The best campervan parks in Upper Peninsula

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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.

96% (901)

Top-rated campgrounds near Upper Peninsula

1. Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

98%
(69)
1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI
Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night

6. Northern Lights & Firefly Nights

1 site · RV · Rock, MI
This is a fun, solar-lit RV "Glamping" site for up to a 30 ft self-contained w/toilet camper; site is located in Rock, MI. Max 4 campers. The RV site makes a great homebase if you are adventure seeking in the central Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Rock is 34 miles from Escanaba and 46 miles from Marquette. Both cities offer great restaurants, unique breweries, art galleries, hiking, biking, and kayaking rivers and lakes. The site is approx. 5 mi away from access to the Escanaba River for kayaking/tubing/trout fishing (you need your own equipment). Ride your utv right from the site taking the county roads/2 rut roads out to the river for a nice ride or have fun playing in the mud right after the rain:) Play at your own risk! There is a convenience store for gas, beer, wine, food and the necessities located 4 miles away; along with a local restaurant/bar. The RV site offers a unique experience with all of its solar lighting to glamp up your camping experience in the woods. Take the time to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoor firefly dining, take a nature walk, a nap in a hammock, do outdoor yoga, listen to the birds and/or maybe you'll get a glimpse of the "Northern Lights". Rest, relax and rejuvenate. Wifi is sketchy. A pet is allowed on a leash; other dog is on property. Pickup dog waste. Outdoor Amenities: An outdoor kitchen fully stocked w/cooking gear: tri-pod grilling, utensils, pots and pans. Small table-top herb garden to add to your cooking experience. Outdoor Dining by solar lighting; "Firefly Night" Dining. Firepit and sitting/chair area (with the add-on option of magical, colorful flame packets and s’more kits w/Yooper bars from Sayklly’s Candies). Firewood available for purchase on-site. Hammock pod w/2 hammocks. Layering is essential for comfort outdoors. Campfire must be kept in fire ring. Do not leave fire unattended. Can forage for firewood on the ground; NO cutting/breaking off of trees allowed. Fire ring should not be used as a garbage pit. Trash receptacle can be found in the site. Fire ring is cleaned after each visitor; a $20 fee will be charged for glass, cans or nails found in the fire ring. NO firearms, air guns, bb guns, sling shots, or fireworks. NO parties or events. 911 or St Francis Hospital (906)786-5707(Escanaba)
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

7. Presque Isle Campground

91%
(34)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Presque Isle, WI
Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

8. Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%
(447)
38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Au Train, MI
Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

9. Northern Oasis Camping

97%
(172)
9 sites · Tents, RVs · Negaunee, MI
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

16. Constellation Farmstead

96%
(39)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pelkie, MI
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Constellation Farmstead. We are a multi-faceted agritourism destination combining farming, homesteading and leisure. We are located in a quaint and quiet area of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We currently have camping space available both for tents and camping with an RV. For animals we currently have 3 pigs, 12 chickens, a handful of ducks and 8 of the softest rabbits you will ever meet. We also have a husky named Lakota who is always on leash with us as well as 2 cats, one of which spends much of his time outside. Our hiking trails are open, and markers are being added. You are welcome to hike through our property on your own or we are always happy to join. Our disc golf course will be open with t pads and baskets once the ground is firm enough to get everything set up! In the years to come, our beautiful barn will become a venue for weddings as well as a suite and rentable rooms where you can stay. We’ll also be continuing to grow our family farm, orchard and of course our growing array of animals for you to visit. For guests we also have a community fire pit in our yard and host fires most nights that we have guests. We also have a sauna that we heat up many nights so feel to let us know if these things interest you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

17. Serene sites on 3+ Acres

94%
(17)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Millan, MI
Welcome to McMillan’s Winter Wonderland Escape! Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s “Winter Wonderland,” our 3+ acre retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and tranquility. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, this little slice of nature has something for everyone. We offer 3 spacious, private tent sites that can accommodate whatever your heart desires — from small cozy setups to larger group hangouts. Half of the property is *heavily wooded* for that deep forest feel, while the other half is wide open and well-maintained, giving you plenty of options for sun or shade, depending on your mood. Each site comes equipped with a firepit for all your campfire stories, s’mores, and starry nights. Parking? No problem! There's plenty of room for your vehicle(s), so you won’t have to worry about squeezing into a tight spot. Need a little more comfort? Water and electric are available upon request for an additional charge, to keep your trip as easy-breezy as possible. Also have a boat available during summer months for you fisherman as there are about 5 lakes within 10 miles all good for fishing. Plus the legendary Manistique river.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$9
 / night

20. Da Sugarbush on Stanley Lake

95%
(29)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Iron River, MI
You'll be camping on our Stanley lake sugarbush property. Lakefront sites have power and water - are located in a grassy clearing on the shores of Stanley Lake. ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON PROPERTY!! Primitive sites are amongst the maple trees of our sugarbush operation, within walking distance of the lake. These sites do not yet have water or electricity, but water is available from spigots at the lake clearing. Stanley lake is just shy of 400 acres, known for walleye and bass. It is an all sports lake with no limited wake hours. Feel free to roam our woods - you will notice the blue maple lines come to an end at our east and west property lines, as well as a no trespassing sign on the lake clearing to the west line. Deer here are plentiful, and you can often get them to eat from your hand, provided you have apples. Iron county has a tremendous ORV/snowmobile trail system. You can drive your machine right from our property to the trails. There are two golf courses in the area, as well as a vast bicycle trail system. Ski Brule ski hills and sporting clay operation are a few miles from the property. Countless acres of public land for recreation!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

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.

