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The best waterside camping in Michigan

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Waterfront camping in Michigan means waking up to mist over inland lakes or the slow roll of rivers right outside your tent. With over 13,000 waterside campsites, you can pitch camp on sandy banks, hidden coves, or tucked beside streams. Average prices run about $45 a night, but you’ll find spots as low as $10 if you know where to look. Toilets and showers come standard at most sites, and campfires are usually fair game. Hiking trails cut through maples and pines, with plenty of wildlife-watching and fishing along the way. Check out Mulln-Heim Vineyards (488 reviews) for a laid-back base near the water, Camp Moonshadow (394 reviews) for stargazing and shoreline hikes, or Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (301 reviews) if you want a wilder edge to your trip. You’ll find everything from quiet paddling to lively fishing holes—all a few steps from your tent flap.

97% (10.8K) 4,369 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Michigan

Camp Moonshadow

1. Camp Moonshadow

99%
(666)
Honor, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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 -24 ft- 20 Amp service Only!!! 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. 20 amp Electricity and Water is included in the RV site.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sacred Sound Center: Campground

2. Sacred Sound Center: Campground

89%
(19)
Pullman, MI · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Sacred Sound Center is a peaceful, forest retreat nestled in the heart of rural Southwest Michigan, offering a unique blend of nature, stillness, and subtle magic. Surrounded by tall oaks and winding trails, this land holds intentional spaces like a yurt, a treehouse, fire circles, and unique camping spaces all designed to invite reflection, creativity, and rest. This is a dark sky viewing location. While the center is home to sacred ceremonies and healing work, it also welcomes travelers, nature lovers, and campers of all kinds—whether you’re here to unplug, stargaze, write, or simply breathe. You don’t have to be on a spiritual journey to enjoy the peace this land provides, just a willingness to respect it.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Have A Lake Of Your Own!

3. Have A Lake Of Your Own!

92%
(145)
Lawrence, MI · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
The property was originally owned by a family name Nichols (thus the name of the lake). It was handed down to the sons who each owned half the property. The driveway down the middle of property that leads to the lake was originally a fence line that divided the two pieces of property. The brothers did not get along and their are several stories of their warring on how to maintain the property.My parents bought this piece of property in 1964 and created a camp called "Lakeside Farm Camp", a small all boys camp. The camp has gone through several changes since then but has always been owned by the Edwards family. In 1984 the name was changed to "Cedar Lodge" a coed camp that specializes in English horseback riding and offering high level general camp activities. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our totally private fresh water lake. Take your boat out for a day of fishing or just chill next to the fire.  Sites are approximately 50 feet from each other. If you want privacy we suggest you book both. 
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Campfires
Huron-Manistee National Forests

4. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%
(29)
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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Campfires
Hiawatha National Forest

5. Hiawatha National Forest

90%
(34)
National forest in Michigan · 513 sites
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Vagabond Resort & Campground

6. Vagabond Resort & Campground

95%
(38)
Rapid River, MI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Vagabond Resort offers 7 cozy cabins and 59 camping sites for RVs, campers, and tents, with access to a shower house, laundry facilities, a dump station, and fresh water. We also provide a private dock and fish house to guests. We are known for fishing, hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities. Cabins are open year-round. The campground is open from May 1st to the end of November, weather permitting. We have waterfront property on Little Bay De Noc on the Stonington Peninsula. We offer rustic camping and RV sites with electricity only, electricity and water, and sites with full hook-up. Surrounded by the Hiawatha National Forest 3 miles off the Lake Michigan Circle Tour 15 miles Peninsula Point Light House 20 miles north of Escanaba 20 miles north of the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds 37 miles west of Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) 53 miles south of Picture Rocks 85 miles south of Marquette 130 miles north of Green Bay 135 miles west of Mackinaw City 256 miles south of Trenary Toast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bells Acres Recreational Area

