97% (862) • 3,220 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Sterling
"Elysium Heritage Farm"
1. "Elysium Heritage Farm"
100%
(171)
9.9mi from Sterling · 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
Ruffin It
2. Ruffin It
100%
(11)
17mi from Sterling · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Privacy and freedom,
In between West Branch and Tawas, you’ll be centrally located to choose from many options. Lake Huron 30 minutes away, Au Sable River 15 min away, Rifle River 10 minutes away.
Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, star gazing, hunting, fishing,
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Boondock Ridge
3. Boondock Ridge
98%
(168)
18mi from Sterling · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private.
Beautiful river view and access.
Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity
Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bay City State Park
4. Bay City State Park
50%
(3)
State park 26mi from Sterling · 192 sites
Discover Bay City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Huron-Manistee National Forests
5. Huron-Manistee National Forests
83%
(29)
National forest 41mi from Sterling · 938 sites
You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
6. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(150)
19mi from Sterling · 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
Camp Bear Paw LLC
7. Camp Bear Paw LLC
99%
(88)
21mi from Sterling · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish.
You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early!
Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water.
Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well.
Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking.
There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising.
Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property.
Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon!
Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used.
We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details.
Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
River Daze
8. River Daze
100%
(48)
25mi from Sterling · 10 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
Verity acres
9. Verity acres
98%
(20)
27mi from Sterling · 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
Tawas Point State Park
10. Tawas Point State Park
0%
(4)
State park 32mi from Sterling · 197 sites
Discover Tawas Point State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wilson State Park
11. Wilson State Park
State park 39mi from Sterling · 160 sites
Discover Wilson State Park's scenic trails and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sleeper State Park
12. Sleeper State Park
100%
(4)
State park 40mi from Sterling · 226 sites
Discover Sleeper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
South Higgins Lake State Park
13. South Higgins Lake State Park
83%
(4)
State park 42mi from Sterling · 401 sites
Discover South Higgins Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
WaterFront Saginaw Bay
14. WaterFront Saginaw Bay
100%
(18)
35mi from Sterling · 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.
Included at no extra cost:
Kayaks - Canoe - Two bicycles
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
Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
15. Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
100%
(16)
38mi from Sterling · 2 sites
Located in Clare county, Harrison is surrounded by 20 lakes within 20 minutes. Harrison is also known for its large amount of state land for recreational activities all year round.
We are across the street from Little Long lake and right up the road from Budd Lake public boat launches. We have deeded lake access to Little Long Lake with use of our paddle boat and kayaks. We can provide parking with a boat, trailer, etc., but will need to be arranged prior to check-in.
There are several restaurants, delivery options, and a grocery store right down the road. There is also a putt putt golf, skiing and snow tubing at Snow Snake, arcade, batting cages, bowling, indoor golf, ax throwing, beaches and Wilson State Park.
If you have side-by-sides, quads, jeeps, snowmobiles, or dirt bikes, there are endless options with groomed trails in the area for you to ride all day long.
Our property has two cabins on property, the Harrison Hideaway cabin and Wanderer's Hideaway that can be rented together for larger groups or rented separately. Please message me if you would like to rent both cabins for you and your guests.
We are new to this process and want to make you and your guest feel accommodated with a 5 Star stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Lost Oaks Campground
16. The Lost Oaks Campground
100%
(20)
38mi from Sterling · 35 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the charm of our family-owned campground nestled in Harrison, MI, easily accessible from 127. Our beautiful wooded sites provide the ideal setting for RVs, motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and tents. Choose from electric or rustic sites and enjoy convenient amenities like a dump station, bathroom, showers and water fill-up.
Adventure awaits with nearby ORV trails, including the Leota ORV Trailhead, and the sparkling waters of 20 lakes, all within a 20-minute radius.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE
17. CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE
99%
(52)
41mi from Sterling · 1 site
Learn more about this land:This cozy off-grid rustic Cut River Cabin has a Sauna 3 bedrooms and a loft that will sleep 10. 120 acres with over 1.3 miles of private riverfront on the pristine Cut River that flows out of beautiful Higgins Lake Michigan.
Approximately 10 minutes/7 miles from the beaches of South Higgins Lake State Park, or the Village of Roscommon which has a full-service supermarket (Family Fare) hardware and outdoor supply stores, and a handful of restaurants.
It's a great spot for a quiet retreat away from people, traffic, pollution, and the stresses of modern digital life with the closest neighbor being over 2 miles away. Enjoy the river, paddling in our canoes, fishing, and swimming. Get out in the woods by hiking or biking through nearly 2,000 acres of public state land and trails surrounding the property.
Included are SNOWSHOES in the winter and CANOES in the summer
The Cut River Cabin is a completely off-the-grid property that relies on solar power. Inside you will find NO TV’s, NO WiFi, and NO Modern Luxury Amenities. 😁 You WILL find solar power to charge any devices that you just can’t live without for a weekend getaway, 😉 Manual operated water well pump (Pitcher Pump), Wood Burning Stove to keep warm on them chilly nights (starter/logs included), Well-equipped kitchen with stove
Due to its simple and rustic features, the cabin is most appealing to hikers, campers, and people who love the outdoors and don't mind the lack of conventional amenities. A few things included to distract you from the busy world outside are many Books, Board Games, Playing Cards.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Barney Lake Vista
18. Barney Lake Vista
99%
(93)
44mi from Sterling · 1 site · Tent, RV
Once the location of a ski resort, this property was bought up by the competition and dismantled. Sitting on top of the old ski hill, this 10 acre property now offers a beautiful view of Barney Lake and the surrounding state forest. This property is situated near a dirt road that leads directly into hundreds of miles of off-road trails and state forest, yet is close enough to town (7 miles) to enjoy the local establishments.
Please note: we do not have access to the lake from the property, but there are plenty of other lakes and rivers in the area to enjoy!
Houghton Lake is a very popular area for off-road/ATV’s, so it’s very likely you will hear quads, side-by-sides, and/or dirt bikes during your stay as they ride by on the public road.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Footsteps From Frankenmuth
19. Footsteps From Frankenmuth
99%
(37)
47mi from Sterling · 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
Rains Ranch
20. Rains Ranch
100%
(16)
48mi from Sterling · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
80 relaxing acres of Ahhhhh!!! and mixed terrain. Abundant wild life including bald eagles. Secluded sites and picturesque ponds. Many activities near by. Hiking, bicycling, kayaking, canoeing, ORV and snowmobile trails. Short drive to Lake Huron as well as the Ausable River! but at the same time you’re in the middle of nowhere where YOU want to be!!!
Learn more about this land:
We have private sites available for small groups. Easily traversed mowed trails. Clear secluded campsites in the Huron national forest. Great for walking and seeing wildlife. Clear night skies. Great for stargazing or seeing the Northern Lights.
If you're looking for that diamond in the rough, look no more!!! It's HERE at Rains Ranch!!!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Kim
1 week 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
1 week 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
1 week 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
1 week 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
1 week 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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Brand
1 week 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
1 week 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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Lynn
1 week 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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D
Douglas
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed staying at adam and sarah's property. This was a very nice private site with great views of Barney Lake. The portajohn was really clean which was great for a rustic site with an ample supply of firewood to purchase. Great proximity to houghten and higgins lakes and to Grayling. Adam and sarah were very communicative and kept us up to date with what they were doing with the site before we arrived and provided some very clear driving directions which we appreciated.
I would highly recommend this site
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L
Lacee
1 week 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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Stephanie
2 weeks ago
Tent
5/5 stars for our stay at Kim's beautiful getaway! Maybe an odd thing to lead with, but it had absolutely the nicest outhouse I've ever been in, and it just shows how much pride the owners have in their property. The tent site is covered in sand which makes tent staking a breeze. Other lovely touches: a tablecloth on the picnic table, an extra table for food prep, trees for hammocks, firewood in a covered box, an adjacent property with bird sanctuary and pond with kayaks. Short drive to area nature sites and beaches. Will definitely be back!
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Marilyn
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
Robert is a very gracious host will help you with all your needs. Nice woodsy area makes you really feel like you're camping in the woods
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Liz
2 weeks ago
Tent
Kim and Jeff were very kind and chill. Lovely place to spend the night. Got to walk around and visit with all the animals. Great place to stop over on a long long drive.
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M
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great place! Was much more than I expected. I would highly recommend this site. Thank you so much for the great camping spot!
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Karlee
3 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
Such a peaceful, lovely place! Kim was SO nice and welcoming! Cute animals, Romantic vibes, and friendly atmosphere. Will definitely be back!
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Emilee
3 weeks ago
Tent
Staying at vine camp was everything I’d hoped for and so much more! I came as a solo camper and Kim was so friendly and happy to talk to me about the farm. She even saved the day when my car battery was dead in the morning. Not to mention the property I spent hours walking about and still didn’t get to all the trails. Surrounded by beautiful wetlands. So many adorable animals on the farm and wildlife around. My stay couldn't have been any better I only wish I could come back sooner.
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S
Shaina
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We absolutely loved our stay at boondock ridge!! It's a beautiful piece of property! I love how there's 2 different areas and each has its own fire pit and the top one, has wide open space for the kiddos and animals to run and enjoy! Love the little stream at the lower camp site.
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Nick
3 weeks ago
28 ft travel trailer
With kids
Took our family of 5 to Elysium and our 3 young boys are already asking when we can go back! It was everything the listing described and more. They enjoyed hours upon hours of catching bluegill and perch in the pond, one after the other. The hosts were very kind as well. We’re definitely looking forward to our next visit!
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Trisha
May 2026
30 ft Class B
With pets
I left a few days early but it's a great peaceful place
See moreM
Makenna
May 2026
30 ft travel trailer
What a great spot! There is 2 sites essentially one you can’t drive too but it’s right on the river and a great walking path down, we did our 1st night camping up top with the river view, then carried all our stuff down and did day 2 down below, it was a great weekend sun was shining we had a bit of rain but nothing crazy! Great hosts very accommodating and so nice we even got to stay a little longer since we had a later arrival than expected! Thank you guys again and totally recommend for your next camp!
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