Lake Camping Near Manistee, Michigan, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Manistee, Michigan and want to be close to a lake, we've got you covered. With over 150 options in the area that offer lakefront camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Check out some of our top campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews). Whether you're into horseback riding, surfing, biking, or just enjoying a campfire, our campsites offer a range of popular amenities like toilets, pet-friendly areas, and campfire pits. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, you'll find a camping experience that fits your budget. So pack your gear and get ready for a fantastic camping trip near the beautiful lakes of Manistee, Michigan!

87% (650) • 50 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Manistee

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Manistee, Michigan and want to be close to a lake, we've got you covered. With over 150 options in the area that offer lakefront camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Check out some of our top campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews). Whether you're into horseback riding, surfing, biking, or just enjoying a campfire, our campsites offer a range of popular amenities like toilets, pet-friendly areas, and campfire pits. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, you'll find a camping experience that fits your budget. So pack your gear and get ready for a fantastic camping trip near the beautiful lakes of Manistee, Michigan!

87% (650) • 50 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Manistee

1. Camp Moonshadow

99%

(599)

40mi from Manistee · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 -24 ft- 20 Amp service Only!!! The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. 20 amp Electricity and Water is included in the RV site.

2. Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp

99%

(362)

27mi from Manistee · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Llama Meadows Farm is a sixteen acre organic fruit and vegetable farm. Located in Beautiful Benzie Country, in Northwestern Lower Michigan. We are one mile south of Crystal Lake and six miles east of Lake Michigan. Our-house is super insulated and passive solar. We had llamas for their wool and manure. We retired from raising llamas, we had 12 they got old and moved on. We have around 50 fruit trees. The fruit we grow includes apples, pears, figs and paw paws. We also grow grapes, and kiwis, we also put in filberts, walnuts and pecans. We have a beautiful labyrinth peace garden. We don't want barbecue pits on the ground it burns the grass Please check Extras for Pet fees, Campfire Wood and Electric.

3. Oxbow Lake Oasis

96%

(12)

27mi from Manistee · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy peace and serenity on a private lake/private drive property! You can camp by the water or on the bluff right above, all the views are beautiful! Close to Pentwater, Ludington, and Silver Lake!

4. Orchard Beach State Park

94%

(9)

160 sites · Parkdale, Michigan

Orchard Beach State Park: A scenic escape with trails and camping.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(29)

938 sites · Mio, Michigan

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Kaleva Cabins & Camping

19mi from Manistee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Your camping stay is located on 40 acres of rolling meadows and forest, just across an unpaved pathway from another 40 acres featuring a large spring-fed lake. Landside, mowed trails crisscross the property through meadows and woodland groves. Wildlife is abundant — you may spot deer, foxes, coyotes, and a wide variety of birds, including regular appearances by bald eagles. Lakeside, you’ll find a 30-acre, spring-fed, completely private lake that’s home to beavers, otters, turtles, frogs, a trumpeter swan family, sandhill cranes, and more. A small dock provides the only access point to the lake and serves as a perfect launch for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft to explore its peaceful waters. Our two campsites are privately positioned away from the road, nestled in large meadows near scenic trails, and just a short walk from the lake. A portable restroom, maintained weekly, is conveniently located for guest use.

7. McTaylor Lake Property

44mi from Manistee · 1 site · RV

Family property that’s on the Lake. When we are not there, we would like to share a piece of our serenity with others who enjoy the peace and tranquility of Lakes and the nearby Manistee National Forest . Access to the Lake allows you to enjoy several water activities. From Kayaking, swimming, fishing and more. Off road ATV’s motorcycling, side by sides , snowmobiling, and sightseeing. Deck facing Lake and grill available Pet Friendly (just pick up after your pet please) Trash can be dumped at the local transfer station

8. Lake Log Cabin

100%

(1)

