The best campgrounds near Saginaw, Michigan with hiking

In Saginaw, you’ll find over 490 spots to pitch your tent or roll out your sleeping bag, all with direct access to hiking trails that cut through forest, marsh, and open fields. The range runs from basic clearings at $20 a night to well-kept sites averaging $45, many with showers, fire rings, and pet-friendly rules. Hikers rave about The Crow’s Nest (111 reviews) for its high vantage points and quick trail access, while Be Wild and Free (104 reviews) draws regulars for its mix of woods and meadows. Elysium Heritage Farm (83 reviews) offers quiet corners and plenty of wildlife-watching. Campers often come for the trails but stick around for snowshoeing, fishing, and late-night campfires under open sky. Pets are welcome at most sites—just check the individual listings before you book.

96% (640)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Saginaw, you’ll find over 490 spots to pitch your tent or roll out your sleeping bag, all with direct access to hiking trails that cut through forest, marsh, and open fields. The range runs from basic clearings at $20 a night to well-kept sites averaging $45, many with showers, fire rings, and pet-friendly rules. Hikers rave about The Crow’s Nest (111 reviews) for its high vantage points and quick trail access, while Be Wild and Free (104 reviews) draws regulars for its mix of woods and meadows. Elysium Heritage Farm (83 reviews) offers quiet corners and plenty of wildlife-watching. Campers often come for the trails but stick around for snowshoeing, fishing, and late-night campfires under open sky. Pets are welcome at most sites—just check the individual listings before you book.

96% (640)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. "Elysium Heritage Farm"

100%

(156)

33mi from Saginaw · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pinconning, MI

"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, turkeys, 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.

2. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%

(148)

36mi from Saginaw · 2 sites · Lodging · Beaverton, MI

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.

3. Thousand S.’s Land

94%

(77)

43mi from Saginaw · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lapeer, MI

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.

4. Be Wild and Free

98%

(146)

36mi from Saginaw · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gaines, MI

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.

5. WaterFront Saginaw Bay - All Year

100%

(16)

18mi from Saginaw · 1 site · RV · Fairgrove, MI

Waterfront on Quanicassee River at the mouth of Saginaw Bay. It has a lighted deck to fish from or enjoy sunsets right in front of the RV site. Great location, 5 min from Hwy 25 (East of Bay CIty {20 minutes}, Frankenmuth just 35 minutes. High Speed WiFi, Water & 50 amp Power; Sewer dump. No playground equipment but one of the best RV sites in Michigan (that I have found). The Quanicassee River is one of the cleanest rivers in our area. Lots of boats go out and in by the dock. DNR boat ramp near. There are resident eagles, ducks, geese, swans, pelicans (rare) and lots of fish.

6. B Mo's Hideout

99%

(152)

32mi from Saginaw · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbiaville, MI

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.

7. River Daze

100%

(48)

41mi from Saginaw · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaverton, MI

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.

8. Verity acres

97%

(18)

34mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV · Sanford, MI

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.

9. Unionville Village Park

89%

(71)

29mi from Saginaw · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Unionville, MI

AS OF OCTOBER 31ST - 2025 THE CAMPGROUND IS CLOSED FOR THE WINTER - WILL REOPEN SPRING 2026 The Village recently installed four campsites equipped with water and electric service. Campsites are $20 per night. Free use of the RV dump station for registered campers. An RV dump station is located at the corner of Brown and Pickle Streets. Learn more about this land: The Village of Unionville offers four campsites each with water and electric hookups. There is a dump station available free of charge to registered campers.

10. Bavarian Lakes

100%

(2)

25mi from Saginaw · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Millington, MI

Private spring-fed ponds that are perfect for kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, relaxing and exploring. Bonus -- Only 20 minutes from Frankenmuth! We have docks, a small beach, trails, large playset and half size basketball court. Oh, and we have a family of beaver that live in a 5 foot tall lodge that you can spy on as they travel at dusk and dawn looking for that perfect tree to chop down. Shared kayaks, paddle boards, canoe and row boat are included during your stay. We're sorry, but outside such items are NOT permitted in order to minimize the risk of zebra mussel exposure, etc. Life jackets in multiple sizes are on hand as well. But, you are welcome to bring your own. Fishing is allowed if not by the ducks or geese. No additional hunting of any kind is allowed. Electrical outlets are available to charge phones in an outbuilding if needed. We have two porta potties and a hose shower. We have a flock of about 20 friendly pet ducks and geese that travel the property. You may feed them frozen green peas if you would enjoy that but nothing else please. For the safety of our feathered friends and the abundant wildlife we cannot permit pets. We are 30-40 minutes north of Flint, 30-40 min east of Saginaw and 20 minutes from Michigan’s Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth.

