreline, a flat grassy lot and marsh framed by large pine, cedar and birch trees for privacy from neighbor cabins and breathtaking beach sunsets! Beach comb, build a driftwood fire, or hang your hammock and watch the waves on this majestic lake. Miles of shoreline to walk or snowshoe in the winter. Great base camp for all the adventure the UP has to offer! Close to the Porcupine Mountains, ski resorts, and cross country, snowshoe, mountain bike and snowmobile trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

7. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%
(89)
41mi from Bessemer · 3 sites
Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Butternut Lake Camping

8. Butternut Lake Camping

95%
(40)
43mi from Bessemer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Waterfront campsite with 140 feet of level shoreline. Plenty of room for up to 4 RV's or travel trailers. Located on 1000+ acre Butternut Lake with a abundant fishing and watersports activities. Rowboat, Firepit and firewood available at no charge on site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort

9. Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort

100%
(16)
46mi from Bessemer · 1 site
Big Rig Friendly RV Resort with full hookups at every site. The Land O’ Lakes Nature RV Resort is not a typical campground. The vision is to create an exclusive escape for adults (25+) only. Tranquil privacy and a relaxing atmosphere. Escape from the ordinary! 215-acres with miles of nature trails, beautiful views from two observation towers, and kayaking in Blue Diamond Lake. We do not have public bathrooms and showers. Self-contained RVs only. Thank you!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$67
 / night
Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

10. Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

89%
(9)
State forest 33mi from Bessemer · 719 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Northern Highland American Legion State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Copper Falls State Park

11. Copper Falls State Park

93%
(7)
State park 30mi from Bessemer · 51 sites
Discover Copper Falls State Park's ancient lava flows and scenic trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chequamegon National Forest

12. Chequamegon National Forest

75%
(4)
National forest 66mi from Bessemer · 351 sites
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, what a unique name and deservedly so as the forest itself is as diverse and attention getting as it’s namesake! The deep northwoods of Wisconsin offers a ton of hiking, biking, and camping to get stoked about; there’s 800 miles of hiking trails alone. But if you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, try offroading or cross country skiing old military roads in the winter. There’s stunning Lake Superior views from St. Peter’s Dome and 70 foot Morgan Falls is sure to cool you off on a hot summer day. We dig the Quartz Trail where you can see giant quartz deposits discovered by the Native Americans who used to inhabit the area. There’s plenty of camping options to make this a wilderness weekend (or more) and with over 1.5 million acres to explore, we doubt you’ll be running out of rad things to discover!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Big Bay State Park

13. Big Bay State Park

100%
(6)
State park 37mi from Bessemer · 61 sites
Discover Big Bay State Park's scenic shores and lush campgrounds.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
AJ's Lodge and Oven

14. AJ's Lodge and Oven

23mi from Bessemer
AJ’s Lodge & Oven stands out as a unique all-season resort nestled on the picturesque North Shore of Lake Gogebic, surrounded by nearly a million acres of the Ottawa National Forest. This stunning location offers guests a serene escape into nature, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. Our lodge features newly renovated units and spacious suites designed for relaxation, all while providing breathtaking views of the lake. In 2020, we proudly opened our new lakefront restaurant, where guests can savor delicious meals and exceptional service against the stunning backdrop of Lake Gogebic. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, ATVing, or snowmobiling, our resort is perfectly situated for exploring the nearby Porcupine Mountains and visiting beautiful waterfalls like Bond Falls and Black River Harbor. Fishing, ice fishing, motorcycling, and skiing are also popular activities in the area. We invite you to unwind in our comfortable lakefront setting and experience the year-round beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Nicolet National Forest

15. Nicolet National Forest

69%
(13)
National forest 66mi from Bessemer · 556 sites
The Nicolet National Forest is gonna leave you with a thick grin across your face! A deepwoods paradise, Nicolet offers a smorgasbord of game and fowl for those who like to hunt and over 800 miles of trails, off roading, and snowmobiling for those who like to wander! Canoe out into the Blackjack Springs Wilderness for some serious trout fishin’ or just to be inspired by Mama Nature herself. With unique overnight options like ATV or horse camping, you’re sure to find some rest after your days adventure and there’s plenty of regular campgrounds for families and groups. There’s no coming back from a Nicolet National Forest adventure, when you smile so much your cheeks hurt, you know you’ve found “the” place.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

16. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

96%
(12)
National park 49mi from Bessemer · 2 sites
Shipwrecks, sea caves, and sandy beaches provide a spectacular setting for an island camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets

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