The best forest camping near Manistique

35mi from Manistique · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Engadine, MI

(48)

Located in the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the small town of Engadine. You will be just a few miles from Lake Michigan and camp beside the tranquil waters of doe creek. There is wildlife traveling through the property and at times make this their home. This is a birding paradise again for those birds migrating through and others making nests and raising their babies. We are a hobby farm, we hay in July, garden during the summer and at times have a variety of farm animals. There is recreation galore including swimming, fishing, boating, skiing, hiking, and biking to name a few very familiar activities to this area.

9. Vagabond Resort & Campground

34mi from Manistique · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid River, MI

(20)

The Vagabond Resort offers 7 cozy cabins and 59 camping sites for RVs, campers, and tents, with access to a shower house, laundry facilities, a dump station, and fresh water. We also provide a private dock and fish house to guests. We are known for fishing, hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities. Cabins are open year-round. The campground is open from May 1st to the end of November, weather permitting. We have waterfront property on Little Bay De Noc on the Stonington Peninsula. We offer rustic camping and RV sites with electricity only, electricity and water, and sites with full hook-up. Surrounded by the Hiawatha National Forest 3 miles off the Lake Michigan Circle Tour 15 miles Peninsula Point Light House 20 miles north of Escanaba 20 miles north of the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds 37 miles west of Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) 53 miles south of Picture Rocks 85 miles south of Marquette 130 miles north of Green Bay 135 miles west of Mackinaw City 256 miles south of Trenary Toast

10. Indian Lake RV Resort & Campground

89%

(32)

5.2mi from Manistique · 99 sites · Tents, RVs · Manistique, MI

Welcome to Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground, your home away from home in Manistique, Michigan. Nestled in the heart of nature, our campground offers spacious RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as cozy tent sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience. We're situated on the shores of beautiful Indian Lake just a short drive from the Manistique area. Located directly on Michigan’s third largest inland lake, Indian Lake RV Resort provides the opportunity for plenty of swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing during your stay with us. With nearby attractions such as Kitch-iti-kipi, Indian Lake Golf Course, Stoney Point Golf Course, The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Fayette State Park, TWO Great Lakes (Michigan and Superior), and more within driving distance, our park provides you and your family the perfect spot to spend your vacation and see all the U.P. has to offer. Come relax and unwind with us at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground! Hiking For those looking for an easy stroll, the Dufour Creek Trail is a perfect place to go. There is little to no elevation gain on the trail. The path is on the shorter side, measuring in at 1.4 miles. The Dufour Creek Trail is generally well-kept, though there can be a few muddy sections when it rains. The path leads through a forest of hemlocks and cedars, fully wooded yet easy to follow. You may also get a glimpse of the native wildlife along the way. Swimming Perhaps the biggest feature of the entire park is the designated swimming beach. The beach remains very popular with guests, due in part to the clean, sandy shoreline as well as the vast, cordoned-off swimming area filled with shallower waters. There are restrooms and showers on site, which also have a reputation for being clean and well-kept. Fishing Indian Lake in Michigan features large swaths of underwater vegetation, making this area a great place for fishing. This is especially true if you are looking for panfish, as you can expect to see plenty of species like bluegill, crappie, and the like. However, there are plenty of other kinds of fish available, including Walleye, Perch, Brown trout, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass, and Northern pike. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to cast your line, whether on the shore or out on the water. Boating Getting out onto the lake can be a peaceful experience. You won’t feel cramped, even when sharing the lake with others as there is plenty of room for everyone. With clear water beneath you and great weather, boating at Indian Lake makes for a great pastime.The lake is fairly shallow, with 90% of the area being less than 15 ft deep. The deepest point is 18 ft. Owners of larger boats should keep this in mind when traversing the lake. If you are looking for water access for paddle sports such as kayaking, there is a carry-on access located at Indian Lake State Park at the Western Shore Unit. Local Eats: One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of a new place is to dive into the local foodie scene and Manistique will not disappoint. Here are a few of the best restaurants, pubs, and local eats in downtown Manistique. - Clyde’s Drive-in - This local dive was straight out of the Movie Grease. Clyde’s has been a resident favorite for years. When you stop by, try some unique staples like the Bison Burger, a Big C Burger with Cheese, or a Pasty with gravy. - Dairy Kream - This local ice cream shop is the perfect pitstop during your vacation to the waterfront district. Dairy Kream has a delectable menu of ice cream including 24 soft-serve flavors, shakes, malts, splits, flurries, and sundaes for every type of ice cream fanatic. - Tap 21 - This American pub in Mansitique serves delicious and indulgent bar favorites like pizza, appetizers, wraps, burgers, garlic cheese curds, and bruschetta. Be sure to pair it with a cold and frothy, local beer. Local Activities: - Check out the Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse - Walk the Manistique boardwalk - Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse - Kitch iti Kipi (The Big Spring) - Seney National Wildlife Refuge - Hiawatha National Forest - Fayette Historic State Park - Schoolcraft County Historical Park

11. Weidenhamer Lodge

24mi from Manistique · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gould City, MI

(47)

Beautiful spot on Lake Milakokia (1,956 acres) featuring walleye, perch, pike, and suckers with the most amazing sunrises as well as sunsets. Tahquamenon Falls, Kitchitikipi, Pictured Rocks Lakeshore, and the Mackinac Bridge all within an hours drive. Very quiet property. Pets welcomed but must be on a leash and attended at all times. Bars, restaurants, and dispensaries near by. Please note: This is not a campground. There are not designated sites. There are 4 areas on the property to camp. Two are within two feet from the beach, while the remaining two are about 50’ from the beach but have full views of the lake. We have approximately 400’ of lake frontage. These sites are in my yard. Please contact me if you have any questions prior to booking. Aggressive campers will asked to leave. No refunds given. This is a safe space. No refunds for cancellations 24 hours b4 check in.

12. AuTrain RV Sites By Pictured Rocks

91%

(86)

42mi from Manistique · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Au Train, MI

These RV sites are located in a wooded area on the West Side of AuTrain Lake! Each RV site has full electric hookup, sewer, water, wifi, picnic table, firepit and chairs! The RV sites are drive through making this a relaxing stay! Just 2.5 miles from Lake Superior and 15 miles from Munising and the start of the Pictured Rocks Shoreline! You will be able to kick back and relax! The adventures are all around in this centrally located area!

13. Forest Overlooking River

99%

(43)

36mi from Manistique · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gladstone, MI

Learn more about this land:Beautiful backwoods birch forest with campfire spots on the edge of Rapid River. We’re within the hour of pictured Rocks National Park and many other beautiful places to visit...We’re only 2.5 miles off of main hwy, US 41 , We have kayaks, four wheelers and hiking /biking roads and trails available for guest..

14. Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

36mi from Manistique · 1 site · RV · Munising, MI

(19)

Single full hookup for a camper close to Lake Superior. We have 50/30/20 electric, softened iron and odor free perfect water, septic, WiFi, and can accommodate a very large rig, lots of parking available. All graveled. At the end of a dead end paved road, so lots of privacy. Only 3 mile drive to Lake Superior. A mile the way the crow flys to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There is only 1 site, so you have the area to yourself. Pellet grill, tables, and chairs are available for your use. It would make a great base camp for spending time in the central upper peninsula. We purchased the property 2 years ago, and put a had it cleared we just got the building done and are adding in grass and other things, so I may be around putting in some work on the property, this wouldn't be anywhere near where you would be parked. Leashed dog friendly. **Pack it in, Pack it out**

15. Cabin/Campers on Lake

19mi from Manistique · 3 sites · Lodging · Rapid River, MI

(110)

Learn more about this land: Cabin on lake with no public access. Camper/RV with large deck on same lake approximately 1200 feet away. Another camper in grassy clearing within the forest, approximately 600 feet away from lake. Owner's home is out of sight and sound 1/4 mile away. Pasture and forest property borders 2500 feet of private lake front. Property also borders the Hiawatha National Forest. Great pike fishing on shallow lake with access to 10' jon boats with oars and single seat kayaks. Life vests available. Cabin is one open room with bunk beds that sleep 4 plus a full size futon. Cooking and dish water is provided by hanging 7 gallon jug over kitchen sinks. No indoor toilets, outhouse available at all three sites. Gas cooking stove and wood burning stove/oven for heat and cooking. Battery powered electric lights. Wood burning interior stove and sauna at cabin. Campers have no interior heat. Water, box of firewood, pots and pans, and utensils provided. Bring food, ice, and drinking water. Bring charcoal and lighter fluid if you want to use small grills outside. Dogs are welcome just not on beds or futon :)

16. Wagner’s Whispering Cedars

48mi from Manistique · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bark River, MI

(7)

Completely private and separated space at the front of our personal homestead of 30 acres. Lush, green, quiet, and less than 7 miles from Escanaba and 7 miles from Bark River. Short, private driveway, off of a very rural residential road. We provide a picnic table and fire ring. May have wildlife wander through: bunnies, coyote, deer, porcupine, turkey, bear, etc. and maybe our cat :) Dogs welcome on a leash, as we have fowl and goats and animals of our own in the back of the property. Ford River boat launch 3 miles. 25 minutes north of Cedar River.

