The best camping in Michigan

Name: Michigan
Address: Michigan
Rating: 4.8495

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% (18.2K) • 25,812 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Michigan

Blooming Bus Farms

1. Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(526)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Blooming Bus farms is a working urban flower, vegetable and fiber farm practicing sustainable, organic, natural farming practices. Spread out over 15 acres, upon completion, you’ll find 4 yurt sites and 3 byo tent sites. Working hard contributing to our compost are our alpaca and free range chickens. While this is a working farm, we try to not run any equipment before 10:00am! Inquire about reserving the entire property to host your group getaway!

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Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

2. Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(211)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

40 acre secluded wood lot providing tent, RV, and cabin camping. 10 miles from Lake Michigan public beaches. 5 miles from Michigan’s Adventure amusement park. 4 miles from Thunderbird Raceway 2 miles from US 31 expressway. 3 miles from shopping, bars and restaurants. 1 mile from public golf course. 5 miles from downtown Muskegon. 8 miles from Lake Express cross lake ferry terminal. 10 miles from Winter Sports Complex at Muskegon State Park Firewood provided

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Mulln-Heim Vineyards

3. Mulln-Heim Vineyards

100%

(750)

Baroda, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a 3rd generation "Family Farm" of a different sort I suppose. Seems there's a bit of everything here, and arguably not enough of anything. At least for conventional farming. So we've learned to do things a bit differently.Our main crop is wine and juice grapes since our topography, climate, and soil type makes it a premier location for that. But with 30+ acres of forested hillsides, low ground, and natural areas we've evolved into a mixed farm and forest enterprise. Our goal is to utilize the productivity of all our property while still retaining the basic character and usefulness of the wild areas. Letting each thing be what it wants to be and does best on it's own. Flow, not force.So our year starts early with tapping maple trees and making maple syrup. Plus there's grape trimming about this time as well. When the forest floor starts to green up a bit later, we start digging Ramps, or Wild Leeks in the woods. Most of these will go to the more trendy Chicago restaurants, but we also have some local sales. Next comes inoculating winter-cut logs with Shiitake spawn for next years mushroom production. This year we also conducted a few hands-on workshop seminars on mushroom growing as well. Then it's on to our raised bed herb & veggie gardens. (Fresh herbs are just so much fun to cook with!) We grow enough for our own yearly use, as well as some for direct sales. Summer keeps us busy tending all the different crops here and trying to keep up. But there's that steady progression of fresh veggies to eat. Yum !!! Fall brings our annual Grape U-Pick in September and October. And we try to time related crops like mums, pumpkins, and gourds for this same time frame. Makes the place a bit more interesting. Late fall is when we bring in firewood to heat the house and workshop. Stacks of wood everywhere. Hopefully before the 1st snow. In winter it's time to fire up the woodworking shop and be a bit creative. Build furniture, equipment maintenance, who knows what next years projects will include. I like to keep everybody guessing.So, that's what goes on here. You're welcome to check it out, lend a hand, relax back at camp, walk the vineyards and/or forest, or just breathe and relax. That's up to you. But I would recommend visiting a few of the fine local wineries. Seems there's a festival going on at one or another of them just about every weekend. Good music, good wine, good times. And there's the Lake Michigan beaches a few miles down the road.Yeah, this is a pretty casual place here, love meeting new people, very open to civil discussions of all sorts.However, rude, ill mannered people will probably enjoy staying elsewhere. Just say'n.

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Huron-Manistee National Forests

4. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(30)

National forest in Michigan · 938 sites

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

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Isle Royale National Park

5. Isle Royale National Park

98%

(40)

National park in Michigan · 168 sites

Find yourself—and few others—in this remote island wilderness.

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Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp

6. Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp

100%

(125)

Tustin, MI · 1 site

Hardwood and conifer upland forest w old growth white pine. Rolling terrain with lowland conifer w beaver ponds and wetlands. Trails for hiking or atv riding. Adjacent to hundreds of acres of roadless state forest pretty much inaccessible to most public. On a small tributary to the Pine River, that turns into a canoe/kayak/trout stream a couple miles downstream.

