Best Camping in and near Rock Island State Park

100% (6 reviews)

A serene island that gets you away from crowds. Sail in or take the ferry!

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Community favorites near Rock Island State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Rock Island State Park

This past summer my college roommate and I spent a few days hammock camping on Rock Island. We backpacked to the far side of the island and enjoyed viewing the Perseid meteor shower along with the bright and beautiful Milky Way. I highly recommend this Park!

100%

(6)

Rock Island Campground

112 sites · RVs, Tents In Rock Island State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Rock Island State Park

97%

(57)

Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Manistique, MI

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.

88%

(4)

Indian Lake RV Resort & Campground

99 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Manistique, MI

Welcome to Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground, your home away from home in Manistique, Michigan. Nestled in the heart of nature, our campground offers spacious RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as cozy tent sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience. We're situated on the shores of beautiful Indian Lake just a short drive from the Manistique area. Located directly on Michigan’s third largest inland lake, Indian Lake RV Resort provides the opportunity for plenty of swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing during your stay with us. With nearby attractions such as Kitch-iti-kipi, Indian Lake Golf Course, Stoney Point Golf Course, The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Fayette State Park, TWO Great Lakes (Michigan and Superior), and more within driving distance, our park provides you and your family the perfect spot to spend your vacation and see all the U.P. has to offer. Come relax and unwind with us at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground! Hiking For those looking for an easy stroll, the Dufour Creek Trail is a perfect place to go. There is little to no elevation gain on the trail. The path is on the shorter side, measuring in at 1.4 miles. The Dufour Creek Trail is generally well-kept, though there can be a few muddy sections when it rains. The path leads through a forest of hemlocks and cedars, fully wooded yet easy to follow. You may also get a glimpse of the native wildlife along the way. Swimming Perhaps the biggest feature of the entire park is the designated swimming beach. The beach remains very popular with guests, due in part to the clean, sandy shoreline as well as the vast, cordoned-off swimming area filled with shallower waters. There are restrooms and showers on site, which also have a reputation for being clean and well-kept. Fishing Indian Lake in Michigan features large swaths of underwater vegetation, making this area a great place for fishing. This is especially true if you are looking for panfish, as you can expect to see plenty of species like bluegill, crappie, and the like. However, there are plenty of other kinds of fish available, including Walleye, Perch, Brown trout, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass, and Northern pike. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to cast your line, whether on the shore or out on the water. Boating Getting out onto the lake can be a peaceful experience. You won’t feel cramped, even when sharing the lake with others as there is plenty of room for everyone. With clear water beneath you and great weather, boating at Indian Lake makes for a great pastime.The lake is fairly shallow, with 90% of the area being less than 15 ft deep. The deepest point is 18 ft. Owners of larger boats should keep this in mind when traversing the lake. If you are looking for water access for paddle sports such as kayaking, there is a carry-on access located at Indian Lake State Park at the Western Shore Unit. Local Eats: One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of a new place is to dive into the local foodie scene and Manistique will not disappoint. Here are a few of the best restaurants, pubs, and local eats in downtown Manistique. - Clyde’s Drive-in - This local dive was straight out of the Movie Grease. Clyde’s has been a resident favorite for years. When you stop by, try some unique staples like the Bison Burger, a Big C Burger with Cheese, or a Pasty with gravy. - Dairy Kream - This local ice cream shop is the perfect pitstop during your vacation to the waterfront district. Dairy Kream has a delectable menu of ice cream including 24 soft-serve flavors, shakes, malts, splits, flurries, and sundaes for every type of ice cream fanatic. - Tap 21 - This American pub in Mansitique serves delicious and indulgent bar favorites like pizza, appetizers, wraps, burgers, garlic cheese curds, and bruschetta. Be sure to pair it with a cold and frothy, local beer. Local Activities: - Check out the Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse - Walk the Manistique boardwalk - Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse - Kitch iti Kipi (The Big Spring) - Seney National Wildlife Refuge - Hiawatha National Forest - Fayette Historic State Park - Schoolcraft County Historical Park

100%

(26)

Forest Overlooking River

7 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Gladstone, MI

Learn more about this land:Beautiful backwoods birch forest with campfire spots on the edge of Rapid River. We’re within the hour of pictured Rocks National Park and many other beautiful places to visit...We’re only 2.5 miles off of main hwy, US 41 , We have kayaks, four wheelers and hiking /biking roads and trails available for guest..

