- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping in Upper Peninsula
98% (1.5K) • 306 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Upper Peninsula
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
1. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
99%
(228)
Delaware, MI · 1 site
"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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping
2. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping
95%
(89)
Ontonagon, MI · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$30
/ night
Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
3. Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
Naubinway, MI · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Truly rustic wooded property on Lake Michigan, with ten acres and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Kayaks, fishing kayaks, and paddleboards are included with your stay. It’s a one-hour trip to the Cut River Bridge by kayak, or just three minutes by car.
Excellent fishing awaits. There is an artisan well at the campground next door. Currently, there is no electricity or water at the property; however, solar power and a generator are available.
Pets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Hiawatha National Forest
4. Hiawatha National Forest
92%
(32)
National forest in Michigan · 513 sites
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
94%
(41)
National park in Michigan · 65 sites
Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Vagabond Resort & Campground
6. Vagabond Resort & Campground
95%
(20)
Rapid River, MI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Vagabond Resort offers 7 cozy cabins and 59 camping sites for RVs, campers, and tents, with access to a shower house, laundry facilities, a dump station, and fresh water. We also provide a private dock and fish house to guests. We are known for fishing, hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities.
Cabins are open year-round. The campground is open from May 1st to the end of November, weather permitting.
We have waterfront property on Little Bay De Noc on the Stonington Peninsula. We offer rustic camping and RV sites with electricity only, electricity and water, and sites with full hook-up.
Surrounded by the Hiawatha National Forest
3 miles off the Lake Michigan Circle Tour
15 miles Peninsula Point Light House
20 miles north of Escanaba
20 miles north of the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds
37 miles west of Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring)
53 miles south of Picture Rocks
85 miles south of Marquette
130 miles north of Green Bay
135 miles west of Mackinaw City
256 miles south of Trenary Toast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
7. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
97%
(29)
State park in Michigan · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ottawa National Forest
8. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Van Riper State Park
9. Van Riper State Park
State park in Michigan · 190 sites
Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Craig Lake State Park
10. Craig Lake State Park
State park in Michigan · 21 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Craig Lake State Park.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
98% (1.5K) • 306 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Upper Peninsula
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
1. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
99%
(228)
Delaware, MI · 1 site
"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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping
2. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping
95%
(89)
Ontonagon, MI · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$30
/ night
Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
3. Cedar Point Camp On Epoufette Bay
Naubinway, MI · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Truly rustic wooded property on Lake Michigan, with ten acres and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Kayaks, fishing kayaks, and paddleboards are included with your stay. It’s a one-hour trip to the Cut River Bridge by kayak, or just three minutes by car.
Excellent fishing awaits. There is an artisan well at the campground next door. Currently, there is no electricity or water at the property; however, solar power and a generator are available.
Pets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Hiawatha National Forest
4. Hiawatha National Forest
92%
(32)
National forest in Michigan · 513 sites
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
94%
(41)
National park in Michigan · 65 sites
Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Vagabond Resort & Campground
6. Vagabond Resort & Campground
95%
(20)
Rapid River, MI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Vagabond Resort offers 7 cozy cabins and 59 camping sites for RVs, campers, and tents, with access to a shower house, laundry facilities, a dump station, and fresh water. We also provide a private dock and fish house to guests. We are known for fishing, hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities.
Cabins are open year-round. The campground is open from May 1st to the end of November, weather permitting.
We have waterfront property on Little Bay De Noc on the Stonington Peninsula. We offer rustic camping and RV sites with electricity only, electricity and water, and sites with full hook-up.
Surrounded by the Hiawatha National Forest
3 miles off the Lake Michigan Circle Tour
15 miles Peninsula Point Light House
20 miles north of Escanaba
20 miles north of the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds
37 miles west of Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring)
53 miles south of Picture Rocks
85 miles south of Marquette
130 miles north of Green Bay
135 miles west of Mackinaw City
256 miles south of Trenary Toast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
7. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
97%
(29)
State park in Michigan · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ottawa National Forest
8. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Van Riper State Park
9. Van Riper State Park
State park in Michigan · 190 sites
Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Craig Lake State Park
10. Craig Lake State Park
State park in Michigan · 21 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Craig Lake State Park.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
e
ellen
2 weeks ago
3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
I had a wonderful time at Linda and Darryl’s cabin. The trek to the cabin was a lovely snowshoe through the woods, and the cabin itself is gorgeous and so thoughtfully equipped. Directions are clear for both navigating and operating equipment inside the cabin, and the hosts were responsive and helped with a smooth check in. A perfect balance of adventure and creature comforts.
See more
Chris
March 2026
3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
This is an amazing little cabin in the woods. Linda and Daryl are great hosts. This place is only 5 min from Mt Bohemia and there is great cell phone reception here. Such a fun home base to explore the Copper Harbor area.
See more
Kelsi
February 2026
With pets
A beautiful adventure! After a mile snowshoe in, you arrive at the coziest cabin curated with thoughtfulness and character in every corner. You truly are out in the wilderness and the hosts were so helpful in setting us up for success. So convenient if you’re skiing at Boho!
