Best Camping in Michigan
Camping in Michigan is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the state. There are many different camping areas and campgrounds to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot in the woods or a campground with all the amenities, Michigan has something for everyone.
The state boasts over 11,000 campsites in parks and forests. There are also many private campgrounds that offer a variety of fun activities. If you want to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet, there are plenty of remote camping spots in Michigan as well. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best camping spots in the state. So, pack up your tent and get ready for an adventure!
Campgrounds in Michigan by City
1. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Cost: $16 to $25+ per night
Location: 41382 West M-123, Paradise, MI 49768
Phone: (906) 492-3415
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a 46,179-acre park along the Tahquamenon river with waterfalls, hiking trails, camping, and more. This is a great spot for camping in Michigan. It’s one of the largest state parks in the Upper Peninsula with over 13 miles of hiking trails and two waterfalls.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Spanning nearly 50,000 acres, the park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including whitetail deer, black bears, beavers, otters, river otters, mink, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, foxes, snowshoe hares, and wild turkeys. The park also boasts more than 50 species of fish, including bass, walleye, perch, and muskie.
The Upper Falls has a 50 feet drop and a flow of more than 50,000 gallons of water per second, which makes it one of the biggest falls east of the Mississippi. The Lower Falls consists of five smaller falls that beautifully cascade around an island. Even though it’s not as dramatic as the Upper Falls, the Lower Falls are equally breathtaking. So, whether you’re looking for a place to hike, fish, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is sure to meet your needs.
2. South Higgins Lake State Park
Cost: $31.00 – $37.00
Location: 106 State Park Drive, Roscommon, MI 48653
Phone: (989) 821-6374
South Higgins State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. The park has plenty of activities to keep everyone busy, including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites, ranging from primitive sites to sites with full hookups. South Higgins State Park is also home to an accessible playground and a nature center.
There are 400 modern and hardwood-shaded sites at South Higgins Lake State Park, including 200 sites with full hookups for RVs. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A maximum of six people can occupy each campsite, and two tents or one RV and one tent are allowed per site. Pets are welcome in the campground, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. If you want to have a good time with friends and family, you should definitely consider Camping in Michigan at South Higgins State Park.
3. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Cost: $15-30 per night
Location: 33303 Headquarters Road, Ontonagon, MI 49953
Phone: (906) 885-5275
Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a famous natural attraction for several reasons. It’s the state’s biggest state park, measuring in at 60,000 acres. The park also contains a forest that spans 35,000 acres, which is home to many species of wildlife. Additionally, the park has breathtaking rivers and streams, hiking trails that span 90 miles, a beautiful campground, and Lake Superior.
The lake is a great way to cool off during the summer months and the shoreline provides stunning views of the water. For those who enjoy winter activities, the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area is a great option. The park also has plenty of spectacular natural attractions, which include Lake of the Clouds and the majestic corridor of the Presque Isle River.
If you’re looking for a camping spot in Michigan, Porcupine Mountains State Park is a great option! The state park offers a variety of camping options to accommodate different budgets and preferences. There are three main campgrounds in the park: the Rustic Campground, the Modern Campground, and the Backcountry Camping. The Rustic Campground is the most popular and is located near the Lake of the Clouds overlook. The campground has flush toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables. The Modern Campground is located near the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area and has flush toilets, drinking water, and electrical hookups.
Backcountry camping is also an option for those who are looking for a more primitive experience. Campers must obtain a permit from the park office and are required to follow Leave No Trace principles. Camping is also allowed on some of the islands in Lake Superior, but a permit is required. Camping fees range from $15-30 per night depending on the type of campsite you choose.
4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Cost: $5 per person each night; $15 reservation fee
Location: N8391 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862
Phone: 906-387-3700
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most popular camping destinations in Michigan. The park offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, stunning views of Lake Superior, and plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and kayaking.
The park has four main campgrounds: Campground Beach, Hurricane River Campground, Twelvemile Beach Campground, and Grand Sable Campground. Campground Beach is the only campground that offers electrical hookups, and it also has a dump station.
Hurricane River Campground is located on the Hurricane River, which is popular for canoeing and kayaking. The campground has 22 sites and a vault toilet.
Twelvemile Beach Campground is located on Twelvemile Beach, which is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot. With 25 sites and a group area, this campground will surely give you the privacy and amenities you desire on your camping trip. Twelvemile is also great for fishing, boating, and kayaking; so bring your gear!
Lastly, the Grand Sable Campground is located on the Grand Sable Dunes, which is a must-see while at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Campers can explore the dunes, go fishing in Lake Superior, or just relax and enjoy the views. The campground has 34 sites and a group area. No matter what kind of camping trip you’re looking for, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is sure to have something for you. So, go explore and enjoy all that Michigan has to offer!
5. Wilderness State Park
Cost: $12 a night
Location: 903 Wilderness Park Drive, Carp Lake, MI 49718
Phone: (231) 436-5381
Wilderness State Park is a Michigan state park that offers a wide variety of recreational activities and natural scenery for visitors to enjoy. The park’s 10,000-plus acres include numerous trails, a designated dark sky preserve, and 26 miles of shoreline on Lake Michigan. Camping options include modern campsites, rustic cabins, and rustic bunkhouses. The park’s diverse terrain includes a coniferous forest, a hardwood forest, open meadows, small ponds, and coniferous wetlands.
The Wilderness State Park Campground is composed of five units: Cross Village, Mackinaw City, Petoskey, Pickerel Lake, and Sturgeon River. All the campgrounds have drinking water, flush toilets, and hot showers available. Campgrounds can be reserved six months in advance so that you’re sure to get a spot. Camping here is great for those who love being in nature as there are many hiking and biking trails available in the park.
There are also several canoe and kayak rentals if you want to explore the water. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to stargaze or a fun-filled weekend of hiking and swimming, Wilderness State Park has something to offer everyone.
6. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Cost: $15.00
Location: 9922 Front StreetHighway M-72, Empire, MI 49630
Phone: (231) 326-4700
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most popular camping destinations in Michigan. The dunes here are some of the tallest in the world, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Campers can find sites along the shore of Lake Michigan as well as in the woods.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful example of nature’s power. The dunes are impressive and the beaches are perfect for a summer day. The hikes through the forest are breathtaking, and the views from the overlooks are stunning. Because of the popularity of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, however, there are a few things that you should know before you go.
There are two main types of camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: front country and backcountry. Front country camping is available at sites along the shore of Lake Michigan, as well as in the woods. Backcountry camping is only available in the woods. All campgrounds at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are open from late May to mid-October. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping fees range from $15-$20 per night. If you want to make the most out of your trip, we recommend making a reservation. This way, you can secure the campsite that you want.
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to check the weather forecast. The weather can change quickly in Michigan, and you don’t want to be caught off guard. The best time to camp at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is in the summer. June, July, and August are the busiest months, so if you’re looking for a more quiet camping experience, we recommend coming in September or October.
7. Lakeport State Park
Cost: $27.00 – $86.00
Location: 7605 Lakeshore Road, Lakeport, MI 48059
Phone: (810) 327-6224
Lakeport State Park is located on the shores of Lake Huron. The park has two campgrounds with a total of 120 sites. Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Campground amenities include flush toilets, showers, laundry facilities, and a dump station. Campers also have access to a playground, picnic areas, and a beach.
Residents of southeast Michigan who want to enjoy the Great Lakes can do so by visiting Lakeport State Park. The park contains two units separated by Lakeport village, with a total of 250 sites available for RVs or camping. All sites come equipped with amenities such as fire circles, picnic tables, electricity hookups, and modern toilet/shower facilities. In addition, there are several pull-through sites and camp pads to make it easier to level your camper. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an activity-filled vacation, Lakeport State Park is sure to have something for you.
One of the best things about this state park is its location on the shores of Lake Huron. This gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy water activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. There is also a boat launch available for those who want to bring their own boats. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the lake.
In addition to its convenient location, Lakeport State Park also offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are several hiking trails available, as well as a playground and picnic areas. Campers can also participate in nightly programs that are offered by the park staff. These programs typically include campfire stories, nature hikes, and stargazing.
Whether you’re looking for a place to camp or simply want to enjoy the Great Lakes, Lakeport State Park is a great option. With its convenient location and variety of activities, the park has something to offer everyone.
Conclusion
Camping in Michigan is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are many different campgrounds and camping areas to choose from, so you can find one that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the scenery or you’re looking for an adventure-filled camping trip, Michigan has something to offer everyone. Just make sure to pack your camping gear and supplies and you’re guaranteed a good time every time.