The best forest camping near Big Rapids

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a forest retreat near Big Rapids, Michigan, we've got you covered with over 1200 options to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, our top campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and House of Bear (179 reviews) have got the amenities you need and the activities you love, including off-roading (OHV), historic sites, and hiking. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $10, you're sure to find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget and preferences. Enjoy potable water, trash facilities, and campfires at many of our popular campgrounds. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors with Hipcamp!

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pine Creek , ( Clean Water to filter )

7. Pine Creek⛺️💫Private Hilltop Camp

94%
(95)
23mi from Big Rapids · 3 sites · Tents · Lake Isabella, MI
Learn more about this land:Privet campsite secluded along the Pine Creek high banks. (Designated)This primitive campsite is the only site on our property so there will not be other Campers; giving you peace and solitude.  River access close to campsite. ( River trail ) Small Fire Pit. Trails for Wildlife/Bird watching,  (Please stay on the designated trails)Sunsets and Stargazing. (Woods Loop Trail )Very private on a seldom traveled dirt road.Chairs and Table, Bucket for water, and Shovel for fire safety included .No power, No Water, No Toilet, No Trash.  Leave no Trace. Our Property is home to many wildlife,  ( I am just starting to establish this location as a Campsite.  The trails are in progress so explore with caution,  working on making the campsite even more enjoyable. History- "This is an old party spot from the 70s"Thanks for Checking out the Listing.  =) 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Air & Sun Acres

8. Air & Sun Acres

100%
(29)
21mi from Big Rapids · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Leroy, MI
Tucked back in the woods of North Western Michigan. A turn down a two-track driveway takes you into a simpler world. Conveniently located, our cabins are rustic, beautiful, and timeless. Enjoy the solitude and peace not far from local amenities. We live here on the land and strive to share its beauty with you. Need some more room to spread out? Interested in hosting a retreat? We share our land and scenic walking trails with neighbors MorningStar Adventures. They offer additional cabins within walking distance for larger groups seeking connection with the land. Learn more about this land: As an Eco-spiritual retreat center, we encourage our guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Walk the trails or labyrinth on our 35 acres or those on the neighboring 90 acres. We share the opportunities to wander with our friends to the south for a seamless experience for our guest and theirs. A second larger labyrinth, medicine wheel and wailing wall are also on the property to the south. Overall 125 acres of woods, creek, gardens and places to wander await you. The Fred Meijer White Pine Linear State Park is only a few steps away an is a paved path way of over 90 miles stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Plan a bike excursion and stay here half way! No hunting or fireworks iallowed on the property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
picturesque morning pasture...dog photobomb

9. Provision Family Farms

97%
(152)
10mi from Big Rapids · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · White Cloud, MI
Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$23
 / night
So cozy! Stayed pretty dry during the rain camping under these trees!

12. Harvest Village - Farmstay

99%
(223)
25mi from Big Rapids · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Le Roy, MI
Your Hosts - Dan and Arlene Cool: “We served as missionaries in South America for over 20 years. Our first assignment was in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, primarily at a school for missionary children, teaching Bible classes (Dan) and helping to start up and run a hot lunch program (Arlene). After this we ministered in Paraguay for 10 years. Our final years of missionary service were in Chile where we founded a missionary training school to train Chilean missionaries. Latin American students that we helped train are now serving around the world bringing hope and the Gospel to needy people. Harvest Village helps to support the ministries of our former students. We are excited to enter this new stage of our lives and to share our family’s centennial farm with people interested in healthier living and farm vacationing.”Your stay at Harvest Village helps bring hope to the hopeless; We set aside $1 /per guest, per night, to help our former students who are serving as missionaries in some of the neediest places around the world.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Billy’s Place in the Woods

