The best camping in Michigan

·

When it comes to natural attractions, Michigan holds all the aces. This landlocked state has more state parks and state forests than any other, miles of coastline, and more than 10,000 lakes—which means you’ll never be more than six miles from the water. Some of the best camping is found on the beaches and islands of the Great Lakes, so plan a summer getaway to swim, fish, and kayak, or a fall camping trip to admire Michigan’s spectacular foliage. Winter is best suited for RV camping, with snow blanketing much of the state from November through March.

97% (15.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Bear Tree Homestead

1. Bear Tree Homestead

100%
(423)
3 sites · Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI
Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The cabins have access to the pond, use of the canoe, a private fire pit, picnic table, charcoal grill and privy. Inside the cabins is a functional kitchen with dishes, flatware, pots and pans, so you can prepare meals onsite. Cabins also have table and chairs as well soft chairs/sofa sitting area, bookshelves with a variety of books, board games and puzzles, and covered porch in case of rain. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, collect fresh eggs (when they are laying), lay in the hammock, listen to the sounds of nature and the barnyard or take an adventure hike, bike ride, snowshoe, or ski right out the door.  One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. The property is on the North Country Trail, just over a Noquemanon Trail Network Forestville trailhead where access to year round recreation awaits. Hogback Mountain is just up the trail from the cabin with spectacular views of forest, mountains and lake superior. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$95
 / night
Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley

6. Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley

81 sites · RVs · New Hudson, MI
Discover the charm of Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley, a unique family-oriented RV campground that has been a beloved destination in southeast Michigan since 1971. This campground stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse accommodations, catering to everyone from those with pop-up trailers to families with large RVs seeking a weekend getaway, extended stay, or even a full season of fun. Nestled among four picturesque spring-fed lakes, guests can relish stunning waterfront views, excellent fishing opportunities, and enjoyable beach activities. Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley is dedicated to creating a vibrant family environment, offering a variety of planned events and activities such as DJ dances, bingo nights, crafts, and Euchre games, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. When you’re ready to explore beyond the campground, the Metro Detroit area is rich with attractions. Visit the renowned Detroit Zoo or take a leisurely stroll through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum. Book your stay at Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley and experience the perfect blend of “Up-North” tranquility with the convenience of a suburban setting, making it an ideal retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

7. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%
(221)
1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI
"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$135
 / night
"Elysium Heritage Farm"

8. "Elysium Heritage Farm"

100%
(156)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pinconning, MI
"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property. The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay. It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit. By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Pine Creek , ( Clean Water to filter )

15. Pine Creek⛺️💫Private Hilltop Camp

94%
(95)
3 sites · Tents · Lake Isabella, MI
Learn more about this land:Privet campsite secluded along the Pine Creek high banks. (Designated)This primitive campsite is the only site on our property so there will not be other Campers; giving you peace and solitude.  River access close to campsite. ( River trail ) Small Fire Pit. Trails for Wildlife/Bird watching,  (Please stay on the designated trails)Sunsets and Stargazing. (Woods Loop Trail )Very private on a seldom traveled dirt road.Chairs and Table, Bucket for water, and Shovel for fire safety included .No power, No Water, No Toilet, No Trash.  Leave no Trace. Our Property is home to many wildlife,  ( I am just starting to establish this location as a Campsite.  The trails are in progress so explore with caution,  working on making the campsite even more enjoyable. History- "This is an old party spot from the 70s"Thanks for Checking out the Listing.  =) 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Campit Outdoor Resort

17. Campit Outdoor Resort

99%
(100)
49 sites · Lodging · Fennville, MI
❄️ Welcome to Campit Outdoor Resort — Winter Boondocking Season ❄️ A vibrant 21+ LGBTQIA+ campground and community where everyone belongs — now open for a cozier kind of adventure! What’s Available This Winter: RV Boondocking Sites – Electric hookups available (no on-site water). Resort Cabins (Heated + Electric) – Sleep 4 comfortably. Cozy Cabins & Rustic Tent Sites – Stay simple and warm. Heated Clubhouse – Includes hot showers, bathrooms, and space to relax. Select Special Event Weekends – Enjoy winter gatherings, social events, and community fun. Monthly RV Rates – Message us directly to set up a long-term winter stay. Important Notes: Campit remains 21+ and proudly LGBTQIA+ inclusive year-round. The store and pool are closed for the season, but bathhouses, trails, and the clubhouse remain open. Membership ($15/year) is required at check-in — your passport to Campit community fun! Come experience winter the Campit way — cozy, connected, and completely you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
McCormick Artisans Woods/River

