Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe

Camping in the Upper Peninsula

·

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.

98% (1.8K) 879 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Upper Peninsula

Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

1. Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

98%
(188)
Manistique, MI · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Beautiful campground located on the Westshore of Indian Lake in Manistique, MI near Big Springs ( Kitch-iti-kipi), Hiawatha National Forest and many ATV/Snowmobile trails.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Andy’s Wolf Traxx

2. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Shivering Timbers Family Campground

3. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Isle Royale National Park

4. Isle Royale National Park

93%
(35)
National park in Michigan · 168 sites
Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Hiawatha National Forest

5. 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
Johnswood Off-Grid Cabins on Drummond Island

6. Johnswood Off-Grid Cabins on Drummond Island

Drummond Island, MI · 3 sites
Henry’s Cabin, White Birch Cabin and Nick's Place are three thoughtfully designed tiny homes located within the Johnswood Off-Grid Cabins compound. If you’re looking for something more comfortable than a campsite, these cabins offer a fun, creative way to experience the outdoors. Henry’s Cabin and Nick's Place sleep up to 4 guests, while White Birch Cabin accommodates up to 6. The cabins share a central fire pit area—perfect for gathering with friends and family. Traveling with a larger group? The site can also accommodate one RV (no water or electricity)—just ask for details. Each cabin is equipped with the essentials for a comfortable off-grid stay, including its own Port-o-John, charcoal grill, front porch seating, a small indoor table with chairs, battery-operated lanterns, bedding, and a propane wall heater. You’ll want to bring your own water, towels, coolers, camp chairs, charcoal, and any additional gear needed for cooking and washing up. Tucked just off Johnswood Road, the cabins are ideally located for outdoor adventure. Dickenson Lake is nearby for fishing and kayaking, and hundreds of acres of State land are right at your doorstep for hunting and exploring. You’re also less than half a mile from Kreetan/Glen Cove Road, connecting you to over 60 miles of ATV and ORV trails. And when it’s time to cool off, Big Shoal Beach—a local favorite for swimming and kayaking—is just down the road. Henry's Cabin sleeps 4. - One twin bunk bed (sleeps 2) - Futon that folds into a full bed (sleeps 2) White Birch Cabin sleeps 6. - One twin bunk bed (sleeps 2) - One twin bunk bed (sleeps 2) -Futon that makes a full bed (sleeps 2) Nick's Place Sleeps 4: - Twin bunk bed (sleeps 2) - Futon that folds into a full bed (sleeps 2) Each cabin has the following: Porta-John toilet Propane wall heater Charcoal grill No electricity No water Shared fire pit Up to 2 dogs welcome: $15 per dog One-time cleaning fee: $60 each We are required to collect the following taxes: 6% Michigan Sales & Use Tax, 5% Local Room Assessment, and 1% UP Tourism Assessment. Tax and assessment fees will be applied to the total rent, cleaning fee, and pet fee(s). All cancelations including Direct Bookings, HipCamp, Vrbo, and Airbnb are subject to an 8% credit card processing fee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Explore the U.P. from here!

7. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

10. 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
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

11. 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
Tahquamenon Falls State Park

12. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

100%
(19)
State park in Michigan · 276 sites
Discover the majestic Tahquamenon Falls amid lush Michigan wilderness.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brimley State Park

13. Brimley State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Michigan · 237 sites
Discover Brimley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Presque Isle Campground

14. Presque Isle Campground

93%
(41)
Presque Isle, WI · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Heritage Hills

15. 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Just Show Up Camping

16. Just Show Up Camping

89%
(265)
Saint Ignace, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The Grand Retreat, featuring Just Show Up Camping and Captain’s Quarters, is located right on US2 for easy access to several great locations, including Mackinac Island, Mackinac City, Tahquemenon Falls, Pictured Rocks, Grand Marais, and the Soo Locks. Our campsites are all “man-made” and put you into ancient glacial created forest floors with old-growth white pines. We have a bath
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
High Swamp Camp (Camping/Retreats)

17. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Tiki Hut Yurts

18. Tiki Hut Yurts

98%
(48)
St. Ignace, MI · 11 sites
These yurts are located in a separate loop of Tiki RV Park. Each is dispersed about 100-300' apart and tucked into it's own set of trees, offering their own fire pit along with a picnic table, 2 Adirondack chairs, as well as a complimentary fire starter & bundle of wood. Each yurt comes equipped with a pour-over coffee service (includes a hot water kettle, individual serve coffee, creamer & cups). Our yurts always have fresh sheets, a blanket, a comforter, as well as four pillows. A heater and fan are accessible at all times for guests who may need them. Extra linens always available upon request! **We are happy to welcome your furry friends! Please note that we allow only one pet per site. A non-refundable pet fee of $50 will apply when booking with a pet. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to accommodating you and your pet!**
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Keweenaw Homestead Camping

19. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rustic Farm Getaway

20. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Upper 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

The northernmost section of the Upper Peninsula 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. 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. 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.

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.

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. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Upper Peninsula on Hipcamp.

Experienced cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowsport enthusiasts may love the empty off-season on the Upper Peninsula, when waters are ice cold, beaches are closed, and trails may be difficult to access.

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

Popular Upper Peninsula trips

Top regions near Upper Peninsula