From family-friendly campgrounds to private RV resorts, there are plenty of amazing camping spots in Michigan where you can enjoy the abundant and diverse nature that the state has to offer.
In this article, we’ll share our pick of the top campsites in Michigan state and provide tips on how to get the most out of your experience. Whether you’re hoping for a cozy tent experience, luxurious cabin rental or motorhome getaway, join us as we explore places to go camping in the best Michigan campgrounds 2023!
The list of best Michigan campgrounds to explore includes Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Porcupine Mountains State Park, Huron-Manistee National Forest and Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
The 10 Best Campgrounds in Michigan
Sleeping Bear Dunes photo by Parker McCullough
1 – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Website »
- Address: Northeast shore of Lake Michigan, 160 miles north of Grand Rapids
- Fees: The Platte River Campground is $25 / per night for a campsite with electricity and $20 per night for a dispersed site without electricity.
- Type of Camping: Tents
Sleeping Bear Dunes is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city that provides campers with a peaceful, natural setting complete with towering sand hills, wild Lake Michigan beaches, lush coastal forests, and endless outdoor recreational activity.
The park offers three campgrounds all located within walking distance to Lake Michigan’s beautiful shoreline. These tent and RV campgrounds offer dirt roads for easy access, vault toilets, as well as stunning views of rich nature reserves.
South Manitou Island also has a beach campsite great for camping along this breathtaking lake area. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails while making their way through various habitats such as grassy dunes or marshland filled with wildlife galore!
The Platte River Campground provides lakeside tent pitching sites compared to other areas in the park which are better suited for RV options so everyone’s needs are catered to at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore making it the perfect place for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Pictured Rocks, Michigan photo by Sarah Shull
2- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Website »
- Address: Upper Peninsula of Michigan, between the towns of Munising and Grand Marais.
- Fees: $20 to $40 per night.
- Type of Camping: Backcountry, tent and RV sites across three campgrounds: Little Beaver Lake, Twelvemile Beach, and Hurricane River.
Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination for those seeking breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Its sandstone cliffs rise above crystal blue waters of Lake Superior, providing pristine views and offering miles of hiking trails throughout the park.
Campers have several options to choose from when deciding where to stay within the area—the Hurricane River Campground, Twelvemile Beach Campground, Little Beaver Campground—all offer sites that accommodate campsites for tent camping or RVs.
Campers can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in Lake Superior coves surrounded by dramatic colorful cliffs or embarking on one of many challenging hikes with scenic vistas.
Porcupine Mountains, Michigan photo by Yi Liu
3- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
- Website »
- Address: Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, about 15 miles west of Ontonagon.
- Fees: $15 to $33 per night.
- Type of Camping: Tent, RV, and backcountry camping in three campgrounds: Union Bay, Presque Isle, and Backcountry.
Porcupine Mountains is Michigan’s largest state park and is located in western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Often referred to as “the Porkies”, this park covers over 60,000 acres of old-growth forest with gorgeous vistas and waterfalls.
The area features a unique blend of the natural attractions such as relaxing along the shore of Lake Superior, hiking up steep hillsides, observing abundant wildlife, and enjoying rich flora and fauna. There are endless outdoor activities to explore such as hiking trails in summer or exploring nature by skiing down its slopes during winter season.
Campers can find everything from tent campsites to fully equipped RV resorts, within the area surrounded by beautiful forests and sound of waterfalls from Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which is also nearby.
4 – Huron-Manistee National Forest
- Website »
- Address: Located in the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan.
- Fees: $10 to $20 per night.
- Type of Camping: Tent sites, RV sites, and backcountry sites
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Huron-Manistee National Forest is an nature lover’s dream, offering thousands of campsites and 330 miles of trails. Campers will find much to enjoy in this lush landscape which boasts a variety of wildlife habitats, including rare songbirds.
Visitors can explore through 17 designated campgrounds, or opt for a one-of-a-kind experience at the Nordhouse Dunes. This isolated beach has options for running electricity with expansive vistas overlooking miles of pristine sand dunes surrounded by Lake Michigan shoreline.
Whether visitors prefer winding nature trails or cozy overnight camping experiences alongside breathtaking lake views, they are sure to find something they love about the Huron-Manistee National Forest’s many hiking and camping opportunities!
5 – Tahquamenon Falls State Park
- Website »
- Address: 41382 W. M-123, Paradise, MI 49768
- Fees: $20 to $33 per night.
