The best campgrounds in Upper Peninsula with climbing

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.

99% (636)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

99% (636)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Tree Homestead

100%

(423)

3 sites · Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

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.

2. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

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(221)

1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI

"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.

3. Hemlock Ridge Homestead

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(132)

3 sites · Lodging · Marquette, MI

Welcome to the Hemlock Ridge Homestead! This custom log home built in the early 2000's was a dream of mine since I was 8 years old. Our family lives here year round and absolutely love it. These sites are on a seasonal road so travel in and out can be impeded at times due to weather or external forces, such as tree falls, wash outs, etc. This is a self sufficient homestead in the making. Our garden has progressed greatly, and our fruit tree orchards are starting to produce. The free range chickens are fun and quirky, offering farm fresh eggs. We just opened our second site, the Prairieview Chalet 2024 summer. Both sites offer great amenities. The Acorn Retreat cabin includes a hot tub, gas weber grill and other amenities. The boujee outhouse is shared by both sites and is cleaned regularly. The new Prairieview Chalet is an exceptional adventurers haven! It has all the things you want after a day(s) out in the wilderness, with amenities like a hot shower, fully stocked kitchen, linens and more. Our property reflects our love of the land and space. We are always making improvements, such as the timber framed chicken coop. We now have a ping pong table for our guests, and still offer farm fresh eggs. Our motto is to make every place better than we found it and hope our guests will do the same. This is a zen, quiet place to heal, reflect and refill your cup of life:)

4. Hiawatha National Forest

92%

(32)

513 sites · Chatham, Michigan

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

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. 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.

6. Possum Creek Campground

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(81)

5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

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. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is 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 property 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 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an 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.

7. Sporley Lake Retreat

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(22)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · K I Sawyer, MI

🌿 Experience Nature's Paradise at Sporley Lake Retreat Welcome to your private lakeside escape on the peaceful shores of Sporley Lake! Nestled within 5 acres of rolling hardwood forest, this secluded retreat offers the ideal blend of quiet beauty and outdoor adventure. With 170 feet of spring-fed shoreline on the 77-acre Sporley Lake, you'll enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing lakeside. A public boat launch just ½ mile away makes it easy to bring your own boat and explore the calm waters at your leisure. ________________________________________ 🏕 Campsite Amenities This rustic, back-to-nature experience includes: • 20-amp electrical service (limited use; AC allowed with additional fee) • Non-potable water supply, May to November weather dependent. • Fire pit ring and picnic table • Two kayaks available for on-site use • Firewood provided on-site (donation encouraged) • Dogs welcome (leashed and well-behaved) • Convenience store just ¾ mile away • Public RV dump station located 2 miles away • Owners may be present in the on-site residence Optional camping areas just a short walk from the lake: • The Hilltop Site – Secluded and shaded among the trees • The Alternative Site – Sunny and open, located near an active agricultural construction project (building materials visible) ________________________________________ 🌟 Property Highlights 🌲 Forested Escape Wander through mature hardwoods and gentle hills—ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. 🏞️ Lakeside Enjoyment Paddle, fish, or float the day away. Please note: lake access is via a long staircase and is not wheelchair accessible. 🦅 Wildlife Haven Watch for bald eagles, a golden eagle, and graceful loons across the lake. 🚴 Adventures Nearby Only 30 minutes from Marquette and Lake Superior, you’ll be close to world-class hiking, mountain biking, climbing, ORV trails, and even Great Lakes surfing. 🏖️ Lake Superior Beaches Unwind on the stunning white-sand beaches of Lake Superior—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or evening sunsets. 🍻 Local Flavors Explore Marquette’s craft breweries and local restaurants for great food, locally brewed beer. __________

8. RUTH LAKE RESORT

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(8)

1 site · RV · Michigamme, MI

We are located in Three Lakes, on Lake Ruth. We have 200 LF of beach front. We have a sauna, kayaks and paddle boards for use. We have 4 motel rooms, 5 cabins, and room for 2 RV electrical hook-ups. The property includes gas grills and fire pits. Our large garage has room for activities on rainy days. Our outdoor kitchen area is covered and a great place for cooking. Garage has a bath, with toilet, lavatory, and shower for RVers that need a restroom.

9. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%

(89)

3 sites · Tents · Ontonagon, MI

Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.

10. Sydney W.’s Land

100%

(5)

5 sites · St. Ignace, MI

Camper favorites in and near Upper Peninsula

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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.

Possum Creek Campground

99%

(81)

5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

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. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is 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 property 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 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an 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.

Sporley Lake Retreat

100%

(22)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · K I Sawyer, MI

🌿 Experience Nature's Paradise at Sporley Lake Retreat Welcome to your private lakeside escape on the peaceful shores of Sporley Lake! Nestled within 5 acres of rolling hardwood forest, this secluded retreat offers the ideal blend of quiet beauty and outdoor adventure. With 170 feet of spring-fed shoreline on the 77-acre Sporley Lake, you'll enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing lakeside. A public boat launch just ½ mile away makes it easy to bring your own boat and explore the calm waters at your leisure. ________________________________________ 🏕 Campsite Amenities This rustic, back-to-nature experience includes: • 20-amp electrical service (limited use; AC allowed with additional fee) • Non-potable water supply, May to November weather dependent. • Fire pit ring and picnic table • Two kayaks available for on-site use • Firewood provided on-site (donation encouraged) • Dogs welcome (leashed and well-behaved) • Convenience store just ¾ mile away • Public RV dump station located 2 miles away • Owners may be present in the on-site residence Optional camping areas just a short walk from the lake: • The Hilltop Site – Secluded and shaded among the trees • The Alternative Site – Sunny and open, located near an active agricultural construction project (building materials visible) ________________________________________ 🌟 Property Highlights 🌲 Forested Escape Wander through mature hardwoods and gentle hills—ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. 🏞️ Lakeside Enjoyment Paddle, fish, or float the day away. Please note: lake access is via a long staircase and is not wheelchair accessible. 🦅 Wildlife Haven Watch for bald eagles, a golden eagle, and graceful loons across the lake. 🚴 Adventures Nearby Only 30 minutes from Marquette and Lake Superior, you’ll be close to world-class hiking, mountain biking, climbing, ORV trails, and even Great Lakes surfing. 🏖️ Lake Superior Beaches Unwind on the stunning white-sand beaches of Lake Superior—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or evening sunsets. 🍻 Local Flavors Explore Marquette’s craft breweries and local restaurants for great food, locally brewed beer. __________

RUTH LAKE RESORT

100%

(8)

1 site · RV · Michigamme, MI

We are located in Three Lakes, on Lake Ruth. We have 200 LF of beach front. We have a sauna, kayaks and paddle boards for use. We have 4 motel rooms, 5 cabins, and room for 2 RV electrical hook-ups. The property includes gas grills and fire pits. Our large garage has room for activities on rainy days. Our outdoor kitchen area is covered and a great place for cooking. Garage has a bath, with toilet, lavatory, and shower for RVers that need a restroom.

Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%

(89)

3 sites · Tents · Ontonagon, MI

Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.

Sydney W.’s Land

100%

(5)

5 sites · St. Ignace, MI

Public campgrounds in and near Upper Peninsula

Autrain Lake Campground

33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Juniper Flats Group Campground on Grand Island

100%

(1)

Juniper Flats Group Campground on Grand Island

1 site · Tent, RV · in Hiawatha National Forest

Bay Furnace Campground

49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Murray Bay Group Campground on Grand Island

1 site · Tent, RV · in Hiawatha National Forest

Ewing Point Dispersed Campground

1 site · in Hiawatha National Forest

Cookson Lake Dispersed Campground

5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hiawatha National Forest

Island Lake Campground

5 sites · in Hiawatha National Forest

Stories from the community

D

Dan

November 2025

6 nights at Bear Tree Homestead

Wonderfully beautiful cabin and property. A true homestead with cows, chickens, ducks, and a sauna. I will be recommending this place to as many people as possible. Can hike from cabin to Lake Superior on the North Country Trail! Phenomenal, very close to Marquette, but a feeling of great seclusion.

