Camping in the Upper Peninsula

Name: Upper Peninsula
Address: Upper Peninsula
Rating: 4.9135

In Michigan, the Upper Peninsula (UP) is highly valued for outdoor fun. The geographical position is ideal, with Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and Lake Michigan providing endless miles of shoreline with dense forests between them. Extending west to Wisconsin and north to both the water and the Canadian border, the region puts campers in close proximity to great backroads, abundant campgrounds, charming towns like Marquette, and enough recreational opportunities to keep you busy for a lifetime. If you're planning an Upper Peninsula camping trip, expect a combination of water and woods with unique topography, stunning lighthouses, and the distinct feeling of going back in time.

98% (2.1K) • 883 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Upper Peninsula

Andy’s Wolf Traxx

1. Andy’s Wolf Traxx

98%

(227)

Newberry, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

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Northern Oasis Camping

2. Northern Oasis Camping

97%

(223)

Negaunee, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We are 7 miles from downtown Marquette, 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! There is guest internet but its patchy in camping area-better closer to the house and large firepit area There is a charcoal grill near communal firepit area. We are near 2 river basins(McClure Basin and Dead River Basin) for fishing, swimming and boating ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a couple more private wooded sites. There are at least two areas for small campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks.. There is a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. We have nice fire wood available on site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is a "port-a-john" on site- extra TP is kept in red shed hanging on nail in a bag. Please let us know if this needs attention.

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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

3. Shivering Timbers Family Campground

99%

(95)

Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Shivering Timbers Family Campground, the closest private camp to Tahquamenon Falls (3 miles) and 15 minutes from Two Hearted River Trailhead and Crisp Point lighthouse access. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, access to water spigot, and portable toilets. We offer 4 primitive tent/van/small RVs to park on spacious sites in private spots surrounded by state land. Our boys sell firewood, delivered to your site! We can be your headquarters for all attractions that will make your stay enjoyable. Located only 5 minutes from Lower Falls State Park, 10 minutes from Upper Falls, we have a variety of trails, river access and lakes to get you going on a nice hike or a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Rustic it may be but the use of quiet generators are allowed and we are pet friendly. We have a community field with games and a fire pit to use. Self-contained trailers are welcome (no hookups yet). Steps from snowmobile trails and near Lake Superior (10 miles), Star gazing, rock hunting or bird watching are all ideal for family fun or quiet escapes. Showers and RV amenities are available at the state park (3 miles). Check back for new sites and book now for a much needed U.P. adventure!

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Isle Royale National Park

4. Isle Royale National Park

98%

(40)

National park in Michigan · 168 sites

Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.

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Showers

Hiawatha National Forest

5. Hiawatha National Forest

88%

(36)

National forest in Michigan · 513 sites

This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.

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Bear Tree Homestead

6. Bear Tree Homestead

100%

(456)

Trowbridge Park, MI · 2 sites

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The cabins have access to the pond, use of the canoe, a private fire pit, picnic table, charcoal grill and privy. Inside the cabins is a functional kitchen with dishes, flatware, pots and pans, so you can prepare meals onsite. Cabins also have table and chairs as well soft chairs/sofa sitting area, bookshelves with a variety of books, board games and puzzles, and covered porch in case of rain. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, collect fresh eggs (when they are laying), lay in the hammock, listen to the sounds of nature and the barnyard or take an adventure hike, bike ride, snowshoe, or ski right out the door.  One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. The property is on the North Country Trail, just over a Noquemanon Trail Network Forestville trailhead where access to year round recreation awaits. Hogback Mountain is just up the trail from the cabin with spectacular views of forest, mountains and lake superior. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

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Explore the U.P. from here!

7. Explore the U.P. from here!

97%

(408)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

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Gentle Breeze Camping

8. Gentle Breeze Camping

97%

(123)

Toivola, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a dark sky private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access. There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839 Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site Campers responsible for garbage removal There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE

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Secluded Lost Lake

9. Secluded Lost Lake

100%

(16)

Ironwood, MI · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Lost Lake Off-Grid Retreat — Ironwood, Michigan Upper Peninsula Three acres of deep northwoods silence across the road of Spirit Lake, eight miles from the largest freshwater lake on Earth. No cell service. No light pollution. Just towering hardwoods, loon calls at dusk, and some of the best Northern Lights viewing in the Lower 48. The RV (sleeps 4–6) 34-foot Class A motorhome tucked into the trees. Queen bedroom, fold-out couch, working stovetop, and generator. Outhouse steps away. You’re not here for granite countertops—you’re here because the sauna is hot, the lake is cold, and nobody knows where you are. The Mini Camper (sleeps 2) Hardtop converted pop-up—low-profile, cozy, built for sleeping. Full mattress, portable power station included. Crawl in, zip up, listen to the woods. One step above a tent with none of the setup. Blankets and pillows included. Remote Tent Sites Primitive, dispersed sites spread through the timber. Fire rings and outhouse access. Bring your gear and disappear. On the Property Wood-fired Finnish sauna—the kind of heat that resets your entire nervous system. Spirit Lake directly across the road for a cold plunge or a quiet paddle. Two kayaks available to rent. Four-wheeler for exploring miles of old logging roads and backcountry. Firewood. Solar power. Generator. Stars you forgot existed. What You’re Close To The UP’s heaviest concentration of waterfalls is right here. Five Black River falls—including Rainbow Falls and its 200-foot suspension bridge—within a half hour. Lake of the Clouds and the 60,000-acre Porcupine Mountains Wilderness, 30 minutes away. Copper Peak’s 18-story sky ride with views into three states and Canada. Little Girls Point on Lake Superior—agate hunting, bonfires, sunsets that’ll rearrange your priorities. Interstate Falls, Gabbro Falls, and Peterson Falls nearby. North Country Trail access. Downtown Ironwood and Hurley for supplies and a Friday fish fry, 10 minutes out. The Vibe Off-grid means off-grid. You use the outhouse. You haul your water. You hear things in the woods you can’t identify. This isn’t a resort with a rustic theme—it’s three acres of actual wilderness with a sauna, a lake across the road, and the kind of quiet most people have never experienced.

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Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

10. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%

(30)

State park in Michigan · 170 sites

Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.

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Tahquamenon Falls State Park

11. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

100%

(20)

State park in Michigan · 276 sites

Discover the majestic Tahquamenon Falls amid lush Michigan wilderness.

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Electrical hookup

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Brimley State Park

12. Brimley State Park

100%

(4)

State park in Michigan · 237 sites

Discover Brimley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

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Electrical hookup

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Ottawa National Forest

13. Ottawa National Forest

90%

(10)

National forest in Michigan · 367 sites

Everyday is the best day ever at Ottowa National Forest, a great place for seasoned adventurers and families alike. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness will please advance kayakers and canoers, while those with little ones can head to Lake Ottawa Recreation area for forested trails, picnicking spots and a swimming beach. Spy everything from wildflowers to black bears on the trails, and have that camera ready incase you see somethin' good. And in the cooler months? Leaf peeping and snowshoeing will make you glad you came to Ottawa when the crowds die down post summer. There’s something special about this place, experience Ottawa firsthand and reconnect with the great outdoors.

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Heritage Hills

14. Heritage Hills

100%

(420)

Ishpeming, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!

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Keweenaw Homestead Camping

15. Keweenaw Homestead Camping

99%

(158)

Calumet, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Our property provides a mixture of fields, forest, pond, and creek with some views of Lake Superior and of Isle Royale. We are conveniently located between Calumet and McLain State Park as well as adjacent the Swedetown Recreation Area (our property touches Swedetown's boundary and the M203 trailhead is just down the road). Using us as a basecamp, everything the Keweenaw has to offer is easily within reach. Important details regarding our sites:  Sites 1 - 3 are for tenting groups. Among these sites 1 and 3 will accommodate multiple tents while site 2 only has room for one.  There is a short walk to access our tent sites. Site 4 is available for multiple tents, vehicle camping, and rv's.

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Potable water

Cliffside Sunrise Site 1 and Site 2

16. Cliffside Sunrise Site 1 and Site 2

86%

(7)

Baraga, MI · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

This quaint cliffside camping spot is cozy and offers a phenomenal view of the sunrise over Lake Superior. It is large enough to accommodate most campers, RVs, and tents. With a shared fire pit, grill, and a pair of picnic tables, there is plenty of room for your whole family to enjoy! Guests also have access to a bathroom (with a double-headed shower!), a shared refrigerator, a laundry room, and a countertop area that is great for office work, with Wi-Fi available inside the building. 420-friendly.