15. Billy’s Place in the Woods

100%
(4)
4.7mi from Big Rapids · 1 site · Lodging · Big Rapids, MI
Small cabin with three beds, the bottom bunk is full size and can sleep couple. The other two are single beds. All have new "Memory Foam" mattresses. Out house with TP no lighting or heat. Bring what you need, think like a tent with roof and comfortable beds Campfire wood included. It’s old but free🙂 Nature Trails Lake Access Deer hunting available for renters. as allowed by State laws. Hunt at own risk, maximum three hunters per party. There is an outhouse that’s clean. There is plenty of firewood for your stay but be reasonable with the fire. Bring all you need the place has nothing. Think like a tent! You will need it all, nothing supplied as far as bedding, water, campfire starter, TP or lights. You may want bug spray. Tics in area and the wildlife is typical Pure Michigan. Over a mile of trails to wander or ride If ATV 25 mph max speed on property. I do provide fire extinguisher. Cost if used. Addition room for tents at $10 per person per night. Maximum 4 adults or family 2 adults 4 minor children in cabin. Closed until further notice !!! Access to Hot tub area at host HQ by river. It has indoor restroom and shower, Also small fireplace to enjoy the sprit of camping. This area is available to group of guest only for additional $15 a day. Closes at 10pm. Opens at 7am. Be sure to let host know so it can be unlocked for you. Bring a towel.Tub is 8’ by 8’. Maintained at 99f Respect is job one, clean up after yourselves Woods in Michigan are home to many things including mold. If you are sensitive to nature this is not a good spot for you Lake access ( Muskegon River, Rogers Pond) is available via adjoining property, there is a dock at adjoining property to tie up to, if you want to put in boat at public access 1 mile away. ATV access to water if you have one. Bagged trash is removed by me, extra bags in can bottom. Please don’t leave in can. Pull it out when stay is complete Remember no Heat, Lights or water Code opens the cabin door. Lock when leaving please
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Photo of the cabin from the trails. The photosphere isn't perfect but it gives you a good idea of the property.

17. Cabin in the woods.

97%
(37)
46mi from Big Rapids · 2 sites · Lodging · Belding, MI
I am creating a homestead based on simple but holistic living. The cabin was built built by myself with the help of family and friends. There are a number of trails to walk on the 35 private acreage of rolling hills. This heavily wooded land hosts much wildlife and beautiful scenery. There is a sport court which provides opportunities to play basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or badminton. The property is a work in progress with lots of plans for the future; including a food forest, natural pool, recreation building (being built summer 2022), and more.. The property offers a chance to reconnect with each other, yourself, or the natural world in a simplistic and harmonious way. I hope you come experience it! 35 private acres of forest on rolling hill terrain. Lots of wildlife nestled very close to the flat river; 30-40 minutes away from Grand Rapids. The Fred Meijer trail provides great biking or hiking opportunities. Lazy float tubing or kayaking down the flat river is very popular and only a short walk away. Horse back riding, golf courses, and an amazing local bakery all within a couple miles. And a fun sport court (basketball hoop, volleyball/badminton/pickelball net all right on site!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$169
 / night
Heirloom Acres

19. Heirloom Acres

99%
(37)
47mi from Big Rapids · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boon, MI
This site is accessible by a gravel driveway that leads to secluded land perfect for your camping getaway. There is tree cover, but also open areas. We have a designated area for camping that includes a fire pit, ground level metal deck, and a comfortable outhouse. There is no power or running water. Experience camping for real! (fun fact: this property has been passed down four generations of women!) We are near downtown Manton, downtown Mesick, and downtown Cadillac. Our favorite places to visit are Dayhuff lake (10 minute drive), numerous seasonal roads and trails, the Manistee River, Traverse City (45mins), Emerald Vale Golf Course (10 minutes), and Pleasant Valley Amish market for baked goods (5 min). Notes based on feedback that we've gotten from campers: -the driveway is steep, as seen in the listing photos. The recommendation for trailer size should be followed (18ft trailer max, plus 17ft car/truck). There is a corner at the top of the hill that might be tight for anything larger. I will note that there is a review where someone made it through with a 21ft trailer plus their vehicle; proceed as you will with this information.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night
Secluded Woodsy Camp by the River

20. Secluded Woodsy Camp by the River

100%
(5)
38mi from Big Rapids · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Marion, MI
Gorgeous secluded campground surrounded by pine woods. Camp is a 5 minute drive to the Muskegon River. Ask for directions to the river or other local swimming spots. **FIREWOOD FOR SALE Firewood is for sale at the campground for $5/bundle. Ask and it will be delivered to your site. **CHICKEN FEEDING PETTING ZOO We have chickens! For $5 per person, you can feed and pet the chickens. **OUTHOUSE The outhouse is located at a central point in the campground, and is a short walk from each of the campsites. There are three sites nestled in the great Michigan woods. Perfect for stargazing and roasting marshmallows over a campfire. There are 10 lakes within 10 miles. You can find your perfect fishing spot nearby. The property is also very popular for deer and turkey hunting. This retreat is ideal for social events, family vacations, couples retreats, and hunting trips.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a forest retreat near Big Rapids, Michigan, we've got you covered with over 1200 options to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, our top campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and House of Bear (179 reviews) have got the amenities you need and the activities you love, including off-roading (OHV), historic sites, and hiking. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $10, you're sure to find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget and preferences. Enjoy potable water, trash facilities, and campfires at many of our popular campgrounds. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors with Hipcamp!

