The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Chesaning, Michigan

Looking for a unique camping experience near Chesaning, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 150 options for glamping near the river. With options as low as $20 per night and an average of $60 per night, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your budget. Our top campsites, Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Harvest Village - Farmstay (95 reviews), and Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), offer popular amenities like showers, potable water, and trash. Popular activities in the area include paddling, biking, and swimming. Book your glamping trip today and enjoy the great outdoors in style!

91% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a unique camping experience near Chesaning, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 150 options for glamping near the river. With options as low as $20 per night and an average of $60 per night, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your budget. Our top campsites, Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Harvest Village - Farmstay (95 reviews), and Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), offer popular amenities like showers, potable water, and trash. Popular activities in the area include paddling, biking, and swimming. Book your glamping trip today and enjoy the great outdoors in style!

91% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%

(148)

48mi from Chesaning · 2 sites · Lodging · Beaverton, MI

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest. We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.

2. The Farm

100%

(2)

39mi from Chesaning · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Alma, MI

My wife and I are slowly starting up our own little farm. We have 2 indoor cats, 1 outdoor cat, a dog, chickens and two ducks. We are on 34 acres and have a river that runs through the middle of it. We are 10 minutes from Alma and 20 minutes from Mt Pleasant. Lumberjack park is about 2 minutes away and Stearns preserve is about 5 mins away where you can walk or ride bike on a nice paved trail. We have a small garden that we plant every summer and plan to start a small farm stand this year. We are in a quiet area with lots of wildlife. We have 1 spot near the house with a view of the river that can support electric hook for a smaller RV and can attach a garden hose for water if needed. We do have a “field” that RVs can use but there is no hook up and there ground may not be level. We have many options for rustic tent camping along the river. No public restroom available. We can also provide some fire wood for campfires for a small cost. Along the river fires are allowed but must be contained in a fire ring. If camping by the field fires will be dependent on conditions. We have 3 kayaks and a canoe that can be used with prior consent. There is a park up river where you can put in and then can exit at our house which is about an hour on the river. We are very new to this and just purchased a UTV so we will be able to start making trails and clearing areas. But for now, camping along the river you will have to walk (and carry belongings) through tall grass to the site you desire. Quiet time 11 pm. We are an easy going couple that just want to share this slice of paradise with others! WiFi available

3. Walnut Hills Family Campground and RV Park

24mi from Chesaning · 107 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durand, MI

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!

4. The waŋblí tipi

100%

(2)

41mi from Chesaning · 1 site · Lodging · Lapeer, MI

We have a fully furnished 18 foot tipi on a 3 acre mostly wooded land. Plus a 2 and half acre pond. there are many activities to do including swimming, fishing (catch and release only), kayaking, paddle board. Hiking trails and a few games around the property. We have a outdoor bathroom. There is electrical outlet 100 feet away outdoor electrical option. Detroit is 1 hour 20 minutes away. Port Huron 1 hour away. Frankenmuth is 45 minutes away. 10 minutes away from a wide variety of restaurants and shopping.

Stories from the community

Oliver

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow's Nest is a relaxing and beautiful place to stay. This was our second visit. The cabin is simple yet had everything we needed. The hosts ensure that you get to experience everything - there is a private walking trail, fire material, an outdoor grill, and much more.

C

Captain

October 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow’s Nest is such a cute and wonderful getaway from the rest of the world. Beautiful wooded property, a lovely walking trail, and a personal fire ring. I was delighted when I arrived and my partner and I were both saddened when it was time to leave. I highly recommend the location. I will absolutely be returning!!

B

Brooke

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila and Jeff were friendly hosts and quick to lend a helping hand. The land was beautiful and relaxing; the cabin, super cozy. I’m already looking forward to staying again!

R

Rae

October 2025

2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Being nestled in the trees was a cherished respite for us on our Spirit Walk. Sheila and Jeff were on the property to welcome us on arrival which was really nice. Their sweet cat supervised as we settled in. We were visited by chipmunks, squirrels, crows, and deer during our stay. Nice rustic cabin with a warm shower, comfy bed, and composting toilet plus nice kitchen amenities, walking trails, and fire pit. Charming!

G

Gage

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

It was such a a beautiful place it had beautiful paths and lovely scenery. Sheila and Jeff are so nice I'm happy to have been able to come to there home. Me and my boyfriend had a wonderful time. It's the perfect spot to get away from the city. The next time I go I will definitely be staying longer.

B

Beth

August 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Beautiful peaceful, quiet, private surrounded by lots of nature. The hosts are very generous and welcoming; the cabin is clean, comfortable, and cozy. Love all the art on the trails and property. So lovely we never left the place the couple of days we were there, and definitely plan to go back!

B

Beth

August 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crows Nest is a beautiful cabin on land surrounded by forest and nature that offers lots of peace and quiet. The hosts Sheila and Jeff are very generous with their hospitality. There’s lovely art, comforts and coziness inside the cabin as well as on the surrounding land. We loved our 2 night stay and plan to come back. Thank you Sheila and Jeff!

J

Jason

August 2025

2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Great hosts! Cabin was clean and had a lovely vibe! Really appreciate the provided grill and other amenities. Really enjoyed walking the trail and all the deer and other wildlife we saw. So nice to get away and recharge and ground ourselves!

M

Macey

August 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila was so inviting and kind ❤️ if I could leave 10 stars I definitely would! The crows nest immediately felt like home away from home and we hated to leave. Got to see lots of wildlife on the property which was such a cool bonus! We will definitely be returning in the near future!

I

Ilya

August 2025

With kids

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila was an absolutely incredible host. The Crow's Nest had everything we needed to have a wonderful time in the great outdoors.

Kerry

August 2025

With kids

3 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

This was our 4th year up and had an amazing time, yet again! The place is perfect and is our home away from home! Shelia and Jeff are wonderful, loving, giving and caring hosts! We will be back again next year!

D

Dante

July 2025

2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

One of the best places ive stayed. Very clean and friendly. Love the garden.

J

John

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Great boho cabin for a rustic weekend away. Sheila and Jeff are awesome. Very unique getaway, the kind of random and one of a kind venue you hope for on this site.

J

Jill

July 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The site was in a beautiful forest. Very cosy inside the wigwam. The propane burner was a great amenity as it made making breakfast easy and fast. We will definitely go back

Billie

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Due to some unexpected weather changes, my reservation was moved from the wigwam to The Crow’s Nest. I did get a chance to check out the wigwam site and it was absolutely fantastic and adorable. Everything was clean, well maintained, and exactly as described. The Crows Nest was absolutely a glamping experience for me. The cabin is fully kitted out with everything you need, I was able to just leave most of my camping gear in my car the whole weekend. The hosts are not only generous, but also kind and very helpful. They provide activities and maps for the local area and happy to make recommendations. The site is quiet and calm, plenty of wildlife for you to sit back and watch. The hiking trail on the property is well maintained and clearly marked, offering some fantastic views. Depending on weather, bring your bug spray, but the hosts also provided a fan in the wigwam which was unexpected and super helpful for bug control! There is a little neighborhood nearby and we had some fireworks noise right after Independence Day. This was much less intrusive than in the suburbs and did not go late into the night at all. Most people were on golf carts, so not much road noise, no kids or dog noises like at public campgrounds. You really get to feel like you’re alone in the forest when the turkey and deer pop by to check for crumbs around your fire pit.

V

Veronica

July 2025

Weekend Trip to The waŋblí tipi

We had such a good weekend in the tipi! Kadyah is a fantastic host - very responsive and kind. Check in was simple and quick. The campsite is woody, toilet clean and convenient. There are many amenities in the tipi, we had everything we needed. Kadyah even made sure we had plenty of bug repellant options so we could enjoy the outdoor space. We used the SUP and kayak for a little paddle out on the water and that was very nice. This is a great camping option!

M

Maria

July 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

My hosts were warm, inviting, and gracious. Being a solo traveler can be scary sometimes but they made me feel right at home. Inviting me to their bonfire as well as offering to let me borrow their kayak plus a drive up the River. I cannot say enough good things about them. The wigwam itself was a unique experience and was very temperature controlled with a fan and comfortable beds. Be sure to bring your own pillows. I will definitely be back and with friends next time!

Maureen

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

From the moment we pulled in the drive until we left for home…Crows Nest was a perfect escape! Sheila and Jeff have thought of everything to create an oasis for you to enjoy! The trail around the property was a perfect morning stroll. The cabin is clean and comfortable. No musty or earthy smells at all! They have TWO full binders of activities and suggestions. They are incredibly thoughtful hosts with an adorable camp store. We can’t wait to come back again!