The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Mackinac Island, Michigan

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Mackinac Island, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 490 options that cater to your pets preference. With average prices starting at $40 per night and options as low as $10, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your budget. Check out the top campsites in the area, including House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley (100 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash, showers, and pet-friendly sites. And for the adventurous, take part in activities such as surfing, paddling, and whitewater paddling. Book your dream camping trip now!

98% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mackinac Island

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Mackinac Island, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 490 options that cater to your pets preference. With average prices starting at $40 per night and options as low as $10, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your budget. Check out the top campsites in the area, including House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley (100 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash, showers, and pet-friendly sites. And for the adventurous, take part in activities such as surfing, paddling, and whitewater paddling. Book your dream camping trip now!

98% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mackinac Island

1. Bear River Retreat

100%

(3)

39mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Peaceful setting on Bear River,5 campsites total. Great for small campers and tents, very spacious lots. All sites have grill, fire ring, picnic table, garbage can. Minutes from downtown petoskey, nature and bike trails, great unique dining in town, grocery stores within 2 miles, Lake Michigan and waterfront some of the favorites, 35 minutes from the mackinaw bridge

2. Neebish Island Light Station

100%

(3)

39mi from Mackinac Island · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to our family’s historic property on remote and beautiful Neebish Island, Michigan—home to freighter views, starry skies, and timeless peace and quiet. Built in 1889 as a light station keeper’s house, this property later served the U.S. Coast Guard until it was decommissioned in the 1970s. Our family acquired it at auction in the 1980s, and we've cherished it ever since. We’re now opening up parts of the land for rustic camping and self-contained RVs to help preserve and maintain this special place. This is not a polished campground—it’s a unique, raw, and beautiful setting where you can truly unplug and connect with nature, water, and history. Located right on the St. Marys River, with unobstructed views of freighters and shipping vessels along the St. Lawrence Seaway, this spot is perfect for anyone who loves maritime history, photography, or just peaceful waterfront camping. Sunsets and sunrises are spectacular, and the beach is sandy and swimmable. Campers can enjoy: A wood-fired sauna right on the river (perfect for a dip afterward!) A large communal fire pit under the stars Porta-potties (no access to indoor plumbing) Access to water and electric hook-up Excellent area for canoeing or kayaking - bring your own boat! The current on the St. Mary's river is VERY fast so be careful. Paddle upstream first and then use the current to return to the campsite. Regular wildlife sightings: eagles, herons, deer, and more Neebish Island is remote. Access is via a car ferry from Barbeau, MI, and cell reception is limited—plan for a digital detox. You'll need to research and plan around the car ferry schedule, which is limited to a few runs per/day. This is a great spot for campers, vanlifers, paddlers, and freighter fans who appreciate quiet, history, and open sky. Interior access to the historical house is not included, but the land is yours to enjoy. Rustic, serene, unforgettable. Come see why we’ve loved this place for generations.

3. Mackinaw HWY

100%

(4)

11mi from Mackinac Island · 1 site · Tent, RV

📍 CARP LAKE - 5 MILES TO DOWNTOWN MACKINAW CITY/MACKINAC ISLAND 🗺️ 13 MILES TO ST. IGNACE ($4 bridge toll) 🗺️ 35 MILES TO BOIS BLANC ISLAND 🔔 IMPORTANT: THERE IS A CAMERA ON THE PROPERTY.

4. butter & grahams camping Re imagine

38mi from Mackinac Island · 2 sites · Lodging

Imagine the possibility of escaping to an enchanting island nestled in the middle of Lake Huron. A place where the melody of peepers singing, the sight of majestic freighters passing by, the haunting calls of loons, and the tranquil waves lazily kissing the shore greet you. On this serene island, you would become acquainted with the distinctive sound of the local lighthouse's beckoning call & the intriguing shapes of fossils adorning the beach where you reside. The ambiance is so tranquil that you can even discern the whisper of duck wings as they gracefully soar overhead. Consider the prospect of camping here, indulging in utmost comfort & luxury. Welcome to butter & grahams, an extraordinary haven where you can reconnect with nature in the most captivating manner. Follow the paths illuminated by whimsical fairy lights, fashion your own unique adventure, & discover moments that satiate your wanderlust while enchanting your soul. Allow us to be your hosts. We redefine the concept of camping, situated on the scenic shores of the St. Mary's River. Our abode offers all the comforts of a thoughtfully designed home, interwoven with the essence of a nature-inspired playground. Plan a visit & rejuvenate your weary soul on our tranquil shore. Best of all, reaching us is as simple as a peaceful ferry boat ride away. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle & bustle of city life, reconnect with nature, or simply indulge in a well-deserved retreat, our resort offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed & inspired.

