96% (930) • 2,079 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Essexville
WaterFront Saginaw Bay
1. WaterFront Saginaw Bay
100%
(16)
8.3mi from Essexville · 1 site
Waterfront RV Site on the Quanicassee River
(at the mouth of Saginaw Bay)
Enjoy direct riverfront access with a private deck/dock — great for fishing, watching sunsets, and relaxing while spotting wildlife.
Included at no extra cost:
Kayaks - Canoe - Two bicycles
Site amenities:
Fire pit
Picnic table
Park grill
50AMP / 30AMP electric
Water hookup
WiFi
Frankenmuth, Bay City, and Saginaw are all within 35 minutes for shopping, dining, and attractions.
A peaceful spot with easy conveniences and plenty of ways to enjoy the water and outdoors.
This standout site combines direct riverfront living, thoughtful amenities, included extras, and a peaceful yet accessible setting – the perfect base for your Michigan adventure or extended stay. Ideal for anglers, nature lovers, sunset chasers, and anyone seeking a serene escape with modern conveniences.
Ready to experience riverside bliss? Book your spot today!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Footsteps From Frankenmuth
2. Footsteps From Frankenmuth
99%
(34)
17mi from Essexville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy peace and quiet at this brand new hip camp located just minutes from downtown Frankenmuth. Just off I-75 but far enough to not hear the noise! This property features a blacktop circle driveway for easy in & out access. Our property offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, and solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Location:
Located just 8 miles from downtown Frankenmuth and 10 miles from the Prime Outlets of Birch Run, our campsites are easily accessible yet provides a secluded haven away from the hustle and bustle.
Accommodations:
We offer several types of accommodations to suit your camping style:
Tent Sites: Spacious, grassy areas with plenty of shade, ideal for tents.
RV Sites: Level, grass sites (or even blacktop if you prefer) with easy access for RVs and campers.
Amenities:
Potable Drinking water
Fire pit
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Pet-friendly (with prior approval)
Activities:
Wildlife Watching: Abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer, birds, and more.
Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
Local Attractions:
Frankenmuth: A short drive away, offering things from waterparks, world-famous chicken dinners, one-of-a-kind shopping, and Bavarian charm, 1-800-FUN-TOWN has your plans made.
Birch Run Premium Outlets: Shop until you drop at the largest outlet mall in the Midwestern United States!
Rules:
Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Fires only in designated fire pits.
Pets must be kept on a leash unless otherwise approved.
Please respect our property and other campers by cleaning up after yourself.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
"Elysium Heritage Farm"
3. "Elysium Heritage Farm"
100%
(166)
22mi from Essexville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, emu, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property.
The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay.
It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit.
By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bay City State Park
4. Bay City State Park
50%
(3)
State park 4.9mi from Essexville · 192 sites
Discover Bay City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sleeper State Park
5. Sleeper State Park
100%
(4)
State park 40mi from Essexville · 226 sites
Discover Sleeper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Morgan's Place
6. Morgan's Place
92%
(13)
27mi from Essexville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Morgan's Place is a nonprofit campground serving people who have been injured in traumatic accidents to full recovery. We also offer Hipcamp stays and Airbnb rentals so our visitors who are in recovery do not have to pay out of pocket during their stay if they cannot. We located on 37 beautiful acres outside of Millington, Michigan and only 15 minutes from Frankenmuth and Birch Run. We have hiking trails, little goats, chickens, fishing, kayak rental and/or drop off/pick up at Cass River, and offer yoga classes, karaoke on certain nights, and blacksmithing demonstrations! There is a 4 person camper on site to rent if needed or we offer water/electric and tent sites too just ask.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
7. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(149)
30mi from Essexville · 1 site
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Verity acres
8. Verity acres
97%
(19)
31mi from Essexville · 1 site · Tent, RV
160 acres of private woodland. Pitch your tent, or park your camper under the Pines or under the oaks along a nice ridge.
Enjoy walking camping hiking with no neighbors on private property can also walk to state land for miles and miles of hiking opportunities.
Lots of wildlife to view- deer, raccoons, fox coyotes. Listen to the beautiful coyotes howling at night.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
6+ Acre Rustic Forest Camp
9. 6+ Acre Rustic Forest Camp
100%
(15)
36mi from Essexville · 1 site
Tucked away on over 10 acres of quiet woods, this rustic campsite invites you to slow down and soak in the simple joys of nature.
Fall asleep to the songs of crickets and frogs, wake up to birdsong, and watch turtles sun themselves by the pond.
Wander through the woods, spot wildlife among the trees, or simply sit still and let the forest come to you.
This is a place to breathe deeper, laugh louder, and let the everyday fade away.
Enjoy over 6 acres of peaceful woods and open clearings—an authentic Pure Michigan getaway.
Easy access with pull-through spots, perfect for RVs and trailers.
Pets are welcome—bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
No electricity onsite, but generators are welcome if you need a little extra power.
No potable water source available—please bring your own drinking water.
Clean, well-maintained porta potty for your convenience.
Limited cell phone signal—ideal for unplugging and reconnecting with nature
Optional farm-to-table grocery delivery available at an additional cost.
Close to beautiful lakes, rivers, public lands, bike trails, and charming small towns.
Pets
Port Crescent State Park
10. Port Crescent State Park
100%
(4)
State park 48mi from Essexville · 145 sites
Three miles of sandy shores await campers along Michigan’s thumb.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tawas Point State Park
11. Tawas Point State Park
0%
(4)
State park 49mi from Essexville · 197 sites
Discover Tawas Point State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
B Mo's Hideout
12. B Mo's Hideout
99%
(156)
36mi from Essexville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
42 private acres for day use or tent camping. This is a clothing optional green space, walk the trails, play horse shoes bean bag toss or just sit back and relax. It's a great place to hang a hammock and chill or explore the woods, pick wild strawberries early summer raspberries mid summer and blueberries mid summer. Open from March 17th thru Oct 1st. Please call ahead for bookings between Mar 17 and April 14 for site conditions. Can accommodate small pop up trailers less than 20ft. Check in times may very. Car campers welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
River Daze
13. River Daze
100%
(48)
36mi from Essexville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Campsites are all riverfront along the Tobacco River. Country feel within blocks of town. Ross Lake/Beach, the remodeled Beaverton Tavern, park, an ice cream shop and splash park are all located within a long walk or short drive. We are close to Gladwin, Ross Lake, ORV trails and the Juicy Bone. The river flows into Wixom Lake which is anticipated to be back in 2025. Sandy beach with river access .
You can access the river from our canoe portage on the property. Good fishing, swimming or just hanging out. You can also canoe, kayak or tube beautiful Tobacco River or sandy Cedar River. Picnic tables and fire pits are located throughout the property. Good music, games, sing a longs. Hike through the trails to get to the the enchanted cedar forest which is all located in the campground. We have an outdoor 250 inch screen where we project movies, concerts, games, interactive dance videos. For kids and adults, everyone leaves with a smile.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Boondock Ridge
14. Boondock Ridge
98%
(167)
42mi from Essexville · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private.
Beautiful river view and access.
Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity
Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ruffin It
15. Ruffin It
100%
(11)
46mi from Essexville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Privacy and freedom,
In between West Branch and Tawas, you’ll be centrally located to choose from many options. Lake Huron 30 minutes away, Au Sable River 15 min away, Rifle River 10 minutes away.
Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, star gazing, hunting, fishing,
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Thousand S.’s Land
16. Thousand S.’s Land
94%
(77)
49mi from Essexville · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Thousand Suns – an 84-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of nature, lovingly cultivated to support healing, reflection, and connection. This isn’t your typical campground. Here, the land is vibrantly alive and holds space for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies, as well as moments of quiet solitude or joyful gathering.
Wander scenic forest trails, swim in spring-fed waters, or sit beside the flowing river — all part of a landscape that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to yourself. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or reconnect, Thousand Suns offers a grounded, heart-centered experience.
Throughout the month, we host community events and offer private sessions in yoga, bodywork, breathwork, and other holistic practices designed to nourish the body and spirit. Fresh eggs are available from our chickens and turkeys, and you’ll likely spot our friendly goats during your stay.
Guests are welcome to use the community kitchen — a shared space where you can store your food and prepare meals with ease.
Thousand Suns is the perfect retreat for solo travelers, families, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or journeying inward, our land provides a supportive and sacred backdrop.
Please note: a train passes by the front of the property several times a day. While some find it grounding and nostalgic, others may wish to bring earplugs if they’re sensitive to sound.
Bring your fishing pole, your swim trunks, and an open heart. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Be Wild and Free
17. Be Wild and Free
97%
(149)
49mi from Essexville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a 76 acre farm in a rural agricultural area. Learn more about this land:This is a 76 acre "farm" that has been allowed to rest for the last 20 some years, surrounded by large agricultural fields. There are areas of pasture, woods, and wetlands. This is a very rustic piece of property, with no amenities. Just a chance to get away for some fresh air.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Camp Bear Paw LLC
18. Camp Bear Paw LLC
99%
(87)
50mi from Essexville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish.
You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early!
Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water.
Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well.
Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking.
There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising.
Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property.
Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon!
Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used.
We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details.
Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grassy Woods Edge
19. Grassy Woods Edge
94%
(8)
18mi from Essexville · 1 site
Learn more about this land:🏕 Private quiet camping on maintained grass alongside of 8 acre woods. 🌟 Great night sky View overlooks farm fields. 10 minutes ftom Frankenmuth. 10 minutes from kayak launch to Cass River. 25 minutes from Bay City downtown river front with entertainment and street dining.
Pets
DO NOT USE
20. DO NOT USE
19mi from Essexville · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
BALL TOURNAMENT-BOOK DIRECTLY WITH VILLAGE
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Stephanie
1 week ago
Tent
5/5 stars for our stay at Kim's beautiful getaway! Maybe an odd thing to lead with, but it had absolutely the nicest outhouse I've ever been in, and it just shows how much pride the owners have in their property. The tent site is covered in sand which makes tent staking a breeze. Other lovely touches: a tablecloth on the picnic table, an extra table for food prep, trees for hammocks, firewood in a covered box, an adjacent property with bird sanctuary and pond with kayaks. Short drive to area nature sites and beaches. Will definitely be back!
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M
Marilyn
1 week ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
Robert is a very gracious host will help you with all your needs. Nice woodsy area makes you really feel like you're camping in the woods
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E
Emily
1 week ago
Tent
Peaceful, green, quiet, spacious - everything I want in a campsite. We chose it because of location (it was a good midpoint for the members of our party) but will certainly return because of the charm.
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Liz
1 week ago
Tent
Kim and Jeff were very kind and chill. Lovely place to spend the night. Got to walk around and visit with all the animals. Great place to stop over on a long long drive.
See moreM
M
1 week ago
Tent
Great place! Was much more than I expected. I would highly recommend this site. Thank you so much for the great camping spot!
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Nate
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
BMo is the best. Every year we have an awesome time. Thanks brother!
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Karlee
2 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
Such a peaceful, lovely place! Kim was SO nice and welcoming! Cute animals, Romantic vibes, and friendly atmosphere. Will definitely be back!
See moreE
Emilee
2 weeks ago
Tent
Staying at vine camp was everything I’d hoped for and so much more! I came as a solo camper and Kim was so friendly and happy to talk to me about the farm. She even saved the day when my car battery was dead in the morning. Not to mention the property I spent hours walking about and still didn’t get to all the trails. Surrounded by beautiful wetlands. So many adorable animals on the farm and wildlife around. My stay couldn't have been any better I only wish I could come back sooner.
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Shaina
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We absolutely loved our stay at boondock ridge!! It's a beautiful piece of property! I love how there's 2 different areas and each has its own fire pit and the top one, has wide open space for the kiddos and animals to run and enjoy! Love the little stream at the lower camp site.
See moreN
Nick
2 weeks ago
28 ft travel trailer
With kids
Took our family of 5 to Elysium and our 3 young boys are already asking when we can go back! It was everything the listing described and more. They enjoyed hours upon hours of catching bluegill and perch in the pond, one after the other. The hosts were very kind as well. We’re definitely looking forward to our next visit!
See moreC
Colin
2 weeks ago
Tent
Our crew looks forward to camping at Bryan's every year and year number six did not disappoint! Bryan is a great host and took great care of us as usual. The site feels very secluded and offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy nature.
See moreT
Trisha
2 weeks ago
30 ft Class B
With pets
I left a few days early but it's a great peaceful place
See moreM
Makenna
2 weeks ago
30 ft travel trailer
What a great spot! There is 2 sites essentially one you can’t drive too but it’s right on the river and a great walking path down, we did our 1st night camping up top with the river view, then carried all our stuff down and did day 2 down below, it was a great weekend sun was shining we had a bit of rain but nothing crazy! Great hosts very accommodating and so nice we even got to stay a little longer since we had a later arrival than expected! Thank you guys again and totally recommend for your next camp!
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Terry
3 weeks ago
12 ft pop-up camper
Group trip
Great sites, the best host, great Hipcamp!
We've stayed at other places, but none compare to Bryan's Hideout.
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Kim
3 weeks ago
40 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Loved camping here, there was a ton of room for our big rig with lots of room for our dog to play catch. This Hipcamp has been our favorite so far. There were many things that was awesome about this site but what stood out was the grass was mowed, there's a big fire pit, a garbage bin, an artesian well, a well built dock, your on the river, not to mention your close to a Dollar General if you forgot something, which we did. If you don't mind driving 10-30 min there's hiking, golf course, restaurants, snowmobile trails and more. The only thing with this site, was the traffic was constant until about 9-10 pm, other than that it was great, we will definitely be back!
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Tim
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
Enjoyed our weekend stay, weather was lovely for April. Bathroom is very well done, clean and well decorated w/ a handsome 6 point euro mount. Top of the ridge vista is well appointed with an upgraded fire pit, picnic table, and bench seat.
Down hill along a short path is a nice dock along the river. Didn't catch any fish, maybe next time!
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Samantha
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Everything went great and was amazing! Truly such an amazing site, options for where to set up camp, by a river it was so nice and relaxing! We will definitely be back again!! Recommend 10/10! One of the cleanest and well kept places we have camped! The stars you can see at night were insane. The first night we stayed it was unbelievable how dark that area gets, so many stars!!
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Elizabeth
April 2026
4 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
Sheila and Jeff are fantastic, welcoming hosts! I loved chatting and getting to know them. When I went out and about, they gave me great recommendations for routes and places to stop. It was fairly rainy and wet during my stay, but I loved the cozy, dry warmth of the Crow's Nest and definitely recommend it to others!
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Marc
March 2026
16 ft car
With kids
The area was super clean, very peaceful to have that much area all to ourselves. My son had a blast exploring the trails which are very nicely maintained. While the weather didn’t really cooperate, we still had an amazing time. If someone is looking for a quiet, relaxing beautiful place for a camping trip, this is the place to go. Also, the host was SUPER responsive when I had any questions. Don’t miss out on visiting.
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Joel
March 2026
47 ft travel trailer
Rob met me and guided me to the site which is a lovely secluded spot by a pond and includes 50 amp power and water on request
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