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Tom and Julie's Place

7. Tom and Julie's Place

99%

(126)

MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

NEW for FALL OF 2026!! WE ARE KEEPING 2 OF OUR CAMPSITES OPEN THROUGH NOV AND MAYBE DEC DEPENDING ON WEATHER! Keep an eye on the reservation calendar. Only the Walk-in site & Site 1 will be available. Glad to be able to offer our slice of heaven to you! Thanks for choosing to stay here. For the preservation of our property, our septic system, the privacy of other campers, all arrivals MUST be prior to dark setting in. If you can't see the signs and posts, you can damage our property AND your vehicle/equipment. All campers must arrive no later than 7:30 p.m. (This time limit will change throughout the year.) *The property has a lot of wildlife; Deer, Turkey, Rabbits, Coyote, Birds, Fox. *A small creek runs across the back of the property. *There are many lakes just minutes away, as well as the Huron river for fishing & kayaking. *Public beaches at Lake Chemung & Bishop Lake. *Campfires allowed. Plenty of dead wood around, or you can purchase firewood bundles onsite. *Potable water is available to fill tanks & containers. It is softened from the house. *Sewer dump station is 5 miles away at Brighton Rec Area (there is a fee). *Pets are allowed, max of 2 total (cats; dogs only). They must be leashed at all times (15 ft. max) NOTE: Portable electric fences are NOT sufficient. They MUST be leashed, no exceptions. *Guests that are not part of the Hipcamp Reservation, are not allowed on-site. Guests will need to be met at a location other than our Hipcamp. There are numerous places nearby to gather instead. This assures maximum privacy for all sites and for our family. ***SUMMER ACTIVITIES*** *Howell Balloon fest in June. *Howell Melon fest in August. *Captain Frosty's Ice Cream is located approximately 2–3 miles away. They offer a variety of ice cream deliciousness, slushies, shakes, and malts. ***FALL ACTIVITIES*** *U-Pick Pumpkin Patch and Petting Farm next door is open for 2026. Free wagon rides on weekends, a free corn maze anytime. Purchases available: pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds, squash, mums, honey, other wonderful treats. *Terrified Forest and Haunted Mansion are just 1 mile away in the month of October for Halloween. *Apple Orchard is 3–4 miles away. They offer apples, have an organic farm stand w/vegetables.

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Explore the U.P. from here!

8. Explore the U.P. from here!

96%

(412)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Best Hipcamp in Michigan – 5x Finalist! Experience total privacy and rustic charm at our spacious, secluded campsites—perfect for tents, campers, or our unique levitating tents (already set up—just bring your sleeping bag and pillow!). Each site features a private entrance and is so spread out, you’ll likely never see another camper. No crowds. No noise. Just nature. Ideally located near top Upper Peninsula attractions—Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls, and Kitch-iti-kipi—with a convenience store just a short walk away, as is the public boat launch onto East Lake. Bonus: Mention your stay for a discounted shower at the Pleasant Moose Hotel in Newberry!

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White Pine Farm HipCamping

9. White Pine Farm HipCamping

98%

(165)

Ann Arbor, MI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

A Special Welcome to Any Fellow Wheatlanders Looking For a Friendly Spot! LARGE GROUPS - We are hosting events! Graduation parties, small weddings, family reunions, you name it. You can rent the whole campground for a day a night, a weekend, or a whole week if that suits your need. Just send us a message and we can talk about it. We can also accommodate large groups at a single campsite or you can rent several of them. Our primary guideline is that if your event will be held while other campers are here, it cannot disturb them. So, consider renting the whole campground. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please plan to arrive and set up camp between 3 and 9 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 9 PM, please send us a message letting us know. We decide on a case by case basis since we prefer not to have late arrivals. In any event we do not accept arrivals after 11 PM except in an emergency since many campers and your host may have already gone to bed. Overview: Our beautiful 10 acre farm and homestead is situated between Ann Arbor and Dexter not far from the Huron River. The 5 acre area where our campsites are located is wooded with mature oak, maple, walnut, elm, and white pine trees. We're isolated and surrounded by wild areas and natural farm land but just a 10 minute drive to restaurants, groceries, fuel, and other amenities. The Ann Arbor area is home to a huge array of world class events from the Ark music venue to National Champions Michigan home football games and a whole lot more. Downtown Ann Arbor or Dexter or Chelsea is only a 15 minute car drive. White Lotus Farms, which has a wonderful farm market on Saturdays from 9 - 2 and Wednesdays from 9 - 1, is a 10 minute walk down our dirt road. If you forget to bring something that you need, don't hesitate to ask! We've got a growing number of camping essentials for rent or sale for very reasonable prices that can make your stay even more enjoyable: from bug repellants to camp chairs, potable water in 2.5 - 5 gallon containers, and more. NEW IN 2025 we have installed a hose with potable water near the entrance to the campground for your convenience.

