Camping in Michigan: Best Michigan Campgrounds 2023

Q: Where can I camp freely in Michigan?

In Michigan , you can often camp for free in designated areas or dispersed camping zones within its national forests, such as the Hiawatha National Forest and the Huron- Manistee National Forest. However, some areas may require fees or permits. These forests offer dispersed, primitive camping with no facilities. You'll need to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, some state forest lands also allow free dispersed camping, but it's essential to check the specific regulations for each area before setting up camp.

Q: Where can I camp in Michigan in the fall?

In fall, camping is available in many of Michigan 's various state parks, such as Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park , Ludington State Park , and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore . Michigan camping is especially beautiful in fall thanks to vibrant fall colors.

United States
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Michigan

96% (8903 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Michigan

Under $50

100%

(94)

Top camping destinations

The pond is quite large and had a canoe, two kayaks and a paddleboard for us to use

Tecumseh

348 campgrounds

Hiawatha National Forest

327 campgrounds

Isle Royale National Park

164 campgrounds

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

12 top campgrounds in Michigan

95%

(338)

Superior Times Resort

24 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, Alger

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

Blissfest Arts & Recreation Center

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cross Village, Emmet

Welcome to the picturesque countryside of rural Northern Michigan and the Blissfest Festival Farm. Campers have access to 200+ acres including an 18-hole disc golf course and many trails, including North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the property. Active agricultural projects include an orchard, vineyard and shitake garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our hardwood forests, witness stunning fall colors and marvel at the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Choose from 25 drive-in or 10 walk-in sites with access to potable water, regularly serviced portajons and solar showers. Within five miles, you'll find great restaurants and craft brews, sandy Lake Michigan beaches and the famous Tunnel of Trees. Sunsets paint the western horizon in beautiful displays of magenta and gold; our dark and starry skies are a sight to behold.

Backyard Burdickville

22 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Empire, Leelanau

Nurturing the adventurous spirit through, Community, Local Food, & Live Music in Northern Michigan, Backyard Burdickville is a special place just outside of Empire, MI offering camping, Live Music, and the Backyard Market featuring produce and flowers from The Lively Farm. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore by day and our starry landscape by night. Our 40x50 rustic campsites offer a picnic table, and about half are equipped with Fire Pits w/ Screens. Potable water hydrants and clean, regularly serviced porta-johns are available. Sites can accommodate small campers and camper vans but are not equipped for large RVs or motorhomes. If you are looking to park your larger camper vehicle or trailer, and need electricity, let us know as we do have a few larger sites with access to standard power outlets and can accommodate a larger camper. We do not have septic hook-ups, but can help you arrange a clean out from our portajohn servicer. However, out of respect for fellow campers, we do not allow generators in our campground. We aim to be family friendly! We want you to have fun, but please respect your neighbors. Quite Hours: 11pm-7am. If you need anything while you're here, we make every effort to be available onsite in the camp office (the small camper behind the wood) daily 12-4pm, and by phone, the number will be listed at our office onsite. Please send us a message if you have any questions or need anything during your stay! Address: 3805 W Empire HWY, Empire MI, 49630

Chocolay River

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marquette, Marquette

Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available

Sportsman's Port

48 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Wellston, Wexford

Gearing up for our third season as the new owners of The Sportsman's Port. We have made many updates and will continue to do so. We take pride in a clean bath house, and want everyone to have a great time at our campground. Sometimes it's crazy booked up and other times it may just be you. Feel free to ask any questions you may have and we will answer them as soon as we can. We look forward to meeting lots of new faces and hopefully starting family traditions for you and yours.

100%

(2)

Nature LLC

24 sites · Lodging80 acres · Maple City, MI

80 acres of Awesome. A resort that hosts many kinds of accommodations and events. Centrally located 10 minutes from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor, Empire, Miles of Beaches, boat launches, parks, frisbee golf and so much more. We have 40 acres of hardwoods and trails, over 47 species of birds, a filtered natural pool, and a $2M lodge with spa level bathrooms and showers. Our glamping tents have 2 queen beds with bedding and are very comfortable even for 1st time campers. There are many close restaurants and an on site outdoor kitchen. We also host many activities that are constantly changing (yoga, speakers, singing bowls, retreats, more). Come enjoy everything Leelanau County has to offer and Traverse City 30m away. We focus on creating bonding experiences that bring people together and remind them that we all share the same nature!