100%

(5)

Kamp Karma

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Gladstone, MI

Truly a sweet little spot where the quiet is only interrupted by the hooting of the Barred Owl, the call of the Whippoorwill, and the howls of the wolves. (And the occasional ATVs) For those caravanning with family or friends, my add-on site can be made available for the same price per night, but please contact me regarding rig size if interested. Learn more about this land: Located in the Upper Peninsula's Hiawatha Forest. Dark skies and quiet nights. Private area which is gated, gravel pad, picnic table with umbrella, pitcher pump for water, and fire pit, where you can safely leave your rig for day trips. No electric or water hook-ups. Firewood is available. Plenty of blowdown kindling laying around, help yourselves. You are staying in the woods where bugs can be persistent at times depending on the weather. Please be prepared for this; it’s something I have no control over. Many activities here in the UP! Check out exploringthenorth.com to see all the possibilities! This is a quiet spot to get away from it all. No shooting and absolutely no fireworks allowed within the Hiawatha Forest!

100%

(1)

Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites

10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Bark River, MI

Rustic campsites at the trailhead of Forest Island Route trail. There are no services at this facility at this time. No power and no water. Possible water fill from our hose but not close to the campsites. Working on future ammenities. Right on the edge of the Bark River. Ride to the trails right from your site and leave trailers on site.

Booked 4 times

UP Glamping Getaway LLC

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Stephenson, MI

Indulge in a unique glamping experience at any of our four distinct sites, scattered across two picturesque campgrounds in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! Choose from a geodesic dome, a cozy yurt, a charming bungalow tent, or a stargazing tent. Each site ensures complete privacy for your enjoyment. We welcome both pets and children, making our accommodations perfect for families and animal companions alike. The geodesic dome is available year-round, providing an all-season escape, while our tent sites are open from May 1st through October 31st. Experience the beauty of Michigan's UP in style and comfort with our range of glamping options. $25 pet fee, must add in extras during checkout!

The best camping near Rock Island State Park guide

Overview

About

Getting there is half the fun! You need to take two ferries, but the visit to this island is well worth it. You can take your car as far as Washington Island. But you'll have to leave it at the ferry port there.

Next step? Take passenger-only ferry that makes you feel as if you're entering another world. Check out the tour of the beautifully restored lighthouse. You can hike the entire island in 2 or 3 hours (it's just 6 miles).

Another option? Sail to the island on your own boat. You can moor overnight (though dock space is limited and first-come, first-served). Watch out for storms and reefs! Whichever way you travel, you'll enjoy the pristine beach and the sense of calm and isolation.

Campsites are available on the south end of the island, near the ferry port. But make sure you bring everything you need since there's no store on the island. You can stock up on Washington Island before you get on the ferry, but that's your last chance. All campsites are reservable.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the unique, rustic campsites are a sought-after retreat.
Check for cancellations regularly, especially close to your desired travel date.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Explore nearby camping options if Rock Island is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Rock Island State Park is between Memorial Day weekend and Columbus Day when the ferry service is operational. Summer offers warm weather perfect for beach activities and hiking. Winters can be harsh, with limited access and services, making it less ideal for visits.

Know before you go

Rock Island is open from 6am to 11pm year-round, offering ample time for exploration.
No vehicle admission sticker is required, making your visit hassle-free.
Prepare for a primitive experience, as the island allows no vehicles and offers rustic accommodations.
Ensure you check ferry schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
Volunteering opportunities are available for those looking to contribute to the park's preservation.