5. Butter & Grahams - Tent Glamping

38mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Lodging

Discover the unique charm of butter & grahams, where glamping meets luxury in a stunning natural setting. Our beautifully designed glamping domes are situated right at the water's edge, providing guests with breathtaking views of the St. Mary's River shipping lane and spectacular sunsets that will leave you in awe. Step inside our domes and experience a world of comfort and elegance. Each dome is meticulously furnished with high-end bedding, stylish furnishings, and premium amenities to ensure a restful stay. For the ultimate relaxation, indulge in our Okhu hot tub, where you can soak in the tranquil surroundings while enjoying the soothing waters. Outside, our inviting outdoor seating area is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. To enhance your experience, our private bathhouses are equipped with all-natural bath bars, plush towels, washcloths, and cozy robes. We even provide toothbrushes and all-natural toothpaste, so you can focus on enjoying your getaway without any worries. Reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit at butter & grahams, where camping is reimagined into a luxurious escape. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our campground offers the perfect blend of both, making it an unforgettable destination.

Public campgrounds near Mackinac Island

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Straits Campground

4.8mi from Mackinac Island · 276 sites · Tents, RVs · in Straits State Park

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(2)

Carp River Campground

13mi from Mackinac Island · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Cheboygan Campground

17mi from Mackinac Island · 81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cheboygan State Park

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(11)

Lake Michigan Campground

19mi from Mackinac Island · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Brevoort Lake Campground

20mi from Mackinac Island · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Emma

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Neebish Island Light Station

We had such a lovely time here! We’re Neebish Newbies and loved it. The freighters were a highlight for my fiancé and I loved the beautiful beach all to ourselves. Our dogs were able to be off leash all weekend which was so great! We went for a few brisk swims and enjoyed the dock for sunning. At night, we had wonderful fires with the provided fire pit and benches (nice to not have to bring camp chairs!) I can’t say enough good things about this camp!

J

Jeremy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear River Retreat

Amazing little spot. Far enough away from the chaos of downtown Petoskey, but close enough to get there for your adventures. Only 4 camping spots so it feels like you have your own personal campground even when the other spots are occupied. I will definitely be staying here next time I’m in the area!

K

Kyle

July 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Mackinaw HWY

A nice quiet spot to camp out . Close to mack city & to the beaches .

M

Meghan

July 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Neebish Island Light Station

We’ve camped all over and this is the BEST drive up camping spot we’ve been to! Even on July 4th, the river wasn’t busy except for a few boats and the freight liners which we loved watching go by. You have access to water in multiple spots, we camped out of our bronco up by the garage and then set up a beach tent for the day. Huge campfire and access to screened in porch which was helpful when it rained. Our dog ran free and played in the water and we watched incredible sunsets. Having the stretch of beach to ourselves was awesome - and tucked in between trees on both sides. We can’t say enough good things and Garrett communicated quickly and answered our questions. As he said, the ferry times are limited so plan accordingly - groceries, gas, etc aren’t on the island. There was one small store but when we went it was changing owners and closed but hopefully it will open back up for items you forget. Be sure to pack the bug spray - we used that and a portable thermacell and did fine. We’ll be back!

C

Chad

July 2025

17 ft campervan

2 nights at Mackinaw HWY

Site is near a road but not much traffic. It was quiet through the night. The grass was freshly mowed. There is a dip pulling in but my minivan handled it with no issues. It’s just 6 minutes from ferry parking and 15 minutes to a public beach. Great for a base camp for your camper van.