Ogemaw County Fair

116 sites · RVs10 acres · West Branch, MI

Located in West Branch, Michigan, Ogemaw County Fair can host your family camping trip, your family reunion, or any other number of events. We invite you to come and enjoy camping in our wooded camping area on the fairgrounds property. We have several amenities to offer including horseshoe pits, a basketball court, a playground, access to the Rifle River for fishing and wading, Wangler Pavilion, and more. We feature 70 wooded sites with water and electric 30/50 amp hookups, 40 wooded rustic campsites, and 20 wooded group camping areas with electricity! Whether it's for a short or long-term stay, we hope to see you soon! ***If the grounds are rented by a group then open camping may not be available. A fair week camping is full, however, you may be added to a list for another year if a site should become available***

Wolf Lake Resort and Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Muskegon, MI

Located in Muskegon, Michigan, Wolf Lake Resort and Campground offers 30/50 amp sites along with water and electric tent sites for those seeking a more traditional stay. This picturesque campground overlooking beautiful Wolf Lake includes hot showers and flush toilets, picnic tables and a fire ring at each site, trails to ride bikes or walk through, and four separate play areas. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating in the lake. Given our convenient location, visitors may explore nearby attractions like Softball World, Eagle Island Golf Club, Lake Michigan and Silver Side to name a few. Whether its for a night or two, we hope to see you soon!

100%

(52)

Kampvilla RV Park & Campground

45 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Bear Lake, MI

Are you ready to make memories? From a day on the water to a night under the stars, memories are made at Kampvilla RV Park! From the moment you arrive, you’ll know you’re someplace special. Our beautiful campground is nestled on 40 acres, where you will find sunny and shaded campsites, from rustic tents to pull-through full-service sites, a catch-and-release fishing pond for the kiddies, swimming pool, shuffleboard and basketball courts, a covered poolside pavilion, shower rooms, and restrooms, and plenty of family fun planned activities. From sun-up to sundown, you’ll find incredible outdoor area activities. We are located just five miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan where you can enjoy 25 miles of sandy lake Michigan shoreline, three Michigan harbors, 270 miles of pristine paddling rivers and so much more! -Local Attractions- Looking to spend the day hiking, swimming, or site seeing? Try these amazing places! • Huron-Manistee National Forests • Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve • Crystal Mountain • Elberta Dunes South Natural Area • Betsie River Pathway • Esch Beach • Beulah Public Beach Or maybe you’d like to take a scenic day trip? • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore • Point Betsie Lighthouse • Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve • Interlochen State Park • Harrietta DNR Fish Hatchery For the Golfer out there • Arcadia Bluffs • Bear Lake Highlands • Chesnut Hills • Crystal Mountain • Pinecroft & Champion Hill -Amenities- • Wifi • Heated Swimming Pool • Catch and release Pond • Clubhouse with laundry • Playground • Bath House • Fish Cleaning Station • Storage • Picnic Tables • Fire Rings -Camping Rules - subject to revision by management at any time- Check-in is 2:00 PM Check-out is 12:00 PM

100%

(15)

The Lost Oaks Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Harrison, MI

Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ATV trails & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.Learn more about this land: Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. We have beautiful wooded sites perfect for RV's, motorhomes, Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel and tent camping. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ORV trails and minutes from the Leota ORV Trailhead & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.