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pine Creek , ( Clean Water to filter )

7. Pine Creek⛺️💫Private Hilltop Camp

94%
(95)
23mi from Big Rapids · 3 sites · Tents · Lake Isabella, MI
Learn more about this land:Privet campsite secluded along the Pine Creek high banks. (Designated)This primitive campsite is the only site on our property so there will not be other Campers; giving you peace and solitude.  River access close to campsite. ( River trail ) Small Fire Pit. Trails for Wildlife/Bird watching,  (Please stay on the designated trails)Sunsets and Stargazing. (Woods Loop Trail )Very private on a seldom traveled dirt road.Chairs and Table, Bucket for water, and Shovel for fire safety included .No power, No Water, No Toilet, No Trash.  Leave no Trace. Our Property is home to many wildlife,  ( I am just starting to establish this location as a Campsite.  The trails are in progress so explore with caution,  working on making the campsite even more enjoyable. History- "This is an old party spot from the 70s"Thanks for Checking out the Listing.  =) 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Air & Sun Acres

8. Air & Sun Acres

100%
(29)
21mi from Big Rapids · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Leroy, MI
Tucked back in the woods of North Western Michigan. A turn down a two-track driveway takes you into a simpler world. Conveniently located, our cabins are rustic, beautiful, and timeless. Enjoy the solitude and peace not far from local amenities. We live here on the land and strive to share its beauty with you. Need some more room to spread out? Interested in hosting a retreat? We share our land and scenic walking trails with neighbors MorningStar Adventures. They offer additional cabins within walking distance for larger groups seeking connection with the land. Learn more about this land: As an Eco-spiritual retreat center, we encourage our guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Walk the trails or labyrinth on our 35 acres or those on the neighboring 90 acres. We share the opportunities to wander with our friends to the south for a seamless experience for our guest and theirs. A second larger labyrinth, medicine wheel and wailing wall are also on the property to the south. Overall 125 acres of woods, creek, gardens and places to wander await you. The Fred Meijer White Pine Linear State Park is only a few steps away an is a paved path way of over 90 miles stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Plan a bike excursion and stay here half way! No hunting or fireworks iallowed on the property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
picturesque morning pasture...dog photobomb

9. Provision Family Farms

97%
(152)
10mi from Big Rapids · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · White Cloud, MI
Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$23
 / night
So cozy! Stayed pretty dry during the rain camping under these trees!

12. Harvest Village - Farmstay

99%
(223)
25mi from Big Rapids · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Le Roy, MI
Your Hosts - Dan and Arlene Cool: “We served as missionaries in South America for over 20 years. Our first assignment was in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, primarily at a school for missionary children, teaching Bible classes (Dan) and helping to start up and run a hot lunch program (Arlene). After this we ministered in Paraguay for 10 years. Our final years of missionary service were in Chile where we founded a missionary training school to train Chilean missionaries. Latin American students that we helped train are now serving around the world bringing hope and the Gospel to needy people. Harvest Village helps to support the ministries of our former students. We are excited to enter this new stage of our lives and to share our family’s centennial farm with people interested in healthier living and farm vacationing.”Your stay at Harvest Village helps bring hope to the hopeless; We set aside $1 /per guest, per night, to help our former students who are serving as missionaries in some of the neediest places around the world.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Billy’s Place in the Woods