7. Bells Acres Recreational Area

100%
(9)
Ishpeming, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bells Acres is a large property with abundant history! Originally homesteaded by a Finnish family in the 1800s, we are only the 4th family to own this property. Doc Bell operated his veterinarian practice from this farm starting in 1915, giving his name to the creek running through the property and the lake it feeds. A family from Finland purchased the property from the Bell family in the 1960s and lived on the homestead until 2020 when we purchased it. We hope to continue the tradition of generational homesteading, while sharing this piece of God’s country with you! Our property features a vast variety of terrain on over 40 acres for our campers to explore on and off trail. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the chance to see deer, bear, moose, beavers, coyotes, waterfowl, upland birds, and more! You name it, it is here! Our dark skies allow for amazing views of the stars and northern lights! There is a common area near the pond that includes a pavilion with picnic tables, a fire ring, and swing benches to enjoy watching wildlife, sunrises and sunsets. Enjoy total serenity as there is minimal “noise” around us. Just nature at its best! We hope that you will make Bells Acres your base camp for your next adventure! Unplug and unwind with us away from all the hustle and bustle! We are excited to be your host and share what we love about Marquette County and the surrounding areas!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Tails and Trails Horse Farm

8. Tails and Trails Horse Farm

98%
(83)
Adrian, MI · 2 sites
Tails and Trails Farm is a gorgeous property that sits on 80 acres at the edge of the Irish Hills. We offer a place of healing and support for humans and animals through nature, music, and interaction. Many of our animals are rescues and we use them in a variety of therapies in an effort of healing for human an animal alike. We offer horseback riding lessons, pony rides. You can also tour the farm, meet the animals, and hear their stories. We look forward to meeting you! Learn more about this land: Come and enjoy our farm! Tails and Trails is a small family-owned horse farm in the Irish Hills of southeastern Michigan. Our campsite sits in the middle of 30 acres of private woods. There is a fire ring with room for seating and a separate area to place your tent directly adjacent. There is also another sitting area and plenty of options to hang hammocks. The site is about a 10 minute or .5 mile walk through a beautiful wooded trail from the parking area.  We also offer scheduled horseback trail rides across our 82 acres, for people of all ages. (If you have small children please specify so we can discuss options.) Please send us a message if you are interested to inquire about availability or if there are any questions we can answer.  In addition to the many full-size horses, we also have several miniature horses, miniature donkeys, chickens, 5 dogs, barn cats, and a pot-belly pig. All of which love attention from humans of all ages.  We are a 420 friendly property as cannabis is legal in Michigan. There are 5 dispensaries in Adrian offering both Recreational and Medical cannabis products for sale. If you would like help or advice about the local market please just ask.  This is a pack it in, pack it out campsite. The closest source of potable water is in the barn or about a ten-minute walk from the site.  This is a perfect social distancing campsite however you are still only a 10-minute drive to the nearest grocery store and 20 minutes from some great swimming lakes, kayaking, and small-town allure in the Irish Hills area.  Ann Arbor is also only a 45-minute drive and has a bounty to offer anyone. We are very familiar with the city and can offer advice or suggestions if you'd like. There is a kayak rental in Tecumseh which is about 15 minutes away where you can do an entire river loop and return to the same place thus requiring only one vehicle.  There are also several close lakes where you can drop your own kayak in and explore. If you’d like some more amenities then Walter Hayes State Park or Lake Hudson State Park are both about a 20-minute drive. We have trails throughout the woods and along with our fields for exploring. We welcome guests to wander and enjoy the property while respecting nature and all the things that live here. The area is alive with animals and creatures of all types. Families of deer and turkey call the farm home and don’t be surprised to hear a coyote howl at night. With natural water sources and different types of topography, we are blessed to have a variety of wildlife at our farm. We keep to ourselves however are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests and appreciate others getting to enjoy the beauty and serenity the country can offer. We welcome all humans of good character that show love to each other and the Earth.
Campfires
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Potable water
Pi Acres

9. Pi Acres

100%
(5)
Traverse City, MI · 1 site · Tent, RV
The perfect destination for your Traverse City experience. Located within walking distance from East Bay and the scenic bike trail route to downtown, with free bus service every fifteen minutes to and from town as well. Neighborhood attractions include fast and fine dining, a bike shop, tattoo parlor, coffeehouse, golf simulator, massage studio, ice cream shop, and Pirates Cove Adventure Park—all within walking distance. The property is close to these attractions, yet just far enough away that you can enjoy the sound of Baker Creek flowing through, which is home to steelhead, rainbow, and brook trout. The campsites are located on the front acre, which is fenced in for your furry friends. Electric and water hookups are available at Site 1. Sites 2 and 3 are rustic only. A creekside bonfire pit is available for all guests, as well as yard games. The back two acres are heavily wooded but open for exploring. Bathroom access is available in the house for tent campers. On-site parking is provided. Smoking is permitted.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

10. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

94%
(41)
National park in Michigan · 65 sites
Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

11. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(30)
State park in Michigan · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grand Haven State Park

12. Grand Haven State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Michigan · 174 sites
Discover Grand Haven State Park's scenic shores and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fort Custer State Park

13. Fort Custer State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Michigan · 222 sites
Discover Fort Custer State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay

14. Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay

88%
(4)
Naubinway, MI · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Truly rustic wooded property on Lake Michigan, with ten acres and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Kayaks, fishing kayaks, and paddleboards are included with your stay. It’s a one-hour trip to the Cut River Bridge by kayak, or just three minutes by car. Excellent fishing awaits. There is an artisan well at the campground next door. Currently, there is no electricity or water at the property; however, solar power and a generator are available.
Pets
Campfires
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

15. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%
(234)
Delaware, MI · 1 site
"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.
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Campfires
Riverside Respite at New Richmond

16. Riverside Respite at New Richmond

96%
(110)
Fennville, MI · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to the Historic Village of New Richmond. Where the pavement ends the fun begins! Once a bustling town established by early settlers, New Richmond now sits idle on the Lower Kalamazoo River. Fast Forward 150 years...... Welcome to WaterTrail Ventures...Where the pavement ends, adventure begins! Come paddle, play and stay with us! Our riverbend glamping sites await your arrival! Fully furnished with air beds and linens, also included is a stocked firepit and drinking water. Kayak and Canoe Rentals onsite for self guided river adventure or hire one of the local area Fishing Guides! This is a great space for families to reconnect for the weekend. Located on our private river bank this is on 3 acres of land shared by 2 personal glamping sites and a rustic group campsite. Our sight offers scenic views of sunrise on the riverbend as well as the New Richmond Swing Bridge, now open to pedestrian traffic only. The small county park next door offers a riverside boardwalk full of natural flora and wildlife for morning strolls or the delight of a fisherman who likes to be 1st on the water! Kayak and Canoe Rentals are also available on sight, best to reserve in advance. Hiking trails nearby offer a great way to explore the Allegan Forest or the lakeshore sand dunes. We are 7 miles east of Saugatuck and 5 miles north of Fennville, our site makes a perfect escape from the nearby lakeshore shopping and dining district while keeping you in close proximity to local wineries and other attractions. Just follow the paved road all the way to the end of 57th street and enter through our private drive. ....where the pavement ends, adventure begins! See ya at the river!
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Toilets
Campfires
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

17. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%
(93)
Ontonagon, MI · 3 sites
Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Kruz Camping

18. Kruz Camping

93%
(37)
Boyne City, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

19. Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

Durand, MI · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Walnut Hills Family Campground, where our short drive time, diverse activities, and efficient no-wait check-in process allow you to maximize your fun and minimize your time on the road. Spanning 45 acres and featuring 203 spacious grassy sites, our campground is beautifully situated along the Shiawassee River, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. At Walnut Hills, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable experiences for families and friends. Our extensive amenities and engaging activities are designed to foster lasting memories. One of the highlights of our campground is the exhilarating Wibit Water Park. This exciting aquatic attraction features a variety of inflatable obstacles, slides, and platforms, ensuring endless entertainment for guests of all ages. Whether you’re ready to tackle the floating challenges or simply relax in the sun, the Wibit Water Park adds a splash of adventure to your camping experience. Join us at Walnut Hills Family Campground, where outdoor adventures and aquatic thrills come together to create the perfect getaway. Explore the natural beauty surrounding our park, enjoy nearby swimming holes, and take advantage of local restaurants and shops. Your unforgettable camping experience awaits!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Muskegon Pines-Lake Cabin

20. Muskegon Pines-Lake Cabin

100%
(15)
Newaygo, MI · 1 site
Pet friendly 2-bedroom, 1 bath cabin on Croton Pond with great views of the Muskegon River valley. The lake cabin has all the amenities necessary for an incredible stay. There is a private beach and a dock for a boat on a large all sports lake. Lake and beach area is accessible on property via 185 steps. There are other lake access points in the area such as Duchemin public boat launch. There is great fishing in the area, and we are approximately 2 miles from the Dragon Trail - mountain bike trail. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/ https://newaygocountyexploring.com/project/croton-pond/
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Showers

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

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