18. McCormick Artisans Woods/River

100%
(74)
3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jonesville, MI
We bought this property in 2012 and have built several buildings and forged paths throughout the 32 acres. Our road is part of the North Country Trail, a footpath stretching over 4,600 miles from Middlebury in central Vermont to Lake Sakakawea State Park in central North Dakota. While tearing down the existing house, we constructed two bedrooms in the pole barn for a quick living space. Once settled in the pole barn, we a built a small log cabin with already felled timbers from the local woods, except for the box frame which was purchased from the local Amish. Prior to building our permanent log cabin home, this small cabin was our camp site and is now being rented to people that want to relax and enjoy the outdoors. In the middle of the woods, we created a campground to be enjoyed by hikers and on the North side of our property is a tree line between two fields that is a great small camper/tent camping spot.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

20. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%
(148)
2 sites · Lodging · Beaverton, MI
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest. We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night

When it comes to natural attractions, Michigan holds all the aces. This landlocked state has more state parks and state forests than any other, miles of coastline, and more than 10,000 lakes—which means you’ll never be more than six miles from the water. Some of the best camping is found on the beaches and islands of the Great Lakes, so plan a summer getaway to swim, fish, and kayak, or a fall camping trip to admire Michigan’s spectacular foliage. Winter is best suited for RV camping, with snow blanketing much of the state from November through March.

97% (15.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Bear Tree Homestead

1. Bear Tree Homestead

100%
(423)
3 sites · Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI
Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The cabins have access to the pond, use of the canoe, a private fire pit, picnic table, charcoal grill and privy. Inside the cabins is a functional kitchen with dishes, flatware, pots and pans, so you can prepare meals onsite. Cabins also have table and chairs as well soft chairs/sofa sitting area, bookshelves with a variety of books, board games and puzzles, and covered porch in case of rain. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, collect fresh eggs (when they are laying), lay in the hammock, listen to the sounds of nature and the barnyard or take an adventure hike, bike ride, snowshoe, or ski right out the door.  One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. The property is on the North Country Trail, just over a Noquemanon Trail Network Forestville trailhead where access to year round recreation awaits. Hogback Mountain is just up the trail from the cabin with spectacular views of forest, mountains and lake superior. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$95
 / night
Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley

6. Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley

81 sites · RVs · New Hudson, MI
Discover the charm of Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley, a unique family-oriented RV campground that has been a beloved destination in southeast Michigan since 1971. This campground stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse accommodations, catering to everyone from those with pop-up trailers to families with large RVs seeking a weekend getaway, extended stay, or even a full season of fun. Nestled among four picturesque spring-fed lakes, guests can relish stunning waterfront views, excellent fishing opportunities, and enjoyable beach activities. Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley is dedicated to creating a vibrant family environment, offering a variety of planned events and activities such as DJ dances, bingo nights, crafts, and Euchre games, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. When you’re ready to explore beyond the campground, the Metro Detroit area is rich with attractions. Visit the renowned Detroit Zoo or take a leisurely stroll through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum. Book your stay at Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley and experience the perfect blend of “Up-North” tranquility with the convenience of a suburban setting, making it an ideal retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

7. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%
(221)
1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI
"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$135
 / night
"Elysium Heritage Farm"

8. "Elysium Heritage Farm"

100%
(156)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pinconning, MI
"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property. The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay. It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit. By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Pine Creek , ( Clean Water to filter )

15. Pine Creek⛺️💫Private Hilltop Camp

94%
(95)
3 sites · Tents · Lake Isabella, MI
Learn more about this land:Privet campsite secluded along the Pine Creek high banks. (Designated)This primitive campsite is the only site on our property so there will not be other Campers; giving you peace and solitude.  River access close to campsite. ( River trail ) Small Fire Pit. Trails for Wildlife/Bird watching,  (Please stay on the designated trails)Sunsets and Stargazing. (Woods Loop Trail )Very private on a seldom traveled dirt road.Chairs and Table, Bucket for water, and Shovel for fire safety included .No power, No Water, No Toilet, No Trash.  Leave no Trace. Our Property is home to many wildlife,  ( I am just starting to establish this location as a Campsite.  The trails are in progress so explore with caution,  working on making the campsite even more enjoyable. History- "This is an old party spot from the 70s"Thanks for Checking out the Listing.  =) 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Campit Outdoor Resort

17. Campit Outdoor Resort

99%
(100)
49 sites · Lodging · Fennville, MI
❄️ Welcome to Campit Outdoor Resort — Winter Boondocking Season ❄️ A vibrant 21+ LGBTQIA+ campground and community where everyone belongs — now open for a cozier kind of adventure! What’s Available This Winter: RV Boondocking Sites – Electric hookups available (no on-site water). Resort Cabins (Heated + Electric) – Sleep 4 comfortably. Cozy Cabins & Rustic Tent Sites – Stay simple and warm. Heated Clubhouse – Includes hot showers, bathrooms, and space to relax. Select Special Event Weekends – Enjoy winter gatherings, social events, and community fun. Monthly RV Rates – Message us directly to set up a long-term winter stay. Important Notes: Campit remains 21+ and proudly LGBTQIA+ inclusive year-round. The store and pool are closed for the season, but bathhouses, trails, and the clubhouse remain open. Membership ($15/year) is required at check-in — your passport to Campit community fun! Come experience winter the Campit way — cozy, connected, and completely you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
McCormick Artisans Woods/River

18. McCormick Artisans Woods/River

100%
(74)
3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jonesville, MI
We bought this property in 2012 and have built several buildings and forged paths throughout the 32 acres. Our road is part of the North Country Trail, a footpath stretching over 4,600 miles from Middlebury in central Vermont to Lake Sakakawea State Park in central North Dakota. While tearing down the existing house, we constructed two bedrooms in the pole barn for a quick living space. Once settled in the pole barn, we a built a small log cabin with already felled timbers from the local woods, except for the box frame which was purchased from the local Amish. Prior to building our permanent log cabin home, this small cabin was our camp site and is now being rented to people that want to relax and enjoy the outdoors. In the middle of the woods, we created a campground to be enjoyed by hikers and on the North side of our property is a tree line between two fields that is a great small camper/tent camping spot.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

20. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%
(148)
2 sites · Lodging · Beaverton, MI
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest. We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night

Camper favorites in Michigan

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Michigan

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

The best camping in Michigan guide

Where to go

​Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula is Michigan’s wild toupée, with swathes of old-growth forests, sandy beaches, and inland lakes stretching along the southern shore of Lake Superior. This is the spot to escape the crowds, whether pitching your tent by the sand dunes in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, parking your RV by a waterfall in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, or yurt camping in the Porcupine Mountains. For the ultimate camping experience, the Hiawatha National Forest has some 60 campsites to choose from.

Northern Lower Peninsula

Bordered by Lake Michigan to the West and Lake Huron to the east, the northern Lower Peninsula has the highest concentration of Michigan state parks. Miles of mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking trails await in the Huron National Forest, where you can choose from modern campgrounds or backcountry camping. Along the coast, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see, Wilderness State Park is a dark sky reserve, and Ludington State Park Beach is a family favorite.

Southwest Michigan

Grand Rapids is the gateway to Michigan’s southwest, where the shore of Lake Michigan provides plenty of options for a summer camping trip. Lakefront cities such as South Haven, Benton Harbor, and Holland have sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, and seafront campgrounds. Forget tent camping in the wilderness—RV sites come equipped with full hookups, playgrounds, and watercraft rentals.

Southeast Michigan

Michigan's "Thumb" juts out along the west shore of Lake Huron, where Sleeper State Park and Port Crescent State Park are the big draws for campers. Below this, the west coast is ideal for a road trip, peppered with shipwreck dive sites, secluded beaches, and golf courses. South of Detroit and Lake St. Clair, Sterling State Park is the only state park on the shore of Lake Erie, with a mix of RV and tent sites by the beach.

Top regions in and near Michigan