90%

(58)

Fieldofdreams

61 sites · Tents20 acres · Bangor, Van Buren

Learn more about this land:Open field with different variety of flowers and berries and mushrooms in the woods. Have hot showers and a swing tree and reserve a pumpkin in my pumpkin patch for October. Also have driving range with close to 300 yards. Also included is an unbelievable sunset and sunrise. Hot showers, 2kayaks and 2 jet skis extra and of course driving range balls

Fordney fire tower

15 sites · Tents20 acres · Newberry, MI

Wooded area naturally beautiful and resting area surrounded by animals and dirt trails for snow mobile or side by side Just south west of beautiful taqwaminawfall's and lakes, not far west from paradise and Noth of friendly newberry. The camp is rustic and relaxing For the family's private safe stay

Available this weekend

79%

(7)

Chocolay River

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marquette, Marquette

Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available

Blissfest Arts & Recreation Center

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cross Village, Emmet

Welcome to the picturesque countryside of rural Northern Michigan and the Blissfest Festival Farm. Campers have access to 200+ acres including an 18-hole disc golf course and many trails, including North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the property. Active agricultural projects include an orchard, vineyard and shitake garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our hardwood forests, witness stunning fall colors and marvel at the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Choose from 25 drive-in or 10 walk-in sites with access to potable water, regularly serviced portajons and solar showers. Within five miles, you'll find great restaurants and craft brews, sandy Lake Michigan beaches and the famous Tunnel of Trees. Sunsets paint the western horizon in beautiful displays of magenta and gold; our dark and starry skies are a sight to behold.

Backyard Burdickville

22 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Empire, Leelanau

Nurturing the adventurous spirit through, Community, Local Food, & Live Music in Northern Michigan, Backyard Burdickville is a special place just outside of Empire, MI offering camping, Live Music, and the Backyard Market featuring produce and flowers from The Lively Farm. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore by day and our starry landscape by night. Our 40x50 rustic campsites offer a picnic table, and about half are equipped with Fire Pits w/ Screens. Potable water hydrants and clean, regularly serviced porta-johns are available. Sites can accommodate small campers and camper vans but are not equipped for large RVs or motorhomes. If you are looking to park your larger camper vehicle or trailer, and need electricity, let us know as we do have a few larger sites with access to standard power outlets and can accommodate a larger camper. We do not have septic hook-ups, but can help you arrange a clean out from our portajohn servicer. However, out of respect for fellow campers, we do not allow generators in our campground. We aim to be family friendly! We want you to have fun, but please respect your neighbors. Quite Hours: 11pm-7am. If you need anything while you're here, we make every effort to be available onsite in the camp office (the small camper behind the wood) daily 12-4pm, and by phone, the number will be listed at our office onsite. Please send us a message if you have any questions or need anything during your stay! Address: 3805 W Empire HWY, Empire MI, 49630

Superior Times Resort

24 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, Alger

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

Nature LLC

24 sites · Lodging80 acres · Maple City, MI

80 acres of Awesome. A resort that hosts many kinds of accommodations and events. Centrally located 10 minutes from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor, Empire, Miles of Beaches, boat launches, parks, frisbee golf and so much more. We have 40 acres of hardwoods and trails, over 47 species of birds, a filtered natural pool, and a $2M lodge with spa level bathrooms and showers. Our glamping tents have 2 queen beds with bedding and are very comfortable even for 1st time campers. There are many close restaurants and an on site outdoor kitchen. We also host many activities that are constantly changing (yoga, speakers, singing bowls, retreats, more). Come enjoy everything Leelanau County has to offer and Traverse City 30m away. We focus on creating bonding experiences that bring people together and remind them that we all share the same nature!

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(94)

Sportsman's Port

48 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Wellston, Wexford

Gearing up for our third season as the new owners of The Sportsman's Port. We have made many updates and will continue to do so. We take pride in a clean bath house, and want everyone to have a great time at our campground. Sometimes it's crazy booked up and other times it may just be you. Feel free to ask any questions you may have and we will answer them as soon as we can. We look forward to meeting lots of new faces and hopefully starting family traditions for you and yours.

