The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Mackinac Island, Michigan

If you're looking to camp with an RV near Mackinac Island, Michigan and enjoy being by the river, Hipcamp has over 385 options to choose from that match your preferences. You can find an affordable camping spot for as low as $10 per night or opt for a more luxurious one that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites you can consider are House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley (100 reviews). Whether you're with family, friends, or alone, you can enjoy popular amenities such as pets, showers, and campfires. If you're an adventure seeker, you can also enjoy popular activities like fishing, climbing, and wind sports to make the most of your trip.

98% (374)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking to camp with an RV near Mackinac Island, Michigan and enjoy being by the river, Hipcamp has over 385 options to choose from that match your preferences. You can find an affordable camping spot for as low as $10 per night or opt for a more luxurious one that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites you can consider are House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley (100 reviews). Whether you're with family, friends, or alone, you can enjoy popular amenities such as pets, showers, and campfires. If you're an adventure seeker, you can also enjoy popular activities like fishing, climbing, and wind sports to make the most of your trip.

98% (374)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Just Show Up Camping

90%

(260)

11mi from Mackinac Island · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Saint Ignace, MI

The Grand Retreat, featuring Just Show Up Camping and Captain’s Quarters, is located right on US2 for easy access to several great locations, including Mackinac Island, Mackinac City, Tahquemenon Falls, Pictured Rocks, Grand Marais, and the Soo Locks. Our campsites are all “man-made” and put you into ancient glacial created forest floors with old-growth white pines. We have a bath

2. 80 acres of Secluded Camping

94%

(24)

47mi from Mackinac Island · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boyne Falls, MI

Learn more about this land:Tired of campground crowds? Get away from it all with complete privacy on 80 acres connected to Gaylord State Forest. Just outside of Boyne Falls, 15 min from Petoskey and close to many lakes, our property is located at the end of a dead end road. Enjoy Boyne Valley and Boyne Mountain views from easy to access private and primitive camping. Appreciate all that Northern Michigan has to offer with serene and relaxing wooded trails that can be followed onto state land (miles of hiking/ORV/Snowmobile trails). Visit nearby Lake Charlevoix, Walloon Lake, or Thumb Lake for boating/swimming/paddling, or Bear Creek Nature Preserve for additional hiking/natural areas. Choose the main meadow for van/car/trailer/RV camping, or take a short hike through the woods and over a creek to camp on the second meadow or back 40 acres (you pick your spot!). Plenty of nature to explore with quick drives to town for shopping/food. Property is 80% wooded, lots of hills, two open meadows and a beautiful flowing creek. Property map provided upon reservation.

3. Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite

100%

(21)

35mi from Mackinac Island · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dafter, MI

This is a rustic campsite without facilities or electricity. This property borders the South Charlotte River. It is in a very private location. You can drive into the camping area. We are located 12 miles south of Sault Ste Marie 1/3 mile west of M-129 on 12 Mile Road. It is a dirt road. The entrance is on the left or south side of the road. The property is good for either tent camping or a parking place for RVs. There is a new driveway that leads to the camping or parking areas. You can drive on the grass to get to the campsite. The campsite area is 50 yards from the road. You can set up anywhere in the cut grass area. There will be two white chairs and a garbage can. A small camp porta potty is available for your use.

4. Rooster Ridge

100%

(10)

37mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wolverine, MI

Come relax on our 20 acres of wooded paradise, surrounded by thousands of acres of State land. You can enjoy any of our well maintained campsites in peace and quiet! We offer a common area with games, bathroom facilities, hand washing station, picnic tables, and a gas grill for cooking. We have four campsites available and each site has a fire pit and cooking grate. We have 2 tent only sites, one site that'll fit a pop-up camper and/or a tent, and a fourth that will fit a tent, pop-up, or camper/RV. One of our sites is very remote and is walk-in only, so we do provide wheeled carts to make hauling your gear easy! The other 3 allow for vehicle access. Stop by our storefront for firewood, fresh organic chicken eggs, local honey, and more for purchase. You can also find wild strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries during the spring/summer months. We are dog friendly, but all pets must be on a leash at all times, to respect other campers. With the maps provided, feel free to walk our cut trails that wind throughout the property. Enjoy the serenity of our rippling creek, and watch for wildlife such as grouse, deer, bear, bobcat, elk, and more! We do raise pheasants for release, so don't be shocked if you spook one up on the trail! You can also hit the public trails next door on State Land and walk for miles and miles. We are only 4.4 miles to and from I75, with easy access to Gaylord, Petoskey, Mackinac, and just down the road from downtown Wolverine and Indian River. Check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566756576617 *Note: Tents are not provided. Used for staging purposes in photos only.

5. Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley

100%

(219)

49mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Vanderbilt, MI

In April of 2025 Michigan's Governor declared a 12-county disaster area due to an unprecedented ice storm in Northern Michigan. Unfortunately our Camp 437 is located in one of the affected counties and was greatly impacted by the storm. In the upcoming months we will be clearing the drive into Camp and clearing the campsites and trails to make our woods safe. We want nothing more than to walk our trails again and to share our Camp with others, however it will take some time to get things back to normal. Thank you for your interest in our Camp and please check back again soon!

6. Neebish Island Light Station

100%

(3)

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

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.

7. Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

100%

(10)

42mi from Mackinac Island · 1 site · Tent, RV · Charlevoix, MI

This enchanting prairie habitat is nestled between a small creek on one side while whispering aspens make up the opposing border. Centrally located between Charlevoix and Petoskey, only a 1 minute car ride from the walking/bicycle path that connects Charlevoix to Harbor Springs as well as the beautiful sunsets on Lake Michigan beaches.

8. Bear River Retreat

100%

(3)

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

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

Camper favorites near Mackinac Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rooster Ridge

100%

(10)

37mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wolverine, MI

Come relax on our 20 acres of wooded paradise, surrounded by thousands of acres of State land. You can enjoy any of our well maintained campsites in peace and quiet! We offer a common area with games, bathroom facilities, hand washing station, picnic tables, and a gas grill for cooking. We have four campsites available and each site has a fire pit and cooking grate. We have 2 tent only sites, one site that'll fit a pop-up camper and/or a tent, and a fourth that will fit a tent, pop-up, or camper/RV. One of our sites is very remote and is walk-in only, so we do provide wheeled carts to make hauling your gear easy! The other 3 allow for vehicle access. Stop by our storefront for firewood, fresh organic chicken eggs, local honey, and more for purchase. You can also find wild strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries during the spring/summer months. We are dog friendly, but all pets must be on a leash at all times, to respect other campers. With the maps provided, feel free to walk our cut trails that wind throughout the property. Enjoy the serenity of our rippling creek, and watch for wildlife such as grouse, deer, bear, bobcat, elk, and more! We do raise pheasants for release, so don't be shocked if you spook one up on the trail! You can also hit the public trails next door on State Land and walk for miles and miles. We are only 4.4 miles to and from I75, with easy access to Gaylord, Petoskey, Mackinac, and just down the road from downtown Wolverine and Indian River. Check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566756576617 *Note: Tents are not provided. Used for staging purposes in photos only.

Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley

100%

(219)

49mi from Mackinac Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Vanderbilt, MI

In April of 2025 Michigan's Governor declared a 12-county disaster area due to an unprecedented ice storm in Northern Michigan. Unfortunately our Camp 437 is located in one of the affected counties and was greatly impacted by the storm. In the upcoming months we will be clearing the drive into Camp and clearing the campsites and trails to make our woods safe. We want nothing more than to walk our trails again and to share our Camp with others, however it will take some time to get things back to normal. Thank you for your interest in our Camp and please check back again soon!

Neebish Island Light Station

100%

(3)

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

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.

Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

100%

(10)

42mi from Mackinac Island · 1 site · Tent, RV · Charlevoix, MI

This enchanting prairie habitat is nestled between a small creek on one side while whispering aspens make up the opposing border. Centrally located between Charlevoix and Petoskey, only a 1 minute car ride from the walking/bicycle path that connects Charlevoix to Harbor Springs as well as the beautiful sunsets on Lake Michigan beaches.

Bear River Retreat

100%

(3)

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

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

Public campgrounds near Mackinac Island

100%

(2)

Carp River Campground

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

100%

(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

50%

(3)

Burt Lake Campground

32mi from Mackinac Island · 306 sites · Tents, RVs · in Burt Lake State Park

Onaway Campground

35mi from Mackinac Island · 83 sites · Tents, RVs · in Onaway State Park

Soldier Lake Campground

36mi from Mackinac Island · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Three Lakes Campground

36mi from Mackinac Island · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

100%

(4)

Brimley Campground

39mi from Mackinac Island · 237 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brimley State Park

The piper at the gates of dawn or Edgar Allan Poe's protege

100%

(1)

Bay View Campground

42mi from Mackinac Island · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

100%

(2)

Monocle Lake Campground

43mi from Mackinac Island · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Stories from the community

Kenny

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Just Show Up Camping

I loved the view! Granted it was very windy the day I stayed there so that’s something to consider since your by lake. Very easy to get to the site and overall pretty clean. Had some clutter here and there but not a big deal. My only major critique is one, maybe put stone down on the path to the beach because it had really deep ruts and it was very muddy. I got my car stuck quite a few times. The other is the shower water did not really get warm. Again, not the end of the world but addressing those few things would make the site even better than it already is. Overall I’d give it an 8/10

Kyle

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rooster Ridge

Great property, amazing hosts, and well set up. I would definitely recommend to others!

New fire ring and camping area. This is straight in from the road about 100 yeards.

D

Don

September 2025

12 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite

Dale was friendly and welcoming. The site was quiet and private and a great location from which to explore the eastern UP.

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!

D

Dusty

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

Worked well for my purposes. Water and electric worked as they should.

P

Paige

August 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Just Show Up Camping

This spot was absolutely beautiful! I was really sad it just so happened to storm while I was there waking up there is so peaceful and pretty. Shower house was nice

P

Paul

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 80 acres of Secluded Camping

We had an amazing time! It was very peaceful and had tons of woods to explore. Even saw a coyote in one of the fields.

Adam

August 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Just Show Up Camping

Amazing beech front site on shore of Lake michigan. Great staff. I keep coming back for this site. Can get buggy/windy, it's the outdoors.

S

Sara

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 80 acres of Secluded Camping

Secluded, beautiful, and exactly what we were hoping for. We loved our experience and would happily come back.

A

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rooster Ridge

Great location! We rolled in late one night and left early (en route to a backpacking trip). Robert laid out a set of lights to easily direct us to our gorgeous site.

J

Jason

August 2025

21 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

It’s a one site facility with full hookup’s. He provided a huge pile of wood for the bonfire ring. Super quiet location and just minutes to Petoskey.

J

Jade

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Just Show Up Camping

Tent camping on the private lake, was just what we've been looking for. The views were beautiful, waking up to the calm waves and nature around us was so peaceful. Having my dog unleashed was wonderful not to have to worry about anything. The video Drew sent before we came, was so helpful! I would've never found it without it. Drew met up with us when we first got there just to make sure we didnt need anything but otherwise did not come back but was easily reachable if we needed him or had questions. There was a fire ring, a grill, a picnic table that we could use at our campsite. The beach was not too rocky, all sand in most of the places as long as you walked specific pathways and it is shallow so far out but deeper in sections that really helped with our younger kids and dog. We sat in the water almost all day on one of the days just relaxing. Couldn't have asked for a better getaway.

M

Michelle

July 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite

Dale’s place was so lush and green! Gorgeous and very private, it felt as though we were camping in the wilderness but with the safety of people near by!! We have a class B and it was very easy to access! Dale was very welcoming and friendly!

A

Andrew

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rooster Ridge

Fantastic place to stay if you’re on the way to Mackinaw or the UP. Robert keeps his place really well kept and the sky views are great at night!

D

Danielle

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at Just Show Up Camping

We loved The Lot! It was just as expected. It's primitive so expect that. The water was beautiful and so were the stars at night. It did rain once while we were there and it got a little muddy where you drive in but he is trying to remedy that as it's preserved and he can't change too much to the land. Some things can't be helped, like mosquitoes, so bring long sleeves and bug spray. We would definitely stay again just for the fun of the sea gulls. The porta-john was clean and stocked. I didn't not check out the showers so I can't leave an opinion. Thanks Andy for a great time!

C

Colleen

July 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

My family and I were pleasantly surprised once we arrived at the Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat RV site #1. The area was neatly groomed and there was plenty of space to accommodate everyone in our party. The property was a little tricky to find, however Matthew did provide a goggle pin that helped us locate the entrance. He was very prompt with his responses and gave very detailed information on how to navigate the entrance into the property. We would definitely return to this site.

B

Brad

July 2025

24 ft Class C

4 nights at Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

This was a great private spot with full hook up. Matthew was a good communicator. The location was great for short trips to both Petosky and Charlevoix. Lake Michigan is a minute away with a few easy access points. I will be staying here again the next time we visit. Thanks Matthew for making this spot available.

Dan

July 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Just Show Up Camping

Beautiful on-beach site, was level with sandy beach for wading and swimming. We were lucky enough to watch a bald eagle. The sound of the waves covered the road noise from Rt 2 save for the occasional motorcycle and semi. We were grateful that the site next to us was not booked. They are in quite close proximity without much buffer or barrier between.

A

Anna

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Just Show Up Camping

Great spot! Beautiful views! Thanks for the stay.