35mi from Manistee · 1 site · Lodging

🌲 This charming authentic log cabin is nestled directly on a 33 acre tranquil lake, surrounded by towering trees. The perfect setting to unwind, relax, have fun, and create lifetime memories. 🛶 🎣 🏊‍♀️ This slice of paradise has activities galore! We provide kayaks, a paddleboat, a fishing rowboat, tubes/inflatables, life vests, fishing poles and tackle, and even a kid's log cabin playhouse, all included with your stay for your enjoyment of the lake. The lake is home to panfish (bluegill, sunfish, etc), perch, large mouth bass, pike, possibly walleye and trout. Just a few miles away are the renowned Pere Marquette River and Baldwin River. 🐕 We accept your canine best friend! With pre-approval, we accept up to 2 dogs. We provide dog supplies such as a crate, food bowls, tie-outs, couch cover, and toys. Enjoy walks with your dog around the lake or on the Pere Marquette State Trail just across the street! 💧Soak in the hot tub overlooking the lake to melt away stress and body aches. 🧘‍♀️ Relax and detoxify in the infrared cedar sauna inside the bunkhouse. 🔥🪵Enjoy late-night chats by the fire pit with string lights as you sink into those comfy tamarack chairs or the hammock. Be mesmerized by the dancing flames as you look out over the lake. Roast marshmallows, watch the sunset, and count the stars. 🧩Just a few feet from the cabin is a 3-season bunkhouse that can sleep up to four people (bunk bed with trundle). It includes the infrared cedar sauna, games, puzzles, toys, and many supplies for the lake. Just imagine the kids' faces lighting up as they discover the magic of this space! 🌅 Enjoy the gorgeous lake view from the back deck. Grill some dinner and have a drink at the bar while taking in the most stunning natural theater. 🥾🚴‍♀️⛷️ Just 1/8 mile from the cabin (across the road) is the Pere Marquette State Trail (rails to trail) for hiking, biking, skiing, or snowmobiling. So convenient! The nearby Huron-Manistee National Forest offers a plethora of adventure opportunities such as thrilling motorcycle and ATV trails. The 8-state North Country Trail is perfect for hiking.

9. Hidden Pond & River Oasis

37mi from Manistee · 1 site · Tent

*More photos coming when snow melts* Choices abound on this secluded, approximately 14-acre property which hosts only one campsite. Float on the pond, fish in the middle branch of the Pere Marquette, hike the trails on the property or roam in the adjoining 600 acre tract of national forest...it's all up to you. Whatever you decide, you won't run out of outdoor recreational opportunities when you camp at our very private wilderness oasis. Upon arrival you'll have an access code to unlock the gate which protects a long driveway into the heart of the campsite. A mowed area perfect for pitching your tent overlooks private Beaver Lake, and is also the location of a fire ring, a picnic table, and an electrical outlet. Beaver Lake is an approximately six acre body of water that we consider more of a pond. While we find the lake too swampy, shallow, and pond-like for swimming, we do enjoy floating on the "lake" in rafts. Kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats are also appropriate. A steep hill leads down to the shore, so water craft must be small enough to carry by hand. Spring-fed holes on the west side of the lake have yielded small Bass. A path to the north leads to the middle branch of the renowned Pere Marquette River. Spring-fed, the river stays cold year-round. Anglers should be sure to have proper licensing before fishing. Wading in the river is refreshing, but must be undertaken with caution due to the rapid current and deep holes. The majority of the property is heavily wooded and wildlife abounds. The land offers several short hiking trails marked with blazes: a trail around the lake, a path to the river, and a trail bordering the Manistee National Forest. Intrepid campers can meander into the national forest and explore the 600 acres of land that adjoin our property. Be careful, there are no marked trails! There are no bathroom or shower facilities on site, so campers must plan to bring their own camping toilet. If you'll be there for several days or longer and are interested in a paying for a port-a-pottie, we can arrange to have one delivered. There is absolutely NO ATV riding on the property, and there are no ATV trails nearby. Please find a different area to camp if you plan to bring ATVs or Side-by-Sides.