A

Adriana

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

Shawn was super friendly and very helpful. The camping spot was absolutely gorgeous and secluded.

Liz

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

This was our second stay at the Orchard House, and it was every bit as magical as the first! Jill continues to be the perfect host — warm, attentive, and full of thoughtful touches (including another batch of her amazing homemade cookies!). The house itself is absolutely enchanting, from its cozy, well-appointed rooms to the peaceful property that feels like a true escape from the world. We loved being so close to the Hogback trailhead — it makes for the perfect day hike before coming back to unwind in such a serene setting. We can’t wait to return and try out the new sauna on our next visit! If you’re considering a stay at the Orchard House, don’t hesitate — it’s the kind of place that fills your soul and leaves you with memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

A

Andrew Scott

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

From the moment we arrived at the Pond Cabin, everything we experienced exceeded our expectations. The cabin itself was cute, cozy, and very clean. It had a lot more kitchen and camping supplies than we expected. Loved the layout. It comfortably slept three adults and two dogs. The woods surrounding it and the pond are very beautiful and serene. No road sounds or artificial light, just peaceful nature and the quaint farmhouse. We were welcomed by our gracious hosts and their dogs who made us feel very at home, were so friendly, and made great recommendations for hikes and experiences. The hike to Hogback mountain is a must. The view from the top and fall colors were just breathtaking and you can walk there right from the cabin! We spent most of a day hiking the NCT and were just blown away by the trails and views. None of us knew how great the traditional Finnish sauna and cold plunge (into the crystal clear spring fed pond?!?) would relax and rejuvenate us. Wow! Also worth mentioning it’s an easy, very pretty drive to Pictured Rocks. You can do it all. All I can say is we will definitely be back and would recommend it to anyone who’s looking for what must be the ultimate UP experience.

Jonathan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Possum Creek Campground

So close to Marquette but so peacefully remote. Would absolutely stay again. So many excellent tent camping. Appreciate that this land was available.

Dustey

October 2025

2 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Gorgeous, cool and super secluded. We loved staying here and started planning our next trip before we even left.

Scrambling up Hogback (10 minutes from the campsite)

J

Jayme

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

The Garden site at Possum Creek was perfect. It was gorgeous with the stream and Hogback right there. The site itself was nicely cleared yet tucked in. Shawn was a great host...friendly, helpful yet respectful of our wanting to find a little stillness. His directions about points of interest were spot on, including the rock-solid brew pub! Will certainly come back.

Sherry

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Northern Oasis Camping

We love staying at Northern Oasis. Joy and Brian are very welcoming and helpful. Sites are spacious and clean. Loved the community fire pit area. Close to everything!

K

Kamron

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

We have camped here for our fall trip 2 years now. It’s one of our favorite camping sites we’ve been to and will definitely be back here again. Very private and amazing scenery around the sites.

C

Chris

October 2025

1 night at Bear Tree Homestead

The cabin was perfect, the land was beautiful, beds are quite comfy, oil lamps and fire are ever so cozy and the cookies so tasty. Hogback mountain trail is very close by and well worth the venture if you can manage a bit of a scramble at lest once. One evening here was not sufficient, we definitely plan to return. Well worth checking out if taking a trip to the area or just looking to go somewhere beautiful and peaceful to retreat from the world for a while.

r

rebecca

October 2025

2 nights at Bear Tree Homestead

Pond cabin is clean, comfortable on the inside, slept exceptionally well, in the warm and cozy loft, using wood stove that kept me warm all night using very little wood. For those who like disconnecting in primitive spaces where the sounds of birds and wind rustling through the trees, an occasional distant rooster's crow, then this is the place you'll not want to leave. So close to North Country trail and easy hike to Hogback Mtn summit with amazing views. Jill the hostess and her family were very friendly as were her 3 dogs. Only heard them bark for a short time in the distance 1st night, while they protected the homestead chickens from wildlife. Jill showed me the authentic Mongolian Yurt they just installed, located on the trail towards the North Country Trail and Hogback mtn. Beautiful! I thought it was easy to find using Jill's directions and my satellite map/location phone. I would definitely stay here again. Hiked Dead Man's River trail nearby many waterfalls, enjoyed Marquette MI Pasties Lawry's and Iron Town Pasty the best, Presque Isle Black Rocks at sunset, and Ore Dock & Black Rock Breweries. Even say an ore freighter being loaded at Marquette's active Ore Dock!

