The best camping in Rock Island State Park, WI
93% (7)
A serene island that gets you away from crowds. Sail in or take the ferry!
93% (7)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rock Island State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Rock Island State Park
Rock Island Campground
1. Rock Island Campground
93%
(7)
To truly get away from it all, you’ve got to head out to Rock Island State Park in the massive Lake Michigan
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Top-rated campsites near Rock Island State Park
CAMP Door County
1. CAMP Door County
100%
(16)
19mi from Rock Island State Park · 86 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
CAMP Door County is the newest luxury camping playground on the Door Peninsula. Located just outside of Sister Bay (home of the famous “Fall Fest” each October), our campground offers 20 full hookup seasonal sites and 56 spacious sites equipped with full hookups, including 50/30/20 amp power, water, and sewer services. In addition, we have 20 Primitive Camping sites and 4 Scandinavian Cottages. Each site features a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for gatherings under the stars. Experience the beauty of nature of your Door County surroundings while enjoying our modern facilities. Amenities include 24/7 Heated Showers, 24/7 Restrooms, 24/7 Laundry, Pine Provisions (grocery & retail store), The Pine Lounge & Bar, Swedish Sauna, Dog Park, on-site Mountain Bike Trails, Children's Playground, Propane Filling Station, Bike Rentals and Bike Cleaning Station.
This campground is designed to be your "Basecamp" while exploring Door County while providing ultimate comfort, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Elmcrest Acres
2. Elmcrest Acres
100%
(45)
31mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Elmcrest Acres, located in an area known to locals as Devil's Creek. Originally this was a dairy farm started by my parents in the 40's. My dad had been selling Christmas trees since 1945 and when the milking got to be too much for my mom we converted it to a Christmas tree farm in 1979. Dave & I built our home here and continue the Christmas tree tradition as well as raise Haflinger horses, The sheep started as 4H projects for our kids in the 90's and now my daughter and I have a small flock. One thing seems to lead to another here and we opened the farm to visitors. We have a large space that can be used for family reunions, birthday parties etc and we offer a variety of classes and special events. (This will be the building where you can get water, use the bathroom and take emergency shelter if needed.) We also purchased my parents home from my siblings and rent it as a farm stay vacation spot. We really enjoy the variety of people we've hosted in one way or another, and love to share what our lives are like with others.While I love to travel myself, there is no where else I could call home! I love being able to enjoy all four seasons and knowing 5 cars on my road is a busy day. I hope you find the same sense of 'home' here that I do.Learn more about this land:Plenty of space to pitch your tent overlooking the Christmas tree field and a gorgeous view of the hardwood forests in the distance. Located just a half mile from our farm you will have complete privacy, but are welcome to come visit the animals. Site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Our 120 acres are located about 10 miles off the highway in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. There are state hiking and ATV trails within a couple of miles if you want to venture further than our property. Bring a camera as you will have plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. This campsite is remote and in a rural area, you never have to see another person if you choose not too. This is your best defense against Covid-19! (Picnic table is disinfected between each set of guests.)
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Campfires
Potable water
Vagabond Resort & Campground
3. Vagabond Resort & Campground
95%
(20)
32mi from Rock Island State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cabin/Campers on Lake
4. Cabin/Campers on Lake
100%
(110)
35mi from Rock Island State Park · 4 sites
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. RV 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 :)
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Showers
Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna
5. Lake Michigan Surf Camp + Sauna
98%
(76)
39mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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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Toilets
Campfires
River View Get Away
6. River View Get Away
99%
(50)
39mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
River Getaway
7. River Getaway
96%
(34)
44mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site
Beautiful cabin retreat located right on the Menominee River
Learn more about this land:
Secluded getaway adventure on the Menominee River Wallace, MI
Guests will be able to enjoy fishing, swimming, you can also bring your own kayaks or rafts for water fun. There is a picnic table as well as a pit for bonfires, a small dock to fish off.
Easy access, large mowed yard.
Short drive away (5 minutes) the ever so popular Deyoung Family Zoo, get up close and personal with several of the zoo animals.
Nearest store (Gary's IGA) about 10 minute drive
Nearest restaurant Heritage Inn or Little Nugget Food & Spirits 10 minute drive
Garage not available/locked
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Forest Overlooking River
8. Forest Overlooking River
99%
(43)
44mi from Rock Island State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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..