Chocolay River

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marquette, Marquette

Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available

Backyard Burdickville

22 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Empire, Leelanau

Nurturing the adventurous spirit through, Community, Local Food, & Live Music in Northern Michigan, Backyard Burdickville is a special place just outside of Empire, MI offering camping, Live Music, and the Backyard Market featuring produce and flowers from The Lively Farm. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore by day and our starry landscape by night. Our 40x50 rustic campsites offer a picnic table, and about half are equipped with Fire Pits w/ Screens. Potable water hydrants and clean, regularly serviced porta-johns are available. Sites can accommodate small campers and camper vans but are not equipped for large RVs or motorhomes. If you are looking to park your larger camper vehicle or trailer, and need electricity, let us know as we do have a few larger sites with access to standard power outlets and can accommodate a larger camper. We do not have septic hook-ups, but can help you arrange a clean out from our portajohn servicer. However, out of respect for fellow campers, we do not allow generators in our campground. We aim to be family friendly! We want you to have fun, but please respect your neighbors. Quite Hours: 11pm-7am. If you need anything while you're here, we make every effort to be available onsite in the camp office (the small camper behind the wood) daily 12-4pm, and by phone, the number will be listed at our office onsite. Please send us a message if you have any questions or need anything during your stay! Address: 3805 W Empire HWY, Empire MI, 49630

Blissfest Arts & Recreation Center

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cross Village, Emmet

Welcome to the picturesque countryside of rural Northern Michigan and the Blissfest Festival Farm. Campers have access to 200+ acres including an 18-hole disc golf course and many trails, including North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the property. Active agricultural projects include an orchard, vineyard and shitake garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our hardwood forests, witness stunning fall colors and marvel at the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Choose from 25 drive-in or 10 walk-in sites with access to potable water, regularly serviced portajons and solar showers. Within five miles, you'll find great restaurants and craft brews, sandy Lake Michigan beaches and the famous Tunnel of Trees. Sunsets paint the western horizon in beautiful displays of magenta and gold; our dark and starry skies are a sight to behold.

Superior Times Resort

24 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, Alger

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

Star Hosts in Michigan

79%

(7)

Chocolay River

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marquette, Marquette

Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available

Sportsman's Port

48 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Wellston, Wexford

Gearing up for our third season as the new owners of The Sportsman's Port. We have made many updates and will continue to do so. We take pride in a clean bath house, and want everyone to have a great time at our campground. Sometimes it's crazy booked up and other times it may just be you. Feel free to ask any questions you may have and we will answer them as soon as we can. We look forward to meeting lots of new faces and hopefully starting family traditions for you and yours.

Superior Times Resort

24 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, Alger

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

Backyard Burdickville

22 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Empire, Leelanau

Nurturing the adventurous spirit through, Community, Local Food, & Live Music in Northern Michigan, Backyard Burdickville is a special place just outside of Empire, MI offering camping, Live Music, and the Backyard Market featuring produce and flowers from The Lively Farm. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore by day and our starry landscape by night. Our 40x50 rustic campsites offer a picnic table, and about half are equipped with Fire Pits w/ Screens. Potable water hydrants and clean, regularly serviced porta-johns are available. Sites can accommodate small campers and camper vans but are not equipped for large RVs or motorhomes. If you are looking to park your larger camper vehicle or trailer, and need electricity, let us know as we do have a few larger sites with access to standard power outlets and can accommodate a larger camper. We do not have septic hook-ups, but can help you arrange a clean out from our portajohn servicer. However, out of respect for fellow campers, we do not allow generators in our campground. We aim to be family friendly! We want you to have fun, but please respect your neighbors. Quite Hours: 11pm-7am. If you need anything while you're here, we make every effort to be available onsite in the camp office (the small camper behind the wood) daily 12-4pm, and by phone, the number will be listed at our office onsite. Please send us a message if you have any questions or need anything during your stay! Address: 3805 W Empire HWY, Empire MI, 49630

Blissfest Arts & Recreation Center

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cross Village, Emmet

Welcome to the picturesque countryside of rural Northern Michigan and the Blissfest Festival Farm. Campers have access to 200+ acres including an 18-hole disc golf course and many trails, including North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the property. Active agricultural projects include an orchard, vineyard and shitake garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our hardwood forests, witness stunning fall colors and marvel at the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Choose from 25 drive-in or 10 walk-in sites with access to potable water, regularly serviced portajons and solar showers. Within five miles, you'll find great restaurants and craft brews, sandy Lake Michigan beaches and the famous Tunnel of Trees. Sunsets paint the western horizon in beautiful displays of magenta and gold; our dark and starry skies are a sight to behold.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

81%

(26)

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Mio, Michigan

90%

(29)