- Type of Camping: Tent, RV and backcountry sites in three campgrounds: Rivermouth Pines, Lower Falls, and a group camping Area.
Tahquamenon Falls is one of the most popular parks in Michigan and one of the top campgrounds for Upper Peninsula camping. Spanning nearly 50,000 acres and stretching 13-plus miles, visitors have a lot to explore.
The park offers multiple campgrounds with overnight lodging facilities as well as a boat launch, more than 35 miles of trails, and various overlooks to the majestic Upper & Lower Tahquamenon Falls – its main attraction.
Also, being surrounded by forests and rivers has made it perfect for camping all year round. Whether visitors are after backcountry adventures or just soaking up nature’s beauty from one of the two waterfalls; Tahquamenon Falls State Park is ideal for outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, hunting, kayaking, hiking etc., making it a four-season hub of adventure!
6 – Traverse City State Park
- Website »
- Address: 1132 US-31 N, Traverse City, MI 49686
- Fees: $27 to $37 per night.
- Type of Camping: Tent, TV and backcountry camping options, including modern, rustic, and group campsites.
Located in Michigan, Traverse City State Park is a beautiful 47-acre park with 0.25 miles of beach on the Grand Traverse Bay. The campground boasts stunning lakefront views and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
In addition to providing direct access to the Shore Line Trails and Boardman River system, This state park offers wooded tent camping sites as well as full hook up RV sites making it an ideal destination for all types of campers.
Plus, its close proximity to downtown makes it easy for visitors to explore local attractions such as historic lighthouses and art galleries!
Mackinac Island, Michigan photo by Aaron Burden
7 – Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA
- Website »
- Address: 2400 US-23, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
- Fees: $30 to $95 per night.
- Type of Camping: Cabin, Tent, RV
This popular Michigan campground is one of the best places for a nature retreat. The area offers a range of tent sites and amenities for people looking to explore the beauty of Northern Michigan. Located just 2 miles from a sandy beach, visitors can take advantage of free shuttles to island ferries and make use of RV rental and motorhome options onsite.
The KOA location is a modern campground that features WiFi, full bathrooms and showers, and recreational activities such as mini-golf, horseshoe pits, a pool complex with waterslide, volleyball courts and more.
Guests can also find plenty of fun attractions nearby including Mackinaw City’s historic downtown district, Old Market Shopping Square and numerous island ferries offering guests an array of sightseeing opportunities around Lake Huron.
With its convenient location close to waterfront attractions combined with excellent services like standard corporate cancellation policy and full hookup RV camping spaces, it’s no wonder Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA is one popular choice when planning an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Michigan!
8 – Hiawatha National Forest
- Website »
- Address: Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
- Fees: $10 to $20 per night.
- Type of Camping: Backcountry, Tent, and RV camping in developed, dispersed, and group campgrounds.
Located in Michigan, Hiawatha National Forest offers a remarkable opportunity for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike. Blessed with its breathtaking backdrop of three Great Lakes, the forest has a wealth of fun activities to offer.
Bay Furnace campground is especially noted as a ****location for some of the best camping in Michigan. There’s beautiful cabins that provide cozy accommodations for visitors, and stunning natural scenery where you can admire all shades of nature under sun or blue sky! With plenty of opportunities to explore Michigan’s great Outdoors, Hiawatha National Forest promises an unforgettable adventure just waiting to be discovered!
9 – Wilderness State Park
- Website »
- Address: 903 Wilderness Park Drive, Carp Lake, MI 49718
- Fees: $20 to $33 per night.
- Type of Camping: Backcountry, RV and tent sites among modern, rustic, and group campsites.
Located just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City in Michigan, and spanning over 26 miles of shoreline on the beautiful Lake Michigan, Wilderness State Park is a natural mecca and beautiful campground.
The park offers over 250 modern campsites divided into two areas– Lakeshore and Pines – so you can choose between beach camping or roughing it amongst the trees. Each area has its unique charm and natural beauty to offer.
Additionally, there’s an extensive 20-mile trail system running through the park that winds around pristine lakes and breathtaking overlooks. If you’re looking for a rejuvenating backpacking trip, or a secluded and peaceful place, then look no further than Wilderness State Park; it’s renowned for providing a calming atmosphere and is perfect for escaping from day-to-day stresses!
10 – Fisherman’s Island State Park
- Website »
- Address: 16480 Bell’s Bay Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720
- Fees: $20 to $33 per night.
- Type of Camping: Backcountry, RV hookups and tent campsites among modern, rustic, and group camping areas.
Located on the majestic shores of Lake Michigan in western Michigan, Fisherman’s Island State Park is home to rolling dunes covered with maple, birch and aspen trees. The 2,678-acre park features 80 sites for backcountry camping within three rustic campgrounds that provide a serene setting for camping.
Activities such as hiking, fishing and hunting can be enjoyed throughout the year at Fisherman’s Island State Park. With its six miles of beautiful shoreline decorated by sand bars and lighthouses this state park also offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.
During summer months families can take part in a variety of activities such as bird watching or biking while reserving their own personal beach area with breathtaking sunrises and magnificent evening skylines.
Full Hookup RV Campgrounds in Michigan
With a wide variety of RV resorts and campgrounds, there is something for everyone in Michigan.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-cMfRH6k-g
Traverse Bay RV Resort
- Website »
- Address: 5555 M-72 East, Williamsburg, MI 49690
- Fees: $45 to $95 per night.
- Type of Camping: Pull-through and back-in RV sites, Fifth Wheel, Class A & C multi-use RV.
- Amenities: Electric 50 AMP, 30/20/15 AMP, oversized lots with patios, resort-style pool, hot tub, playground, basketball court, restrooms, showers.
Traverse Bay is an adult-focused campground in Michigan, offering premium amenities and luxurious RV sites. The resort boasts immaculate parking and well-maintained sites that are suitable for Class A RVs, Super C RVs, and Fifth Wheelers.
In addition to the exceptional convenience of these features, Traverse Bay also offers pickleball facilities and a pool with recreational activities such as swimming or lounging in the sun.
Located along beautiful Grand Traverse Bay, visitors can enjoy incredible views of sparkling blue waters from their RV campsite. Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience while camping out on your own, or if you prefer to take part in fun activities like pickleball, Traverse Bay is sure to provide an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping
- Website »
- Address: 9730 US-23, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
- Fees: $33 to $70 per night.
- Type of Camping: Lakefront cabin rentals, RV hookup sites, and tent camping.
- Amenities: Camp store, full-size basketball court, heated pool, dog play area, restrooms, Wi-Fi.
Situated on over 200 acres of woods and a mile-long shoreline, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping in Mackinaw City, Michigan is the ultimate camping destination for outdoor adventure. Offering more than 200 full hookup sites with electricity, water, and sewer for RVers looking to stay connected while they’re away from home.
The campground also features 600 campsites in total with plenty of wooded options for those looking to escape into nature. Ideal for group trips and special occasions, there are even cabin and cottage rentals available at Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping with beautiful lakefront views that make it feel like you’re really getting away from it all no matter how long your trip may be.
Petoskey RV Resort
- Website »
- Address: 5505 Charlevoix Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770
- Fees: $50 to $90 per night.
- Type of Camping: RV sites, including pull-through, back-in, and premium RV sites.
- Amenities: Electric 50 AMP, 30/20/15 AMP, billiards, cable TV, Wi-Fi, bathrooms and showers, fitness center, laundry, swimming pool, tennis court.
Petoskey RV Resort, now Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor, is a luxury campground located in Northern Michigan with stunning views of Lake Michigan and easy access to local attractions.
This resort offers spacious RV sites with full hookup services for motorhome owners as well as fully furnished vacation homes for guests seeking extended stays. Guests can enjoy upscale amenities such luscious landscaping, unlimited internet connection, cable television service and pet-friendly facilities.
The resort also provides excellent outdoor activities such us swimming pools, beaches, bike trails and playgrounds which are perfect to entertain the whole family. With its lakefront location and prime nearby amenities including shops, restaurants, breweries and wineries; this destination offers visitors an unforgettable experience in Northern Michigan.
Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort
- Website »
- Address: 4050 Hammond Road East, Traverse City, MI 49686
- Fees: $50 to $85 per night.
- Type of Camping: Rental cabins and cottages, pull-through RV sites, back-in, and premium RV sites.
- Amenities: Camp store, game room, heated pool, horseshoe pits, dog areas, laundry, playground, tennis and volleyball courts.
Located near Traverse City, Michigan, Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With full hookup RV campgrounds that come with dedicated 20/30/50-amp power outlets and fresh water connections, as well as surrounding fencing for guests’ safety and security gates, there’s no shortage of amenities here.
Guests can also rent out alternative accommodations such cabins and yurts if they’re looking to switch things up a bit. And when you’re not busy camping or exploring the great outdoors yourself? There are plenty of nearby attractions to explore too!