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Hiawatha National Forest

10. Hiawatha National Forest

88%

(36)

National forest in Michigan · 513 sites

This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.

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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

11. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

99%

(63)

National park in Michigan · 211 sites

Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.

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Ludington State Park

12. Ludington State Park

100%

(30)

State park in Michigan · 373 sites

Take a beach break at two lakes in one at this sandy state park.

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Muskegon State Park

13. Muskegon State Park

100%

(17)

State park in Michigan · 247 sites

Discover Muskegon State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

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Tiny Love Shack Off Grid Glamping

14. Tiny Love Shack Off Grid Glamping

100%

(41)

Bath, MI · 1 site

Experience private lakeside glamping in a tiny home on Park Lake. (View of lake during winter only or upstairs due to cattail/or by path)This tiny house on our property comes with *outdoor* composting toilet, pump shower & pump sink. We provide filtered water, coffee, snacks, WiFi, 48hr cooler, dvds. rechargeable fans , lantern, s’mores, firewood games, space for a tent. Ac/heat. * Newly added fenced in area for your pup 🐶 *No coffee maker/instant coffee provided This has been run as a successful bnb for 4 years now but just recently signed up on hip camp! Other details : One living area 100 square ft with couch /kitchenette & bedroom loft space that you have to climb a ladder to get to! Feel like a kid again! Queen bed upstairs & downstairs a fold down couch & camp mat for 4th person , with all Linens provided . Partly run by a generator, heat will be supplied by a space heater that we would like turned down to 66 at night (heating blankets provided if that is too cold). . Bathroom has a composting toilet. (Usually changed every 3rd guest). Ac is hooked to an extension cord . We provide a Battery pump shower where you have to fill the bag with water & foot pump sink like used at festivals. The shack isn’t perfectly air tight so you might encounter a few bugs however with Chickens around they are natural bug exterminators. Ceiling height it just at 6 ft meaning those taller than that need to Duck under beams. Please beware. *summer info : Lake can only be viewed from the upstairs of shack due to tall reeds or by way of walking path which is still under construction partially handmade from scrap lumber . It’s about 2/3 complete with newly built dock, sections (see pics). The path is usually partially underwater until mid May so please check if you plan to kayak you will use at your own risk. *:It’s too mucky to swim right off shore but you can Kayak out to the swimming area. Kayak use is allowed as long as waiver is signed. Closed toed/water shoes recommended . Potential for 4 guests which is tight, or more if part of your crew wanted to set up a tent. *Fall/winter info: Use of our guest bathroom is permitted during colder months -just ask!. Keep in mind, The only heat will be a 1500 watt heater.

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The Haven

15. The Haven

97%

(206)

Niles, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to The Haven Camping & Outdoor Wedding Venue Established in 2022, The Haven was created with a simple mission: to share the beautiful property God has graciously blessed us with. Nestled on 3 scenic acres along the St. Joseph River, The Haven is truly a hidden gem—offering a peaceful, natural setting perfect for camping, relaxation, and unforgettable gatherings. Surrounded by a stunning canopy of oak, beech, and walnut trees, the property features breathtaking river views and multiple shaded camping areas. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun outdoor experience, The Haven has something for everyone. 🌿 Camping & Site Options Choose the perfect spot for your stay: The River’s Edge (Site 1): Beach area ideal for small RVs and tents Under the Canopy (Site 2): Camp beneath towering trees along the river The Cozy Corner (Site 3): A private, secluded nook by the woods The Cove (Site 4): Scenic river views with space for small campers and tents Cozy Camper (Site 5): A vintage trailer that sleeps up to 4, plus room for up to 2 tents All sites are first-come, first-served, so early booking is recommended to secure your favorite spot. 🔥 Amenities & Activities Fire pits and grilling areas Complimentary starter bucket with essentials Dock access for fishing, relaxing, or stargazing Kayak rentals available Yard games: cornhole, horseshoes, volleyball, tetherball, and more Plenty of open space for football, frisbee, and outdoor fun Porta-potty available Ample parking Spend your evenings by the fire at “The Pit” or unwind at the dock (“The Spot”) while taking in peaceful river views. 📅 Opening Day May 1, 2026 ⚠️ Important Guidelines To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests: No smoking or drugs — violation will result in removal without refund Alcohol permitted at owner’s discretion upon arrival- Please dispose of trash properly Clean up after pets Be respectful of the property and fellow guests Book your stay today and experience nature, relaxation, and adventure at The Haven!

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The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

16. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%

(169)

Beaverton, MI · 1 site

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.

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Dragon Adventures Base Camp

17. Dragon Adventures Base Camp

98%

(171)

White Cloud, MI · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Dragon Adventures Base Camp is 30 acres of adventurous fun in the heart of a great adventure area! Mountain biking and hiking on the 43 mile Dragon Trail, paddling on Hardy Pond or the Muskegon River, boating, and the most popular beach are all just minutes away. At the Base Camp you’ll find a cabin for rent, campsites, an amazing beer garden with firepits, yard games, and tons of woods and trails to explore year round! Mark and Amy love hosting folks for their adventures! Come as strangers but leave as friends!

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North country trail, riverside camp

18. North country trail, riverside camp

100%

(72)

Lowell, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: We are a 20 acre hobby farm along the Grand River in Lowell Michigan. A walkable small town. The river is accessable to small craft. Swimming is not prohibited, but is at your own risk. Several fields are available as well as a small and large tent site along the river. Campers may park in the field. We are located along the North Country Trail and only a few blocks from their office as well as a 10 min drive from the Kent county youth fairgrounds. 25 minutes to Ionia fairgrounds There is several restaurants and breweries walking distance away, joined by a social district as well as several cannabis stores. A dollar store and ice cream shop are 2-3 blocks away. And a country style breakfast restaurant is next door. Have a fire or go fishing down by the river, or visit the animals at feeding time. The donkey likes attention. Fresh eggs are also available for $3/doz The Kent county fair grounds are 1/2 mile away

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Potable water

Gray's Riverside Camp

19. Gray's Riverside Camp

97%

(72)

Big Rapids, MI · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This property is the perfect location to stop and relax while you are traveling on the White Pine Trail. We have cabins and campsites with water and electricity. It is centrally located between Grand Rapids and Cadillac. We offer river access, kayaking, bathrooms, showers, and a dump station. This is an old church camp with 14 different buildings. There is a trail that goes down to the river. My goal is to restore all of the buildings to what they once were. I encourage you to come and investigate before it's all done. I can't wait to see what the next few years have in store for me! Angie Gray

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2Chicks And A Farm

20. 2Chicks And A Farm

98%

(289)

