The best camping in Rock Island State Park, WI

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Top-rated campgrounds

Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna

98%
(69)
38mi from Rock Island 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.
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from 
$70
 / night

Vagabond Resort & Campground

95%
(20)
32mi from Rock Island 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
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from 
$28
 / night

Northern Lights & Firefly Nights

49mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site · RV · Rock, MI
This is a fun, solar-lit RV "Glamping" site for up to a 30 ft self-contained w/toilet camper; site is located in Rock, MI. Max 4 campers. The RV site makes a great homebase if you are adventure seeking in the central Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Rock is 34 miles from Escanaba and 46 miles from Marquette. Both cities offer great restaurants, unique breweries, art galleries, hiking, biking, and kayaking rivers and lakes. The site is approx. 5 mi away from access to the Escanaba River for kayaking/tubing/trout fishing (you need your own equipment). Ride your utv right from the site taking the county roads/2 rut roads out to the river for a nice ride or have fun playing in the mud right after the rain:) Play at your own risk! There is a convenience store for gas, beer, wine, food and the necessities located 4 miles away; along with a local restaurant/bar. The RV site offers a unique experience with all of its solar lighting to glamp up your camping experience in the woods. Take the time to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoor firefly dining, take a nature walk, a nap in a hammock, do outdoor yoga, listen to the birds and/or maybe you'll get a glimpse of the "Northern Lights". Rest, relax and rejuvenate. Wifi is sketchy. A pet is allowed on a leash; other dog is on property. Pickup dog waste. Outdoor Amenities: An outdoor kitchen fully stocked w/cooking gear: tri-pod grilling, utensils, pots and pans. Small table-top herb garden to add to your cooking experience. Outdoor Dining by solar lighting; "Firefly Night" Dining. Firepit and sitting/chair area (with the add-on option of magical, colorful flame packets and s’more kits w/Yooper bars from Sayklly’s Candies). Firewood available for purchase on-site. Hammock pod w/2 hammocks. Layering is essential for comfort outdoors. Campfire must be kept in fire ring. Do not leave fire unattended. Can forage for firewood on the ground; NO cutting/breaking off of trees allowed. Fire ring should not be used as a garbage pit. Trash receptacle can be found in the site. Fire ring is cleaned after each visitor; a $20 fee will be charged for glass, cans or nails found in the fire ring. NO firearms, air guns, bb guns, sling shots, or fireworks. NO parties or events. 911 or St Francis Hospital (906)786-5707(Escanaba)
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from 
$25
 / night

River View Get Away

99%
(49)
39mi from Rock Island State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Powers, MI
This property was once a old lumber Mill with a river running through it. We purchased it and are restoring the buildings and turning most into storage units . Learn more about this land: We have a rustic campsite along the side of a river with a Limestone base where you would camp on ! Places for tent camping as well. We have wildlife , including deer, turtles , Geese, otters and ducks !  You may see wildlife from time to time. We have 2 picnic tables and 2 fire pits and firewood bundles for sale on site $5 a bundle. Site is private and Relaxing . You can park where you want.   Take a snooze in the Hammocks.  Our camp site is 3 miles from a grocery store , restaurants and Gas stations . 9 miles from the Island resort and Casino. Bring your Kayak's and check out the river ! Come enjoy pristine beautiful Upper Peninsula.
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from 
$65
 / night

Other options near Rock Island State Park

The best camping in Rock Island State Park, WI 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.
93%
7 ratings · 0 reviews