Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Michigan with campfires

United States
—
Michigan

96% (4670 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Michigan

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(9)

Treasure Hunt Treehouse

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Brooklyn, MI

On the bank of the Raisin River, 3 acres on a dirt road in the country. Amenties: Starlink WiFi Smart TV with Netflix, Disney+, Prime, and Atari. Minifridge, coffee maker, toaster Propane heaters only and we supply the propane. Heated mattress pads on all the beds. Potable water available via hose right from our home Outdoor Activities: Stargazing Ice Fishing Miles of Hiking Trails on State Land within a 5-min walk Outdoor Shooting Range open all year long less than 5 min away! 7 min drive from public boat launch (No Boat Parking) Swimming with Private Access to All Sport Lake Fire Pit with Seating: Wood & Cash Jar by the Fence Kayaks: Available to rent (Weather Permitting) NOTE: For Winter, we highly recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles. We have a steep driveway on a dirt road!.

Perfect Camping Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Marcellus, MI

Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of seating areas to rest and relax. We are a alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and we're also a smoke and alcohol free campus. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you!

99%

(513)

Camp Moonshadow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI

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 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites 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. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen

Surf Camp on Lake Michigan

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Manistique, MI

Best Hipcamp in Michigan Finalist Just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi, surf camp is the quintessential U.P. hideaway. Located on Lake Michigan’s Garden Peninsula, the east-facing beach is perfect for watching sunrises with your morning coffee. Enjoy evening campfires tucked in a cedar grove or take the kayak for a paddle to have an authentic Michigan experience. Perfect for writing or meditation retreats and family getaways. Conveniently located, it's a short drive to Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), Fayette State Historic Park, and an easy day trip to Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. The camper on site will be locked, but feel free to tent, car camp, or bring your own RV here as well. The site includes a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic experience.

Provision Family Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · White Cloud, MI

Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Michigan with campfires

100%

(9)

Treasure Hunt Treehouse

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Brooklyn, MI

On the bank of the Raisin River, 3 acres on a dirt road in the country. Amenties: Starlink WiFi Smart TV with Netflix, Disney+, Prime, and Atari. Minifridge, coffee maker, toaster Propane heaters only and we supply the propane. Heated mattress pads on all the beds. Potable water available via hose right from our home Outdoor Activities: Stargazing Ice Fishing Miles of Hiking Trails on State Land within a 5-min walk Outdoor Shooting Range open all year long less than 5 min away! 7 min drive from public boat launch (No Boat Parking) Swimming with Private Access to All Sport Lake Fire Pit with Seating: Wood & Cash Jar by the Fence Kayaks: Available to rent (Weather Permitting) NOTE: For Winter, we highly recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles. We have a steep driveway on a dirt road!.

Provision Family Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · White Cloud, MI

Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.

Perfect Camping Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Marcellus, MI

Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of seating areas to rest and relax. We are a alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and we're also a smoke and alcohol free campus. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you!

Camp Moonshadow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI

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 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites 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. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen

Surf Camp on Lake Michigan

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Manistique, MI

Best Hipcamp in Michigan Finalist Just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi, surf camp is the quintessential U.P. hideaway. Located on Lake Michigan’s Garden Peninsula, the east-facing beach is perfect for watching sunrises with your morning coffee. Enjoy evening campfires tucked in a cedar grove or take the kayak for a paddle to have an authentic Michigan experience. Perfect for writing or meditation retreats and family getaways. Conveniently located, it's a short drive to Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), Fayette State Historic Park, and an easy day trip to Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. The camper on site will be locked, but feel free to tent, car camp, or bring your own RV here as well. The site includes a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic experience.

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

100%

(24)

Tincan Camp

3 sites · Lodging, RVs7 acres · Bloomingdale, MI

This fun property is just under 7 acres - butted up to another 12 acres of public land (and boat launch) with trails, boardwalk and a dock on 51 acre Lake Eleven. The property is shared by (2) full-hook up RV sites and a cabin. If available, the cabin and sites may be rented together however the owners, Jim and Maria, use the cabin much of the summer leaving just the RV sites available. The property is at mile market 13 of the Kal-Haven Trail - the midpoint. The Kal-Haven Trail is a biking, cross-country skiing, walking, running, snowmobiling - you name it, the trail that goes 34 miles from Kalamazoo to South Haven. Literally steps from the property and you are on the trail. But you may not need to leave the property, with 6.3 acres of woods and field, with trail cut through PLUS the added public lands butted up to Tincan's property line, giving almost 20 acres to roam. Each RV site - far enough apart to be separate, close enough if you and friends/family want to camp together, has a fire pit and fireplace. Each RV site offers water, 30|50AMP electrical and septic. The dock may have availability for keeping you boat - please inquire. There are kayaks and some bikes (mostly teen and adult size) that may be used. These are shared amenities for the cabin and campsite guests and offered on a first come, first serve basis. There are surprises galore around the property; big foots to be found tucked around the property, games, and overall just a fun place to be. This was a run-down fishing cabin Jim and Maria lovingly brough back to life as a second home and they delight in sharing it. Jim often referred to it as "The Tincan" while working on it as it was - indeed, a tin shack and the name stuck. Kate, your booking coordinator, helps Jim and Maria tend to the administrative side of getting the property booked and keeping the details in order. Once booked you'll get contact info for Kate, who will take care of most communications and logistics, and Jim/Maria who will also be available to help as needed.

