The best camping near Manistique with wildlife watching

8mi from Manistique · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI

(69)

Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.

2. Explore the U.P. from here!

96%

(410)

38mi from Manistique · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Newberry, MI

Best Hipcamp in Michigan – 5x Finalist! Experience total privacy and rustic charm at our spacious, secluded campsites—perfect for tents, campers, or our unique levitating tents (already set up—just bring your sleeping bag and pillow!). Each site features a private entrance and is so spread out, you’ll likely never see another camper. No crowds. No noise. Just nature. Ideally located near top Upper Peninsula attractions—Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls, and Kitch-iti-kipi—with a convenience store just a short walk away, as is the public boat launch onto East Lake. Bonus: Mention your stay for a discounted shower at the Pleasant Moose Hotel in Newberry!

3. High Swamp Camp

40mi from Manistique · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Seney, MI

(181)

🌲Private Separated Campsites🌲 🌲Quiet🌲Dark🌲WI-FI🌲Laundry🌲 🌲World Famous Hot Shower🌲 🌲Direct Access Trail 88🌲 🌲L. Groups ... Combine Sites 2 & 3🌲 🌲Tour Planning🌲 Very Close To The Pictured Rocks! Flush-T & Shower! Electric & Water Site. Waste Caddy Dump Station. Miles Of Hiking Trails. Close to the Fox River Trout Stream. Close to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. 1.5 hours to the Tahquamenon Falls. 1.5 hours to the Big Springs. 2 hours to Mackinaw Island. 2 hours to the Soo Locks & Canada.

4. Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

5.7mi from Manistique · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Manistique, MI

(169)

Beautiful campground located on the Westshore of Indian Lake in Manistique, MI near Big Springs ( Kitch-iti-kipi), Hiawatha National Forest and many ATV/Snowmobile trails.

5. Andy’s Wolf Traxx

40mi from Manistique · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Newberry, MI

(268)

This property is heavily wooded with pine and maple trees. Wild raspberry and blueberries are found to be plentiful in season. Formerly wooded by lumberjacks during the early 1900’s, this area is rich with history and sights to see. Located between Seney National Wildlife Refugee and Grand Mairas on Lake Superior.

6. Weidenhamer Lodge

95%

(47)

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

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.

7. 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..

8. 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 :)

Camper favorites near Manistique

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

5.7mi from Manistique · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Manistique, MI

(169)

Beautiful campground located on the Westshore of Indian Lake in Manistique, MI near Big Springs ( Kitch-iti-kipi), Hiawatha National Forest and many ATV/Snowmobile trails.

Andy’s Wolf Traxx

40mi from Manistique · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Newberry, MI

(268)

This property is heavily wooded with pine and maple trees. Wild raspberry and blueberries are found to be plentiful in season. Formerly wooded by lumberjacks during the early 1900’s, this area is rich with history and sights to see. Located between Seney National Wildlife Refugee and Grand Mairas on Lake Superior.

Weidenhamer Lodge

95%

(47)

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

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.

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..

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 :)

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!

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!

T

Tetyana

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Beautiful property, gracious host! I will definitely be staying here again if I am in the area.

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 👍

L

Lennon

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at High Swamp Camp

Great location that had excellent amenities. Very quiet

E

Ellen

October 2025

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

We had a lovely night stay at Elli’s! Very peaceful.

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!

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

We loved everything about this spot. From the secluded camping, to the beach access steps away. It really lets you enjoy all nature has to offer. They’ve kept everything in immaculate condition. We only wished we brought a table for food prep! We watched a beautiful full moon rise right over the lake. Couldn’t recommend enough!!

C

Carley

October 2025

Tent

Quiet and peaceful campground. Everyone was welcoming and friendly. We had a great time!

M

Marc

October 2025

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

Cory was great! Welcoming and accommodating. Tent site was better than the pictures and gave a great deal peace and quiet only nature can offer. Also great location as it’s right near a gas station and breakfast spot! Cory was also very understanding for a slight, self-imposed hiccup which was managed in only a couple messages back and forth. Would definitely stay here again if I end up in the same area again.

s

sarah

October 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

What a special spot. My son and I spent two days at Eli’s Surf Camp, and could easily have stayed longer! Steps from the beach, sleeping to the sound of the waves. Sunrise perfection. A cozy, wind-sheltered fire pit. And a sauna!! Winning on all counts. Nicely done Eli! Would definitely stay again.

E

Elliott

September 2025

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

Amazing location, beautiful property and comfortable sleeping arrangements. Close to most major sight seeing areas and lots of things to do to keep you busy. Hosts were very accommodating and hospitable providing anything extra we might’ve needed plus more. Highly recommend staying here if you’re up in the area and we will definitely be back!

G

Grace

September 2025

14 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

Wow, this is an absolute gem! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Surf Camp. The sauna was such a perfect addition to this camp- it made our stay feel like a spa get away on Lake Michigan. The firepit and sauna are tucked back in the trees making it feel so private and cozy (and blocking the wind!) You just can’t beat the Lake Michigan beach either- we loved being able to walk out of our nook in the trees directly onto a massive beach with plenty of space to explore and hang out. Our dogs were obsessed, we were obsessed. It was perfect! 10/10 Hipcamp- we can’t wait to come back!!

Jim

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

2nd time here. Nice and flat grass area. Real toilet and shower! Quiet, hosts were great. Highly recommend. Didn't go down to lake, but saw dock area 1st time. Convenient to Manistique.

K

Keith

September 2025

20 ft campervan