Bangor, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

2Chicks And A Farm is a small working farm on 20 acres, owned and run by Julie & Theresa Graham. We are 13 minutes from South Haven and Lake Michigan, 30 minutes from the city of Kalamazoo and just under an hour from Grand Rapids. Those of you who have visited in the past will notice that we significantly downsized this year. Due to Township and State regulations, we are now limited to offering only four campsites unless we get licensed, which at this time is cost prohibitive. So, we have selected the four most highly rated sites and upgraded them, to truly make your experience here special. About half of the 20 acres is wooded, with walking trails around the property, to include our fish stocked pond and a little tributary of the Black River. All sites have a fire ring, or metal fire pit, and picnic table. We have an outdoor propane shower that provides both hot and cold water. A free refreshment bar is available 24/7. Feeling a little peckish before breakfast, or after dinner? Help yourself to a snack and a hot or cold drink. You are welcome to collect eggs for breakfast and fresh produce from our gardens (for a fee). We are a working farm and registered as two Non-Profits. One an animal rescue, primarily working with cats. At any given day we have 20-30 cats roaming around the farm. All are under the care of our vet, vaccinated, spayed or neutered and treated for fleas and ticks. All important because they will want to interact with you. Some will want to sleep with you. Our 100 plus flock of poultry, comprised of chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys, free range during the day, so leave the Prada's at home. If you are staying at Sam's Place, your closest neighbors will Penelope and Petunia, our two female sister pigs. The prevailing winds are down from your site, but you may hear them squabble. Our herd of Nigerian Dwarf goats will love your attention and treats we can provide. Arriving in March is Jack, a miniature donkey...we are very excited! Please try to check-in by 8pm. Exceptions can be made. There are locally mandated quiet hours (10-7 Sun through Thur, and 11-7 Fri and Sat). Hanging out by a fire and chatting is fine.

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The best family-friendly campsites in Michigan

Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(526)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(211)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Explore the U.P. from here!

96%

(412)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Gray's Riverside Camp

97%

(72)

Big Rapids, MI · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

2Chicks And A Farm

98%

(289)

Bangor, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Camp Moonshadow

99%

(685)

Honor, MI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 -24 ft- 20 Amp service Only!!! The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. 20 amp Electricity and Water is included in the RV site.

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The best dog-friendly campsites in Michigan

Blooming Bus Farms

98%

(526)

Niles, MI · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

99%

(211)

Twin Lake, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Mulln-Heim Vineyards

100%

(750)

Baroda, MI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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Toilets

Campfires

Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp

100%

(125)

Tustin, MI · 1 site

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tom and Julie's Place

99%

(126)

MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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Campfires

Explore the U.P. from here!

96%

(412)

Newberry, MI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Shauna

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Another amazing stay! One night here restores the soul a week's worth...Thank you again Carl. Can't wait for next time 🤗

John

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Great site!

Doug

2 weeks ago

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Carlandia CannaCamp

Second stay. Very nice. Great host.

Beth

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

Site #1 was a great spot for a fall camp!

Misty

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

We really enjoyed our stay here! It was a nice, peaceful spot to get away for a bit and just enjoy being outdoors. Camp 3 was spacious and clean. You can see the house but honestly we parked in the view path and never noticed it. There’s a mowed space in between trees that was off to the side and that’s where we put our tent. You can’t see the house from that spot. Loved being able to see the star’s. We had a great time relaxing and taking it all in. Tom and Julie were great hosts as well. A really nice experience overall. We’d definitely stay here again!

Looking out the entrance to our teardrop.

Chris

2 weeks ago

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to WaterFront Saginaw Bay

Accommodating hospitality and beautiful views.

Héctor

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mulligan's Valley in the Woods

Amazing hidden gem! Host Mike is very kind. Beautiful spot for a lovely camp experience.

Sean Elizabeth

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tom and Julie's Place

I absolutely loved Tom and Julie's walk in site! It's a nice quick trip up from Ann Arbor on US-23 for a weekend getaway. Not too much dirt road driving required to get there. The site itself is beautiful. It gives all the secluded in the woods vibes and it's quite scenic in the fall as the leaves are starting to turn. The stream with the little bridge that you have to cross to get to the site is extra charming. It's pretty self service, no interaction with the host is required. Firewood is available for sale on site and was nice and dry and of very high quality. The site is really close to Brighton Rec Area which offers a number of hiking and MTB trails, a great disc golf course, several small lakes with boating access and horseback riding, so there's plenty to keep you busy during the day. It is about 200 steps one way over mixed terrain from the parking area to the site but if you plan your gear load accordingly or pack light as a matter of course, it's no problem and totally #worthit. This is one of my new favorite Hipcamps and it's definitely going into my rotation. Looking forward to returning many times in future seasons!