96% (901)

Top-rated campgrounds near Upper Peninsula

1. Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

98%
(69)
1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI
Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night

6. Northern Lights & Firefly Nights

1 site · RV · Rock, MI
This is a fun, solar-lit RV "Glamping" site for up to a 30 ft self-contained w/toilet camper; site is located in Rock, MI. Max 4 campers. The RV site makes a great homebase if you are adventure seeking in the central Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Rock is 34 miles from Escanaba and 46 miles from Marquette. Both cities offer great restaurants, unique breweries, art galleries, hiking, biking, and kayaking rivers and lakes. The site is approx. 5 mi away from access to the Escanaba River for kayaking/tubing/trout fishing (you need your own equipment). Ride your utv right from the site taking the county roads/2 rut roads out to the river for a nice ride or have fun playing in the mud right after the rain:) Play at your own risk! There is a convenience store for gas, beer, wine, food and the necessities located 4 miles away; along with a local restaurant/bar. The RV site offers a unique experience with all of its solar lighting to glamp up your camping experience in the woods. Take the time to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoor firefly dining, take a nature walk, a nap in a hammock, do outdoor yoga, listen to the birds and/or maybe you'll get a glimpse of the "Northern Lights". Rest, relax and rejuvenate. Wifi is sketchy. A pet is allowed on a leash; other dog is on property. Pickup dog waste. Outdoor Amenities: An outdoor kitchen fully stocked w/cooking gear: tri-pod grilling, utensils, pots and pans. Small table-top herb garden to add to your cooking experience. Outdoor Dining by solar lighting; "Firefly Night" Dining. Firepit and sitting/chair area (with the add-on option of magical, colorful flame packets and s’more kits w/Yooper bars from Sayklly’s Candies). Firewood available for purchase on-site. Hammock pod w/2 hammocks. Layering is essential for comfort outdoors. Campfire must be kept in fire ring. Do not leave fire unattended. Can forage for firewood on the ground; NO cutting/breaking off of trees allowed. Fire ring should not be used as a garbage pit. Trash receptacle can be found in the site. Fire ring is cleaned after each visitor; a $20 fee will be charged for glass, cans or nails found in the fire ring. NO firearms, air guns, bb guns, sling shots, or fireworks. NO parties or events. 911 or St Francis Hospital (906)786-5707(Escanaba)
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

7. Presque Isle Campground

91%
(34)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Presque Isle, WI
Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

8. Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%
(447)
38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Au Train, MI
Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

9. Northern Oasis Camping

97%
(172)
9 sites · Tents, RVs · Negaunee, MI
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

16. Constellation Farmstead

96%
(39)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pelkie, MI
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Constellation Farmstead. We are a multi-faceted agritourism destination combining farming, homesteading and leisure. We are located in a quaint and quiet area of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We currently have camping space available both for tents and camping with an RV. For animals we currently have 3 pigs, 12 chickens, a handful of ducks and 8 of the softest rabbits you will ever meet. We also have a husky named Lakota who is always on leash with us as well as 2 cats, one of which spends much of his time outside. Our hiking trails are open, and markers are being added. You are welcome to hike through our property on your own or we are always happy to join. Our disc golf course will be open with t pads and baskets once the ground is firm enough to get everything set up! In the years to come, our beautiful barn will become a venue for weddings as well as a suite and rentable rooms where you can stay. We’ll also be continuing to grow our family farm, orchard and of course our growing array of animals for you to visit. For guests we also have a community fire pit in our yard and host fires most nights that we have guests. We also have a sauna that we heat up many nights so feel to let us know if these things interest you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

17. Serene sites on 3+ Acres

94%
(17)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Millan, MI
Welcome to McMillan’s Winter Wonderland Escape! Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s “Winter Wonderland,” our 3+ acre retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and tranquility. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, this little slice of nature has something for everyone. We offer 3 spacious, private tent sites that can accommodate whatever your heart desires — from small cozy setups to larger group hangouts. Half of the property is *heavily wooded* for that deep forest feel, while the other half is wide open and well-maintained, giving you plenty of options for sun or shade, depending on your mood. Each site comes equipped with a firepit for all your campfire stories, s’mores, and starry nights. Parking? No problem! There's plenty of room for your vehicle(s), so you won’t have to worry about squeezing into a tight spot. Need a little more comfort? Water and electric are available upon request for an additional charge, to keep your trip as easy-breezy as possible. Also have a boat available during summer months for you fisherman as there are about 5 lakes within 10 miles all good for fishing. Plus the legendary Manistique river.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$9
 / night

20. Da Sugarbush on Stanley Lake

95%
(29)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Iron River, MI
You'll be camping on our Stanley lake sugarbush property. Lakefront sites have power and water - are located in a grassy clearing on the shores of Stanley Lake. ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON PROPERTY!! Primitive sites are amongst the maple trees of our sugarbush operation, within walking distance of the lake. These sites do not yet have water or electricity, but water is available from spigots at the lake clearing. Stanley lake is just shy of 400 acres, known for walleye and bass. It is an all sports lake with no limited wake hours. Feel free to roam our woods - you will notice the blue maple lines come to an end at our east and west property lines, as well as a no trespassing sign on the lake clearing to the west line. Deer here are plentiful, and you can often get them to eat from your hand, provided you have apples. Iron county has a tremendous ORV/snowmobile trail system. You can drive your machine right from our property to the trails. There are two golf courses in the area, as well as a vast bicycle trail system. Ski Brule ski hills and sporting clay operation are a few miles from the property. Countless acres of public land for recreation!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Upper Peninsula

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Public campgrounds in and near Upper Peninsula

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The best campervan parks in Upper Peninsula 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

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.

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 regions near Upper Peninsula