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Possum Creek Campground

17. Possum Creek Campground

99%

(88)

Trowbridge Park, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

ATTENTION: Please note the following before requesting booking: 1. County Road HD road conditions require 4-wheel drive. 2. Campers are required to sign a waiver on arrival protecting property owner of all liability related to risks associated with wilderness camping. 3. Please provide an estimated time of arrival on the morning of arrival and plan to arrive by 8:00 p.m. This is necessary in order to be available to assist campers with finding sites and other needs. Please also message if your plans have changed and you will not arrive as scheduled. Read more about the sites and property below: Site 1, The Falls Site, is limited to 2 campers who must hike approximately 1/4 mile to the site from parking. Hike, 10 min. Site 2, The Garden site has vehicle access and sleeps 6 This 80 acre plot,family-owned or almost a century and has not been cut in that time, many trees are mature. The south half s home to 8 charcoal kilns which employed a community prior to ownership. The mountain is approximately 1.8 billion years old. Learn more about this land: This campground has 2 tent sites at the western base of Hogback Mountain. Site 1, The Falls Site, is located on a spring fed stream. The hike from parking to tent site is 1/4 mile on a well-marked hilly path. Campers can park at the main property on County Road HD or on the Garden Road, and will need to pack supplies to their site. Site 2, The Garden Site, is 50 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, is a century old hunting cabin with 2 cots on the main floor and 2 singles in the loft. Site 3 includes an outhouse and sauna. All sites have a picnic table, firepit and outhouse. Campers are responsible for removal of all other waste. The 2-foot wide stream provides water for washing, but is not considered potable, and use of filters or boiling water is recommended. These isolated sites are beautiful and rustic and nestled in the midst of the Noquemanon Trail Network (cross country skiing and mountain biking) and North Country Trails and are approximately 2 miles from Lake Superior, Harlow Lake and Dead River. 4 kayaks/paddles/life vests and a 12 foot boat are available for camper use. First come, first serve. You transport.

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Pure Air Paradise

18. Pure Air Paradise

89%

(38)

Ontonagon, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Pure Air Paradise—your year-round escape in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula! Set on 19 acres along a quiet state highway, this property offers a cozy mobile home, a fifth-wheel camper, and two private campsites. Explore a large loop driveway, wander scenic walking trails, or relax by the peaceful pond. With Lake Superior just 6 miles away and the Porcupine Mountains, Adventure Mine, and countless outdoor adventures only a short drive, you’ll have endless opportunities to hike, sightsee, and explore. Whether you’re looking for quiet seclusion or an action-packed getaway, Pure Air Paradise is your perfect basecamp.

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Lake Michigan Sauna + Surf Camp

19. Lake Michigan Sauna + Surf Camp

99%

(104)

Manistique, MI · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wake up with 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 2026: we've added a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna. The perfect way to warm up after a swim in the big lake✨ 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) and Fayette State Historic Park, one hour from Pictured Rocks, and within day-trip distance of Marquette. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or just those chasing an authentic U.P. camping experience.

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Tapiola Homestead

20. Tapiola Homestead

100%

(30)

South Range, MI · 1 site · Tent, RV

120 acres of country paradise to use as your base camp for adventuring in the Keweenaw. 20 minutes from Houghton and 20 minutes from Baraga/L’Anse. Snowmobile and ATV trail #3 is just a short cruise down Donken-Tapiola Road. Furry friends are always welcome and are able to be off leash! Turtle Pond Site has an approx. 12x30 foot level gravel pad and a fire pit on a small pond frequented by turtles, ducks, deer, birds, and even an occasional beaver. There is a 100 year old Finnish Homestead a short walk down a mowed trail. Guests are encouraged to take a look, but please don't enter the buildings as their integrity is unknown. We strive to continue to improve our property every year. This year, we are working to improve the pond health and its borders. An updated photo is included in our listing; but you may notice small differences as the property settles back after being disrupted during this improvement. We were able to maintain the privacy that guests compliment in our reviews while also clearing away unnecessary overgrowth.

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The best dog-friendly campsites in Upper Peninsula

Andy’s Wolf Traxx

98%

(227)

Newberry, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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Northern Oasis Camping

97%

(223)

Negaunee, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

99%

(95)

Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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Bear Tree Homestead

100%

(456)

Trowbridge Park, MI · 2 sites

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Campfires

Explore the U.P. from here!