M

Maya

October 2025

3 nights at Bear Tree Homestead

beautiful space ! such a special piece of land — couldn’t be more thankful jill + nick opened their home to visitors !

M

Mark

September 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Northern Oasis Camping

Wow, what an awesome property! Joy and Brian are great hosts and the thought and care they’ve taken in Northern Oasis is evident. My two nights exceeded my expectations! I was the only one there and it’s so incredibly peaceful I slept better than I may ever have in my truck camper. The porta potty was the cleanest and freshest I’ve seen anywhere too! Pick your spot - they’re all awesome! I’ll certainly be back!

Jim

September 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Northern Oasis Camping

This place is incredible! Secluded in a grove of maples. Level spots for tent, trailer or campervan. Awesome fire ring! Outhouse is the nicest I've ever used (I'm a rural kind of guy, so I've used a lot). But a warning - click on directions tab, don't use address in Google maps. We got misdirected about 15 mins away.

T

Tyler

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

Words can’t describe how amazing this place is. Peaceful, tranquil, and beautiful. It’s a bit of a trek with camping gear from the parking spot, but completely worth it. Shawn offered to help take things in and out with his ATV, but we were stubborn and did it ourselves. We set up a hammock over the creek and spent a few days exploring and relaxing. Really, nothing could have improved this place. No phone service down at the camp spot was fantastic (some may disagree, but we needed to disconnect). If you want a secluded, peaceful place to unwind, it really doesn’t get much better than this. Thanks for sharing Shawn!

M

Molly

September 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Northern Oasis Camping

Beautiful spot, amongst tall maple trees, close to Marquette. Plenty of room between camp sites and the best/cutest outhouse we've ever incountered. Joy and Brian were amazing hosts. They'vc put a lot of time and effort into making sure their guests have everything they might need. Brian even put out some cedar shakes to help us start our fire This was our 1st Hip Camp experience and we will definitely come back!

D

Danial

September 2025

10 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Northern Oasis Camping

Great landscape for camping well within the woods. Games and restrooms and community fire pits. Owners are awesome as well making sure you have what you need. Was there for the Marji and it was a great quiet quiet respite with great people to chat with.

L

Lindsay

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

We have loved coming back to Orchard Cabin! This is my family's third trip in and second for a bike race. We love the cabins close proximity to forestville trail head mountain biking and Marquette. This is such a great way to experience Marquette and connect with nature. The host are super kind and great communicators, also a great baker!

J

Jennifer

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Sporley Lake Retreat

This site was a hidden gem. It was a great central location for exploring the UP! The host couldn't be better!

K

Keeyana

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Possum Creek Campground

My friends and I chose Possum Creek for our annual camping trip this year, and needless to say we will definitely be back in the future! Shawn was immensely helpful and kind - from taking time to guide us to the campsite, providing directions and suggestions for sights to see on and off the campsite, and checking in on us to make sure we had the necessary provisions to make our trip successful - Shawn is the best! The site itself could not have been more perfect! It was extremely well maintained and had plenty of things to see. It was just a couple minutes from town, which made it easy for us to pick up any last minute necessities, but also secluded enough for us to have a calm and quiet weekend. We found plenty of trails to hike very close to our campsite, all of which offered breath-taking views and plenty of opportunities for photos. Thank you so much Possum Creek, and thank you Shawn!!!!!!

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5 sites · St. Ignace, MI

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The best camping in Upper Peninsula with climbing 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.