95% (772) • 1,693 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Saginaw
Footsteps From Frankenmuth
1. Footsteps From Frankenmuth
99%
(37)
6.4mi from Saginaw · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy peace and quiet at this brand new hip camp located just minutes from downtown Frankenmuth. Just off I-75 but far enough to not hear the noise! This property features a blacktop circle driveway for easy in & out access. Our property offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, and solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Location:
Located just 8 miles from downtown Frankenmuth and 10 miles from the Prime Outlets of Birch Run, our campsites are easily accessible yet provides a secluded haven away from the hustle and bustle.
Accommodations:
We offer several types of accommodations to suit your camping style:
Tent Sites: Spacious, grassy areas with plenty of shade, ideal for tents.
RV Sites: Level, grass sites (or even blacktop if you prefer) with easy access for RVs and campers.
Amenities:
Potable Drinking water
Fire pit
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Pet-friendly (with prior approval)
Activities:
Wildlife Watching: Abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer, birds, and more.
Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
Local Attractions:
Frankenmuth: A short drive away, offering things from waterparks, world-famous chicken dinners, one-of-a-kind shopping, and Bavarian charm, 1-800-FUN-TOWN has your plans made.
Birch Run Premium Outlets: Shop until you drop at the largest outlet mall in the Midwestern United States!
Rules:
Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Fires only in designated fire pits.
Pets must be kept on a leash unless otherwise approved.
Please respect our property and other campers by cleaning up after yourself.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
WaterFront Saginaw Bay
2. WaterFront Saginaw Bay
100%
(18)
18mi from Saginaw · 1 site
Waterfront RV Site on the Quanicassee River
(at the mouth of Saginaw Bay)
Enjoy direct riverfront access with a private deck/dock — great for fishing, watching sunsets, and relaxing while spotting wildlife.
NEW, Putting green and DOCK. Bring your boat and keep it tied up beside your campsite. Very cool!!!
Included at no extra cost:
Kayaks - Canoe
Site amenities:
Fire pit
Picnic table
Park grill
50AMP / 30AMP electric
Water hookup
WiFi
Frankenmuth, Bay City, and Saginaw are all within 35 minutes for shopping, dining, and attractions.
A peaceful spot with easy conveniences and plenty of ways to enjoy the water and outdoors.
This standout site combines direct riverfront living, thoughtful amenities, included extras, and a peaceful yet accessible setting – the perfect base for your Michigan adventure or extended stay. Ideal for anglers, nature lovers, sunset chasers, and anyone seeking a serene escape with modern conveniences.
Ready to experience riverside bliss? Book your spot today!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Morgan's Place
3. Morgan's Place
92%
(13)
22mi from Saginaw · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Morgan's Place is a nonprofit campground serving people who have been injured in traumatic accidents to full recovery. We also offer Hipcamp stays and Airbnb rentals so our visitors who are in recovery do not have to pay out of pocket during their stay if they cannot. We located on 37 beautiful acres outside of Millington, Michigan and only 15 minutes from Frankenmuth and Birch Run. We have hiking trails, little goats, chickens, fishing, kayak rental and/or drop off/pick up at Cass River, and offer yoga classes, karaoke on certain nights, and blacksmithing demonstrations! There is a 4 person camper on site to rent if needed or we offer water/electric and tent sites too just ask.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Bay City State Park
4. Bay City State Park
50%
(3)
State park 17mi from Saginaw · 192 sites
Discover Bay City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sleepy Hollow State Park
5. Sleepy Hollow State Park
92%
(6)
State park 41mi from Saginaw · 182 sites
Discover Sleepy Hollow State Park's lush trails and serene camping spots.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
B Mo's Hideout
6. B Mo's Hideout
99%
(162)
32mi from Saginaw · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
42 private acres for day use or tent camping. This is a clothing optional green space, walk the trails, play horse shoes bean bag toss or just sit back and relax. It's a great place to hang a hammock and chill or explore the woods, pick wild strawberries early summer raspberries mid summer and blueberries mid summer. Open from March 17th thru Oct 1st. Please call ahead for bookings between Mar 17 and April 14 for site conditions. Can accommodate small pop up trailers less than 20ft. Check in times may very. Car campers welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
"Elysium Heritage Farm"
7. "Elysium Heritage Farm"
100%
(172)
33mi from Saginaw · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, emu, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property.
The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay.
It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit.
By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Verity acres
8. Verity acres
98%
(20)
34mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
160 acres of private woodland. Pitch your tent, or park your camper under the Pines or under the oaks along a nice ridge.
Enjoy walking camping hiking with no neighbors on private property can also walk to state land for miles and miles of hiking opportunities.
Lots of wildlife to view- deer, raccoons, fox coyotes. Listen to the beautiful coyotes howling at night.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Be Wild and Free
9. Be Wild and Free
97%
(149)
36mi from Saginaw · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a 76 acre farm in a rural agricultural area. Learn more about this land:This is a 76 acre "farm" that has been allowed to rest for the last 20 some years, surrounded by large agricultural fields. There are areas of pasture, woods, and wetlands. This is a very rustic piece of property, with no amenities. Just a chance to get away for some fresh air.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Seven Lakes State Park
10. Seven Lakes State Park
75%
(3)
State park 45mi from Saginaw · 71 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Seven Lakes State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
11. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(151)
36mi from Saginaw · 1 site
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property.
No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property.
As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest.
We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
River Daze
12. River Daze
100%
(48)
41mi from Saginaw · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Campsites are all riverfront along the Tobacco River. Country feel within blocks of town. Ross Lake/Beach, the remodeled Beaverton Tavern, park, an ice cream shop and splash park are all located within a long walk or short drive. We are close to Gladwin, Ross Lake, ORV trails and the Juicy Bone. The river flows into Wixom Lake which is anticipated to be back in 2025. Sandy beach with river access .
You can access the river from our canoe portage on the property. Good fishing, swimming or just hanging out. You can also canoe, kayak or tube beautiful Tobacco River or sandy Cedar River. Picnic tables and fire pits are located throughout the property. Good music, games, sing a longs. Hike through the trails to get to the the enchanted cedar forest which is all located in the campground. We have an outdoor 250 inch screen where we project movies, concerts, games, interactive dance videos. For kids and adults, everyone leaves with a smile.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Thousand S.’s Land
13. Thousand S.’s Land
94%
(77)
43mi from Saginaw · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Thousand Suns – an 84-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of nature, lovingly cultivated to support healing, reflection, and connection. This isn’t your typical campground. Here, the land is vibrantly alive and holds space for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies, as well as moments of quiet solitude or joyful gathering.
Wander scenic forest trails, swim in spring-fed waters, or sit beside the flowing river — all part of a landscape that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to yourself. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or reconnect, Thousand Suns offers a grounded, heart-centered experience.
Throughout the month, we host community events and offer private sessions in yoga, bodywork, breathwork, and other holistic practices designed to nourish the body and spirit. Fresh eggs are available from our chickens and turkeys, and you’ll likely spot our friendly goats during your stay.
Guests are welcome to use the community kitchen — a shared space where you can store your food and prepare meals with ease.
Thousand Suns is the perfect retreat for solo travelers, families, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or journeying inward, our land provides a supportive and sacred backdrop.
Please note: a train passes by the front of the property several times a day. While some find it grounding and nostalgic, others may wish to bring earplugs if they’re sensitive to sound.
Bring your fishing pole, your swim trunks, and an open heart. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Three Happy Turtles
14. Three Happy Turtles
91%
(17)
47mi from Saginaw · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on three picturesque acres surrounded by lush farmland, our property offers a unique camping experience with both RV and tent sites. Our signature red gable roof barn serves as a charming landmark, setting the stage for beautiful sunsets and serene countryside views.
Camping Options:
- RV Sites: We have one spacious RV site located near the barns, providing convenient access to electricity. While we don't have direct water hookups at the RV site, water fill-up is available.
- Tent Sites: Tent campers are welcome to set up anywhere in the grass behind the barns, giving you flexibility to choose your perfect spot.
Amenities:
- A cozy fire pit for evening bonfires
- A play structure for kids (coming soon!)
Activities:
- Relax and unwind in a peaceful setting
- Enjoy bonfires under the stars
- On clear nights we can get the telescope out to look into outer space
- Join us for movie nights projected on the barn
Pet Policy:
We love pets and welcome them at Three Happy Turtles. Please ensure to clean up after your furry family as we often walk barefoot around the property.
Local Attractions:
Don't miss out on the delectable treats from Oh MI Organics chocolate, a local favorite!
Safety and Guidelines:
- Please avoid entering the barns without our presence, as some areas inside are uneven.