Isle Royale National Park

Michigan

92%

(30)

Hiawatha National Forest

Chatham, Michigan

100%

(53)

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

North Muskegon, Michigan

91%

(11)

Interlochen State Park

Interlochen, Michigan

86%

(7)

Ottawa National Forest

Camping in Michigan guide

When it comes to natural attractions, Michigan holds all the aces. This landlocked state has more state parks and state forests than any other, miles of coastline, and more than 10,000 lakes—which means you’ll never be more than six miles from the water. Some of the best camping is found on the beaches and islands of the Great Lakes, so plan a summer getaway to swim, fish, and kayak, or a fall camping trip to admire Michigan’s spectacular foliage. Winter is best suited for RV camping, with snow blanketing much of the state from November through March.

Where to Go

Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula is Michigan’s wild toupée, with swathes of old-growth forests, sandy beaches, and inland lakes stretching along the southern shore of Lake Superior. This is the spot to escape the crowds, whether pitching your tent by the sand dunes in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, parking your RV by a waterfall in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, or yurt camping in the Porcupine Mountains. For the ultimate camping experience, the Hiawatha National Forest has some 60 campsites to choose from.

Northern Lower Peninsula

Bordered by Lake Michigan to the West and Lake Huron to the east, the northern Lower Peninsula has the highest concentration of Michigan state parks. Miles of mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking trails await in the Huron National Forest, where you can choose from modern campgrounds or backcountry camping. Along the coast, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see, Wilderness State Park is a dark sky reserve, and Ludington State Park Beach is a family favorite.

Southwest Michigan

Grand Rapids is the gateway to Michigan’s southwest, where the shore of Lake Michigan provides plenty of options for a summer camping trip. Lakefront cities such as South Haven, Benton Harbor, and Holland have sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, and seafront campgrounds. Forget tent camping in the wilderness—RV sites come equipped with full hookups, playgrounds, and watercraft rentals.

Southeast Michigan

Michigan's "Thumb" juts out along the west shore of Lake Huron, where Sleeper State Park and Port Crescent State Park are the big draws for campers. Below this, the west coast is ideal for a road trip, peppered with shipwreck dive sites, secluded beaches, and golf courses. South of Detroit and Lake St. Clair, Sterling State Park is the only state park on the shore of Lake Erie, with a mix of RV and tent sites by the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Michigan, you can often camp for free in designated areas or dispersed camping zones within its national forests, such as the Hiawatha National Forest and the Huron-Manistee National Forest. However, some areas may require fees or permits. These forests offer dispersed, primitive camping with no facilities. You'll need to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, some state forest lands also allow free dispersed camping, but it's essential to check the specific regulations for each area before setting up camp.

Yes, Michigan offers excellent camping opportunities, with diverse landscapes, numerous state parks, and beautiful natural attractions. You'll find over 1,000 campgrounds throughout the state, ranging from rustic and primitive sites to well-maintained and modern facilities. Michigan is home to two peninsulas, each with its own unique camping experiences.

The Lower Peninsula boasts beautiful lakeshores, sand dunes, and bustling cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids. Popular camping destinations include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Ludington State Park.

The Upper Peninsula offers a more remote and rugged experience, with vast forests, waterfalls, and the shores of Lake Superior. Must-visit camping spots include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or glamping, Michigan has something for everyone. For more camping options in Michigan, you can explore Hipcamp.

The best month to camp in Michigan is typically September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. Additionally, September offers beautiful fall foliage, fewer bugs, and less crowded campgrounds compared to the peak summer months. However, if you prefer warmer temperatures for swimming and water activities, consider camping in Michigan during the summer months of June, July, or August.

Yes, boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is legal in Michigan on public lands, such as national forests and some state forests. In Michigan, you can boondock in areas like the Huron-Manistee National Forests and the Hiawatha National Forest. There are also private properties available for boondocking through Hipcamp. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations for each specific area, such as staying within designated areas, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and adhering to any fire restrictions.

In fall, camping is available in many of Michigan's various state parks, such as Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ludington State Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Michigan camping is especially beautiful in fall thanks to vibrant fall colors.