15. Billy’s Place in the Woods

100%
(4)
4.7mi from Big Rapids · 1 site · Lodging · Big Rapids, MI
Small cabin with three beds, the bottom bunk is full size and can sleep couple. The other two are single beds. All have new "Memory Foam" mattresses. Out house with TP no lighting or heat. Bring what you need, think like a tent with roof and comfortable beds Campfire wood included. It’s old but free🙂 Nature Trails Lake Access Deer hunting available for renters. as allowed by State laws. Hunt at own risk, maximum three hunters per party. There is an outhouse that’s clean. There is plenty of firewood for your stay but be reasonable with the fire. Bring all you need the place has nothing. Think like a tent! You will need it all, nothing supplied as far as bedding, water, campfire starter, TP or lights. You may want bug spray. Tics in area and the wildlife is typical Pure Michigan. Over a mile of trails to wander or ride If ATV 25 mph max speed on property. I do provide fire extinguisher. Cost if used. Addition room for tents at $10 per person per night. Maximum 4 adults or family 2 adults 4 minor children in cabin. Closed until further notice !!! Access to Hot tub area at host HQ by river. It has indoor restroom and shower, Also small fireplace to enjoy the sprit of camping. This area is available to group of guest only for additional $15 a day. Closes at 10pm. Opens at 7am. Be sure to let host know so it can be unlocked for you. Bring a towel.Tub is 8’ by 8’. Maintained at 99f Respect is job one, clean up after yourselves Woods in Michigan are home to many things including mold. If you are sensitive to nature this is not a good spot for you Lake access ( Muskegon River, Rogers Pond) is available via adjoining property, there is a dock at adjoining property to tie up to, if you want to put in boat at public access 1 mile away. ATV access to water if you have one. Bagged trash is removed by me, extra bags in can bottom. Please don’t leave in can. Pull it out when stay is complete Remember no Heat, Lights or water Code opens the cabin door. Lock when leaving please
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Photo of the cabin from the trails. The photosphere isn't perfect but it gives you a good idea of the property.

17. Cabin in the woods.

97%
(37)
46mi from Big Rapids · 2 sites · Lodging · Belding, MI
I am creating a homestead based on simple but holistic living. The cabin was built built by myself with the help of family and friends. There are a number of trails to walk on the 35 private acreage of rolling hills. This heavily wooded land hosts much wildlife and beautiful scenery. There is a sport court which provides opportunities to play basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or badminton. The property is a work in progress with lots of plans for the future; including a food forest, natural pool, recreation building (being built summer 2022), and more.. The property offers a chance to reconnect with each other, yourself, or the natural world in a simplistic and harmonious way. I hope you come experience it! 35 private acres of forest on rolling hill terrain. Lots of wildlife nestled very close to the flat river; 30-40 minutes away from Grand Rapids. The Fred Meijer trail provides great biking or hiking opportunities. Lazy float tubing or kayaking down the flat river is very popular and only a short walk away. Horse back riding, golf courses, and an amazing local bakery all within a couple miles. And a fun sport court (basketball hoop, volleyball/badminton/pickelball net all right on site!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$169
 / night
Heirloom Acres

19. Heirloom Acres

99%
(37)
47mi from Big Rapids · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boon, MI
This site is accessible by a gravel driveway that leads to secluded land perfect for your camping getaway. There is tree cover, but also open areas. We have a designated area for camping that includes a fire pit, ground level metal deck, and a comfortable outhouse. There is no power or running water. Experience camping for real! (fun fact: this property has been passed down four generations of women!) We are near downtown Manton, downtown Mesick, and downtown Cadillac. Our favorite places to visit are Dayhuff lake (10 minute drive), numerous seasonal roads and trails, the Manistee River, Traverse City (45mins), Emerald Vale Golf Course (10 minutes), and Pleasant Valley Amish market for baked goods (5 min). Notes based on feedback that we've gotten from campers: -the driveway is steep, as seen in the listing photos. The recommendation for trailer size should be followed (18ft trailer max, plus 17ft car/truck). There is a corner at the top of the hill that might be tight for anything larger. I will note that there is a review where someone made it through with a 21ft trailer plus their vehicle; proceed as you will with this information.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night
Secluded Woodsy Camp by the River

20. Secluded Woodsy Camp by the River

100%
(5)
38mi from Big Rapids · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Marion, MI
Gorgeous secluded campground surrounded by pine woods. Camp is a 5 minute drive to the Muskegon River. Ask for directions to the river or other local swimming spots. **FIREWOOD FOR SALE Firewood is for sale at the campground for $5/bundle. Ask and it will be delivered to your site. **CHICKEN FEEDING PETTING ZOO We have chickens! For $5 per person, you can feed and pet the chickens. **OUTHOUSE The outhouse is located at a central point in the campground, and is a short walk from each of the campsites. There are three sites nestled in the great Michigan woods. Perfect for stargazing and roasting marshmallows over a campfire. There are 10 lakes within 10 miles. You can find your perfect fishing spot nearby. The property is also very popular for deer and turkey hunting. This retreat is ideal for social events, family vacations, couples retreats, and hunting trips.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

Camper favorites near Big Rapids

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Big Rapids

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