97%

(408)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Gentle Breeze Camping

97%

(123)

Toivola, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Joseph

4 days ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

Everything was great. Shawn was very welcoming. Checked on us everyday. Made sure we were ok. Offered to use kayak. Fishing poles. Showed us around. Definitely will be back to stay in the cabin next time. Great hiking. Water nearby. Cool little town 25 mins away. Thank you Shawn for a great weekend with my family.

Jeremy

5 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pinecone Beach

Was an awesome experience except the wind lol but no one can help that! Would book again!

Shianne

5 days ago

10 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Magic’s Lake Superior Beach Sites

Nice primitive spot, and so close to the beach. Was great to walk across the road and it be right there.

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Secluded Lost Lake

Beautiful property. Minimal amenities. Minimal cell service. Bring extra water. You may decide to stay an extra day and not be supplied for your full stay.

Darrell

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Cliffside Sunrise Site 1 and Site 2

Such great hosts! Gorgeous site with spectacular views. Morning sunrise over the lake was a real treat. Indoor plumbing, nice hot shower, good toiletries and heat made it so comfortable.

Nathaniel

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Secluded Lost Lake

Awesome sauna and friendly accommodation. Fall colors were incredible!!!!!!

Jamie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Tapiola Homestead

Beautiful spot. Very private. Had hiking trails on property for us to hike. Our dogs and us had a great time. We will definitely be back.

David

2 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

1 night at Northern Oasis Camping

Absolutely beautiful spot! Nice quiet camping spots. Great firepit and seating area. Very clean and very well maintained.

Theresa

2 weeks ago

1 night at Secluded Lost Lake

Loved our stay! Very beautiful area and secluded. Comfortable bed. Loved the proximity to town and several waterfalls. Would stay again!

Bronson

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Andy’s Wolf Traxx

Great spot, each site is private and a good distance from each other. Easy to find and sites clearly marked. Highly recommend going around Late september - October. The leaves in the area were crazy intense. Met Andy on site - would stay here again.

Michelle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rustic Farm Getaway

This was our second time staying here and it was just as magical as the first! Quiet, clean, spacious, and beautiful camping space. We will definitely be back a third time!

Lilly

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay

Gorgeous lake front place to camp! We loved paddle boarding in the shallow bay and it was magical to camp right on the water. Rocky ground a little tricky to navigate but overall doable!

Ashleigh

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lake Michigan Sauna + Surf Camp

We tent camped over my birthday weekend on Eli’s land with my two pups. I completely understand how this spot was a Hipcamp finalist. Eli was quick to respond over messages, and cell service here is good. 2 spots for fires, one of which is on the beach. You can also tent in the clearing of trees or on the beach, & we chose the latter. Being 50 feet from the water & location wise, we were lucky enough to see sunrise and sunset! (And a fantastic moon rising) Amenities are great, including some cooking supplies for over the fire, a dog tie out in the tree clearing, and the sauna. I’ve already booked for next year same time bc we enjoyed staying here so much!

Morgan

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

My friends and I had a wonderful time at the Orchid Cabin. We enjoyed canoeing, meeting the cows and time around the fire. Highly recommend.

Tim

2 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at Explore the U.P. from here!

Awesome spot, thoughtful set up, great host. My kids loved staying in the glamping dome. We used as home base to explore pictured rocks and tahquamenon falls, fly fishing on the Fox, and some off reading exploring. My only regret was not finding time for the sauna!

Philly

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Superior Times Resort & Campground

Overall great camping area. Amenities were awesome but the RV camp sites are small and not private.

Cindy

2 weeks ago

40 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pinecone Beach

What a wonderful peaceful place, we would come back. We were there late September it was gorgeous and so quiet. A beautiful place to watch sunrises and moon rises. Truly magical. Thank you for having this spot.

Lauren S

2 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Tapiola Homestead

Beautiful property! You definitely feel secluded. Our dogs had the best time running around the trails ❤️

Amanda

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Northern Oasis Camping

Beautiful property! Clear instructions and lots of additional amenities available.

SUV camping with Lake Superior right between the trees.

Keri

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Magic’s Lake Superior Beach Sites

I camped in both of these spots (one Friday, one Saturday) and absolutely loved both. The property is in a neighborhood with huge yards so you don't really even see the other houses, but it still felt safe knowing people are nearby in case of emergency. Each spot was very large and felt private. Excellent location right next to the beach. I would definitely stay here again.

