The best camping in Michigan with surfing

3 sites · Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

(423)

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.

2. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%

(221)

1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI

"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.

3. Lake Superior Beach Perfection

96%

(101)

1 site · Tent, RV · Lake Linden, MI

What more do you need than a private camping site and your 125' of your own pristine Lake Superior beachfront access? Well, there is the need of a fire ring so we added that, too! Everything else you will to bring to enjoy the million dollar views. Oh, and on the opposite side of the camping site is quiet slough which is great for smooth water paddling and exploring. Down the gravel road about 1/3 miles are logging roads to hike, bike and explore. OHV trails are a couple miles away but check local maps for detailed information. Intentionally being minimalists beyond a fire ring and picnic table, there is a port-a-john (of humble means) to make your stay comfortable. You will need to bring your own firewood if you desire a campfire.

4. Muskegon State Park

247 sites · North Muskegon, Michigan

(15)

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

Pets

5. McLain State Park

104 sites · Hancock, Michigan

Discover McLain State Park's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures.

Pets

6. Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · Tent, RV · L'anse, MI

(89)

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

7. Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

(69)

Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.

8. Camp Moonshadow

99%

(599)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Honor, MI

Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen

9. Echo Valley Forest

97%

(109)

1 site · Tent, RV · Empire, MI

Echo Valley Forest Reserve is a backcountry site located deep within the forest near the center of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, ten minutes from Empire Beach, Glen Haven, and Glen Arbor. The camp site is completely private, with only party rented to at a time. It is in the center of a 40-acre parcel, surrounded by thousands of acres of National Lakeshore and private forested land. Access is off of a rough seasonal two-track but most 2-wheel drive cars are fine. Watch out for rocks. There are solar lights, a pit toilet, a fire ring, and a ~8x8' deck. There is room for 4 cars, and as many tents as you can set up. We have 4 rules: 1) Leave no trace. Do not leave garbage at camp. DO NOT BURN garbage, people cook in that pit. 2) NO cutting into the live trees. You will get a 0-star review, 100% of the time. 3) Keep cars on the gravel driveway. 4) Put out all fires completely (COLD) and respect any Burn Bans that may be active at the time of your stay. These are issued by the fire department, not me.

10. Endless Adventure

94%

(18)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cedar Springs, MI

Enjoy a slice of heaven with the richest joys of Michigan, all in one place. Swim, soak in the hot tub or indoor pool (pending construction), meet the floofiest kitties and witness the miracles of a natural ecosystem. Butterflies Wildflowers Kindness Grounding Peacocks Chickens Egrets Herons Diving Birds Barn and shed style cabins (not empty, but they have room to fit some camp beds inside) no utilities. Cement camper pad (hookups not guaranteed, last we checked electrical worked but other utilities not available) . Put your tent anywhere near a labeled campsite sign (or in a secluded area if campsite signs are not available). And so so much more!

11. Mulln-Heim Vineyards

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Baroda, MI

(686)

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.

12. Deer Run Retreat

3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Manistee, MI

(13)

Escape the hustle and bustle at Deer Run Retreat, a haven for those seeking tranquility and new memories in the embrace of nature. Here, you can wake up to the sight of deer grazing in the pasture and spend your evenings by the fireplace, gazing up at a sky adorned with countless stars. Our retreat offers a serene environment to unwind and relax, providing a peaceful getaway from the demands of everyday life. Whether you're drawn to the Little River Casino, historic downtown Manistee, or the array of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, tubing, and hiking, you'll find something for everyone in the surrounding area. We provide two gravel pads with full hook-ups for RVs and an additional grassy area with electric and water hook-ups. For those without their camper, we offer the option to rent a beautiful camper on-site. Deer Run Retreat is designed to be family-friendly, creating the perfect backdrop for building lasting memories with your loved ones. Come and rejuvenate at Deer Run Retreat, where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of a welcoming retreat. We can't wait to host your stay!