17. Stutts Creek 40 Acre Camp Site

17mi from Manistique · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

(4)

40 acres well off the beaten path. Approximately 6 miles off of State Hwy M-94. A two track will lead you back to 40 acres of undeveloped land containing a variety of pine and poplar. Our private property borders State and Federal Forest land that contains an overwhelming amount of two track roads to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The sky is unobstructed from trees leaving the stars to be enjoyed all night long. A section of the Stutts Creek flows through the property where you can enjoy a quiet morning listening to the water flow and the occasional rise of a brook trout feeding. Deer, Turkey, Grouse, Bears and Wolves are all found in our area and are often photographed by visitors. Please practice safe food storage due to a healthy bear population in the area. You're welcome to set up a campfire wherever you camp, please practice fire safety and adhere to state and county burn bans that may be in effect. Once you arrive you are free to set up camp wherever you want. This is primitive camping so come prepared to enjoy nature at its finest. There is no bathroom so plan accordingly. The property is less then an hour from Lake Superior and the heart of downtown Munising and about 30 minutes North of downtown Manistique. A GPS app such as OnX will help you navigate property lines and show you all the water bodies in the area you can enjoy. The road is generally fine for 2wd but 4 wheel drive is recommended when there is rain or snow in the forecast. Our property is fairly remote which will give you a unique experience. We hope to have you.

18. Scheffer’s Acres

22mi from Manistique · 2 sites · Tents · Germfask, MI

(6)

Scheffer’s Acres is a 70-acre private homestead in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The property offers rustic camping, with trails to explore, and mesmerizing views of the night sky. Locally, you can find something for everyone - kayak and canoe rentals (even pontoons!); public access sites and fishing spots; wildlife and waterfalls; bowling and mini-golf; grocery stores and restaurants; even a Thomas Danbo troll (ask us about our birdhouse)! If you’ve dreamed of getting to the Upper Peninsula, and taking the time to enjoy the beauty of the world around you, this is your chance!

19. Hidden Meadow

48mi from Manistique · 1 site · Tent, RV · Chatham, MI

(14)

Welcome to our hidden oasis in the woods! This campsite is in a beautiful meadow surrounded by maple forest in the heart of the UP. It is very rustic with no power or water but does have an outhouse. Site also has a weather shelter if needed. Enjoy the quiet and peaceful noises of nature. The area is abundant in wildlife and birds, dark starry skies, and beautiful trees that will be vibrant in the fall. If you like it quiet, dark at night and no city lights this is for you! VERY secluded. This site is under an hour to Marquette, Munising's Picture Rocks National Lakeshore and Escanaba. Site can accommodate tents, vans/truck campers or small campers

Camper favorites near Manistique

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Forest Overlooking River

99%

(43)

36mi from Manistique · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gladstone, MI

Learn more about this land:Beautiful backwoods birch forest with campfire spots on the edge of Rapid River. We’re within the hour of pictured Rocks National Park and many other beautiful places to visit...We’re only 2.5 miles off of main hwy, US 41 , We have kayaks, four wheelers and hiking /biking roads and trails available for guest..

Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

36mi from Manistique · 1 site · RV · Munising, MI

(19)

Single full hookup for a camper close to Lake Superior. We have 50/30/20 electric, softened iron and odor free perfect water, septic, WiFi, and can accommodate a very large rig, lots of parking available. All graveled. At the end of a dead end paved road, so lots of privacy. Only 3 mile drive to Lake Superior. A mile the way the crow flys to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There is only 1 site, so you have the area to yourself. Pellet grill, tables, and chairs are available for your use. It would make a great base camp for spending time in the central upper peninsula. We purchased the property 2 years ago, and put a had it cleared we just got the building done and are adding in grass and other things, so I may be around putting in some work on the property, this wouldn't be anywhere near where you would be parked. Leashed dog friendly. **Pack it in, Pack it out**

Cabin/Campers on Lake

19mi from Manistique · 3 sites · Lodging · Rapid River, MI

(110)