Upper Peninsula camping guide

Where to go

Paddle Remote Shorelines

UP paddling options are limitless with three great lakes bordering the peninsula. Turquoise waters will have you feeling like you’re on a Caribbean island, but the cold, freshwater will say otherwise. Kayak and canoe launch sites are plentiful—navigate cliff sides with waterfalls and paddle alongside waterfowl and loons watching from the shore. Some shore areas are private, but simply pull up a map to see state parks, recreation areas, and public sites for paddling launches and landings.

Hit the Beach

Explore Hiking Trails

While the abundance of water is a major draw, the interior peninsula areas are also ripe with opportunity. Hit the Porcupine Mountains for a slew of trails, many of which are connected and prime for creative route planning to loop back to your vehicle or pass through to different areas. The Escarpment Trail is perfect for a half-day hike, while the Eben Ice Caves are a quick two miles in to leave you time to check out the caves.

Visit the Keweenaw Peninsula

The northernmost section of the UP holds some of its greatest treasures. The Keweenaw Peninsula’s aforementioned Great Gray Sand Beach is a fun place to visit, Brockway Mountain is a great hike, and the Keweenaw Water Trail offers a 100-mile loop of the entire peninsula (technically an island). Visit Copper Harbor to drive around and take in the natural beauty of area state parks and lighthouses.

When to go

Summer and fall are the prime visiting seasons on the Upper Peninsula. Fishing, boating, and beachcombing are all excellent during these seasons, when crowds are larger but there is plenty of space. Even during high season, it’s likely possible to find RV campsites, tent camping, and room to roam on the waterfront. Although the water is a bit chilly for swimming, fall is especially nice as the colors change and the busy summer tourism season winds down. Meanwhile, winters are long and quiet on the Upper Peninsula. Experienced cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowsport enthusiasts may love the empty off-season, when waters are ice cold, beaches are closed, and trails may be difficult to access.

Top camping destinations around Upper Peninsula

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

68 campgrounds

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Hiawatha National Forest

67 campgrounds

Isle Royale National Park

78 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular outdoor activities in the Upper Peninsula?

The northernmost section of the Upper Peninsula holds some of its greatest treasures. The Keweenaw Peninsula’s aforementioned Great Gray Sand Beach is a fun place to visit, Brockway Mountain is a great hike, and the Keweenaw Water Trail offers a 100-mile loop of the entire peninsula (technically an island). Visit Copper Harbor to drive around and take in the natural beauty of area state parks and lighthouses. UP paddling options are limitless with three great lakes bordering the peninsula. Turquoise waters will have you feeling like you’re on a Caribbean island, but the cold, freshwater will say otherwise. Kayak and canoe launch sites are plentiful—navigate cliff sides with waterfalls and paddle alongside waterfowl and loons watching from the shore. Some shore areas are private, but simply pull up a map to see state parks, recreation areas, and public sites for paddling launches and landings. Summer and fall are the prime visiting seasons on the Upper Peninsula. Fishing, boating, and beachcombing are all excellent during these seasons, when crowds are larger but there is plenty of space. Even during high season, it’s likely possible to find RV campsites, tent camping, and room to roam on the waterfront. Although the water is a bit chilly for swimming, fall is especially nice as the colors change and the busy summer tourism season winds down. Meanwhile, winters are long and quiet on the Upper Peninsula. Experienced cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowsport enthusiasts may love the empty off-season, when waters are ice cold, beaches are closed, and trails may be difficult to access.

What are the prime visiting seasons for the Upper Peninsula?

What are some highlights of camping in the Upper Peninsula?

White, sandy beaches are the highlight of summer for most campers on the Upper Peninsula. Many extend for miles with great public access, but you can also head north to the shores of Lake Superior, where the 12-mile Great Sand Bay Beach sits off the beaten path with trails, sandy shorelines, and gorgeous waters. If you want plenty of space and nice, soft sand, Sand Point Beach is also worth considering. While the abundance of water is a major draw, the interior peninsula areas are also ripe with opportunity. Hit the Porcupine Mountains for a slew of trails, many of which are connected and prime for creative route planning to loop back to your vehicle or pass through to different areas. The Escarpment Trail is perfect for a half-day hike, while the Eben Ice Caves are a quick two miles in to leave you time to check out the caves. You can also explore different options for camping near Upper Peninsula on Hipcamp.

What are some popular winter activities in the Upper Peninsula?

Experienced cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowsport enthusiasts may love the empty off-season on the Upper Peninsula, when waters are ice cold, beaches are closed, and trails may be difficult to access.