The best camping in Michigan

Name: Michigan
Address: Michigan
Rating: 4.8525

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.

97% (18.1K) • 25,842 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Michigan

Mulln-Heim Vineyards

1. Mulln-Heim Vineyards

100%

(749)

Baroda, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a 3rd generation "Family Farm" of a different sort I suppose. Seems there's a bit of everything here, and arguably not enough of anything. At least for conventional farming. So we've learned to do things a bit differently.Our main crop is wine and juice grapes since our topography, climate, and soil type makes it a premier location for that. But with 30+ acres of forested hillsides, low ground, and natural areas we've evolved into a mixed farm and forest enterprise. Our goal is to utilize the productivity of all our property while still retaining the basic character and usefulness of the wild areas. Letting each thing be what it wants to be and does best on it's own. Flow, not force.So our year starts early with tapping maple trees and making maple syrup. Plus there's grape trimming about this time as well. When the forest floor starts to green up a bit later, we start digging Ramps, or Wild Leeks in the woods. Most of these will go to the more trendy Chicago restaurants, but we also have some local sales. Next comes inoculating winter-cut logs with Shiitake spawn for next years mushroom production. This year we also conducted a few hands-on workshop seminars on mushroom growing as well. Then it's on to our raised bed herb & veggie gardens. (Fresh herbs are just so much fun to cook with!) We grow enough for our own yearly use, as well as some for direct sales. Summer keeps us busy tending all the different crops here and trying to keep up. But there's that steady progression of fresh veggies to eat. Yum !!! Fall brings our annual Grape U-Pick in September and October. And we try to time related crops like mums, pumpkins, and gourds for this same time frame. Makes the place a bit more interesting. Late fall is when we bring in firewood to heat the house and workshop. Stacks of wood everywhere. Hopefully before the 1st snow. In winter it's time to fire up the woodworking shop and be a bit creative. Build furniture, equipment maintenance, who knows what next years projects will include. I like to keep everybody guessing.So, that's what goes on here. You're welcome to check it out, lend a hand, relax back at camp, walk the vineyards and/or forest, or just breathe and relax. That's up to you. But I would recommend visiting a few of the fine local wineries. Seems there's a festival going on at one or another of them just about every weekend. Good music, good wine, good times. And there's the Lake Michigan beaches a few miles down the road.Yeah, this is a pretty casual place here, love meeting new people, very open to civil discussions of all sorts.However, rude, ill mannered people will probably enjoy staying elsewhere. Just say'n.

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Blooming Bus Farms

2. Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(517)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Blooming Bus farms is a working urban flower, vegetable and fiber farm practicing sustainable, organic, natural farming practices. Spread out over 15 acres, upon completion, you’ll find 4 yurt sites and 3 byo tent sites. Working hard contributing to our compost are our alpaca and free range chickens. While this is a working farm, we try to not run any equipment before 10:00am! Inquire about reserving the entire property to host your group getaway!

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Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

3. Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(209)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

40 acre secluded wood lot providing tent, RV, and cabin camping. 10 miles from Lake Michigan public beaches. 5 miles from Michigan’s Adventure amusement park. 4 miles from Thunderbird Raceway 2 miles from US 31 expressway. 3 miles from shopping, bars and restaurants. 1 mile from public golf course. 5 miles from downtown Muskegon. 8 miles from Lake Express cross lake ferry terminal. 10 miles from Winter Sports Complex at Muskegon State Park Firewood provided

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Huron-Manistee National Forests

4. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(30)

National forest in Michigan · 938 sites

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

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Isle Royale National Park

5. Isle Royale National Park

98%

(40)

National park in Michigan · 168 sites

Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.