Learn more about this land: Cabin on lake with no public access. Camper/RV with large deck on same lake approximately 1200 feet away. Another camper in grassy clearing within the forest, approximately 600 feet away from lake. Owner's home is out of sight and sound 1/4 mile away. Pasture and forest property borders 2500 feet of private lake front. Property also borders the Hiawatha National Forest. Great pike fishing on shallow lake with access to 10' jon boats with oars and single seat kayaks. Life vests available. Cabin is one open room with bunk beds that sleep 4 plus a full size futon. Cooking and dish water is provided by hanging 7 gallon jug over kitchen sinks. No indoor toilets, outhouse available at all three sites. Gas cooking stove and wood burning stove/oven for heat and cooking. Battery powered electric lights. Wood burning interior stove and sauna at cabin. Campers have no interior heat. Water, box of firewood, pots and pans, and utensils provided. Bring food, ice, and drinking water. Bring charcoal and lighter fluid if you want to use small grills outside. Dogs are welcome just not on beds or futon :)

Wagner’s Whispering Cedars

48mi from Manistique · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bark River, MI

(7)

Completely private and separated space at the front of our personal homestead of 30 acres. Lush, green, quiet, and less than 7 miles from Escanaba and 7 miles from Bark River. Short, private driveway, off of a very rural residential road. We provide a picnic table and fire ring. May have wildlife wander through: bunnies, coyote, deer, porcupine, turkey, bear, etc. and maybe our cat :) Dogs welcome on a leash, as we have fowl and goats and animals of our own in the back of the property. Ford River boat launch 3 miles. 25 minutes north of Cedar River.

Stutts Creek 40 Acre Camp Site

17mi from Manistique · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

(4)

40 acres well off the beaten path. Approximately 6 miles off of State Hwy M-94. A two track will lead you back to 40 acres of undeveloped land containing a variety of pine and poplar. Our private property borders State and Federal Forest land that contains an overwhelming amount of two track roads to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The sky is unobstructed from trees leaving the stars to be enjoyed all night long. A section of the Stutts Creek flows through the property where you can enjoy a quiet morning listening to the water flow and the occasional rise of a brook trout feeding. Deer, Turkey, Grouse, Bears and Wolves are all found in our area and are often photographed by visitors. Please practice safe food storage due to a healthy bear population in the area. You're welcome to set up a campfire wherever you camp, please practice fire safety and adhere to state and county burn bans that may be in effect. Once you arrive you are free to set up camp wherever you want. This is primitive camping so come prepared to enjoy nature at its finest. There is no bathroom so plan accordingly. The property is less then an hour from Lake Superior and the heart of downtown Munising and about 30 minutes North of downtown Manistique. A GPS app such as OnX will help you navigate property lines and show you all the water bodies in the area you can enjoy. The road is generally fine for 2wd but 4 wheel drive is recommended when there is rain or snow in the forecast. Our property is fairly remote which will give you a unique experience. We hope to have you.

Scheffer’s Acres

22mi from Manistique · 2 sites · Tents · Germfask, MI

(6)

Scheffer’s Acres is a 70-acre private homestead in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The property offers rustic camping, with trails to explore, and mesmerizing views of the night sky. Locally, you can find something for everyone - kayak and canoe rentals (even pontoons!); public access sites and fishing spots; wildlife and waterfalls; bowling and mini-golf; grocery stores and restaurants; even a Thomas Danbo troll (ask us about our birdhouse)! If you’ve dreamed of getting to the Upper Peninsula, and taking the time to enjoy the beauty of the world around you, this is your chance!

Hidden Meadow

48mi from Manistique · 1 site · Tent, RV · Chatham, MI

(14)

Welcome to our hidden oasis in the woods! This campsite is in a beautiful meadow surrounded by maple forest in the heart of the UP. It is very rustic with no power or water but does have an outhouse. Site also has a weather shelter if needed. Enjoy the quiet and peaceful noises of nature. The area is abundant in wildlife and birds, dark starry skies, and beautiful trees that will be vibrant in the fall. If you like it quiet, dark at night and no city lights this is for you! VERY secluded. This site is under an hour to Marquette, Munising's Picture Rocks National Lakeshore and Escanaba. Site can accommodate tents, vans/truck campers or small campers

Public campgrounds near Manistique

Indian Lake South Campground

3.9mi from Manistique · 147 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indian Lake State Park

Indian Lake West Campground

5.3mi from Manistique · 72 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indian Lake State Park

16mi from Manistique · 23 sites · in Hiawatha National Forest

(2)

Indian River Campground

Camp Seven Lake Campground

16mi from Manistique · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

17mi from Manistique · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

(6)

Little Bass Lake Campground

Colwell Lake Campground

20mi from Manistique · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Tom's Lake Cabin

22mi from Manistique · 1 site · in Hiawatha National Forest

Corner Lake Campground

22mi from Manistique · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

22mi from Manistique · 12 sites · in Hiawatha National Forest

(2)

Big Island Lake Wilderness

Cutest most private campground I have seen. Definitely my favorite from the trip.

Flowing Well Campground

22mi from Manistique · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

McKeever Cabin

25mi from Manistique · 1 site · in Hiawatha National Forest

Beautiful lake, decent lake swim area. Camp Host is very friendly. Limited trail information available. Fishing has been a major downer, not even a bite. Nice sites for 5th wheels and campers even has a limited amount of wal kin tent sites. Beautiful plants a

25mi from Manistique · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

(1)

Petes Lake Campground

Stories from the community

S

Saleem

October 2025

1 night at Explore the U.P. from here!

First time using Hipcamp, and definitely not the last, thanks to Cory! Site 1 doesn’t have many photos, but it’s actually way better than we thought. it’s really spacious and the levitating tent was really nice. We also got half a dozen fresh farm eggs which was a nice touch to the experience. I’ll definitely come back to this spot whenever I’m in the UP.

Roxy

October 2025

Tent

Such a beautiful, peaceful spot right on Lake Michigan! Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, the site offers a rare combination of off-grid tranquillity and direct access to the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The new wood-fired sauna was an absolute highlight, the perfect way to warm up after a swim! Waking up to the sound of waves, relaxing by the fire at night, and a true off-grid vibe. The fire-pit area in the trees provides a cosy, sheltered setting for an evening under the stars. There has been a lot of care put into this place. If you’re looking for a beach-camp experience that feels more intimate and upgraded (thanks to the sauna!) rather than a busy campground, this spot is highly recommended. Ideal for folks who want to unplug, still have beach/morning water access, and enjoy a little extra luxury in the wild.

Emma

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Explore the U.P. from here!

I loved this experience. The tent is very spacious and fit us perfectly. It rained all night and there was no issues at all.

A

Anna

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

It was a beautiful, peaceful spot and the composting toilet was very clean.

L

Lorraine

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Forest Overlooking River

Absolutely beautiful spot to camp by a peaceful river. We had a great 2 night stay on our own. Pauline is so welcoming and warm. And good eggs!

J

Jorden

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Serene sites on 3+ Acres

My brother and I enjoyed our stay on Neal’s land. There were other campers on the property but we never interacted with them. Because we got in late, we never met Neal. The land was right next to a road but it was not a busy road. It was a cheap and nicely located site! I would recommend this site to anyone just looking for a safe night’s sleep (with no amenities)

C

Coralyn

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Explore the U.P. from here!

Beautiful place, and great service! Firewood on site to purchase easily, outhouse, and great directions to get there. Cory was a great host!

Emma

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Serene sites on 3+ Acres

Great site. Only stayed for a few hours due to having an early morning trip but it was a great place to stay for the night.

Matt

October 2025

16 ft car

Great campspot right on lake Michigan has two different fire pits including on one the beach🏖️ pretty secluded down a couple miles of dirt roads definitely recommend checking it out 👍

F

Frances

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

This spot was incredible!! Eli was an amazing host and the view and amenities made it such an amazing trip. 10/10 would go back to surf camp!

J

Jade

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serene sites on 3+ Acres

It was a nice quiet are, not bad prices. Friendly host very welcoming

J

Jerry

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Doe Creek Hideaway

This was our second time back to stay in the tiny cabin. We loved our first trip. We drive downstate often to visit family. Perfect place to stop and enjoy nature with your dog and family. There's some trails to walk around with beautiful fall colors. We will be back. Highly recommend this hidden gem.

Y

Yakov

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Serene sites on 3+ Acres

We needed a last-minute spot, and this place was a lifesaver! The host responded right away and made everything easy. We arrived after dark, so didn’t see everything, but what we could see looked really nice. Highly recommend!

A

October 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

1 night at Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

Exactly as described. Nice, clean, overnight stay for us. Great water and welcoming host. Wayne responds promptly to messages. Best Hipcamp host responses we have ever had! Wayne is also very accommodating! Definitely recommend!

D

Douglas

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Vagabond Resort & Campground

Excellent stopover, inexpensive Showers were clean and owners were nice

E

October 2025

Tent

Loved this campsite!! As a solo women traveler I felt so safe and nicely tucked away! Would stay again:)

T

Taylor

October 2025

Tent