Notable Campgrounds
- Best for lake explorers: Bay Furnace Campground has 49 non-electric tent/RV sites with easy access to Lake Superior and Grand Island.
- Best for peace and quiet: Tom’s Lake Cabin sleeps eight and has everything you need for a back-to-nature retreat by the lakeside.
- Best for backcountry campers: Little Dune Campsite on Grand Island has hike-in tent-only sites right on the beachfront.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve a site at one of 60 campgrounds (including three camper cabins) at Hiawatha National Forest online via Recreation.gov. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so check ahead if you have a specific site in mind.
- Campsite reservations typically open six months in advance.
- Some campgrounds are only open during the summer season (typically May through October); others stay open year-round.
When to Go
Weather conditions can change quickly along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but as long as you come prepared, outdoor adventures can be enjoyed through all four seasons. Come in summer to cool off in the lakes or in winter to cross-country ski, snowmobile, and snowshoe. If you have to choose, opt for a fall visit—temperatures are ideal for hiking and camping, and the blazing fall foliage is a leaf-peeper’s dream.
Know Before You Go
- Hiawatha National Forest is split into two units, both located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The west zone lies about 50 miles west of Newberry, or about a 50-minute drive away, while the east zone lies about a 30-minute drive east of Newberry.
- Permits are required for some recreation activities at trailheads, picnic areas, and river access sites. Camping reservation fees also apply.
- You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Hiawatha National Forest, and there are several boat launches along the lakefront. Be sure to follow localized rules regarding motorized boats and launch times.
- Dispersed camping is permitted in Hiawatha National Forest, but strict rules apply. Permits are also required for some sites.
- Cell phone and GPS service is patchy throughout the forest.
- There are accessible day-use areas, campsites, and restrooms at Hiawatha National Forest.
Hiawatha National Forest
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Woodlands, wetlands, and waterfalls are just some of the highlights of this sprawling national forest, and with more than 800,000 acres to explore, it’s a good job there are plenty of spots to camp. More than 100 miles of shoreline borders Lake Superior, Huron, and Michigan, affording endless options for boating, swimming, and water sports. Visit the six historic lighthouses, ride the ferry out to the Grand Island to camp by the beachside, then head inland to hike, horseback ride, or mountain bike along hundreds of miles of trails. Did we mention camping? There are a mind-boggling 60 campgrounds to choose from.
Woodlands, wetlands, and waterfalls are just some of the highlights of this sprawling national forest, and with more than 800,000 acres to explore, it’s a good job there are plenty of spots to camp. More than 100 miles of shoreline borders Lake Superior, Huron, and Michigan, affording endless options for boating, swimming, and water sports. Visit the six historic lighthouses, ride the ferry out to the Grand Island to camp by the beachside, then head inland to hike, horseback ride, or mountain bike along hundreds of miles of trails. Did we mention camping? There are a mind-boggling 60 campgrounds to choose from.
Activities in the park
26 campgrounds in Hiawatha National Forest
Got the big city blues? We hear blue lakes and massive trees can cure up any of your ailments, camper. Close to Manistique, Little Bass Lake Campground is an 84 acre lake that is perfect for fishing, boating and swimming. Each site offers a heavily wooded area, giving you the privacy you’re craving. Read more...
Henry David Thoreau would be proud to camp at Big Island Lake Wilderness. This campsite is all about getting down and dirty in the outdoors. Create your own trails hiking, go fishing, and practice your “Leave No Trace” skills. Unleash your inner Grizzly Adams!Read more...
Where can you swim on a beach, hike a 9 mile trail touring gorgeous lakes and enjoy every water activity imaginable? Petes Lake Campground. The land is stacked with hardwood trees giving you a private experience within your camp. If you get lucky, you can secure a site that overlooks the lake. But then again, we think any campsite you snag here is Read more...
Cascade down the rabbit hole folks! Widewaters Campground is every water lover’s dream. Welcome to a land of lakes, waterfalls and rivers—where mushrooms grow wild and abundant and the trout are a-plenty. Enjoy the compact size and quiet nature of these grounds where the sites vary from highly shrubbed to wide open and spaced. Some sites even gran Read more...
The Indian River Campground is a sweet spot for canoeists and peace enthusiasts. The campground is the halfway mark on the Indian River Canoe Trail. Whether you’re just passing through like a stranger in the night or are in it to win it for a week, this land promises a mellow experience. The grounds are located on a bluff that overlooks the vivaci Read more...
Whether you’re ridin’ solo or rolling with up to twenty of your best buds, Colwell Lake Campground has got a little something for everyone. In no time you’ll be dangling your feet from the fishing dock or lacing up your hiking shoes and enjoying a brisk 2 mile hike. These grounds are excellent for swimming and picnic areas are perfect for all ya’l Read more...
McKeever Cabin is a perfect backwoods getaway in any season. In summer, boat right on up to the dock after catching your fish of the day. In winter, cross-country ski to your front door by way of the rugged McKeever Hills trail. The closest town, Munising, is 14 miles away, so you can stock up on lemonade or hot cocoa! Whether you are sipping on t Read more...
Ever wanted to getaway with friends to a log cabin in the middle of the woods? Yeah, us too! If we were to send out the invites and start packin’ up the car with trail mix, we would set our GPS to Tom’s Lake Cabin. All nestled and cozy amongst pine trees, this cabin is just a short walk to a lake where you can swim, canoe and fish to your heart’s Read more...
If you are looking for a spot to blow off some steam and clear your head while also having a great vacation with the family, you need to come to Autrain Lake Campground. The lake vibe is more private than the nearby Lake Superior, so that means plenty of wide-open trails for birding, grills for all of your freshly-caught fish and a nice, sandy bea Read more...
On the south shore of Lake Superior, Bay Furnace Campground is situated amidst an array of waterfalls and forests. Snag a spot with a view of the lake or Furnace Creek and cast a line from the shore or your boat. Visitors are granted access to Grand Island, a 10-minute ferry to a land of hiking, biking and wanderlusting. The rock formations are fa Read more...
Wanna woods it up without the noise? Island Lake Campground is the perfect getaway for your camper, canoe, hiking shoes, no blues and brews. This spot is serene and has light traffic—”off the beaten path” is good news for those trying to lay low for a weekend. There are no motorboats allowed—you motorboatin’ son of a gun—which adds to the mellow m Read more...
Whether you’re staying for a day, a weekend or a week, Camp Seven Lake Campground may be hard to leave. Water-bugs will delight in swimming, boating and fishing on the killer 60-acre lake. Hikers can enjoy Van Winkle Lake loop that leads to the serene lake and boasts a ton of wildlife. Whatcha waiting for? Go get lost outside!Read more...
Small but mighty, Corner Lake Campground is a 100 acre lake that is perfect for a weekend trip. Go for a swim or take your boat out for a spin in the lake. No need to BYOF (bring your own fish) the lake is literally swimming with northern pike, largemouth bass, perch and then some. With only nine camps, the sites are super close to the shore, maki Read more...
After a stay at the Flowing Well Campground, you may just find yourself painting with all of the colors of the wind. Campers rave about the endless wildflowers, the excellent fishing and peaceful canoeing. Come run the not-so-hidden hiking trails of the forest—a whopping 41 miles of serene sights. After a long day of adventure, fire up the grill a Read more...
Looking for that island getaway at 1/10th the price? Cookson Lake Dispersed Campsite features two small islands surrounded by a 35 acre lake, and is the perfect spot to feel like you've really gotten away. Bring a quality camera to snap pics of the beautiful dispersement of wildflowers along the area, and enjoy the freedom of that open camping fie Read more...
Wade in the water at Ewing Point Dispersed Campsite, where the lake is perfect for squishing your toes in the cool, refreshing sand. Swimming should definitely be on the shortlist, as well as catching some pike or bass with that trusty fishing pole of yours. With soft grassy campsites shaded by hemlock and cedar trees, you'll be able to soak up al Read more...
You’re going to fall to your knees when you see the beauty of Juniper Flats Group Campsite. From expansive beaches to fairytale forests, this campsite is host to a variety of glorious wilderness. Hike to the lookout tower, picnic alongside the shore, stargaze at night. The only difficulty you might face planning is having it all fit in the weekend!Read more...
Wanna impress the family? Murray Bay Group Campsite is the sure fire answer. Watch how fast their jaws drop when they catch a glimpse of the sandstone cliffs, deeps forests, and sandy beaches. History buff? Hop a bus for a tour of the culture and history in the area. There are a million different ways to enjoy the area, you’ll have to come back, y Read more...
Camping near a fine walleye fishery may not have ever been on your bucket list, but it should be now. Little Bay de Noc Campground features a boat launch perfect for all your fishing needs. Located on the north end of Lake Michigan and featuring private campsites separated by oak and hemlock, you'll be able to enjoy some serene solitude and take a Read more...
With tall sand dunes and waterfront waves, the wind just adds to Mother Nature's rugged perfection at Lake Michigan Campground. Enjoy the fabulous lake view and keep an eye out for a variety of ducks waddling the shores. Nearby boat and canoe rentals mean you don't have to bring your own. In a spot excellent for tent camping, if you don't enjoy th Read more...
If one lake just isn't good enough for you, why not camp between three? Three Lakes Campground, nestled between a trifecta of waters and shady sugar maple trees, boasts lakefront campsites and that all-encompassing peace of mind you've been searching for. Commune with those red pines and white spruces, because Mother Nature has been waiting for so Read more...
Grab your best bait, because Carp River Campground is the perfect spot for your next fishing trip. Situated in a quiet, rustic area, it's an easy angling spot to nab some steelhead or chinook for dinner. Best of all, the wooded, shaded sites all guarantee you won't be overheating in that sauna-like tent of yours. Read more...
Gird your loins, the water here is cold--though some may just call it refreshing. Bay View Campground boasts some great fishing holes and is known for its miles of sandy beach and fiery sunsets spilling out across Lake Superior. Keep an eye out for the loons (no need to worry, we mean the bird, not the people). Read more...
If you're the forgetful type, no need to fret--Brevoort Lake Campground has a camp store stocked with all those things you didn't remember to pack for your trip. Located about 20 miles west of St. Ignace, you may want to check out their suspended bridges before committing to your lodging. Once you arrive, enjoy the beautiful waterfront sites--we'r Read more...
With relaxing hikes all the way up to Tahquamenon Falls, you can put that Monopoly board away, because Monocle Lake Campground isn't as hoity toity as it really sounds. Located on the aptly named Monocle Lake, you've got direct access the Whitefish Bay National Scenic Byway and plenty of gorgeous campsites along the shores of this picturesque lake Read more...
Nestled along red pine and aspen trees, Soldier Lake Campground is a quiet refuge despite its proximity to the M-28. Get in some historical sight-seeing on the Upper Peninsula, including some nice little artifacts overlooking Monument Lake. With peaceful daytime picnics on the schedule and plenty of waterfront fun, you'll be relaxed and rejuvenate Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Weather conditions can change quickly along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but as long as you come prepared, outdoor adventures can be enjoyed through all four seasons. Come in summer to cool off in the lakes or in winter to cross-country ski, snowmobile, and snowshoe. If you have to choose, opt for a fall visit—temperatures are ideal for hiking and camping, and the blazing fall foliage is a leaf-peeper’s dream.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —