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Camping on Lake Superior

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One of the biggest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Superior offers some of the best camping in the United States. Clear, cold waters lap at rocky beaches backed by dense forests. Charming small towns welcome visitors. In the evening, the stars and aurora borealis light up the light pollution-free sky.

The best part? The coastline is remote and relatively unpopulated, so you can enjoy the lake in peace. It stretches from the Canada border and across northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, creating an endless selection of campsites.

If you’re starting in Minnesota, drive from Duluth and up the North Shore toward Canada. The snowmelt brings a series of waterfalls to life in April and May. At Split Rock State Park, you can camp near a historic lighthouse and bike the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. Near Grand Marais, watch surfers navigate enormous waves in the November gales.

If islands are your thing, Lake Superior has you covered. Glide over crystal-clear waters and under tree-covered cliffs in the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin. In the winter, you can walk across the frozen lake to sparkling ice caves. Or, hop a seaplane or boat to the remote Isle Royale National Park. Here, a stunning trail network takes you over rocky ridges to backcountry campsites.

For some serious small-town friendliness, head for Copper Harbor in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. From your Lake Superior campsite, you’re moments from a killer network of mountain biking and hiking trails. In the fall, the changing leaves rival the East Coast for grandeur (bonus: no crowds). Winter brings cross-country skiing and snowboarding—nearby Mount Bohemia has the highest vertical drop in the Midwest.

Summer is the best time for camping on Lake Superior. Take advantage of the sunny days to paddle Pictured Rocks or see the raging Tahquamenon Falls in Michigan. Fall and spring bring crisp temperatures and low crowd levels.

The intense Lake Superior winters aren’t for the faint of heart. If you have a warm sleeping bag or an RV, however, the cold is worthwhile. Spend your days cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing. Then, pop into a local brewery to have a pint with the hardy locals.

96% (724) 962 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Superior

Andy’s Wolf Traxx

1. Andy’s Wolf Traxx

98%
(272)
Newberry, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This property is heavily wooded with pine and maple trees. Wild raspberry and blueberries are found to be plentiful in season. Formerly wooded by lumberjacks during the early 1900’s, this area is rich with history and sights to see. Located between Seney National Wildlife Refugee and Grand Mairas on Lake Superior.
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Shivering Timbers Family Campground

2. Shivering Timbers Family Campground

100%
(57)
Paradise, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Shivering Timbers Family Campground, the closest private camp to Tahquamenon Falls (3 miles) and 15 minutes from Two Hearted River Trailhead and Crisp Point lighthouse access. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, access to water spigot, and portable toilets. We offer 4 primitive tent/van/small RVs to park on spacious sites in private spots surrounded by state land. Our boys sell firewood, delivered to your site! We can be your headquarters for all attractions that will make your stay enjoyable. Located only 5 minutes from Lower Falls State Park, 10 minutes from Upper Falls, we have a variety of trails, river access and lakes to get you going on a nice hike or a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Rustic it may be but the use of quiet generators are allowed and we are pet friendly. We have a community field with games and a fire pit to use. Self-contained trailers are welcome (no hookups yet). Steps from snowmobile trails and near Lake Superior (10 miles), Star gazing, rock hunting or bird watching are all ideal for family fun or quiet escapes. Showers and RV amenities are available at the state park (3 miles). Check back for new sites and book now for a much needed U.P. adventure!
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Explore the U.P. from here!

3. Explore the U.P. from here!

96%
(414)
Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Best Hipcamp in Michigan – 5x Finalist! Experience total privacy and rustic charm at our spacious, secluded campsites—perfect for tents, campers, or our unique levitating tents (already set up—just bring your sleeping bag and pillow!). Each site features a private entrance and is so spread out, you’ll likely never see another camper. No crowds. No noise. Just nature. Ideally located near top Upper Peninsula attractions—Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls, and Kitch-iti-kipi—with a convenience store just a short walk away, as is the public boat launch onto East Lake. Bonus: Mention your stay for a discounted shower at the Pleasant Moose Hotel in Newberry!
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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.
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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.
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Little Chili Farm

6. Little Chili Farm

Two Harbors, MN · 1 site
Welcome to Little Chili Farm, a peaceful 35-acre homestead nestled in the forests of northern Minnesota near the shores of Lake Superior. Surrounded by nature, this quiet retreat offers the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and experience the slower pace of farm life. Spend your days exploring the property, relaxing by the campfire, or enjoying the fresh country air. Wander through the gardens, meet the friendly farm animals, and take in the beauty of the surrounding woods. At night, settle in beneath a sky full of stars and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. Conveniently located near Lake Superior, scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and other outdoor attractions, Little Chili Farm makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the region or simply escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend getaway or an authentic farm stay, you'll find a warm welcome and a relaxing countryside experience.
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Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

7. Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

92%
(114)
South Range, WI · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.
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Superior Times Resort & Campground

8. Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%
(457)
Au Train, MI · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
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Northern Oasis Camping

9. Northern Oasis Camping

97%
(182)
Negaunee, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We are 7 miles from downtown Marquette, 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! There is guest internet but its patchy in camping area-better closer to the house and large firepit area There is a charcoal grill near communal firepit area. We are near 2 river basins(McClure Basin and Dead River Basin) for fishing, swimming and boating ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a couple more private wooded sites. There are at least two areas for small campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks.. There is a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. We have nice fire wood available on site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is a "port-a-john" on site- extra TP is kept in red shed hanging on nail in a bag. Please let us know if this needs attention.
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Finland State Forest

10. Finland State Forest

95%
(11)
State forest in Minnesota · 82 sites
Discover the natural allure of Finland State Forest.
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Tettegouche State Park

11. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
State park in Minnesota · 45 sites
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
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Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

12. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(29)
State park in Michigan · 170 sites
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park

13. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

100%
(19)
State park in Michigan · 276 sites
Discover the majestic Tahquamenon Falls amid lush Michigan wilderness.
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Heritage Hills

14. Heritage Hills

100%
(380)
Ishpeming, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!
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Balsam Ridge Retreat

15. Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%
(1013)
Duluth, MN · 7 sites
Hello friends! Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'. We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth. Our home was once an abandoned house that sat for years until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale. We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here! Just down the road is a trout stream and beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired its horses and closed its doors to make room for new homes, but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun. This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.
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High Swamp Camp (Camping/Retreats)

16. High Swamp Camp (Camping/Retreats)

98%
(188)
Seney, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
(Full Camp Retreats...Text 231-590-0418) 🌲Private Separated Campsites🌲 🌲Quiet🌲Dark🌲WI-FI🌲Laundry🌲 🌲World Famous Hot Shower🌲 🌲Direct Access Trail 88🌲 🌲Tour Planning🌲 🌲2.5 RV's Allowed Per Site🌲 Very Close To The Pictured Rocks! Flush-T & Shower! Electric & Water Sites. Waste Caddy Dump Station. Miles Of Hiking Trails. Close to the Fox River Trout Stream. Close to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. 1.5 hours to the Tahquamenon Falls. 1.5 hours to the Big Springs. 2 hours to Mackinaw Island. 2 hours to the Soo Locks & Canada.
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Keweenaw Homestead Camping

17. Keweenaw Homestead Camping

98%
(175)
Calumet, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Our property provides a mixture of fields, forest, pond, and creek with some views of Lake Superior and of Isle Royale. We are conveniently located between Calumet and McLain State Park as well as adjacent the Swedetown Recreation Area (our property touches Swedetown's boundary and the M203 trailhead is just down the road). Using us as a basecamp, everything the Keweenaw has to offer is easily within reach. Important details regarding our sites:  Sites 1 - 3 are for tenting groups. Among these sites 1 and 3 will accommodate multiple tents while site 2 only has room for one.  There is a short walk to access our tent sites. Site 4 is available for multiple tents, vehicle camping, and rv's.
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Rustic Farm Getaway

18. Rustic Farm Getaway

98%
(30)
Calumet, MI · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our 40-acre property—a beautiful blend of woods and farm. Whether you're looking to explore nature or just relax, there's something here for everyone. We have two sites for your various camping styles. Our Apple Tree site accommodates tents only and our Lupine site accommodates tents, camper vans, pop up campers and toy haulers. Wander through a mix of short forest trails and open space, or enjoy a stroll through our gardens (while our campsite is pet friendly, we do ask that you keep your pets out of the garden areas). Wildlife is abundant—keep an eye out for deer, birds, and more. Our pond is a perfect spot to unwind as you listen to frogs and watch turtles and ducks. Wild apple trees and thimbleberries dot the property and you're welcome to pick from them when they are in season. A nearby trail connects directly to town and larger trail systems, making it easy to explore the area on foot or by bike/ATV. We’re just up the road from Hungarian Falls, a beautiful nature preserve with scenic hiking trails, swimming spots, and cascading waterfalls. The historic town of Calumet is only 7 minutes away, home to charming shops, dining, and part of the Keweenaw National Historical Park. Local attractions include: Swedetown Recreation Area – mountain biking and hiking trails Calumet Lions Park – disc golf, horseshoes, and nature trails Calumet Golf Course – only 2 minutes away from us Calumet Township Waterworks Park – volleyball, basketball, picnic areas, and Lake Superior access Heading south, you’ll find more adventures within 30 minutes, including Nara Nature Park, Michigan Tech Trails, Maasto Hiihto Trails, and the Portage Canal. For bigger excursions, Mt. Bohemia is just 40 minutes north, and Copper Harbor—with epic views and even more trails—is a bit further beyond. Although we’re close to several towns and outdoor destinations, our property is peaceful and private. It’s the perfect basecamp for your Keweenaw adventure.
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Gentle Breeze Camping

19. Gentle Breeze Camping

97%
(107)
Toivola, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp ground closed till spring This is a dark sky private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access.   There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from  other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839  Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site  Campers responsible for garbage removal  There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE
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The Superior Glade

20. The Superior Glade

100%
(1)
South Range, WI · 1 site
Escape to your own private Northwoods retreat on 5 peaceful acres tucked away at the end of a quiet dead-end road near Parkland, Wisconsin. This spacious campsite features a large grassy meadow surrounded by trees, offering plenty of room for multiple tents, yard games, family gatherings, and relaxing under the open sky. Enjoy evenings around the fire ring, meals at the picnic table, and the warm glow of solar string lights as the sun sets through the trees. A short wooded path leads to a clean outhouse, providing rustic convenience while maintaining the feeling of being immersed in nature. Parking is located nearby for easy unloading and setup. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, this campsite makes an excellent basecamp for exploring some of Northern Wisconsin's most beautiful destinations. Nearby Attractions Approximately 10 minutes to Amnicon Falls State Park, featuring scenic waterfalls, historic covered bridges, hiking trails, and swimming opportunities. Approximately 15 minutes to Pattison State Park, home to Big Manitou Falls, Wisconsin's tallest waterfall at 165 feet. Approximately 20 minutes to Wisconsin Point, one of the longest freshwater sandbars in the world, offering sandy beaches, swimming, sunsets, and views of Lake Superior. Easy access to the Duluth-Superior area for dining, shopping, breweries, Canal Park, and Lake Superior attractions. Close to hiking, fishing, kayaking, ATV routes, snowmobile trails, and countless Northwoods adventures. After a day of exploring waterfalls, beaches, and forests, return to your private campsite to unwind around the campfire and enjoy the stars. Site Features ✓ Large private grassy meadow campsite ✓ Room for multiple tents ✓ Fire ring ✓ Firewood available ✓ Picnic table ✓ Solar string lights ✓ Rustic outhouse ✓ Nearby parking ✓ Family-friendly ✓ Quiet dead-end road location ✓ Excellent stargazing opportunities ✓ Convenient basecamp for North Shore and Superior-area adventures
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

You can camp on Lake Superior in Minnesota at several campgrounds and state parks. Some popular options include:

  • Split Rock Lighthouse State Park - Offers cart-in campsites with beautiful views of Lake Superior.
  • Tettegouche State Park - Provides a mix of drive-in, walk-in, and cart-in campsites, as well as a few camper cabins.
  • Temperance River State Park - Features drive-in and walk-in campsites near the shores of Lake Superior.

Keep in mind that for public parks and campgrounds, you cannot make reservations on Hipcamp, but you can learn about the available options and facilities. You can find more camping options on Lake Superior in Minnesota by visiting Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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