The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Mackinaw City, Michigan

Looking to go camping near Mackinaw City, Michigan with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 538 pet-friendly camping options available, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Average prices per night start at $40, but you can also find options as low as $10. Be sure to check out the top campsites in the area like House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews). Popular amenities include trash, potable water, and showers, while activities like horseback riding, boating, and wildlife watching will keep you entertained during your camping adventure.

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Mackinaw City, Michigan with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 538 pet-friendly camping options available, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Average prices per night start at $40, but you can also find options as low as $10. Be sure to check out the top campsites in the area like House of Bear (179 reviews), Explore the U.P. from here! (157 reviews), and Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews). Popular amenities include trash, potable water, and showers, while activities like horseback riding, boating, and wildlife watching will keep you entertained during your camping adventure.

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

100%

(10)

35mi from Mackinaw City · 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.

2. Neebish Island Light Station

100%

(3)

47mi from Mackinaw City · 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.

3. simply bliss

100%

(48)

8.5mi from Mackinaw City · 1 site · Tent · Carp Lake, MI

4. Butter & Grahams - Tent Glamping

46mi from Mackinaw City · 5 sites · Lodging · Drummond Island, MI

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.

5. Bear River Retreat

100%

(3)

32mi from Mackinaw City · 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 Mackinaw City

88%

(4)

Straits Campground

5.2mi from Mackinaw City · 276 sites · Tents, RVs · in Straits State Park

100%

(2)

Carp River Campground

17mi from Mackinaw City · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

100%

(11)

Lake Michigan Campground

17mi from Mackinaw City · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Cheboygan Campground

18mi from Mackinaw City · 81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cheboygan State Park

Brevoort Lake Campground

19mi from Mackinaw City · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Stories from the community

B

Brian

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

Excellent site on beautiful land. Easy to find. Very accessible. Well serviced with a number of conveniences provided. Highly recommend.

Matt

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

Came back for the space and beach access, and was reminded how quiet it is — open sky but still surrounded by trees, very private.

J

Jeff

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

2nd time stayin at Simply Bliss, quiet, remote yet only 10 miles from Mackinac Bridge. Plan on going back again, thinkin winter hot tent camping!

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

John

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at simply bliss

Thoughtful host. Great site. The wash up station is a classy move.

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.

S

Sara

August 2025

Tent

With pets

7 nights at simply bliss

The spot is gorgeous! Dru was a thoughtful host and made sure extra essentials were located in the outhouse. The site is spacious and has privacy and plenty of sun/shade. It’s just down the road from Sturgeon Beach and Cecil Bay. Very close to Mackinac. Cell service was enough for texting (verizon), but not good enough to support my kids devices 😉

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.

View turning into camp, privy to right, then the land opens up to the left for even more room.

Matt

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

Plenty of space and freedom to set up camp your way—no tight layouts or being stuck next to the fire ring. You’ve got room to breathe and choose what works for you. Easy in, easy out, with well-marked signs that are thoughtfully lit—enough to guide you without messing with the vibe. A small, clean, well-stocked privy (much nicer than your typical outhouse) is tucked away just enough to stay discreet, but close enough to be convenient. No houses, no lights, no powerlines—just quiet, trees, and stars. The hosts were outstanding—friendly, welcoming, and the kind of people who seem to know what you’ll need before you do. They stopped by to make sure I was settled and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from there. And it’s only 7 minutes from your site to the beach on Lake Michigan. One of the best Hipcamps I’ve stayed at—well-designed, well-run, and clearly created by people who care. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

J

Josiah

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

Dru's site was amazing. The site was secluded, quiet and just a short trip to Mackinac island. Firewood and water were easily accessible. Our host was incredibly friendly and came to greet us after we had checked in, answering any questions we had. She was also very responsive for the additional questions we had asked through the app. I would highly recommend this site to anyone camping in the area!

B

Brian

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at simply bliss

This place is exactly as described. Great quiet location just 10 minutes to Wilderness state park that has abundant hiking and swimming. If you prefer more isolated camping than the state park provides this is it. Very convenient location to explore the UP area.We would definitely stay again.

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.

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Pat

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at simply bliss

Incredibly beautiful space and the sweetest host. We had a great time. Dru thought of everything we would need for a perfect camping experience and this locations allows you to feel remote, yet the drive to Mackinac city is only 13 minutes.

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!

Chad

July 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

4 nights at Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat

Matthew's land was a great spot for a quiet family getaway. Close to Charlevoix and petosky and still private and quiet. Tons of public beach access within a short drive Lots of space for the kids to play games and set up the camper. Having water and power on site was very nice too. Will book again next time were camping in the area

Zach

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at simply bliss

We had such a magical time camping this weekend at Simply Bliss. Dru was a great host for our first time using Hipcamp. she came over and checked on us and was very responsive whenever we reached out either before hand or during our stay. The land was beautiful, private, and well maintained with firewood available for purchase onsite. There are lots of places to explore nearby but we found it hard to leave the campsite. We really want to explore other areas for adventures but it will be hard not to book here again next time we get the camping itch!!!

Z

Zachary

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to simply bliss

Had a wonderful stay at Simply Bliss. The property is 20 minutes from Wilderness State Park, making it a perfect base camp for those looking to explore the area.