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground
9. Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground
98%
(170)
44mi from Rock Island State Park · 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
South River Getaway
10. South River Getaway
93%
(7)
24mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site
Edit this property description on Hipcamp with proper grammar and punctuation:
Enjoy your time in this beautiful wooded piece of land in the gorgeous woods of the Garden Peninsula. Located on private land with miles of ancient ice age escarpment cliffs and ledges. Only one mile from historic Fayette State Park ghost town and Sherrys Port family bar and restaurant .
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Wagner’s Whispering Cedars
11. Wagner’s Whispering Cedars
100%
(9)
25mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Completely private and separated space at the front of our personal homestead of 30 acres. Lush, green, quiet, and less than 7 miles from Escanaba and 7 miles from Bark River. Short, private driveway, off of a very rural residential road. We provide a picnic table and fire ring. May have wildlife wander through: bunnies, coyote, deer, porcupine, turkey, bear, etc. and maybe our cat :) Dogs welcome on a leash, as we have fowl and goats and animals of our own in the back of the property. Ford River boat launch 3 miles. 25 minutes north of Cedar River.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites
12. Old Cedar Lodge & Campsites
90%
(5)
26mi from Rock Island State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Maple Shores On Green Bay
13. Maple Shores On Green Bay
33mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site
Arrive down a welcoming tree-lined drive to this peaceful one-acre retreat on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. At its center sits a charming tiny home with a large picture window facing Green Bay, showcasing stunning sunrises across the water.
A private sandy beach stretches along the shoreline—perfect for relaxing or launching a kayak. Near the water, a cozy screen house provides another comfortable spot to enjoy the scenery, while a fire pit creates a natural gathering place for evenings outdoors. Surrounded by trees yet open to the lake, it’s an ideal place for a private retreat or to reconnect with nature—a peaceful blend of northern woods and waterfront living.
Property is open seasonally June 3-Oct 31.
Tiny home comes equipped with AC and heat.
Firewood provided!
Owners live on adjoining property.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
HTR Door County
14. HTR Door County
87%
(19)
34mi from Rock Island State Park · 119 sites · RVs, Lodging
HTR Door County, formerly Egg Harbor Campground & RV Resort, is an ideal base camp for your family’s next camping and glamping adventure. We are conveniently located on a fun-filled peninsula between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, close to five state parks, adjacent to The Orchards of Egg Harbor Golf Course, and near plenty of local shops and restaurants.
We offer vacation rentals – unique cabins and luxury cottages – and full hookup RV sites to accommodate everything from pop-up campers and travel trailers all the way up to big rigs (the largest class-A motorhomes on the market). Whether looking for a weekend adventure or booking a seasonal stay, HTR Door County is the ideal vacation destination!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Alderwood Crossing
15. Alderwood Crossing
34mi from Rock Island State Park · 5 sites
Alderwood Crossing is a private 40-acre retreat tucked into the woods of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, just outside the small community of Wilson. Five glamping cottages are arranged across the property, each named for a constellation and each with its own private site nestled into the tree line.
Inside each cottage you’ll find a queen bed with bedding, a sofa, coffee pot, solar-powered lighting and a charging station for all of your devices, and twinkle lights that make the evenings feel like something. Outside is your own fire ring with firewood included, a picnic table, two chairs, a private outdoor restroom, and a private solar camp shower — all yours for the duration of your stay. Each site is framed by six-foot privacy screens arranged in a V-shape, so your cottage looks out into the woods and the world feels like it belongs to you.
When you’re ready to explore, everything the western U.P. has to offer is right outside the door. Island Resort and Casino is three miles away with dining, gaming, and two of the U.P.’s top golf courses. Lake Michigan is less than twenty minutes away. ATV and UTV trails run right through the area. Escanaba is sixteen miles northeast with restaurants, shopping, and anything else you might need.
Pets
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Showers
Pinecone Beach
16. Pinecone Beach
37mi from Rock Island State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This property features 135 feet of beautiful Lake Michigan frontage, offering a peaceful setting for a relaxing outdoor getaway.
Enjoy kayaking, swimming, beachcombing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the lake. At night, the clear skies provide incredible stargazing and unforgettable sunsets over the water.
This is a dispersed camping experience with plenty of space for tents and RVs. Please note that there are no on-site facilities, so guests must bring their own toilet and camping essentials.