10. Ludington State Park

100%

(30)

373 sites · Ludington, Michigan

Take a beach break at two lakes in one at this sandy state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

100%

(56)

211 sites · Glen Arbor, Michigan

Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Interlochen State Park

89%

(14)

447 sites · Interlochen, Michigan

Michigan's first state park established in 1917 cost the Legislature $60,000 for the land.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Mitchell State Park

223 sites · Cadillac, Michigan

Discover Mitchell State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Kramer Kabin on the Lake

47mi from Manistee · 1 site · Lodging

🛶Lakefront with dock, kayaks, paddleboat. Great fishing! 🚗Easy drive to Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City, Cadillac, trails in Reed City, Midland Skywalk 🐕 Dog friendly (with pre-approval) 😎 Huge covered porch with live-edge picnic table & rocker, egg swing, & hammocks ♨️ Outdoor sauna 🏓 Game Room, bikes, toys 🔥 Firepit with Adirondack chairs 🍗 Charcoal grill Relax at this charming getaway. Watch the sunset over the lake while you drink your coffee with your pooch at your side. More details: 🌲Whether you're planning a romantic getaway with your significant other, a Traverse City wine tour weekend with the girls, a fishing/hunting trip with your buddies, or a family vacation, this charming vintage cabin will make you feel right at home. Nestled directly on a 15 acre private tranquil lake, surrounded by towering trees, this remote setting is perfect to unwind, relax, have fun, and create lifetime memories. 🛶 🎣 This slice of paradise has activities galore! We provide kayaks, a paddleboat, fishing poles, life jackets, all included with your stay for your enjoyment of the lake. The lake is home to panfish (bluegill, sunfish, etc), perch, large mouth bass, pike, & possibly walleye, along with tons of wildlife. 🐕 We accept your canine best friend! We provide dog supplies such as a crate, food bowls, tie-outs, and couch cover. 🔥🪵Enjoy late-night chats by the fire pit as you sink into those comfy Adirondack chairs or the hammock. Be mesmerized by the dancing flames as you look out over the lake. Roast marshmallows, watch the sunset, and count the stars. 🎱🏓🚲 Just a few feet from the cabin is a seasonal Game Room/Sports Shed with a 10-in-1 kids game table, mini fridge, bikes, and giant outdoor games like Jenga & Cornhole. 🌅 🦢🦅Enjoy the gorgeous lake view from the expansive covered back deck. Grill some dinner on the charcoal grill, have a family meal on the live-edge picnic table, or relax in the egg swing while taking in the most stunning natural theater. 🧘 ♨️Enjoy the health benefits and let the stress melt away in our outdoor cedar sauna. 🥾🚴‍♀️⛷️ Many nearby trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, XC skiing, snowmobiling, or ATVs. 🚙 Located north of Reed City, Michigan, this central location is the perfect "home base" for day trips to many popular vacation areas: - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (astoundingly beautiful sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan, history museums, scenic drive) - Traverse City (wine tours, trendy restaurants & boutiques, zip lining, and the new Rail Bike Tours) - Cadillac (gorgeous HUGE public beach and playground, golf courses) - Reed City (historic covered bridge with parks and pathways for hiking, biking, skiing, or snowmobiling) - Midland (nation's longest Canopy Walk at Dow Gardens) - Ludington, Manistee, Muskegon, Grand Rapids, Holland all 1-1.5 hours from the cabin - Ashton General Store just a couple miles away has a great variety of steaks, fresh seafood, firewood and other staples. 📶👩‍💻 We have strong WiFi powered by the T-Mobile Gateway so you can stay connected, plus a TV with Firestick, DVD player & DVDs, and an Atari Flashback game system. Work remotely, keep your kids busy, or watch a movie by the fireplace. ☕️🍽The cabin itself is full of vintage charm including knotty pine walls and an authentic 1950s oven and fridge. We tried to think of everything you may need for a great stay including linens, beach towels, pots, pans, utensils, and most importantly, a coffee bar! 🛏There are two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and another with a bunk bed (full on bottom, twin on top), plus a pull-out couch in the living room that makes it perfect for bringing the family or multiple friends. Seasons change, and so does the magic of this place. Summer? Fish, take the paddleboat out on the lake, and soak up the sun. 🌊🌞 Fall? Get lost in the mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors as leaves paint the landscape. 🍂🍁 Winter? Embrace the thrill of snowmobiling and ice fishing. ❄️🎣 Spring? Traverse the budding trails as the land awakens from its slumber. 🌱🌷 This lakeside log cabin is not just a place to stay; it's a memory-making machine, a gateway to endless adventures, and a sanctuary of nature's wonders. Pack your bags, gather your crew, and make some unforgettable memories. ✨️

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Andy

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Oxbow Lake Oasis

Nice quiet place on the lake. In and out with no issues!

