The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Escanaba, Michigan

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate destination for camping enthusiasts in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Escanaba, Michigan, with a river as your preferred activity/terrain, we've got you covered. With over 126 options in the area, you'll have plenty of choices to find your perfect campsite. Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge, prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $45 per night. Looking for the top campsites? Check out Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Bear Tree Homestead (174 reviews), and Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog (101 reviews) for highly rated options. And don't worry about amenities - popular options include cooking equipment, potable water, and toilets. Plus, you'll have the chance to enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and climbing. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure near Escanaba, Michigan!

97% (120)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate destination for camping enthusiasts in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Escanaba, Michigan, with a river as your preferred activity/terrain, we've got you covered. With over 126 options in the area, you'll have plenty of choices to find your perfect campsite. Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge, prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $45 per night. Looking for the top campsites? Check out Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Bear Tree Homestead (174 reviews), and Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog (101 reviews) for highly rated options. And don't worry about amenities - popular options include cooking equipment, potable water, and toilets. Plus, you'll have the chance to enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and climbing. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure near Escanaba, Michigan!

97% (120)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Vagabond Resort & Campground

95%

(20)

11mi from Escanaba · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid River, MI

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

2. Forest Overlooking River

99%

(43)

21mi from Escanaba · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gladstone, MI

Learn more about this land:Beautiful backwoods birch forest with campfire spots on the edge of Rapid River. We’re within the hour of pictured Rocks National Park and many other beautiful places to visit...We’re only 2.5 miles off of main hwy, US 41 , We have kayaks, four wheelers and hiking /biking roads and trails available for guest..

3. River View Get Away

99%

(49)

21mi from Escanaba · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Powers, MI

This property was once a old lumber Mill with a river running through it. We purchased it and are restoring the buildings and turning most into storage units . Learn more about this land: We have a rustic campsite along the side of a river with a Limestone base where you would camp on ! Places for tent camping as well. We have wildlife , including deer, turtles , Geese, otters and ducks ! You may see wildlife from time to time. We have 2 picnic tables and 2 fire pits and firewood bundles for sale on site $5 a bundle. Site is private and Relaxing . You can park where you want. Take a snooze in the Hammocks. Our camp site is 3 miles from a grocery store , restaurants and Gas stations . 9 miles from the Island resort and Casino. Bring your Kayak's and check out the river ! Come enjoy pristine beautiful Upper Peninsula.

4. Maple Creek Farm

100%

(18)

35mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent, RV · Foster City, MI

Welcome to our secluded retreat in the rolling hills of Dickinson County, Michigan! Tucked away at the end of a peaceful blacktop road, our tranquil haven offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, including ATV trails, rivers, and lakes, our property provides an ideal base camp for exploring the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or thrilling outdoor activities, you'll find it all right at your doorstep. Our RV sites feature 30 amp electrical outlets and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature's splendor. Enjoy the serenity of the morning shade and gather around the fire ring for cozy evenings under the stars. Embark on leisurely walks along the myriad of trails that wind through our 87-acre property, where you'll discover the beauty of the natural landscape and the calming presence of a spring-fed creek running through the back 40. While our location offers seclusion and tranquility, you'll find convenience just minutes away at a small store for any forgotten essentials and a nearby bar/restaurant when you prefer to dine out. Please note that as we operate a hay farm, you may occasionally see equipment running through the barnyard, adding to the rustic charm of our rural retreat. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature at our secluded sanctuary in Dickinson County. Experience the beauty of Michigan's wilderness and create unforgettable memories amidst the forest animals and rolling hills. Welcome to your home away from home in the heart of nature's paradise!

5. Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites

90%

(5)

12mi from Escanaba · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Escanaba, MI

Rustic campsites at the trailhead of Forest Island Route trail. There are no services at this facility at this time. No power and no water. Possible water fill from our hose but not close to the campsites. Working on future ammenities. Right on the edge of the Bark River. Ride to the trails right from your site and leave trailers on site.