If you’re looking for a quiet, off-grid escape surrounded by nature, this lakeside property is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Indian Lake RV Resort & Campground
17. Indian Lake RV Resort & Campground
89%
(32)
43mi from Rock Island State Park · 57 sites · Tents, RVs
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
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Toilets
Full hookups
Campfire Shores
18. Campfire Shores
48mi from Rock Island State Park · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled within the Upper Peninsula’s unique mosaic of sand dunes, lush forests, and Great Lakes shorelines, Campfire Shores is a special place in the making. We’re restoring this remarkable property into a regional destination—one that we hope will become the backdrop for your favorite family memories and outdoor adventures.
As the proud owners of Campfire Shores, we’re excited to share our passion for nature with you. Here, you’ll find diverse hiking trails, convenient access and accommodations for ATV and snowmobile trail riding, modern amenities, and fun gathering spaces that foster connection and community.
We welcome all types of campers—from those who enjoy roughing it at primitive sites tucked in the woods, to seasoned RV travelers who bring their home away from home, to glampers seeking a one-of-a-kind stay in our eco-domes under the stars.
We hope you’ll make Campfire Shores your basecamp as you explore the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Located just outside of charming Manistique, we offer the perfect place to relax, connect, and create lasting memories.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Northern Lights & Firefly Nights
19. Northern Lights & Firefly Nights
49mi from Rock Island State Park · 1 site
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 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)
Pets
Washington Island Campground
20. Washington Island Campground
6.5mi from Rock Island State Park
Discover the charm of camping on an island, where nature meets adventure at our unique campground, opening for the 2025 season on May 16th! We offer a variety of accommodations to suit every camper's needs, including rustic tent campsites, electric and water sites, a large group site, horse-friendly areas, and a selection of cabins. Choose from eight pet-friendly rustic cabins, two deluxe cabins, one premium cabin, or a travel trailer rental. Please note that all cabins and trailer rentals require campers to bring their own linens, towels, and cooking/eating utensils.
At the heart of our campground lies a vibrant recreational area featuring a large swimming pond with a sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Families can enjoy the playground, challenge each other at the sand volleyball court, or have fun at the mini-golf course. Our main lodge boasts newly remodeled bathrooms with toilets and showers, along with a common area that includes a pool table, game room, and coin laundry facility for your convenience. Firewood and ice are available for purchase, and we also provide a free dump station for campers.
Whether you're looking to relax by the water, engage in outdoor activities, or explore nearby attractions, our campground offers the perfect family getaway.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Aubrey
5 days ago
Tent
Great site and awesome to have quick access to showers, nice restrooms, and even a little shop. On the verge of glamping!
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Dong
5 days ago
Tent
With kids
First time camping with our young family while exploring Door County, and it couldn’t have been a better experience. John and Phil were incredibly helpful in getting us settled into our primitive campsite and made us feel welcome right away.
The campsite itself was spacious enough for our family of four, with plenty of room to comfortably set up an 8-person tent. It was level, private, and nicely surrounded by trees and brush, which made it feel peaceful and secluded. The only minor downside was the lack of picnic tables at the primitive sites.
My wife was especially impressed by how clean the bathrooms and shower facilities were throughout our stay. Overall, this campground made for an excellent first family camping experience, and we’re already looking forward to coming back.
See moreH
Holly
5 days ago
Tent
The property has primitive camping, rv spots and cabins. They have a building with showers, toilets, food shop, gift shop and a bar open from 4-9. The primitive spots have a couple of port a potties and carts to take your things to the site from your car. Each site has a fire ring. There is a playground for kids and a bike trail. John, Marcia and Phil were great!
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C
Cory & Stephanie
1 week ago
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
From the moment we booked, Kathy was an outstanding host — incredibly responsive, clear with directions, and genuinely invested in making sure we had everything we needed. She even pointed us toward the Piers Gorge Scenic Hiking Trail, which was absolutely worth it (highly recommend!).
The site itself blew us away. It's spacious with plenty of room to spread out, and everything was thoughtfully set up. The firewood was right there and ready to go — such a convenient touch. The porta potty was honestly the nicest I've ever seen, complete with a little night light for those late-night trips. And the twinkle lights? They gave the whole space the most magical, cozy ambiance.
We spent hours relaxing in the hammocks, gathered around the fire, and listening to the frogs at night — pure bliss. The peaceful river nearby has us dreaming about coming back to kayak and explore even more of the property.