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Showers

Mulligan's Valley in the Woods

6. Mulligan's Valley in the Woods

100%

(145)

Oxford, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

**ALL campers(not just who reserves the site) MUST sign our liability waiver prior to, or at check in. Please do not book if your group members are not willing to sign and show picture ID. This is non negotiable. Your booking will be cancelled and you will not be allowed to camp if this requirement is not adhered to. I wish the world was different.** We are situated at the end of a private road with only 2 residences. 12+ wooded acres to enjoy(hiking/exploring). At this time, only Sprinter Vans, Truck Campers and small trailers are ideal for the RV sites. Tent campers set up at the back of the property in the woods. Several hiking trails and locations to camp. There are multiple fire rings out back and plenty of fallen wood to burn or you can purchase seasoned split wood bundles on site. Suggested Local Attractions: The property borders a public golf course, downtown Lake Orion or Oxford are less than 1.5 miles as is public access to All-Sports Lake Orion(the lake) as well as others in the area. Dozens of miles of hiking/mountain biking trails. Bald Mountain State Park and Addison Oaks trailheads 2 and 3 miles respectively. Disc Golf courses. Public beaches, paved trails, etc. Or you can just hang out and watch the various wildlife that frequent the property. At least a dozen breweries, distilleries, restaurants a couple miles away, easily able to walk/bike/drive. **10% discount to previous guests or military(past or present, please be willing to provide proof to avoid scammers), message for code or can be applied post booking. Just let us know!**

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Dragon Adventures Base Camp

7. Dragon Adventures Base Camp

98%

(170)

White Cloud, MI · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Dragon Adventures Base Camp is 30 acres of adventurous fun in the heart of a great adventure area! Mountain biking and hiking on the 43 mile Dragon Trail, paddling on Hardy Pond or the Muskegon River, boating, and the most popular beach are all just minutes away. At the Base Camp you’ll find a cabin for rent, campsites, an amazing beer garden with firepits, yard games, and tons of woods and trails to explore year round! Mark and Amy love hosting folks for their adventures! Come as strangers but leave as friends!

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Andy’s Wolf Traxx

8. Andy’s Wolf Traxx

98%

(227)

Newberry, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is heavily wooded with pine and maple trees. Wild raspberry and blueberries are found to be plentiful in season. Formerly wooded by lumberjacks during the early 1900’s, this area is rich with history and sights to see. Located between Seney National Wildlife Refugee and Grand Mairas on Lake Superior.

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Carlandia CannaCamp

9. Carlandia CannaCamp

100%

(270)

Manchester, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Carlandia! We are a quiet camp, sharing the peace and serenity of nature. We believe in promoting natural areas and encouraging formation of habitat. We love this amazing planet and are happy to share this beautiful place with you! ✌🏾💙🌎 Nearly 42.0 acres of rolling hills planted in organic hay, organic herb and veggie garden, loads of wild berries and mowed trails! See hawks, sandhill cranes, 20+ songbirds, deer and maybe fox, bald eagle, osprey, or coyote! Minutes to waterfowl preserve, lake life, antiquing, mountain/road bicycling, kayak lakes and streams, disc golf onsite... Lots to do!

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Hiawatha National Forest

10. Hiawatha National Forest

88%

(36)

National forest in Michigan · 513 sites

This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.

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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

11. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

99%

(63)

National park in Michigan · 211 sites

Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.

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Ludington State Park

12. Ludington State Park

100%

(30)

State park in Michigan · 373 sites

Take a beach break at two lakes in one at this sandy state park.

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Muskegon State Park

13. Muskegon State Park

100%

(17)

State park in Michigan · 247 sites

Discover Muskegon State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

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Northern Oasis Camping

14. Northern Oasis Camping

97%

(224)

Negaunee, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We are 7 miles from downtown Marquette, 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! There is guest internet but its patchy in camping area-better closer to the house and large firepit area There is a charcoal grill near communal firepit area. We are near 2 river basins(McClure Basin and Dead River Basin) for fishing, swimming and boating ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a couple more private wooded sites. There are at least two areas for small campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks.. There is a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. We have nice fire wood available on site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is a "port-a-john" on site- extra TP is kept in red shed hanging on nail in a bag. Please let us know if this needs attention.