6. Private Pembine Tent Camping

90%

(5)

47mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent · Pembine, WI

This property was originally going to be a retirement hide-away to enjoy the northern lights. It then became a prime hunting spot and still has plenty of active wildlife. It is now a get-away from the hustle and bustle of city life to enjoy nature. As time goes on there will be trails built to make for easier exploration and enjoyment. Learn more before you book: Campers have approximately 40 acres all to yourself to hide from the hustle and bustle. This is a primitive camping experience. The secluded site is approximately 100-200 yard walk in the woods from the main area. The main area has a gravel pad for parking and a fire pit with picnic table under a small pergola. The Pemebonwon River runs through the upper right corner of the property. The entrance is monitored with security camera to deter trespassing. What's nearby: 3 minutes from BP gas station near Hwy 8 and 141. 5 minutes from Bait shop and Restaurants. We are located in an area that has great hiking trails, mountain biking, trout streams, wildlife and scenic beauty. Less than a half mile from Lundgren Lake (10 minute walk) and 1.5 miles from Lindquist Lake. Approximately 10+ minutes from Long Slide Falls (Walking Trail), Dave’s Falls, and Smalley Falls. Approximately 20 minutes from 12 Foot Falls, Horseshoe Falls (Equestrian Trails), and Morgan County Park. Approximately 30 minutes from Goodman County Park and Mc Clintock County Park. Please follow the golden rule of camping and hiking is “leave no trace.” Anything you bring in, must be carried out. Please pack your waste, trash and recyclables, and take it with you when you leave. You may use dead and downed wood as firewood, but do not cut live trees or brush. Keep fires small and make sure your campfire is out before you leave.

7. Stutts Creek 40 Acre Camp Site

100%

(4)

49mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

40 acres well off the beaten path. Approximately 6 miles off of State Hwy M-94. A two track will lead you back to 40 acres of undeveloped land containing a variety of pine and poplar. Our private property borders State and Federal Forest land that contains an overwhelming amount of two track roads to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The sky is unobstructed from trees leaving the stars to be enjoyed all night long. A section of the Stutts Creek flows through the property where you can enjoy a quiet morning listening to the water flow and the occasional rise of a brook trout feeding. Deer, Turkey, Grouse, Bears and Wolves are all found in our area and are often photographed by visitors. Please practice safe food storage due to a healthy bear population in the area. You're welcome to set up a campfire wherever you camp, please practice fire safety and adhere to state and county burn bans that may be in effect. Once you arrive you are free to set up camp wherever you want. This is primitive camping so come prepared to enjoy nature at its finest. There is no bathroom so plan accordingly. The property is less then an hour from Lake Superior and the heart of downtown Munising and about 30 minutes North of downtown Manistique. A GPS app such as OnX will help you navigate property lines and show you all the water bodies in the area you can enjoy. The road is generally fine for 2wd but 4 wheel drive is recommended when there is rain or snow in the forecast. Our property is fairly remote which will give you a unique experience. We hope to have you.

Camper favorites near Escanaba

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Maple Creek Farm

100%

(18)

35mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent, RV · Foster City, MI

Welcome to our secluded retreat in the rolling hills of Dickinson County, Michigan! Tucked away at the end of a peaceful blacktop road, our tranquil haven offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, including ATV trails, rivers, and lakes, our property provides an ideal base camp for exploring the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or thrilling outdoor activities, you'll find it all right at your doorstep. Our RV sites feature 30 amp electrical outlets and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature's splendor. Enjoy the serenity of the morning shade and gather around the fire ring for cozy evenings under the stars. Embark on leisurely walks along the myriad of trails that wind through our 87-acre property, where you'll discover the beauty of the natural landscape and the calming presence of a spring-fed creek running through the back 40. While our location offers seclusion and tranquility, you'll find convenience just minutes away at a small store for any forgotten essentials and a nearby bar/restaurant when you prefer to dine out. Please note that as we operate a hay farm, you may occasionally see equipment running through the barnyard, adding to the rustic charm of our rural retreat. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature at our secluded sanctuary in Dickinson County. Experience the beauty of Michigan's wilderness and create unforgettable memories amidst the forest animals and rolling hills. Welcome to your home away from home in the heart of nature's paradise!

Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites

90%

(5)

12mi from Escanaba · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Escanaba, MI

Rustic campsites at the trailhead of Forest Island Route trail. There are no services at this facility at this time. No power and no water. Possible water fill from our hose but not close to the campsites. Working on future ammenities. Right on the edge of the Bark River. Ride to the trails right from your site and leave trailers on site.

Private Pembine Tent Camping

90%

(5)

47mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent · Pembine, WI

This property was originally going to be a retirement hide-away to enjoy the northern lights. It then became a prime hunting spot and still has plenty of active wildlife. It is now a get-away from the hustle and bustle of city life to enjoy nature. As time goes on there will be trails built to make for easier exploration and enjoyment. Learn more before you book: Campers have approximately 40 acres all to yourself to hide from the hustle and bustle. This is a primitive camping experience. The secluded site is approximately 100-200 yard walk in the woods from the main area. The main area has a gravel pad for parking and a fire pit with picnic table under a small pergola. The Pemebonwon River runs through the upper right corner of the property. The entrance is monitored with security camera to deter trespassing. What's nearby: 3 minutes from BP gas station near Hwy 8 and 141. 5 minutes from Bait shop and Restaurants. We are located in an area that has great hiking trails, mountain biking, trout streams, wildlife and scenic beauty. Less than a half mile from Lundgren Lake (10 minute walk) and 1.5 miles from Lindquist Lake. Approximately 10+ minutes from Long Slide Falls (Walking Trail), Dave’s Falls, and Smalley Falls. Approximately 20 minutes from 12 Foot Falls, Horseshoe Falls (Equestrian Trails), and Morgan County Park. Approximately 30 minutes from Goodman County Park and Mc Clintock County Park. Please follow the golden rule of camping and hiking is “leave no trace.” Anything you bring in, must be carried out. Please pack your waste, trash and recyclables, and take it with you when you leave. You may use dead and downed wood as firewood, but do not cut live trees or brush. Keep fires small and make sure your campfire is out before you leave.

Stutts Creek 40 Acre Camp Site

100%

(4)

49mi from Escanaba · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

40 acres well off the beaten path. Approximately 6 miles off of State Hwy M-94. A two track will lead you back to 40 acres of undeveloped land containing a variety of pine and poplar. Our private property borders State and Federal Forest land that contains an overwhelming amount of two track roads to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The sky is unobstructed from trees leaving the stars to be enjoyed all night long. A section of the Stutts Creek flows through the property where you can enjoy a quiet morning listening to the water flow and the occasional rise of a brook trout feeding. Deer, Turkey, Grouse, Bears and Wolves are all found in our area and are often photographed by visitors. Please practice safe food storage due to a healthy bear population in the area. You're welcome to set up a campfire wherever you camp, please practice fire safety and adhere to state and county burn bans that may be in effect. Once you arrive you are free to set up camp wherever you want. This is primitive camping so come prepared to enjoy nature at its finest. There is no bathroom so plan accordingly. The property is less then an hour from Lake Superior and the heart of downtown Munising and about 30 minutes North of downtown Manistique. A GPS app such as OnX will help you navigate property lines and show you all the water bodies in the area you can enjoy. The road is generally fine for 2wd but 4 wheel drive is recommended when there is rain or snow in the forecast. Our property is fairly remote which will give you a unique experience. We hope to have you.

Public campgrounds near Escanaba

Little Bay De Noc Campground

8.2mi from Escanaba · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Cutest most private campground I have seen. Definitely my favorite from the trip.