See more
C
Craig
February 2026
3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
Gotta love the Copper Cabin in winter! Cozy heat with wood stove, tons of fresh snow & sauna to boot! Our 5th stay ( or is it 6?). Darryl & Linda are great hosts - excellent communication, rapid response & friendly comments. We got to meet Linda for the first time, finally & just as nice in person! Looking forward to out next trip up here!
See more
Justin
February 2026
Weekend Trip to EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
Another great time was had for our 3rd visit! Breaking in the trail was quite the feat after a snowy week in the Keweenaw but it only added to the adventure experience
See more
Nela
January 2026
With pets
The most magical winter wonderland ❄️🩵
Can't wait to come back in different seasons to see how the magic shifts. Fantastic and caring hosts. What a beautiful adventure.
See more
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.
See more
Nick
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Great site. Dog friendly. There is a real bathroom with plumbing and real showers. The firewood they have for sale burns for a long time.
See more
Lindsay
September 2025
4 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
My husband and I are expecting our first baby in December and this was the perfect spot to get away and find stillness within all the excitement 🥲 we love to camp and backpack but being pregnant this was the perfect in between of comfort and rustic backcountry vibes! We loved the sense of adventure and truly felt at home in this space. It was really fun to learn about the off grid / sustainable practices that make this place unique and fun to explore. This off grid cabin/land had such nourishing ambiance and character there was always something unique to notice within all the tiny details Linda and Darryl put into it or from others that were left behind. We enjoying slow mornings reading journal entries from past visits over slow brewed coffee, walking the land, fishing in the river and playing games over a home cooked meal! The cabin was located perfectly on the peninsula we were able to explore copper harbor and close enough to houghton hancock if we needed anything. This is definitely a trip we will always remember and can’t wait to make it back with our little guy sooner than later! Many continued blessings to everyone who gets to experience this GEM in Gods Land 🌲
See moreJ
Jess
August 2025
Weekend Trip to EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
Very nice and quaint cabin! It’s a great launching point for adventures around the peninsula. The sauna is great paired with a run down to the stream. They have everything you need to really relax and enjoy yourself.
See moreJ
Joelle
August 2025
With kids
What a great cabin! Easy to find and had everything we could have asked for! The place is just lovely- we loved all the reclaimed touches and nature elements- you can see how much love has been put into this place. We are so grateful Linda and Darryl have chosen to share this gem here.
See moreL
Luis
August 2025
Tent
After a nice long conversation with Yvonne and her husband and telling me about their campground, the local places to see and my camping site, I can say I’m very happy and will come back again in the near future. For the LADIES this campground has clean bathrooms and showers, THAT’s the reason why I came to this campground. A+++ For the GENTLEMEN you have access to the lake and have your boat on the campground dock. A+++
See more
Jay
July 2025
Group trip
We have been coming here for years. Always an all around wonderful experience. We will be back next year.
See moreE
Elizabeth
July 2025
3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination
Absolutely awesome! Sleeping quarters are all up in the loft. Totally private. It was rainy part of the time we were there and it is so blissful with the raindrops on the tin roof. Thank you for sharing this unique getaway.
See more
K
Kate
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
Had a great experience! Quiet area and lots of beautiful nature!
See more
Carrie
July 2025
With pets
We loved using this space as our base camp for exploring the Keweenaw Peninsula! It had everything we needed for cooking breakfasts before a big day out and dinners after we returned. The loft for sleeping was cozy and comfortable. Our dog was incredibly stoked to be able to run around the cabin each morning and we felt safe at the location. We were lucky enough to meet Linda on our way out and she was so kind and thoughtful. We would love to stay here again!
See more
B
Brianna
July 2025
With kids
This cabin is the cutest thing. It had everything you could need and more in stock. It was so charming and comfy. The kids loved the loft and the river nearby. It’s a hike but it is a beautiful walk across the river and up to the cabin. They lay out the directions very clearly. It is all the right balance of adventure while keeping needs met. They were very kind and communicative. The only regret we have is bringing a lot of stuff we didn’t realize would be well supplied. We will definitely be back!
See more
R
Raechel
July 2025
With pets
Incredibly cozy with everything you need! The hosts were a dream to work with and so kind. Highly recommend!
See moreB
Brian
July 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful time staying at the Copper Cabin! This was our second stay, both during the summer. We want to return for a winter adventure. Everything is as advertised. Mosquitoes were a little more noticeable this year and like to hang out on the front porch. A couple citronella candles from the shed helped keep them at bay.
See moreJ
Jacob
June 2025
With pets
My girlfriend and I spent several nights at the copper cabin with our dog. There is a short hike through the woods to the cabin, with provided carts that are very helpful to transport gear. The cabin itself is very cute and comfortable, with fun quirks like an old ski lift bench as a front porch swing, and a sauna with an amazing eye shaped window. The cabin is centrally located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, so you are just a short hike and a short drive away from any number of outdoor recreation opportunities. Linda and Darryl were very gracious in booking us short notice, and the check in/check out process was very easy.
Overall, we loved our stay. When we return to the area, we will definitely come back to the copper cabin!
See moreUpper 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
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.