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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

15. Shivering Timbers Family Campground

99%

(95)

Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Shivering Timbers Family Campground, the closest private camp to Tahquamenon Falls (3 miles) and 15 minutes from Two Hearted River Trailhead and Crisp Point lighthouse access. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, access to water spigot, and portable toilets. We offer 4 primitive tent/van/small RVs to park on spacious sites in private spots surrounded by state land. Our boys sell firewood, delivered to your site! We can be your headquarters for all attractions that will make your stay enjoyable. Located only 5 minutes from Lower Falls State Park, 10 minutes from Upper Falls, we have a variety of trails, river access and lakes to get you going on a nice hike or a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Rustic it may be but the use of quiet generators are allowed and we are pet friendly. We have a community field with games and a fire pit to use. Self-contained trailers are welcome (no hookups yet). Steps from snowmobile trails and near Lake Superior (10 miles), Star gazing, rock hunting or bird watching are all ideal for family fun or quiet escapes. Showers and RV amenities are available at the state park (3 miles). Check back for new sites and book now for a much needed U.P. adventure!

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Tom and Julie's Place

16. Tom and Julie's Place

99%

(122)

MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

NEW for FALL OF 2026!! WE ARE KEEPING 2 OF OUR CAMPSITES OPEN THROUGH NOV AND MAYBE DEC DEPENDING ON WEATHER! Keep an eye on the reservation calendar. Only the Walk-in site & Site 1 will be available. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you! Thanks for choosing to stay here. For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs and posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. All campers must arrive no later than 7:30 p.m. (This time limit will change throughout the year.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed, max of 2 total (cats; dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max) NOTE: Portable electric fences are NOT sufficient. They MUST be leashed, no exceptions. *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites and for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES*** *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES*** *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door is open for 2026. Free wagon rides on weekends, a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away in the month of October for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples, have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.

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Bear Tree Homestead

17. Bear Tree Homestead

100%

(456)

Trowbridge Park, MI · 2 sites

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The cabins have access to the pond, use of the canoe, a private fire pit, picnic table, charcoal grill and privy. Inside the cabins is a functional kitchen with dishes, flatware, pots and pans, so you can prepare meals onsite. Cabins also have table and chairs as well soft chairs/sofa sitting area, bookshelves with a variety of books, board games and puzzles, and covered porch in case of rain. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, collect fresh eggs (when they are laying), lay in the hammock, listen to the sounds of nature and the barnyard or take an adventure hike, bike ride, snowshoe, or ski right out the door.  One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. The property is on the North Country Trail, just over a Noquemanon Trail Network Forestville trailhead where access to year round recreation awaits. Hogback Mountain is just up the trail from the cabin with spectacular views of forest, mountains and lake superior. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

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White Pine Farm HipCamping

18. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%

(163)

Ann Arbor, MI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

A Special Welcome to Any Fellow Wheatlanders Looking For a Friendly Spot! LARGE GROUPS - We are hosting events! Graduation parties, small weddings, family reunions, you name it. You can rent the whole campground for a day a night, a weekend, or a whole week if that suits your need. Just send us a message and we can talk about it. We can also accommodate large groups at a single campsite or you can rent several of them. Our primary guideline is that if your event will be held while other campers are here, it cannot disturb them. So, consider renting the whole campground. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please plan to arrive and set up camp between 3 and 9 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 9 PM, please send us a message letting us know. We decide on a case by case basis since we prefer not to have late arrivals. In any event we do not accept arrivals after 11 PM except in an emergency since many campers and your host may have already gone to bed. Overview: Our beautiful 10 acre farm and homestead is situated between Ann Arbor and Dexter not far from the Huron River. The 5 acre area where our campsites are located is wooded with mature oak, maple, walnut, elm, and white pine trees. We're isolated and surrounded by wild areas and natural farm land but just a 10 minute drive to restaurants, groceries, fuel, and other amenities. The Ann Arbor area is home to a huge array of world class events from the Ark music venue to National Champions Michigan home football games and a whole lot more. Downtown Ann Arbor or Dexter or Chelsea is only a 15 minute car drive. White Lotus Farms, which has a wonderful farm market on Saturdays from 9 - 2 and Wednesdays from 9 - 1, is a 10 minute walk down our dirt road. If you forget to bring something that you need, don't hesitate to ask! We've got a growing number of camping essentials for rent or sale for very reasonable prices that can make your stay even more enjoyable: from bug repellants to camp chairs, potable water in 2.5 - 5 gallon containers, and more. NEW IN 2025 we have installed a hose with potable water near the entrance to the campground for your convenience.

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Forest Haven RV Park and Campground

19. Forest Haven RV Park and Campground

99%

(42)

Decatur, MI · 52 sites · Tents, RVs

Tucked away in the lush expanse of a 70-acre hardwood forest, our RV park just south of Decatur, Michigan, is a haven for campers and RV enthusiasts. Offering 100 fully-equipped 30-amp full hookup sites and 10 picturesque tent sites with both water and electricity, we accommodate a range of outdoor preferences. Whether you're seeking a quick escape or a prolonged sojourn, our versatile lodging options include nightly, weekly, monthly, and seasonal rates tailored to your itinerary. With many of our sites occupied by friendly seasonal guests, it's the perfect environment for making new friends and creating cherished memories. Join us where tranquility and adventure converge in the heart of nature.

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Full hookups

Waymeet Homestead

20. Waymeet Homestead

95%

(31)

Ann Arbor, MI · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

A gorgeous shared homestead with native Michigan woods, pastures grazed by North American Heritage Yak, an ancient orchard, a natural swimming pond, and free ranging chickens. Lounge by the pond, wander the woods, and relax, or meet a chicken, pet a yak, and get the small farm experience by following us through morning chores.

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The best family-friendly campsites in Michigan

Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(517)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(209)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

99%

(95)

Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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Forest Haven RV Park and Campground

99%

(42)

Decatur, MI · 52 sites · Tents, RVs

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Full hookups

Explore the U.P. from here!

97%

(408)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Best Hipcamp in Michigan – 5x Finalist! Experience total privacy and rustic charm at our spacious, secluded campsites—perfect for tents, campers, or our unique levitating tents (already set up—just bring your sleeping bag and pillow!). Each site features a private entrance and is so spread out, you’ll likely never see another camper. No crowds. No noise. Just nature. Ideally located near top Upper Peninsula attractions—Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls, and Kitch-iti-kipi—with a convenience store just a short walk away, as is the public boat launch onto East Lake. Bonus: Mention your stay for a discounted shower at the Pleasant Moose Hotel in Newberry!

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Jackson Station Leelanau

98%

(301)

Maple City, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Our sites accomodate 2 adults plus their minors, with 1-2 vehicles at each site's entrance. If you're traveling with more than 2 adults please book more than one site. Enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience in beautiful Leelanau County via Agritourism at Jackson Station! Our property has 4 private tent sites situated among a dense pine forest on our small-scale farm. We're located between the two popular vacation destinations of Glen Arbor and Leland, MI - both a short scenic drive in either direction. The peninsula has tons of recreation: hiking, biking, beaches, boating, fishing, dining, shopping, wine tasting, and visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes! Our farm produces pastured, all natural meat, including pork, beef, goat and fresh eggs/seasonal veggies. See the hens roaming, cows and goats grazing in the fenced-in pasture. A variety of cuts of meat from our freezers are available for sale or get a tour of the farm ~ Just ask! You may simply enjoy the scene at your leisure. SITE DETAILS: Each camp site has woodchips, gravel surrounding a bonfire ring, a clothesline and neatly stacked firewood for sale. Our sites accomodate 2 adults and their minors. We recommend that larger groups or multiple adults book more than one site next to each other (sites 1 and 2 or 2 and 3 are good for this). Quiet hours are enforced between 10pm-7am. This is our home and farm, not a campground, please think of staying here that way. A water pump (for delicious drinking water straight from our well) and outdoor solar shower are located at camp. Our land borders the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You'll be just a few miles from access to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. Relax in the sand, hunt for rocks, hike a trail, kayak or paddle-board and watch an epic sunset. School Lake, known for its fishing from non-motorized boats or a quiet place to paddle. 2 Miles away, access the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a non-motorized 27 mile groomed trail that follows the scenic M-22 from our location all the way to Empire, MI. 2.8 miles from our camp, you'll find a Mountain Bikers paradise at Palmer Woods Forest Preserve, with various hiking trails and a 6 mile mountain bike trail.

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The best dog-friendly campsites in Michigan

Mulln-Heim Vineyards

100%

(749)

Baroda, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(517)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Toilets

Campfires

Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(209)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Campfires

Mulligan's Valley in the Woods

100%

(145)

Oxford, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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Dragon Adventures Base Camp

98%

(170)

White Cloud, MI · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Andy’s Wolf Traxx

98%

(227)

Newberry, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

John

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Great site!

Aaron

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valley of the Giants Camp

The site was perfect. It was secluded and offered plenty of space for two large tents. Upon our arrival we discovered that the hosts had left us a loaf of fresh baked bread to welcome us. They stopped by to see if we needed anything. They even brought a couple of kayaks for us to use on a nearby lake. We will definitely be back.

Doug

5 days ago

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Second stay. Very nice. Great host.

Crissen

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Valley of the Giants Camp

Dean and his wife were amazing host. They couldn’t have been any better. Showing up to a campsite after a long drive with fresh warm bread was just the beginning. They go above and beyond to make your stay absolutely the best it could possibly be. Thanks again, Dean.

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Secluded Lost Lake

Beautiful property. Minimal amenities. Minimal cell service. Bring extra water. You may decide to stay an extra day and not be supplied for your full stay.

Paul

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Such a peaceful place in the countryside to set up camp, second time here and Carl is a great host! Always get the eggs when you come here, they're great too! Can't recommend this place enough

Emily

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

We stopped here for a last minute stay. Great communication and great stay! Slept under the stars. ✨

Nathaniel

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Secluded Lost Lake

Awesome sauna and friendly accommodation. Fall colors were incredible!!!!!!

Luke

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Valley of the Giants Camp

Dean is a great host and this site is perfect. Everything was clean and organized. Dean gave me clear directions on finding the place and even left homemade bread and apples. Will be back with family.

Mark

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

2 nights at Northern Oasis Camping

Joy and Brian have a beautiful place to camp. Super clean and quiet! Joy and Brian are great hosts! My go to place to stay when mountain biking in the Marquette area!

David

2 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

1 night at Northern Oasis Camping

Absolutely beautiful spot! Nice quiet camping spots. Great firepit and seating area. Very clean and very well maintained.

Theresa

2 weeks ago

1 night at Secluded Lost Lake

Loved our stay! Very beautiful area and secluded. Comfortable bed. Loved the proximity to town and several waterfalls. Would stay again!

Bronson

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Andy’s Wolf Traxx

Great spot, each site is private and a good distance from each other. Easy to find and sites clearly marked. Highly recommend going around Late september - October. The leaves in the area were crazy intense. Met Andy on site - would stay here again.

Lori

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Blooming Bus Farms

Absolutely love staying at Blooming Bus!!! Everything is well thought out and very cozy! Owners are incredibly responsive and helpful. Will be back soon!

Michael

2 weeks ago

25 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Valley of the Giants Camp

Great spot, great host ! I enjoyed the loaf of bread that Dean had left at the spot.

Lacey

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Carlandia CannaCamp

Carl was amazing and very responsive, and his property is BEAUTIFUL! This was so peaceful and exactly what I needed as a retreat. I typically book an extra night so we can leisurely tear down our glamping set up, and Carl even messaged to make sure everything was okay. That was very nice and we will definitely be back!

Jessica

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

A gorgeously kept land with friendly and responsive hosts. Lots to do in the area. We will be back!!!

charlie

2 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Jackson Station Leelanau

I was a great spot to camp. We will be back for sure.

Kaitlyn

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Jackson Station Leelanau

Raquel and Kevin’s property is beautiful! The best way to describe it is serene. Mornings were so peaceful, hearing the birds in the morning flitting around the site and feeling the sun’s rays slowly warm up the site. The location was great- only about 15-25 mins from any site in sleeping bear dunes, and being on the eastern side it felt a bit quieter. Also, Raquel was kind enough to drop off some eggs for me when their roadside stand was out. I’m looking forward to coming back sometime in the near future!

Iena

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Carl was very welcoming, and it is a beautiful place

Michigan camping guide

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.

Top camping destinations around Michigan

Hiawatha National Forest

67 campgrounds

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Isle Royale National Park

78 campgrounds

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Does Michigan have good camping?

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.

What month is best to camp in Michigan?

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.

Is boondocking legal in Michigan?

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.

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.