Brooke

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila and Jeff are such incredible hosts! This was our second year spending our anniversary here, and we are looking forward to returning again next year.

Gina

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Tiny Love Shack Off Grid Glamping

We had a lovely weekend at the Love Shack! Highly recommend for couples. It felt very private and serene. Would definitely come back!

Collin

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

Cabin was very clean and cozy!! Ed is a great host! Coco is amazing too!!!

James

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blooming Bus Farms

Lovely spot. Great hosts. Will stay there again

Kris

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Yes

Ashley

2 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Blooming Bus Farms

We love it here, this is our 2nd time and we had even more fun than the 1st. Such kind hosts and a great environment! Thanks so much for your hard work to allow us to make wonderful family memories!

Mark

2 weeks ago

1 night at Life Adventures

I had the campground to myself. Well, me and Luke the dog. I met Stephen and had a quick pleasant chat. The cabin was fine and as described. I was happy to have shower and rest room facilities. This was my first HIPCAMP stay, so maybe part of the HIPCAMP thinking is the visitors clean up after themselves. That didn't happen for my stay. So I had a bit of cleaning to do. So I guess be ready for that.

Jordan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Blooming Bus Farms

Awesome!!

Karie

2 weeks ago

1 night at Dalton Traders Tents RV's Cabins

This was exactly the tiny retreat I needed! A little cabin in the woods. The trails are great and the woods are beautiful in the fall. Ed was a great host and made sure I had plenty of kindling for the wood stove.

Jordan

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Blooming Bus Farms

Awesome!!

Aimee

2 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Tiny Love Shack Off Grid Glamping

Nice time

Mikaela

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Blooming Bus Farms

Absolutely beautiful farm with a gorgeous well maintained campsite!

Michigan camping 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 camping destinations around Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Torch Lake

67 campgrounds

Hiawatha National Forest

67 campgrounds

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

64 campgrounds

Isle Royale National Park

78 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I camp freely in Michigan?

In Michigan, you can often camp for free in designated areas or dispersed camping zones within its national forests, such as the Hiawatha National Forest and the Huron-Manistee National Forest. However, some areas may require fees or permits. These forests offer dispersed, primitive camping with no facilities. You'll need to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, some state forest lands also allow free dispersed camping, but it's essential to check the specific regulations for each area before setting up camp.

Does Michigan have good camping?

Yes, Michigan offers excellent camping opportunities, with diverse landscapes, numerous state parks, and beautiful natural attractions. You'll find over 1,000 campgrounds throughout the state, ranging from rustic and primitive sites to well-maintained and modern facilities. Michigan is home to two peninsulas, each with its own unique camping experiences.

The Lower Peninsula boasts beautiful lakeshores, sand dunes, and bustling cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids. Popular camping destinations include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Ludington State Park.

The Upper Peninsula offers a more remote and rugged experience, with vast forests, waterfalls, and the shores of Lake Superior. Must-visit camping spots include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or glamping, Michigan has something for everyone. For more camping options in Michigan, you can explore Hipcamp.

What month is best to camp in Michigan?

The best month to camp in Michigan is typically September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. Additionally, September offers beautiful fall foliage, fewer bugs, and less crowded campgrounds compared to the peak summer months. However, if you prefer warmer temperatures for swimming and water activities, consider camping in Michigan during the summer months of June, July, or August.

Is boondocking legal in Michigan?

Yes, boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is legal in Michigan on public lands, such as national forests and some state forests. In Michigan, you can boondock in areas like the Huron-Manistee National Forests and the Hiawatha National Forest. There are also private properties available for boondocking through Hipcamp. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations for each specific area, such as staying within designated areas, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and adhering to any fire restrictions.

Where can I camp in Michigan in the fall?

In fall, camping is available in many of Michigan's various state parks, such as Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ludington State Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Michigan camping is especially beautiful in fall thanks to vibrant fall colors.