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The best river, stream, or creek RV sites near Mackinaw City
98% (354) • 23 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mackinaw City
Just Show Up Camping
1. Just Show Up Camping
90%
(260)
8.9mi from Mackinaw City · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Rooster Ridge
2. Rooster Ridge
100%
(10)
33mi from Mackinaw City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$15
/ night
Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
3. Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
100%
(10)
35mi from Mackinaw City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Hiawatha National Forest
4. Hiawatha National Forest
92%
(32)
National forest 95mi from Mackinaw City · 513 sites
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Burt Lake State Park
5. Burt Lake State Park
50%
(3)
State park 27mi from Mackinaw City · 306 sites
Discover Burt Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite
6. Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite
100%
(21)
42mi from Mackinaw City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
7. Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
100%
(219)
43mi from Mackinaw City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
8. Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
28mi from Mackinaw City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Truly rustic wooded property on Lake Michigan, with ten acres and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Kayaks, fishing kayaks, and paddleboards are included with your stay. It’s a one-hour trip to the Cut River Bridge by kayak, or just three minutes by car.
Excellent fishing awaits. There is an artisan well at the campground next door. Currently, there is no electricity or water at the property; however, solar power and a generator are available.
Pets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Bear River Retreat
9. Bear River Retreat
100%
(3)
32mi from Mackinaw City · 6 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Onaway State Park
10. Onaway State Park
State park 35mi from Mackinaw City · 83 sites
Onaway State Park: A haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brimley State Park
11. Brimley State Park
100%
(4)
State park 45mi from Mackinaw City · 237 sites
Discover Brimley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Neebish Island Light Station
12. Neebish Island Light Station
100%
(3)
47mi from Mackinaw City · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
98% (354) • 23 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mackinaw City
Just Show Up Camping
1. Just Show Up Camping
90%
(260)
8.9mi from Mackinaw City · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Rooster Ridge
2. Rooster Ridge
100%
(10)
33mi from Mackinaw City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$15
/ night
Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
3. Whispering Winds Creekside Retreat
100%
(10)
35mi from Mackinaw City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Hiawatha National Forest
4. Hiawatha National Forest
92%
(32)
National forest 95mi from Mackinaw City · 513 sites
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Burt Lake State Park
5. Burt Lake State Park
50%
(3)
State park 27mi from Mackinaw City · 306 sites
Discover Burt Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite
6. Sault Ste Marie 12 Mile Rd Campsite
100%
(21)
42mi from Mackinaw City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
7. Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley
100%
(219)
43mi from Mackinaw City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
8. Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
28mi from Mackinaw City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Truly rustic wooded property on Lake Michigan, with ten acres and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Kayaks, fishing kayaks, and paddleboards are included with your stay. It’s a one-hour trip to the Cut River Bridge by kayak, or just three minutes by car.
Excellent fishing awaits. There is an artisan well at the campground next door. Currently, there is no electricity or water at the property; however, solar power and a generator are available.
Pets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Bear River Retreat
9. Bear River Retreat
100%
(3)
32mi from Mackinaw City · 6 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Onaway State Park
10. Onaway State Park
State park 35mi from Mackinaw City · 83 sites
Onaway State Park: A haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brimley State Park
11. Brimley State Park
100%
(4)
State park 45mi from Mackinaw City · 237 sites
Discover Brimley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Neebish Island Light Station
12. Neebish Island Light Station
100%
(3)
47mi from Mackinaw City · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp 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
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Kyle
September 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Great property, amazing hosts, and well set up. I would definitely recommend to others!
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D
Don
September 2025
12 ft travel trailer
Dale was friendly and welcoming. The site was quiet and private and a great location from which to explore the eastern UP.
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Emma
September 2025
Tent
With pets
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!
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J
Jeremy
August 2025
Tent
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!
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D
Dusty
August 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Worked well for my purposes. Water and electric worked as they should.
See moreP
Paige
August 2025
15 ft campervan
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
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Adam
August 2025
Tent
With pets
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.
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Amanda
August 2025
Tent
With kids
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.
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J
Jason
August 2025
21 ft travel trailer
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.
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J
Jade
August 2025
Tent
With pets
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.
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M
Michelle
July 2025
19 ft Class B
With pets
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!
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A
Andrew
July 2025
Tent
With pets
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!
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D
Danielle
July 2025
Tent
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!
See moreC
Colleen
July 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
See moreB
Brad
July 2025
24 ft Class C
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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Dan
July 2025
16 ft pop-up camper
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.
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Anna
July 2025
M
Meghan
July 2025
Tent
With pets
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!
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Chad
July 2025
24 ft Class C
With pets
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
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