11. Morgan's Place

92%

(13)

22mi from Saginaw · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Millington, MI

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.

12. Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

35mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV · Beaverton, MI

Wooded lot available for rustic camping. Pitch a tent or bring your camper but be prepared for no water or electric. Shed, picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are welcome! You’re welcome to use the shed and any items inside. Unfortunately we are without water in our lake due to the dam failure and it will remain this way until approximately 2027. Please be respectful of neighbors.

13. Country Camp

100%

(4)

33mi from Saginaw · 2 sites · RVs · Alma, MI

Learn more about this land: Located on 11 acres with a swimming pond and small beach, fishing and a water trampoline. There is also a campfire pit located down by the pond with wood available. We have a few trails cleared out through our woods that can be explored. We have two horse, a miniature pony, two cats, a pug and two chickens. There is also a paved bike trail across the road from us that can be accessed. Electrical is available however, it is very poor and will not run an a/c unit!

Camper favorites near Saginaw

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

River Daze

100%

(48)

41mi from Saginaw · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaverton, MI

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.

Verity acres

97%

(18)

34mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV · Sanford, MI

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.

Unionville Village Park

89%

(71)

29mi from Saginaw · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Unionville, MI

AS OF OCTOBER 31ST - 2025 THE CAMPGROUND IS CLOSED FOR THE WINTER - WILL REOPEN SPRING 2026 The Village recently installed four campsites equipped with water and electric service. Campsites are $20 per night. Free use of the RV dump station for registered campers. An RV dump station is located at the corner of Brown and Pickle Streets. Learn more about this land: The Village of Unionville offers four campsites each with water and electric hookups. There is a dump station available free of charge to registered campers.

Bavarian Lakes

100%

(2)

25mi from Saginaw · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Millington, MI

Private spring-fed ponds that are perfect for kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, relaxing and exploring. Bonus -- Only 20 minutes from Frankenmuth! We have docks, a small beach, trails, large playset and half size basketball court. Oh, and we have a family of beaver that live in a 5 foot tall lodge that you can spy on as they travel at dusk and dawn looking for that perfect tree to chop down. Shared kayaks, paddle boards, canoe and row boat are included during your stay. We're sorry, but outside such items are NOT permitted in order to minimize the risk of zebra mussel exposure, etc. Life jackets in multiple sizes are on hand as well. But, you are welcome to bring your own. Fishing is allowed if not by the ducks or geese. No additional hunting of any kind is allowed. Electrical outlets are available to charge phones in an outbuilding if needed. We have two porta potties and a hose shower. We have a flock of about 20 friendly pet ducks and geese that travel the property. You may feed them frozen green peas if you would enjoy that but nothing else please. For the safety of our feathered friends and the abundant wildlife we cannot permit pets. We are 30-40 minutes north of Flint, 30-40 min east of Saginaw and 20 minutes from Michigan’s Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth.

Morgan's Place

92%

(13)

22mi from Saginaw · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Millington, MI

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.

Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

35mi from Saginaw · 1 site · Tent, RV · Beaverton, MI

Wooded lot available for rustic camping. Pitch a tent or bring your camper but be prepared for no water or electric. Shed, picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are welcome! You’re welcome to use the shed and any items inside. Unfortunately we are without water in our lake due to the dam failure and it will remain this way until approximately 2027. Please be respectful of neighbors.

Country Camp

100%

(4)

33mi from Saginaw · 2 sites · RVs · Alma, MI

Learn more about this land: Located on 11 acres with a swimming pond and small beach, fishing and a water trampoline. There is also a campfire pit located down by the pond with wood available. We have a few trails cleared out through our woods that can be explored. We have two horse, a miniature pony, two cats, a pug and two chickens. There is also a paved bike trail across the road from us that can be accessed. Electrical is available however, it is very poor and will not run an a/c unit!

Public campgrounds near Saginaw

50%

(3)

Bay City Campground

17mi from Saginaw · 192 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bay City State Park

92%

(6)

Sleepy Hollow Campground

40mi from Saginaw · 182 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sleepy Hollow State Park

75%

(3)

Seven Lakes Campground

45mi from Saginaw · 71 sites · Tents, RVs · in Seven Lakes State Park

Stories from the community

H

Hailey

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

We had such a wonderful time at Elysium. Kim was so welcoming and helpful, the place had such a cute setup. Got to see so many stars that night, truly felt magical! The farm animals were a definite plus!! Would come through again

K

Kristian

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Perfect for a getaway. Really nice place if you intend to stay in camp. Highly recommend.

L

Lauren

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

I loved staying at Kim’s property! Thank you for your kindness.

Oliver

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow's Nest is a relaxing and beautiful place to stay. This was our second visit. The cabin is simple yet had everything we needed. The hosts ensure that you get to experience everything - there is a private walking trail, fire material, an outdoor grill, and much more.

j

jacqueline

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Absolutely beautiful retreat! Private wooded camping site with adorable outhouse. We arrived around 7pm and Kim surprised us with our camp fire burning to welcome us. The next morning we wandered endless forest trails finding new areas to explore around every corner. Small ponds, wandering canals, covered bridge, adorable goat paddocks, friendly hens, comical emus, tiny beaches, etc. There is something for everyone but it was just perfect for what we needed. Thank you Kim & Jeff; we loved our stay.

C

Captain

October 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow’s Nest is such a cute and wonderful getaway from the rest of the world. Beautiful wooded property, a lovely walking trail, and a personal fire ring. I was delighted when I arrived and my partner and I were both saddened when it was time to leave. I highly recommend the location. I will absolutely be returning!!

I

Isabel

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

We had the best time camping at Vine camp! The farm animals were so cute and the property is just stunning! My pup is not a fan of strangers and the campsite was super private and quiet! The owners are also very friendly and accommodating, and the outhouse was surprisingly clean! I will absolutely be staying here again!

B

Brooke

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila and Jeff were friendly hosts and quick to lend a helping hand. The land was beautiful and relaxing; the cabin, super cozy. I’m already looking forward to staying again!

A

Addie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

This was a spectacular campsite - we booked a last-minute camping trip with friends and this little forest & farm were exactly what we needed. Woke up to farm fresh eggs, coffee over the fire and then did a little farm walk followed by mushroom foraging on the property (found some awesome species!). Kim was so helpful and welcoming, she even helped up hose off our muddy dog after a spill lol. She told us of some planned additions to the land that they’re working on and I’m very excited to come back and see the projects in full swing. Hipcamp never fails to lead us to awesome sites with interesting folks that are generous enough to share them with us - this is another one for the book!

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Verity acres

Great remote site. Excellent quiet time. Plenty of wildlife to entertain.

My youngest dog loved running the beach...

M

Matthew

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

Quiet, despite a nearby road/bridge, and situated on the Tobacco River, Riverdaze offered me a private retreat while visiting friends nearby. I stayed for 3 nights with two pups and enjoyed the hospitality of the host as well as the convenience of nearby activities and restaurants. The hosts are putting work into the property, with improvements, and I'll keep it in mind if in the area again. The sites are perfect for tenters, small trailers, or those interested in boondocking with fire rings and picnic tables provided. A new treehouse and available water activities are great for families and adventurists.

R

Rae

October 2025

2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Being nestled in the trees was a cherished respite for us on our Spirit Walk. Sheila and Jeff were on the property to welcome us on arrival which was really nice. Their sweet cat supervised as we settled in. We were visited by chipmunks, squirrels, crows, and deer during our stay. Nice rustic cabin with a warm shower, comfy bed, and composting toilet plus nice kitchen amenities, walking trails, and fire pit. Charming!

N

Noelle

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

great private camping spot with lots of lil trails and still close to town if you need a quick trip

D

Daniel

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to B Mo's Hideout

Great property to camp on. Bryan was an excellent and made the whole experience so inviting.

Travis

September 2025

20 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Verity acres

Great spot if you are looking to get away from city noise and lights. Heard nothing but nature. Dennis was quick to respond. Dennis came to check in with us and ask if we needed anything shortly after arriving. If you like coney dogs, stop at the coney trailer in Sanford. We will be back.

G

Gage

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

It was such a a beautiful place it had beautiful paths and lovely scenery. Sheila and Jeff are so nice I'm happy to have been able to come to there home. Me and my boyfriend had a wonderful time. It's the perfect spot to get away from the city. The next time I go I will definitely be staying longer.

T

The Kalina

September 2025

15 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Be Wild and Free

It was nice and quiet there! We got a great night's sleep. We don't require any amenities so it was perfect for us!!!

l

linda

September 2025

24 ft Class B

1 night at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

This place was amazing. Convenient to Rte. 75, yet beautiful, private setting. Kim was an amazing host. Her attention to detail was obvious throughout our campsite (Vine Camp). We'd definitely come back. It's a 5 star place!

A

Alena

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Be Wild and Free

We loved the open space so much! Butterflies everywhere, beautiful spot to view the stars and sunrises. We had a great time and would love to come back, thank you for sharing your space

M

Melissa

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

We loved our stay at Elysium Heritage Farm! It was so peaceful and the property was beautiful! We enjoyed our walks and being in nature. A hidden gem for sure!