Explore the U.P. from here!

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Newberry, MI

A simple PRIVATE and affordable campsite should be this easy! Two choices: Come sleep in a levitating tent already set up, at Sites 2,3, and 4. (Room for your own tent too if you prefer) OR Your own camper or tent. (Site1) in a quiet, private location. Campsite neighbors are out of sight, you have privacy here! All sites have their own private entrances, you can’t see any sites or buildings, and they are very spaced-out. My location is situated PERFECTLY central to the major UP attractions Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls and Kitchittikippi. And there’s even a convenience store within walking distance! Showers are also available in town (Pickelmans gas station).

100%

(619)

Mulln-Heim Vineyards

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Baroda, MI

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.

92%

(127)

Have A Lake Of Your Own!

10 sites · Lodging, Tents101 acres · Lawrence, MI

The property was originally owned by a family name Nichols (thus the name of the lake). It was handed down to the sons who each owned half the property. The driveway down the middle of property that leads to the lake was originally a fence line that divided the two pieces of property. The brothers did not get along and their are several stories of their warring on how to maintain the property.My parents bought this piece of property in 1964 and created a camp called "Lakeside Farm Camp", a small all boys camp. The camp has gone through several changes since then but has always been owned by the Edwards family. In 1984 the name was changed to "Cedar Lodge" a coed camp that specializes in English horseback riding and offering high level general camp activities. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our totally private fresh water lake. Take your boat out for a day of fishing or just chill next to the fire. Sites are approximately 50 feet from each other. If you want privacy we suggest you book both.

98%

(89)

Sweet 16 Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents69 acres · MI

Welcome to Sweet 16 Campgrounds. We currently have 3 sites. Site #1 is the RV/Tent site (1 RV/camper max. with unlimited tents, 8 people max.). Site #2 is a Tent Site (Great site for Hammock Camping, unlimited tents, 8 people max.). Site #3 is our double/group RV/Tent (2 Camper/ RV max.) site (16 people max.) You will be camping in the semi-wooded area at the back of the property. It is a really nice area to camp. Each site has a firepit and picnic table. We have about 2 miles of hiking trails on the property. We are in a great location to hike, paddle, bike, and explore SW Michigan. Nighttime is great for stargazing. We are 13 miles from downtown St. Joseph and 13 miles from downtown South Haven. We are located 1 1/2 hours from Chicago. Don't feel like exploring, then hang out at the campsite for the day. We are close to the SW Michigan Makers’ Trail (Wineries, Breweries, Distilleries). We are located 4 miles from a small beach (Hagar Park/Beach) on Lake Michigan (15 miles from the big beaches at St. Joseph and South Haven). We are 5 miles from the boat ramp on Paw Paw Lake. We are located just 2 miles off I-196 at Exit 7 (Hagar Shore Road). We are also only 20 miles from Sister Lakes. Dogs are allowed. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. About us: We have a 69 acre farm we bought back in 2019. We moved here from the Chicago area. (Tinley Park). We have 44 acres tillable and 16+ wooded acres. in back that we opened it up for camping. We have horses, dogs, cats, chickens, and rabbits.

96%

(49)

AuTrain RV Sites By Pictured Rocks

4 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Au Train, MI

These RV sites are located in a wooded area on the West Side of AuTrain Lake! Each RV site has full electric hookup, sewer, water, wifi, picnic table, firepit and chairs! The RV sites are drive through making this a relaxing stay! Just 2.5 miles from Lake Superior and 15 miles from Munising and the start of the Pictured Rocks Shoreline! You will be able to kick back and relax! The adventures are all around in this centrally located area!