L

Luke

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Excellent stay and we’ll be back next year. Moonshadow will be our new go-to place when visiting Sleeping Bear. Robb and Jeanne were accommodating and friendly. I look forward to visiting again and taking a longer stay

E

Eric

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Camp Moonshadow

Perhaps the best place I've stayed at on hip camp. Definitely top 5. Robb and Jeanne have a really great place. The photos are accurate. The pine forest was great. At night you can hear the wind traveling from one side to the other. I love the clean flat carpet of pine needles. In the morning we drove about 5 minutes to lake Michigan Beach which was gorgeous. No bugs at all this time of year. I liked the community fireplace because it was all setup and quick to get a fire going. There is a volleyball court in the grass too.

V

Veronika

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

This was our second year staying at the Camp Moonshadow. It is quiet and relaxing place to unwind. The hosts were very nice and welcoming. The camp is close distance to a lot of state parks and hiking trails with beautiful views to Lake Michigan.

R

Rusty

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

This place was rad! Super quiet and clean. The showers were Hot and toilets were clean. I drove north to Arts Tavern for Breakfast @ 8am, it was great! I’d camp here again.

S

Sara

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Not only was Moonshadow a breath of fresh air, but so was meeting Robb!

A

Andrew

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Camp Moonshadow

Robb and Jeanne are super nice people and the campgrounds are extremely well kept. Couldn't have been better!

Emma

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Oxbow Lake Oasis

So beautiful! Definitely recommend this camping sight. It had amazing views and we even got to watch people ski the water!

Jeff

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Beautiful camping spot and plenty of extras with the kitchen set up, fire pit (and wood), bathrooms and shower. Highly recommended

Marissa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Loved Loved Loved our stay at Camp Moonshadow! Super easy directions to get there and on the land. It was such a beautiful spot and literally had everything we needed. We will be coming back for sure. So close to Lake Michigan but without all crowds. Magical time

Rayna

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moonshadow

Great spot, campsites were well marked and in the trees, clear directions and information from the hosts, prepare to make small talk in the kitchen

S

Stuart

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Camp Moonshadow

Would recommend! Such a pretty setting and very accommodating. We stayed 3 nights. Lots of space and very easy access to get beaches, hikes and towns.

Natalie

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Camp Moonshadow

Great camp amenities! Well kept community spaces for cooking and campfires. Great location and great experience!

M

Megan

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Camp Moonshadow

Tent camping in their pines was very relaxing and peaceful. Having the outdoor kitchen and shower house was an added bonus.

Emily

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Camp Moonshadow

I cannot say enough positive things about camp moonshadow. The hosts are so helpful and communicative, the site for tents is spread out and stunning surrounded by pines, and the access to resources like the bathrooms, outdoor shower, and kitchen are amazing. Not to mention, here’s a beach five minutes down the road that is beautiful and where we spent most of our nights. Close proximity to sleeping bear dunes (20 minutes to the dune climb) and a quick 30/40 minute drive to traverse city. Four nights was nowhere near enough. We will be back soon!

Emily

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Camp Moonshadow

Camp Moonshadow is beautiful as ever. It’s the perfect place to escape into the pines. Located close to all the up north things. Makes camping a breeze.

This is south of the campsite, or left view if facing the lake. Neighboring site so far away I never heard one peep from them.

Matt

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Oxbow Lake Oasis

Besides the lake view and access, the next best thing about this site is how quiet it is. It is very rare you hear anything outside of the sounds of nature.

W

William

August 2025

4 nights at Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp

Loved our time there! Welcoming hosts, very helpful with finding fun things to do in the area. Beautiful property, very cozy and tidy tree house. Very good well water. Well kept outhouse and outdoor shower, had a great stay.

M

Madison Antonina

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Camp Moonshadow

We loved camping at Robb and Jeanne's land! They have great communal spaces like the indoor/outdoor shower house, kitchen, picnic dining area, and porta johns. A beautiful spot to relish in the tall Michigan pine trees and green forest! It was awesome being so close to the beach, and glen arbor.

G

Gracelyn

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Camp Moonshadow

The campsite was beautiful and the outdoor shower was so warm! Overall a wonderful experience and I’d recommend it to anyone. The owner was lovely and my friends and I will definitely be back.