13. Hemlock Ridge Homestead

99%

(132)

3 sites · Lodging · Marquette, MI

Welcome to the Hemlock Ridge Homestead! This custom log home built in the early 2000's was a dream of mine since I was 8 years old. Our family lives here year round and absolutely love it. These sites are on a seasonal road so travel in and out can be impeded at times due to weather or external forces, such as tree falls, wash outs, etc. This is a self sufficient homestead in the making. Our garden has progressed greatly, and our fruit tree orchards are starting to produce. The free range chickens are fun and quirky, offering farm fresh eggs. We just opened our second site, the Prairieview Chalet 2024 summer. Both sites offer great amenities. The Acorn Retreat cabin includes a hot tub, gas weber grill and other amenities. The boujee outhouse is shared by both sites and is cleaned regularly. The new Prairieview Chalet is an exceptional adventurers haven! It has all the things you want after a day(s) out in the wilderness, with amenities like a hot shower, fully stocked kitchen, linens and more. Our property reflects our love of the land and space. We are always making improvements, such as the timber framed chicken coop. We now have a ping pong table for our guests, and still offer farm fresh eggs. Our motto is to make every place better than we found it and hope our guests will do the same. This is a zen, quiet place to heal, reflect and refill your cup of life:)

14. Retreat Center Campsites

94%

(115)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fennville, MI

The Retreat Campsites are situated on land owned by the Red Spirit Retreat Center. The beautiful wooded land is perfect for walking in. The stars are like brilliant diamonds, and in mid June the fireflies float up from the prairie into the trees by the hundreds. It is pretty quiet except for the birds and the bullfrogs and your own crackling campfire. In the spring the fruit trees can be seen blooming across the fields. Straw is grown on the neighbor's farm and cut and baled midsummer. The farm buildings are off in the distance but have gleaming white buildings and silver silos. Guests may walk wherever they like on trails or bushwhack through the forests of the Red Spirit Retreat Center. Each campsite is unique and pretty private. While you may see other campers you probably can't hear them as they are about half a city block away through the trees. Staying at the Country Dome Home is an amazing experience. Located on a hill at the top of the prairie, the view of farms and forests is spectacular. To enjoy the view, the front window is 8 feet tall and 11 feet wide. The 12 foot ceiling enlarges the room tremendously. There is an awesome feeling of spaciousness. On a warm day 8 foot wide by 3 foot high screens can be opened up to let and with the screen door to let breezes blow through. The solar fan then pulls the heat right out of the roof. Outside there is a patio sail providing shade. A lovely dinner can be cooked on a propane griddle while watching the view. Refurbished Jordan Brown Tamiami table and chairs and a chaise lounge provide comfortable seating. Deck chairs are out on the front deck as well. Sitting around the campfire is a great way to end the day. About 9 pm hundreds or thousands of fireflies slowly make their way to the tops of the huge trees and the stars start to twinkle as the sun sets. The birds, crickets, and bullfrogs gradually quiet down, lulling you to sleep in the most comfortable bed in the world. You feel at one with nature.. Stay at the dome in the fall or early spring and the wood stove will keep you toasty warm on chilly nights. Three rustic campsites with their own personalities are also on the land but hidden by trees. The Frog Pond Campsite is a in a sylvan glade next to the pond and creek, with parking immediately next to the campsite. The Edges and Deep Forest Campsites are both larger campsites that are located inside the forest near the Prairie. These sites are separated far enough apart to allow for a very private feeling. Each campsite has parking space very close by. All campsites have their own private composting toilets, fire pits, one bundle of wood, sanitary spray, toilet paper, and at least three gallons of water. At the Deer Blind more wood is available at the Deer Blind for $10 per bundle with Venmo or PayPal. There are two yoga mats, frisbees, bubbles, and a corn hole game for borrowing. You may request a one night stay, but it is dependent upon my availability to clean in between guests. We hope that our guests have a truly beautiful, quiet, and relaxing stay.

15. Sporley Lake Retreat

3 sites · Tents, RVs · K I Sawyer, MI

(22)

🌿 Experience Nature's Paradise at Sporley Lake Retreat Welcome to your private lakeside escape on the peaceful shores of Sporley Lake! Nestled within 5 acres of rolling hardwood forest, this secluded retreat offers the ideal blend of quiet beauty and outdoor adventure. With 170 feet of spring-fed shoreline on the 77-acre Sporley Lake, you'll enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing lakeside. A public boat launch just ½ mile away makes it easy to bring your own boat and explore the calm waters at your leisure. ________________________________________ 🏕 Campsite Amenities This rustic, back-to-nature experience includes: • 20-amp electrical service (limited use; AC allowed with additional fee) • Non-potable water supply, May to November weather dependent. • Fire pit ring and picnic table • Two kayaks available for on-site use • Firewood provided on-site (donation encouraged) • Dogs welcome (leashed and well-behaved) • Convenience store just ¾ mile away • Public RV dump station located 2 miles away • Owners may be present in the on-site residence Optional camping areas just a short walk from the lake: • The Hilltop Site – Secluded and shaded among the trees • The Alternative Site – Sunny and open, located near an active agricultural construction project (building materials visible) ________________________________________ 🌟 Property Highlights 🌲 Forested Escape Wander through mature hardwoods and gentle hills—ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. 🏞️ Lakeside Enjoyment Paddle, fish, or float the day away. Please note: lake access is via a long staircase and is not wheelchair accessible. 🦅 Wildlife Haven Watch for bald eagles, a golden eagle, and graceful loons across the lake. 🚴 Adventures Nearby Only 30 minutes from Marquette and Lake Superior, you’ll be close to world-class hiking, mountain biking, climbing, ORV trails, and even Great Lakes surfing. 🏖️ Lake Superior Beaches Unwind on the stunning white-sand beaches of Lake Superior—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or evening sunsets. 🍻 Local Flavors Explore Marquette’s craft breweries and local restaurants for great food, locally brewed beer. __________

16. Kruz Camping

93%

(35)

4 sites · Tents · Boyne City, MI

This is a unique piece of property inside of the beautiful. City limits of Boyne city. There is plenty of open space and wetlands for wildlife. This was once a horse farm.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent. Enjoy your walk to the lake nearby. Enjoy wildlife and peaceful vibes at our great property! We are excited to welcome you to visit with us.

17. Sherwood Forest

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rapid City, MI

(24)

Beautiful property adjoining thousands of acres of state land, trails, and great views of lake Skegomog. Two rustic sites available with fire rings. We will allow horses must have own fencing systems. Access to the north country trail, and other orv trails system. 15 minutes to Torch lake, Elk Rapids, and Traverse city. Really a great location to get to almost anywhere in northern Michigan.

18. Camp Squid Off The Grid

92%

(12)

25 sites · Tents, RVs · Benzonia, MI

Our unique camp experience will have you coming back for more, year-after-year. Enjoy our 10 acres of seclusion and the infamous “Pine Tree Lane” for your family, & friends to spread out in nature’s wonderland. Now is the time to get out and enjoy Camping & cooking on an open fire, breathe in that fresh Northwestern MI aroma while keeping warm around your blazing campfire under the stars.

19. Nature LLC

24 sites · 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!

Campfires

Camper favorites in Michigan

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sporley Lake Retreat

3 sites · Tents, RVs · K I Sawyer, MI

(22)

