The best camping in Indian Lake State Park, MI

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Discover Indian Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.  

The best camping in Indian Lake State Park, MI

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
There is a clearing in between the wooded area and the beach that has a firepit and plenty of room for a tent.

4. Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

98%
(69)
6.2mi from Indian Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI
Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
Cabin/Campers on Lake

5. Cabin/Campers on Lake

100%
(110)
15mi from Indian Lake State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Rapid River, MI
Learn more about this land: Cabin on lake with no public access. Camper/RV with large deck on same lake approximately 1200 feet away. Another camper in grassy clearing within the forest, approximately 600 feet away from lake. Owner's home is out of sight and sound 1/4 mile away.  Pasture and forest property borders 2500 feet of private lake front.  Property also borders the Hiawatha National Forest.  Great pike fishing on shallow lake with access to 10' jon boats with oars and single seat kayaks.  Life vests available. Cabin is one open room with bunk beds that sleep 4 plus a full size futon. Cooking and dish water is provided by hanging 7 gallon jug over kitchen sinks. No indoor toilets, outhouse available at all three sites. Gas cooking stove and wood burning stove/oven for heat and cooking. Battery powered electric lights. Wood burning interior stove and sauna at cabin. Campers have no interior heat. Water, box of firewood, pots and pans, and utensils provided. Bring food, ice, and drinking water. Bring charcoal and lighter fluid if you want to use small grills outside. Dogs are welcome just not on beds or futon :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
The view at sunset :’-)

6. Weidenhamer Lodge

95%
(47)
28mi from Indian Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gould City, MI
Beautiful spot on Lake Milakokia (1,956 acres) featuring walleye, perch, pike, and suckers with the most amazing sunrises as well as sunsets. Tahquamenon Falls, Kitchitikipi, Pictured Rocks Lakeshore, and the Mackinac Bridge all within an hours drive. Very quiet property. Pets welcomed but must be on a leash and attended at all times. Bars, restaurants, and dispensaries near by. Please note: This is not a campground. There are not designated sites. There are 4 areas on the property to camp. Two are within two feet from the beach, while the remaining two are about 50’ from the beach but have full views of the lake. We have approximately 400’ of lake frontage. These sites are in my yard. Please contact me if you have any questions prior to booking. Aggressive campers will asked to leave. No refunds given. This is a safe space. No refunds for cancellations 24 hours b4 check in.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Vagabond Resort & Campground

8. Vagabond Resort & Campground

95%
(20)
30mi from Indian Lake State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid River, MI
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

10. Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

95%
(19)
35mi from Indian Lake State Park · 1 site · RV · Munising, MI
Single full hookup for a camper close to Lake Superior. We have 50/30/20 electric, softened iron and odor free perfect water, septic, WiFi, and can accommodate a very large rig, lots of parking available. All graveled. At the end of a dead end paved road, so lots of privacy. Only 3 mile drive to Lake Superior. A mile the way the crow flys to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There is only 1 site, so you have the area to yourself. Pellet grill, tables, and chairs are available for your use. It would make a great base camp for spending time in the central upper peninsula. We purchased the property 2 years ago, and put a had it cleared we just got the building done and are adding in grass and other things, so I may be around putting in some work on the property, this wouldn't be anywhere near where you would be parked. Leashed dog friendly. **Pack it in, Pack it out**
Pets
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night
Superior Times Resort & Campground

13. Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%
(447)
40mi from Indian Lake State Park · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Au Train, MI
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Serene sites on 3+ Acres

15. Serene sites on 3+ Acres

94%
(17)
41mi from Indian Lake State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Millan, MI
Welcome to McMillan’s Winter Wonderland Escape! Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s “Winter Wonderland,” our 3+ acre retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and tranquility. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, this little slice of nature has something for everyone. We offer 3 spacious, private tent sites that can accommodate whatever your heart desires — from small cozy setups to larger group hangouts. Half of the property is *heavily wooded* for that deep forest feel, while the other half is wide open and well-maintained, giving you plenty of options for sun or shade, depending on your mood. Each site comes equipped with a firepit for all your campfire stories, s’mores, and starry nights. Parking? No problem! There's plenty of room for your vehicle(s), so you won’t have to worry about squeezing into a tight spot. Need a little more comfort? Water and electric are available upon request for an additional charge, to keep your trip as easy-breezy as possible. Also have a boat available during summer months for you fisherman as there are about 5 lakes within 10 miles all good for fishing. Plus the legendary Manistique river.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$9
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Indian Lake State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Indian Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

98%
(69)
6.2mi from Indian Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Manistique, MI
Wake up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan, just steps from your tent or camper. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, this off-grid hideaway is perfect for stargazing by the fire, paddling out in the kayak, or simply unplugging from daily life. New for 2025: enjoy a hand-built, wood-fired barrel sauna — the perfect way to warm up after a swim or unwind under the stars. The site includes a firepit, cedar grove camp circle, and a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic, back-to-nature experience. Tent, car, or small RV/camper welcome (note: on-site camper is locked). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), close to Fayette State Historic Park, and within day-trip distance of Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. Recognized as a Best Hipcamp in Michigan finalist, Surf Camp is equally suited for family adventures, writing or meditation retreats, or simply those chasing the authentic U.P. experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night

Cabin/Campers on Lake

100%
(110)
15mi from Indian Lake State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Rapid River, MI
Learn more about this land: Cabin on lake with no public access. Camper/RV with large deck on same lake approximately 1200 feet away. Another camper in grassy clearing within the forest, approximately 600 feet away from lake. Owner's home is out of sight and sound 1/4 mile away.  Pasture and forest property borders 2500 feet of private lake front.  Property also borders the Hiawatha National Forest.  Great pike fishing on shallow lake with access to 10' jon boats with oars and single seat kayaks.  Life vests available. Cabin is one open room with bunk beds that sleep 4 plus a full size futon. Cooking and dish water is provided by hanging 7 gallon jug over kitchen sinks. No indoor toilets, outhouse available at all three sites. Gas cooking stove and wood burning stove/oven for heat and cooking. Battery powered electric lights. Wood burning interior stove and sauna at cabin. Campers have no interior heat. Water, box of firewood, pots and pans, and utensils provided. Bring food, ice, and drinking water. Bring charcoal and lighter fluid if you want to use small grills outside. Dogs are welcome just not on beds or futon :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

Weidenhamer Lodge

95%
(47)
28mi from Indian Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gould City, MI
Beautiful spot on Lake Milakokia (1,956 acres) featuring walleye, perch, pike, and suckers with the most amazing sunrises as well as sunsets. Tahquamenon Falls, Kitchitikipi, Pictured Rocks Lakeshore, and the Mackinac Bridge all within an hours drive. Very quiet property. Pets welcomed but must be on a leash and attended at all times. Bars, restaurants, and dispensaries near by. Please note: This is not a campground. There are not designated sites. There are 4 areas on the property to camp. Two are within two feet from the beach, while the remaining two are about 50’ from the beach but have full views of the lake. We have approximately 400’ of lake frontage. These sites are in my yard. Please contact me if you have any questions prior to booking. Aggressive campers will asked to leave. No refunds given. This is a safe space. No refunds for cancellations 24 hours b4 check in.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Vagabond Resort & Campground

95%
(20)
30mi from Indian Lake State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid River, MI
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night

Full RV Hookup by Lake Superior

95%
(19)
35mi from Indian Lake State Park · 1 site · RV · Munising, MI
Single full hookup for a camper close to Lake Superior. We have 50/30/20 electric, softened iron and odor free perfect water, septic, WiFi, and can accommodate a very large rig, lots of parking available. All graveled. At the end of a dead end paved road, so lots of privacy. Only 3 mile drive to Lake Superior. A mile the way the crow flys to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There is only 1 site, so you have the area to yourself. Pellet grill, tables, and chairs are available for your use. It would make a great base camp for spending time in the central upper peninsula. We purchased the property 2 years ago, and put a had it cleared we just got the building done and are adding in grass and other things, so I may be around putting in some work on the property, this wouldn't be anywhere near where you would be parked. Leashed dog friendly. **Pack it in, Pack it out**
Pets
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night

Superior Times Resort & Campground

94%
(447)
40mi from Indian Lake State Park · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Au Train, MI
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Other options near Indian Lake State Park

The best camping in Indian Lake State Park, MI guide

Overview

About

A visit to Indian Lake State Park on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula not only drops you on 8,400 acres of beautiful waterfront and wooded goodness, but also provides easy access to Hiawatha National Forest, Lake Superior State Forest and the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. These destinations are lousy with hunting, fishing, birdwatching, berry picking, and skiing. Nearby Manistique River and Thompson Creek are brimming with salmon and steelhead, and the area in general is just about as good as it gets for outdoor recreation. Upper Peninsula regulars know it, Ernest Hemingway knew it, and you can see for yourself! The park offers a 2-mile trail for skiing or hiking, picnicking, beaches, a boat launch and modern camping. So what exactly are you waiting for?

When to go

The ideal time to visit Indian Lake State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the park is fully accessible. However, for those seeking solitude, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer a quieter experience. Winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall potentially limiting access to certain areas.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for access.
  • Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before your visit to stay safe.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
  • Accessibility may vary across the park, so inquire ahead if you have specific needs.
  • For any inquiries or assistance, the park's contact information is readily available.
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