Unique Features:
- Our property is known for its stunning sunsets that you won't want to miss.
About Us:
We may be new to hosting but Audrey brings a wealth of knowledge with a bachelor's degree in hospitality, years of restaurant and hotel experience, and a deep love for travel and the outdoors. We're excited to share our slice of paradise with you.
We look forward to welcoming you to Three Happy Turtles for a memorable camping adventure!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Wool in the Wood - Peaceful Retreat
15. Wool in the Wood - Peaceful Retreat
100%
(11)
48mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
Each day we feel blessed to live in an idyllic, peaceful spot and we would like to share the serenity we've found here.
We are less than a mile off Old 27, close to 127 and 5 miles to I-69 DeWitt Exit. Drop by and stay for a night on your way to your final destination or relax and stay for a few days,
Our first site is open for tent or RV. Our new heated barn has a flush-toilet, sink, shower, washer and dryer. Less than a mile down the road is our local tavern with good, affordable food and welcoming vibe.
Our home sits in the middle of a large clover lawn surrounded by woods, a pond and low-land meadow with high grass and wildflowers. Walking trails are cut through the woods and meadow providing ability to see deer, rabbits, dragonflies, butterflies, birds, cranes, blue and green heron and native flowers. We sometimes see raccoons, eagle, hawk, wood peckers, coyote and fox. During the day you'll see our ducks and chickens free-ranging and our sheep may join them or be in their pasture.
We have an active homestead farm and we are focused on building a thriving environment for pollinators.
Autumn brings the honey harvest and in the spring maple syrup... you're always welcome around the fire.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Oak Lore Lavender Farm
16. Oak Lore Lavender Farm
100%
(11)
49mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to our picturesque farm, where half an acre of vibrant lavender fields awaits. Experience the tranquility of nature in our open fields, offering breathtaking views of our charming hip roof barn and rolling lavender expanses. Wander freely, admiring the beauty of the landscape, or join us for U-Pick Lavender weekends in the summer. Delight in the company of our friendly chickens, explore the farm, and unwind by the fire pit under the starry sky. Immerse yourself in the quiet serenity of our farm, where every moment is a retreat into nature's embrace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Grassy Woods Edge
17. Grassy Woods Edge
94%
(8)
15mi from Saginaw · 1 site
Learn more about this land:🏕 Private quiet camping on maintained grass alongside of 8 acre woods. 🌟 Great night sky View overlooks farm fields. 10 minutes ftom Frankenmuth. 10 minutes from kayak launch to Cass River. 25 minutes from Bay City downtown river front with entertainment and street dining.
Pets
Country Rest Stop
18. Country Rest Stop
15mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are located in the Tri-City area. Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland are all about 10 miles from our location.
Our site is quiet and spacious and can easily accommodate a big rig with a tow vehicle, if needed. There is easy access for backing in.
The campsite is located on our Centennial Farm, surrounded by farmland and a large yard. A fire pit with firewood is provided if you let us know in advance.
Dow Gardens and the nearby Canopy Walk are just a short drive away.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
3 acre camping
19. 3 acre camping
100%
(1)
19mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy a simple, back-to-basics stay in this private cabin (shed) structure located on peaceful rural property. There is insulation on walls and floor of shed, and has portable solar generator and extension cord ready for you! There is no running water or traditional plumbing, and no built-in electricity. A portable toilet is provided, and guests should come prepared for a more outdoors-style stay. If you’re looking for a quiet place to disconnect and enjoy nature this is a great fit.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Birch + Flame
20. Birch + Flame
21mi from Saginaw · 3 sites
Escape to Birch + Flame, a private, nature-wrapped retreat designed for unforgettable stays. This one-of-a-kind getaway blends cozy comfort with elevated outdoor living—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a peaceful reset.
Step outside and experience the magic: unwind in the hot tub under glowing string lights, gather around the fire pit with stories & s’mores, or relax in the hammock as the evening settles in. At dusk, the entire space transforms into a warm, ambient escape with soft lighting and a signature glow that makes every moment feel special.
Inside, you’ll find 2 thoughtfully styled spaces that are both functional and inviting—designed to feel like a boutique stay in the middle of nature sleeping up to 12 people. Every detail has been curated to create a seamless blend of comfort, aesthetic, and experience.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard right on-site and set out for adventure—just minutes from nearby rivers and lakes. Explore scenic hiking trails along the water, spend the day relaxing at the beach, or soak in the natural beauty all around you.
Looking for something more lively? Take a short trip to Frankenmuth and experience its charming shops, dining, and attractions. Then return to Birch + Flame to unwind in your own private, peaceful retreat.
Whether you’re celebrating something special, planning a romantic getaway, or just need a quiet place to recharge, Birch + Flame offers a setting that feels both intimate and unforgettable.
✨ Enhance Your Stay | Birch + Flame Experiences (ready on arrival)
• Outdoor Movie Package
• Romantic Setup
• Charcuterie Picnic
• Family Olympics Package
• Celebration Package
• Kayak/Paddleboard Rental
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
• Firewood
• Grocery Stocking
Message us after booking to customize your stay ✨
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jeff
2 days ago
12 ft travel trailer
With pets
I booked a few nights for my daughter and I after a planned family trip fell through. It was a great experience, and we were made to feel welcome right from the start. It was a a perfect get-away, and I'd recommend this site to anyone interested.
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C
Carrissa
1 week ago
Tent
My husband and I came for a relaxing weekend. This is our first camping trip using this app and we are so happy we ended up at Kim’s! We felt like we were in the middle of nowhere and like we were the only ones there! It was exactly what we were looking for with so many perks! Beautiful trails to spend the day walking in, ponds, and the animals!!! And yet we were so close to stores incase anything is forgotten! Such a great time we can’t wait to come back :)
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Whitney
1 week ago
Tent
Kelly was a wonderful and responsive host, her lay out was well thought out and simple.
We had been dispersed camping to save money on our road trip, we needed a break from the constant tent set up and take down. It was relieving to finally sleep on a bed and have four walls. Thank you Kelly!
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Maureen
1 week ago
Tent
Bryan’s place was an absolute haven! Incredibly private, can rarely even hear road noise! His sites are well thought out and help make the most of the space! 150% will be back again!
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Kim
2 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
With pets
The hosts were excellent and very responsive to messages. The site was tranquil and beautiful, and we loved the boats and other amenities. This is easy on and off the highway location too.
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E
Elisabeth
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
With kids
We adored this site. The view was beautiful, it was peaceful and quiet, right on the river but looking out onto Lake Huron.
At first, I wasn't crazy about being nestled between two houses, but you know what? It's more spread out than a state park campground and we camp at those often and it's RIGHT on the river. I so appreciate the hosts installing electric and everything here to share their little slice of heaven. They were so sweet to us and our son. I hope to come back again this camping season.
The awesome private deck offered great fishing and we enjoyed watching everyone going out to the big lake on their boats.
They provided chairs and firewood (actual good firewood, too, perfectly dry) which was so nice. We even woke up to a knock on the door with delicious homemade blueberry muffins.
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K
Kevin
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
With kids
Kim and Gordon were excellent host with a beautiful piece of property. The site was perfectly groomed and ready when we pulled in, it's a great spot to go fishing or boat watching on the river. Overall it was a great experience for our first camping trip of the season.
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M
Makenna
2 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was a beautiful spot and the owners are amazing, they have really put some hard work into this spot, beautiful sites and tons to explore! I had the pleasure of getting a tour of all the baby animals and what each building means to these owners. Such a special place, 100% recommended to stop by and explore this wonderful property during this camping season. We stayed at the vine camp with our off grid set up and it was a great weekend, we rode our bikes down to the main farm, we canoed down the canal and we were supplied with firewood to keep a fire going the whole weekend! Thank you guys again and we look forward to many more adventures here!
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A
Amanda
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful stay, hosts were very friendly and helpful. Clean site with lots of amenities, easy to set up for people newer to camping. Great price on firewood. Lots of trails winding through the property. Access to kayaks included. We will be back!
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J
Jordan
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful spot. A few really nice short trails with lots of mature trees and berry bushes. Spacious sites with a great distance between other sites and a nice privacy system. Very friendly host that goes out of his way to make sure you enjoy yourself
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Brand
2 weeks ago
Tent
Where do I even begin, this was hands down the best hip camp I've ever stayed at, and I've been at quite a few across the US!!! Our host Kim was absolutely amazing. Literally from the minute we pulled in she was waiting for us at the gate until the time we left when we we had a conversation with her and her husband around a bonfire this morning. The experience was so natural and just full of surprises. There are plenty of trails and little ponds to go look at or even go catch a few fish in the big pond. Our host even offered us use of there kayaks and paddle boat. There are lots of different farm animals there from ducks to Emus, we even got to see a goat be born the first night there.
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J
Jerry
2 weeks ago
12 ft pop-up camper
Robert was a great host.
Very friendly and good conversation.
He greeted us promptly upon our arrival and made sure we had everything we needed.
I highly recommend staying at his camp.
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J
Jenelle
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
This Hipcamp was the perfect retreat for a quiet weekend in the woods. It was cozy, comfortable, and it had everything we needed. Sheila and Jeff were friendly and welcoming while also giving us privacy. There is a path through the woods that was a good length for a slow meditation. We will be visiting again!
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Lynn
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Robert was a great host with excellent communication! He met us at the site upon arrival. We had a tent & it had been raining so he gave us many options of the driest areas for setup. We chose closer to the street since we knew we were leaving early in the morning but there was hardly any traffic at night & it was quiet. He has plenty of spaces back further into the woods for even more peace. We came for Frankenmuth dog fest as did some others & it was completely dog friendly with no issues with barking. It’s only 15 min from Frankenmuth & 3 minutes from Loves Truck Stop/bathroom for a shower if needed. We would definitely stay here again for our travels! Thanks for making our stay so comfortable Robert! :)
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U
Uraina
2 weeks ago
Tent
Brian was a great host! Site was secluded and beautiful! Highly recommend!
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E
Ericka
2 weeks ago
Tent
Audrey was super nice and accommodating to make sure I set up my tent in the best spot given a storm rolling in. This site is very accessible for anyone riding on the rail trail. Audrey recommended stopping by Waypoint Coffee in St John’s and it was awesome, right across from the rail trail and historic train depot.
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Samantha
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
You can tell that Kim has put lots of time and love into creating her space - so appreciated the sand on the site, the kids loved playing in it and if it was a little warmer I would have loved walking barefoot in it! The outhouse was the absolute cutest, nicest outhouse I have ever had the pleasure of using. There was lots of space to explore and we had great luck fishing in the lake. From the site you could hear the highway when all else was quiet.
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L
Lee
2 weeks ago
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Audrey was a wonderful host! She greeted us upon arrival & was so friendly and helpful. The property was immaculate & the neighborhood was peaceful. We slept great & woke up to a beautiful sunrise. Will definitely stay again if ever in the area.
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L
Lacee
2 weeks ago
6 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
Sheila and Jeff, we LOVE it here. So romantic and secluded enough, a beautiful piece of nature you will not be disappointed visiting here. Feeling recharged in a way we havent felt in years so thank you for that. We will be back!
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T
Tom
3 weeks ago
Tent
Everything was amazing! Bryan is very accommodating & attentive, the land is absolutely beautiful & well kept. I walked the trails daily & enjoyed it more each time! I very highly recommend B Mo’s!!!
I will positively go back regularly!
See moreSaginaw camping guide
Where to go
Saginaw Surrounds
The Saginaw River runs right through downtown Saginaw, providing urban boating and fishing access. Hikers and bikers can take the nearby Saginaw Valley Rail Trail 11 miles to St. Charles in summer (the multi-use trail is utilized by skiers in winter).
Bay City State Park
Just 25 minutes from Saginaw, Bay City State Park sits on a sandy beach of Saginaw Bay that’s perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Tent and RV camping sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, while observation towers let campers study the wildlife in the park’s Topico Marsh.
Lake Camping on the “Thumb”
About 80 minutes northeast from Saginaw are two state parks on Lake Huron at the tip of Michigan’s thumb. Sleeper State Park has lakeside camping with sunrise and sunset views, plus a dune forest you can explore. Port Crescent State Park, meanwhile, is a designated Dark Sky Preserve with excellent stargazing and a campground offering both cabins and geodesic domes.
Tawas Point State Park
An hour and a half north of Saginaw is Tawas Point State Park, a 183-acre lakeside getaway set on the sand spit that separates Tawas Bay from Lake Huron. The park links up to the Tawas Bay Multi-Use Trail for biking or hiking on the lakeshore, and campers have plenty of options—choose from tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.
When to go
With late sunsets and warm days, summer is the best time to visit Saginaw for a camping trip. The autumn fall foliage transformation is also a beautiful time to camp, while spring and fall are prime for spotting migrating birds. Winters are dark, cold, and snowy—most campers steer clear unless opting for a cozy cabin rental.