🌿 Experience Nature's Paradise at Sporley Lake Retreat Welcome to your private lakeside escape on the peaceful shores of Sporley Lake! Nestled within 5 acres of rolling hardwood forest, this secluded retreat offers the ideal blend of quiet beauty and outdoor adventure. With 170 feet of spring-fed shoreline on the 77-acre Sporley Lake, you'll enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing lakeside. A public boat launch just ½ mile away makes it easy to bring your own boat and explore the calm waters at your leisure. ________________________________________ 🏕 Campsite Amenities This rustic, back-to-nature experience includes: • 20-amp electrical service (limited use; AC allowed with additional fee) • Non-potable water supply, May to November weather dependent. • Fire pit ring and picnic table • Two kayaks available for on-site use • Firewood provided on-site (donation encouraged) • Dogs welcome (leashed and well-behaved) • Convenience store just ¾ mile away • Public RV dump station located 2 miles away • Owners may be present in the on-site residence Optional camping areas just a short walk from the lake: • The Hilltop Site – Secluded and shaded among the trees • The Alternative Site – Sunny and open, located near an active agricultural construction project (building materials visible) ________________________________________ 🌟 Property Highlights 🌲 Forested Escape Wander through mature hardwoods and gentle hills—ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. 🏞️ Lakeside Enjoyment Paddle, fish, or float the day away. Please note: lake access is via a long staircase and is not wheelchair accessible. 🦅 Wildlife Haven Watch for bald eagles, a golden eagle, and graceful loons across the lake. 🚴 Adventures Nearby Only 30 minutes from Marquette and Lake Superior, you’ll be close to world-class hiking, mountain biking, climbing, ORV trails, and even Great Lakes surfing. 🏖️ Lake Superior Beaches Unwind on the stunning white-sand beaches of Lake Superior—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or evening sunsets. 🍻 Local Flavors Explore Marquette’s craft breweries and local restaurants for great food, locally brewed beer. __________

Kruz Camping

93%

(35)

4 sites · Tents · Boyne City, MI

This is a unique piece of property inside of the beautiful. City limits of Boyne city. There is plenty of open space and wetlands for wildlife. This was once a horse farm.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent. Enjoy your walk to the lake nearby. Enjoy wildlife and peaceful vibes at our great property! We are excited to welcome you to visit with us.

Sherwood Forest

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rapid City, MI

(24)

Beautiful property adjoining thousands of acres of state land, trails, and great views of lake Skegomog. Two rustic sites available with fire rings. We will allow horses must have own fencing systems. Access to the north country trail, and other orv trails system. 15 minutes to Torch lake, Elk Rapids, and Traverse city. Really a great location to get to almost anywhere in northern Michigan.

Camp Squid Off The Grid

92%

(12)

25 sites · Tents, RVs · Benzonia, MI

Our unique camp experience will have you coming back for more, year-after-year. Enjoy our 10 acres of seclusion and the infamous “Pine Tree Lane” for your family, & friends to spread out in nature’s wonderland. Now is the time to get out and enjoy Camping & cooking on an open fire, breathe in that fresh Northwestern MI aroma while keeping warm around your blazing campfire under the stars.

Nature LLC

24 sites · 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!

Campfires

Public campgrounds in Michigan

107 sites · Tents, RVs · in Muskegon State Park

(14)

Muskegon-Lake Michigan Campground

104 sites · Tents, RVs · in McLain State Park

McLain Campground

140 sites · Tents, RVs · in Muskegon State Park

(1)

Muskegon-South Channel Campground

Stories from the community

D

Dan

2 weeks ago

6 nights at Bear Tree Homestead

Wonderfully beautiful cabin and property. A true homestead with cows, chickens, ducks, and a sauna. I will be recommending this place to as many people as possible. Can hike from cabin to Lake Superior on the North Country Trail! Phenomenal, very close to Marquette, but a feeling of great seclusion.

L

Lisa

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Lake Superior Beach Perfection

This site had amazing views of Lake Superior to the east and some tributaries to the west. It was just as described. Would definitely go back.

Terri

November 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Endless Adventure

Nice spot with a concrete pad not too far from 31. A bit of road noise, but it quieted down at night. I was there for a quick stay, so, unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to enjoy the trails.

P

Phil

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lake Superior Beach Perfection

The view of sunrise was very impressive would definitely stay again the campsite was clean as well as porta potty traffic was very minimal

Liz

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

This was our second stay at the Orchard House, and it was every bit as magical as the first! Jill continues to be the perfect host — warm, attentive, and full of thoughtful touches (including another batch of her amazing homemade cookies!). The house itself is absolutely enchanting, from its cozy, well-appointed rooms to the peaceful property that feels like a true escape from the world. We loved being so close to the Hogback trailhead — it makes for the perfect day hike before coming back to unwind in such a serene setting. We can’t wait to return and try out the new sauna on our next visit! If you’re considering a stay at the Orchard House, don’t hesitate — it’s the kind of place that fills your soul and leaves you with memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