Star Hosts in Michigan

96%

(40)

Surf Camp on Lake Michigan

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Manistique, MI

Best Hipcamp in Michigan Finalist Just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi, surf camp is the quintessential U.P. hideaway. Located on Lake Michigan’s Garden Peninsula, the east-facing beach is perfect for watching sunrises with your morning coffee. Enjoy evening campfires tucked in a cedar grove or take the kayak for a paddle to have an authentic Michigan experience. Perfect for writing or meditation retreats and family getaways. Conveniently located, it's a short drive to Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), Fayette State Historic Park, and an easy day trip to Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. The camper on site will be locked, but feel free to tent, car camp, or bring your own RV here as well. The site includes a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic experience.

Tincan Camp

3 sites · Lodging, RVs7 acres · Bloomingdale, MI

This fun property is just under 7 acres - butted up to another 12 acres of public land (and boat launch) with trails, boardwalk and a dock on 51 acre Lake Eleven. The property is shared by (2) full-hook up RV sites and a cabin. If available, the cabin and sites may be rented together however the owners, Jim and Maria, use the cabin much of the summer leaving just the RV sites available. The property is at mile market 13 of the Kal-Haven Trail - the midpoint. The Kal-Haven Trail is a biking, cross-country skiing, walking, running, snowmobiling - you name it, the trail that goes 34 miles from Kalamazoo to South Haven. Literally steps from the property and you are on the trail. But you may not need to leave the property, with 6.3 acres of woods and field, with trail cut through PLUS the added public lands butted up to Tincan's property line, giving almost 20 acres to roam. Each RV site - far enough apart to be separate, close enough if you and friends/family want to camp together, has a fire pit and fireplace. Each RV site offers water, 30|50AMP electrical and septic. The dock may have availability for keeping you boat - please inquire. There are kayaks and some bikes (mostly teen and adult size) that may be used. These are shared amenities for the cabin and campsite guests and offered on a first come, first serve basis. There are surprises galore around the property; big foots to be found tucked around the property, games, and overall just a fun place to be. This was a run-down fishing cabin Jim and Maria lovingly brough back to life as a second home and they delight in sharing it. Jim often referred to it as "The Tincan" while working on it as it was - indeed, a tin shack and the name stuck. Kate, your booking coordinator, helps Jim and Maria tend to the administrative side of getting the property booked and keeping the details in order. Once booked you'll get contact info for Kate, who will take care of most communications and logistics, and Jim/Maria who will also be available to help as needed.

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Camp Moonshadow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI

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 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites 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. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen

Provision Family Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · White Cloud, MI

Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.

Available this weekend

100%

(9)

Treasure Hunt Treehouse

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Brooklyn, MI

On the bank of the Raisin River, 3 acres on a dirt road in the country. Amenties: Starlink WiFi Smart TV with Netflix, Disney+, Prime, and Atari. Minifridge, coffee maker, toaster Propane heaters only and we supply the propane. Heated mattress pads on all the beds. Potable water available via hose right from our home Outdoor Activities: Stargazing Ice Fishing Miles of Hiking Trails on State Land within a 5-min walk Outdoor Shooting Range open all year long less than 5 min away! 7 min drive from public boat launch (No Boat Parking) Swimming with Private Access to All Sport Lake Fire Pit with Seating: Wood & Cash Jar by the Fence Kayaks: Available to rent (Weather Permitting) NOTE: For Winter, we highly recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles. We have a steep driveway on a dirt road!.

Perfect Camping Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Marcellus, MI

Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of seating areas to rest and relax. We are a alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and we're also a smoke and alcohol free campus. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you!

Surf Camp on Lake Michigan

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Manistique, MI

Best Hipcamp in Michigan Finalist Just 20 minutes from Kitch-iti-kipi, surf camp is the quintessential U.P. hideaway. Located on Lake Michigan’s Garden Peninsula, the east-facing beach is perfect for watching sunrises with your morning coffee. Enjoy evening campfires tucked in a cedar grove or take the kayak for a paddle to have an authentic Michigan experience. Perfect for writing or meditation retreats and family getaways. Conveniently located, it's a short drive to Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring), Fayette State Historic Park, and an easy day trip to Marquette or Pictured Rocks in Munising. The camper on site will be locked, but feel free to tent, car camp, or bring your own RV here as well. The site includes a self-contained privy. No electricity or water hookups make this a rustic experience.

Provision Family Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · White Cloud, MI

Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

81%

(26)

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Mio, Michigan

92%

(30)

Hiawatha National Forest

Chatham, Michigan

100%

(53)

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Munising, Michigan

91%

(11)

Interlochen State Park

Interlochen, Michigan

100%

(14)

Muskegon State Park

North Muskegon, Michigan

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

White Pine, Michigan

100%

(19)

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Newberry, Michigan

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Michigan with campfires guide

Overview

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.

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.