This place is a hidden gem, and Kathy is the kind of host who makes it truly special. We are already planning our next trip back. Thank you, Kathy, for sharing your beautiful property and giving us a sister trip we will treasure forever. 🌿🔥✨
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D
Dylan
2 weeks ago
Tent
This spot was very nice and quiet! Access was very easy, the beach is beautiful, and the sauna was so nice! We went in early May so the sauna was a huge bonus. The trees shelter from the wind very well, but we had a bigger tent which was harder to fit in the tree area but still very doable. There were some houses close nearby but despite that it felt very private. Amazing spot overall and I would totally come back!
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B
Brad
3 weeks ago
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great site, very private. It is tick season so be ready for that. Otherwise a great spot!
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J
Jennifer
May 2026
Tent
With pets
Looks just like the photos. So beautiful, quiet, and peaceful. Sauna was the cherry on the top. Highly recommend!
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J
Joshua
April 2026
Tent
I had such an incredible experience at Surf Camp—it truly was a delightfully enjoyable three-day adventure. From the stunning beach views to the many campfires each night and the relaxing sauna, everything came together to create the ultimate camping experience. It’s honestly hard to capture just how special this place is in a single review.
What really stood out, too, was the connection between camper and host. Communication was clear, thoughtful, and consistent from start to finish. They were attentive, quick to answer any questions, and genuinely receptive, which made the whole stay feel easy and welcoming.
I would absolutely recommend Surf Camp to anyone who has the chance to visit the Manistique area. It’s a place that sticks with you long after you leave.
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C
Camryn
April 2026
18 ft truck camper
With pets
STUNNING PROPERTY!!!
Communication with Eli was prompt and efficient. All directions were very clear and thorough.
Road was plowed until the house just after the Surf Camp. The site itself was not plowed, but we were able to tuck the truck under some trees with little snow to get off the road.
Directions with sauna were very clear, thoroughly enjoyed the wood fired sauna! We used about 1.5 bundles to get it heated up in cold and snowy conditions.
We did not need the privy.
Property felt very private in the winter. Pups had the beach to themselves.
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A
Alexander
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Elli's Lazy Days Resort & Campground
The cabin was in amazing condition and everything was well organized! Fantastic place.
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s
siddharth
November 2025
Tent
campsite is really good
its very peaceful and remote, table, chairs all were there and host is also welcoming
definitely I would recommend this to everyone
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L
Luke
October 2025
Tent
Kathy was amazing! We decided to take a chance and tent camp in late October. The site is very peaceful and she built firewood up for our first fire upon arrival. We left many things behind on the days we traveled to fish or hike with no worries. The river and woods are peaceful. Appreciate the water she leaves to clean hands and cookware! Look forward to returning and camping next year. Thank you Kathy and Randy!
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Roxy
October 2025
Tent
Such a beautiful, peaceful spot right on Lake Michigan! Tucked into a quiet cedar grove on the Garden Peninsula, the site offers a rare combination of off-grid tranquillity and direct access to the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The new wood-fired sauna was an absolute highlight, the perfect way to warm up after a swim! Waking up to the sound of waves, relaxing by the fire at night, and a true off-grid vibe. The fire-pit area in the trees provides a cosy, sheltered setting for an evening under the stars. There has been a lot of care put into this place.
If you’re looking for a beach-camp experience that feels more intimate and upgraded (thanks to the sauna!) rather than a busy campground, this spot is highly recommended. Ideal for folks who want to unplug, still have beach/morning water access, and enjoy a little extra luxury in the wild.
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Anna
October 2025
Tent
It was a beautiful, peaceful spot and the composting toilet was very clean.
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L
Lorraine
October 2025
24 ft travel trailer
Absolutely beautiful spot to camp by a peaceful river. We had a great 2 night stay on our own. Pauline is so welcoming and warm. And good eggs!
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T
Tetyana
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Beautiful property, gracious host! I will definitely be staying here again if I am in the area.
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Matt
October 2025
16 ft car
Great campspot right on lake Michigan has two different fire pits including on one the beach🏖️ pretty secluded down a couple miles of dirt roads definitely recommend checking it out 👍
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Ellen
October 2025
22 ft Class B
We had a lovely night stay at Elli’s! Very peaceful.
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Frances
October 2025
Tent
With pets
This spot was incredible!! Eli was an amazing host and the view and amenities made it such an amazing trip. 10/10 would go back to surf camp!
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D
Douglas
October 2025
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
Excellent stopover, inexpensive
Showers were clean and owners were nice
See moreRock Island State Park camping 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.
Reviews for Rock Island State Park Campgrounds
93%
7 ratings · 0 reviews
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