A

Andrew Scott

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

From the moment we arrived at the Pond Cabin, everything we experienced exceeded our expectations. The cabin itself was cute, cozy, and very clean. It had a lot more kitchen and camping supplies than we expected. Loved the layout. It comfortably slept three adults and two dogs. The woods surrounding it and the pond are very beautiful and serene. No road sounds or artificial light, just peaceful nature and the quaint farmhouse. We were welcomed by our gracious hosts and their dogs who made us feel very at home, were so friendly, and made great recommendations for hikes and experiences. The hike to Hogback mountain is a must. The view from the top and fall colors were just breathtaking and you can walk there right from the cabin! We spent most of a day hiking the NCT and were just blown away by the trails and views. None of us knew how great the traditional Finnish sauna and cold plunge (into the crystal clear spring fed pond?!?) would relax and rejuvenate us. Wow! Also worth mentioning it’s an easy, very pretty drive to Pictured Rocks. You can do it all. All I can say is we will definitely be back and would recommend it to anyone who’s looking for what must be the ultimate UP experience.

Roxy

October 2025

Tent

Such a beautiful, peaceful spot right on Lake Michigan! Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, the site offers a rare combination of off-grid tranquillity and direct access to the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The new wood-fired sauna was an absolute highlight, the perfect way to warm up after a swim! Waking up to the sound of waves, relaxing by the fire at night, and a true off-grid vibe. The fire-pit area in the trees provides a cosy, sheltered setting for an evening under the stars. There has been a lot of care put into this place. If you’re looking for a beach-camp experience that feels more intimate and upgraded (thanks to the sauna!) rather than a busy campground, this spot is highly recommended. Ideal for folks who want to unplug, still have beach/morning water access, and enjoy a little extra luxury in the wild.

A

Anna

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

It was a beautiful, peaceful spot and the composting toilet was very clean.

Matt

October 2025

16 ft car

Great campspot right on lake Michigan has two different fire pits including on one the beach🏖️ pretty secluded down a couple miles of dirt roads definitely recommend checking it out 👍

Dustey

October 2025

2 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Gorgeous, cool and super secluded. We loved staying here and started planning our next trip before we even left.

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

T

Tess

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sherwood Forest

Great host! Lovely spot with beautiful native grasses, fire pits, national forest, and owls at night! We loved staying here - Tess and Fi

F

Frances

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

This spot was incredible!! Eli was an amazing host and the view and amenities made it such an amazing trip. 10/10 would go back to surf camp!

Arah

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

My partner, dogs and I loved tent camping on Pat’s land! The lake (bay) was so close, and it was so quiet and private there. It was well worth the extra time to get there!

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Pilgrim

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Lake Superior Beach Perfection

It seems close to other buildings but it still felt pretty private. Some traffic on the road but it's tolerable. Really nice place to get away. There is lots of sand everywhere, naturally. Somebody left a prior review about a shipping container with cameras aimed at the site. We saw nothing of the sort. Not sure where they got that although there was a shipping container a couple lots over, we didn't see any cameras but there is also a fence between the site and the next lots over. We felt safe there. Porta John was a bit full and quite smelly, a bit unpleasant but I've actually seen worse at another hipcamp site in the UP. Directions for finding the site are very clear. Do not try to follow Google maps as it will get you close but about 3/4 of a mile off.

E

October 2025

Tent

Loved this campsite!! As a solo women traveler I felt so safe and nicely tucked away! Would stay again:)

C

Chris

October 2025

1 night at Bear Tree Homestead

The cabin was perfect, the land was beautiful, beds are quite comfy, oil lamps and fire are ever so cozy and the cookies so tasty. Hogback mountain trail is very close by and well worth the venture if you can manage a bit of a scramble at lest once. One evening here was not sufficient, we definitely plan to return. Well worth checking out if taking a trip to the area or just looking to go somewhere beautiful and peaceful to retreat from the world for a while.

T

Taylor

October 2025

Tent