Flowing Well Campground

22mi from Escanaba · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

This past summer my college roommate and I spent a few days hammock camping on Rock Island. We backpacked to the far side of the island and enjoyed viewing the Perseid meteor shower along with the bright and beautiful Milky Way. I highly recommend this Park!

93%

(7)

Rock Island Campground

26mi from Escanaba · 112 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rock Island State Park

J W Wells Campground

28mi from Escanaba · 159 sites · Tents, RVs · in J W Wells State Park

Camp Seven Lake Campground

33mi from Escanaba · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Corner Lake Campground

36mi from Escanaba · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Tom's Lake Cabin

37mi from Escanaba · 1 site · in Hiawatha National Forest

100%

(1)

Widewaters Campground

39mi from Escanaba · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

McKeever Cabin

40mi from Escanaba · 1 site · in Hiawatha National Forest

Beautiful lake, decent lake swim area. Camp Host is very friendly. Limited trail information available. Fishing has been a major downer, not even a bite. Nice sites for 5th wheels and campers even has a limited amount of wal kin tent sites. Beautiful plants a

100%

(1)

Petes Lake Campground

41mi from Escanaba · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

100%

(6)

Little Bass Lake Campground

42mi from Escanaba · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Island Lake Campground

42mi from Escanaba · 5 sites · in Hiawatha National Forest

Stories from the community

s

siddharth

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites

campsite is really good its very peaceful and remote, table, chairs all were there and host is also welcoming definitely I would recommend this to everyone

L

Luke

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River View Get Away

Kathy was amazing! We decided to take a chance and tent camp in late October. The site is very peaceful and she built firewood up for our first fire upon arrival. We left many things behind on the days we traveled to fish or hike with no worries. The river and woods are peaceful. Appreciate the water she leaves to clean hands and cookware! Look forward to returning and camping next year. Thank you Kathy and Randy!

Keaton

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Farm

Another fantastic weekend in the U.P.! The colors were amazing and I'm glad I took my last minute trip there.

L

Lorraine

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Forest Overlooking River

Absolutely beautiful spot to camp by a peaceful river. We had a great 2 night stay on our own. Pauline is so welcoming and warm. And good eggs!

Nick

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Vagabond Resort & Campground

Great site. Dog friendly. There is a real bathroom with plumbing and real showers. The firewood they have for sale burns for a long time.

O

Ozzy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Farm

Beautiful spot in one of the prettiest parts of the country. The host is very helpful and the campsite is very spacious, private and well maintained. I absolutely recommend camping here.

M

Mary

September 2025

25 ft Class C

Group trip

4 nights at Maple Creek Farm

Awesome camping spot and great host. We loved everything about this site. Very peaceful and a large spot. Matt checked in on us and made us feel very welcome. Really close to some awesome riding trails. Had a great stay and would highly recommend this camping spot.

M

Morgan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Farm

Our group had an amazing time camping on Matt’s land! He was extremely accommodating and was kind enough to show us around the property to ensure our event would work out on his property. There was plenty of firewood for us to purchase and use throughout the weekend, and Matt was very responsive and helpful when we needed to reach out. I highly recommended Maple Creek Farms for your stay—it is beautiful, private, and spacious!

J

John

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River View Get Away

Don’t let the entrance fool you - this site is on par with having a county park all to yourself. Solid and maintained amenities. Maybe cutest porta john in existence.

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Forest Overlooking River

We loved the site, good place to camp. Close enough to the main road to get anywhere you need easily. Pauline was fantastic, super helpful and kind!

M

Michelle

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Forest Overlooking River

Pauline's site was beautiful and very peaceful. Pauline contacted me ahead of my stay and informed that she intended to move us to a more secluded site given that she was hosting other campers and that we had dogs. She accommodated for all her campers to ensure everyone had a peaceful and enjoyable experience on her property. Pauline gave numerous recommendations of tings to do while in the area which was super helpful. The river, prairie, fruit trees/bushes, and birds that surrounded us made for a super peaceful and enjoyable stay!

B

Bethanie

August 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to River View Get Away

My dogs and I had a fantastic stay car camping at this site. I spent most of my time paddleboarding in the river and I would highly recommend this site to folks who enjoy paddle sports. The water was clear with a muddy bottom. Feeding the fish was definitely a highlight! There was plenty of shade and grassy areas for me to exercise my dogs. I had no issues with bugs; not even mosquitoes. I didn't have to wear any bug repellant. There was no grill grate or tripod for cooking so keep that in mind. The site is a bit noisy, you can hear the nearby highway traffic, lawn mowing and train. I came on a Saturday and there were gunshots going off until dark (maybe a shooting range nearby?) But those are things the host can't change. I brought a white noise machine along and that helped a lot. Overall I had a fantastic time at this site and can't wait to come back.

A

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at River View Get Away

We really enjoyed this site. It was private, secluded and well maintained. Kathy and her husband were very kind and attentive, and they did everything they could to make our stay pleasurable, including driving over to unplug some of the fairy lights so we could have darkness near our tent. The only negative feeling I have regarding this site is the traffic noise, it is VERY loud and noticeable, it got a little better at night, but still obvious. I feel like it's just something to be aware of. We would come here again though, no doubt.

E

Ericka

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at River View Get Away

Camping at Riverside was a wonderful get away for our 1 year wedding anniversary. The spot is private and wonderfully manicured. It was great to have a Porta Potty onsite, and the shower bags were a good sent for rinsing off and cleaning up dishes. Kathy and Randy were friendly, and responsive. Our pup Kitty LOVES the river! Having access to firewood on site was another plus! We will definitely be back if we are in the area!

L

Luis

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Vagabond Resort & Campground

After a nice long conversation with Yvonne and her husband and telling me about their campground, the local places to see and my camping site, I can say I’m very happy and will come back again in the near future. For the LADIES this campground has clean bathrooms and showers, THAT’s the reason why I came to this campground. A+++ For the GENTLEMEN you have access to the lake and have your boat on the campground dock. A+++

T

Theresa

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Forest Overlooking River

Beautiful and quiet. The river was more of a tricking stream but still fun to investigate the crawfish. I missed a day due to travel delay, but I would enjoy staying there again.

T

Theresa

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to River View Get Away

This was our 2nd time staying here and we highly recommend it. It is a great place, well maintained, private and perfect place to bring dogs that aren't use to being around tons of people or on leash. Its a safe place to post up and go explore Norway, Iron Mountain and much more. Kathy and Randy are amazing hosts and we enjoyed visiting with them again this year.

J

JOSEF

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Farm

The site is exactly as it's described and it was perfect for my friends and I.

M

Melissa

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at River View Get Away

This was such a wonderful site. There was a lot of time put in to it. I was pleasantly surprised that there were not a lot of bugs. My favorite thing was the hammocks they have by the water. You also can feed the trout in the river! I plan on coming back next year!

K

Kate

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River View Get Away

We had such a wonderful stay at Kathy and Randy’s riverside camp spot! You can tell they truly care about their land and about creating a welcoming experience for their guests. The property is beautifully maintained, and the thoughtful amenities made the night so comfortable—from the clean port-a-potty to the stocked firewood, solar string lights that came on at dusk, and even a shower/changing tent with warm sun-soaked water bags ready to use. The river was calm and peaceful, and it was the perfect setting for our dog’s very first night camping (she loved being able to roam off leash!). We fell asleep to the sounds of the river and woke up to birdsong, with hummingbirds visiting the flowers and trout swimming in the clear water nearby. This place has so much to offer if you’re looking for a quiet, well-cared-for spot to connect with nature. We’re so grateful for our stay and for such kind and passionate hosts!