Try some local golfing courses found in the area, grab a bite at one of many restaurant spots nearby or browse through some shops near shopping centers like Grandview Village Shopping Centres located close by – all within easy access from your campsite location at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort! Plus, don’t forget about Mackinac Island (just feel free to take the ferry over) or casinos across Traverse Bay – offering something special around every corner!
Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park
- Website »
- Address: 5514 E Airport Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858
- Fees: There are fees for camping at Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park, and they vary depending on the type of site and time of year. The fees range from $35 to $70 per night.
- Type of Camping: back-in, pull-through and premium RV hookup sites.
- Amenities: Horseshoe pits, laundry, playground, tennis and volleyball courts, private bathhouse, pool, sauna, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats available for rent.
Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park offers 67 RV lots for travelers seeking to fully immerse themselves into the great outdoors. Every lot includes full hookups with water, sewer and electricity as well as concrete pads for RVs, fire pits for campfires and picnic tables for outdoor dining.
Conveniently located on 42 acres of lakefront property, this resort also has plenty of activities such as boating on the lake or fishing and swimming opportunities available – making it one of the top-rated camping spots in northern Michigan!
Enjoy facilities like a general store offering essentials items, laundry rooms that are perfect after those long days spent outside or take advantage of their free Wi-Fi connection so you can stay connected while away from home.
Tips for Camping in Michigan
From figuring out the best time of year for camping, to making reservations and getting familiar with activities, make sure you are prepared before you start your Michigan adventure!
Best time for Northern Michigan Camping
Northern Michigan is a great destination for outdoor adventurers. From fishing and kayaking in the turquoise lakes to hiking through lush evergreen forests, campers can experience an unforgettable adventure here.
The best month to camp in this area is during the summer and early fall months, when days are longer and temperatures are more comfortable – usually between May and September.
Late May, June, late August, and September offer the most favorable conditions for RV camping with mild daytime temperatures ranging from 75–85°F (23–29°C). Campers should also consider seasonal activities such as picking apples or berries in the fall, or snowshoeing on fresh powdery snow trails in the winter.
Making reservations
When planning a camping trip in Michigan, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance. This is especially important during peak camping season when popular campgrounds can fill up quickly.
Reservation systems vary from park to park – state parks, private campground, and even some national forests offer online reservations or may require calling ahead. Many of these campsites have minimum stay requirements such as two nights minimum so it’s important to double check the terms prior to reserving your spot.
Cancellation policies also vary so it’s advisable to understand them beforehand in order not miss out on a potential refund should you need one. By booking your campsite in advance and utilizing any convenient methods offered by the parks themselves you will be well prepared for a hassle-free camping trip and ready for the ultimate outdoor getaway!
Seasonal camping considerations
When deciding what month to camp in Michigan, make sure to keep in mind seasonal conditions and the types of activities that you’re planning. Summer months tend to be ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, biking, hiking or just lounging about at the beach.
However, summer temperatures can be hot — especially during mid-July when average highs reach over 80°F. Spring and fall offer milder weather with cooler days (spring) and warmer nights (fall).
In wintertime, Michigan drops down to some very cold temperatures, but also provides stunning scenery for snowshoeing or winter camping trips like Dog Sledding adventures north of Marquette through Sugarloaf Mountain trails.
Backcountry and wilderness camping
Michigan offers some of the most unique camping in the Midwest, especially for those interested in backcountry and wilderness camping. From exploring the majestic waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park to remote areas found within Huron-Manistee National Forest, there are numerous areas available that offer rustic and secluded campgrounds perfect for a primitive experience.
Visitors can also take advantage of plentiful hiking trails throughout these natural spaces while taking in all its pristine beauty. If you would like assistance planning your backcountry or wilderness trip in Michigan, a guides are available to help make sure your adventure goes as smoothly as possible with tips from experts on what to pack, how to get there, regulations or restrictions that may be applicable in certain parks or area etc., providing plenty of resources to plan an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Conclusion
Michigan offers excellent camping and an abundance of outdoor activities and scenic camping sites for visitors to explore. From Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, to Huron-Manistee National Forest, and Wilderness State Park for tent camping. And Traverse Bay RV Resort, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping and Timber Ridge Resort for RV camping, there are plenty of amazing places to explore.
In conclusion, it’s easy for both experienced campers statewide or anyone looking for a weekend getaway outdoors to find an unforgettable camping options in Michigan, also known as The Great Lake State.
Related Posts:
