The best camping near Bay City State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bay City State Park adventure.

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Discover Bay City State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Bay City State Park

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"Elysium Heritage Farm"

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Pinconning, MI

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

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Footsteps From Frankenmuth

6 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Bridgeport, MI

Enjoy peace and quiet at this brand new hip camp located just minutes from downtown Frankenmuth. Just off I-75 but far enough to not hear the noise! This property features a blacktop circle driveway for easy in & out access. Our property offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, and solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Location: Located just 8 miles from downtown Frankenmuth and 10 miles from the Prime Outlets of Birch Run, our campsites are easily accessible yet provides a secluded haven away from the hustle and bustle. Accommodations: We offer several types of accommodations to suit your camping style: Tent Sites: Spacious, grassy areas with plenty of shade, ideal for tents. RV Sites: Level, grass sites (or even blacktop if you prefer) with easy access for RVs and campers. Amenities: Potable Drinking water Fire pit Free Wi-Fi in common areas Pet-friendly (with prior approval) Activities: Wildlife Watching: Abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer, birds, and more. Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies perfect for stargazing. Local Attractions: Frankenmuth: A short drive away, offering things from waterparks, world-famous chicken dinners, one-of-a-kind shopping, and Bavarian charm, 1-800-FUN-TOWN has your plans made. Birch Run Premium Outlets: Shop until you drop at the largest outlet mall in the Midwestern United States! Rules: Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. Fires only in designated fire pits. Pets must be kept on a leash unless otherwise approved. Please respect our property and other campers by cleaning up after yourself. Rates: Tent Sites: $10 per night RV Sites: $20 per night

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Oak Ridge Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Coleman, MI

Oak Ridge Farm is located on 80 acres in the Mid-Michigan area, halfway between Midland and Mt. Pleasant. We are in the process of creating a self-sustainable, homestead vegetable and fruit farm. Our property is quiet, and the moon and stars are amazing to see on a clear night. If you're looking for a quiet place to get away from it all, look no further! There is plenty to see and do right around our property. Lots of wildlife including; Sandhill Cranes, deer, turkeys, porcupines, geese, rabbits etc. We have a walking/hiking path that you can explore through our property as well as hundreds of acres of state land right next door! Campsites are situated around our beautiful pond where the sunrises cannot be beat. Kayaks and a row boat are available for our guests to explore the pond. The AuSable State Forest neighbors our property line and can be accessed from multiple different areas right near the property. There are many trails for horseback riding, dirt bikes, ATVs/UTVs, hiking and mountain biking. The Chippewa River is very close and many enjoy kayaking, canoeing or tubing this river. Only 18 mins away is the Pine Haven Recreation Area in Sanford. This park has 12 miles of hiking, cross country skiing and mountain biking trails. Horseback riding trails are also available at this park. Places to see and things to do: - Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, Mt. Pleasant - Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant - Isabella County Farmers Market, Mt. Pleasant - Great Lakes Loons at Dow Diamond, Midland - Dow Gardens, Midland - Whiting Forest (Nation's Longest Canopy Walk), Midland -Midland Area Farmers Market - 1 hour from beautiful Higgins Lake - 45 minutes from Bay City - Sanford Lake restoration estimated late 2024 Midland and Mt. Pleasant are each located about 20-25 mins from our property. Please note that campsites are rustic. Porta-john, hose connect water and outdoor shower house are available to all guests. Campfire rings and picnic tables are located at each campsite. We also have firewood bundles for $5 each and fresh eggs for sale for $3/dozen. We accept cash, Venmo and cashapp on site. My family and I live full-time on our property. We have 3 young children and a sweet dog that loves people and other kids. On hot summer days we often join our campers at the pond to cool off! On weekends we love to work in our large garden, take care of our chickens, have a campfire, and play outside. We are so excited to host you this camping season and hope you enjoy your stay at Peaceful Pines on Oakridge Farm!

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The Crow’s Nest

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Beaverton, MI

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay.

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Boondock Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gladwin, MI

Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private. Beautiful river view and access. Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.

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Camping on our Organic Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents138 acres · North Branch, MI

WHAT'S NEW ON THE FARM IN 2023 This year we are expecting two foals (baby horses). One the end of April and one around the Fourth of July. We are also milking a family cow for our own milk as well. Her name is Daisy and her calfs name is Maple. Maple was born in March on the maple full moon. We do a calf share where the calf is with her mom part of the time and we are still able to milk her. Our mini horse, Annabell is now pulling a cart and giving rides! So much fun! We will have Great Pyrenees puppies from end of April through mid July. Come and spend some time with them! We also have two new additions to the farm. A pony mule, named Molly, in which I am planning to train to pull a cart and a cream colored pony, named Whinny as well, for riding. ABOUT DOREEN I’m an entrepreneur. I’m all about health and taking care of the mind, body and spirit. I’m an organic farmer, an animal nut, health coach, mindset mentor and Psych-K facilitator. I have six children and hosted three foreign exchange students. I love kids, animals (especially horses) and nature. I love anything and everything about health and personal growth and well being. ABOUT THE FARM We have a working, organic farm with a lot of animals, however, we also do crops as well. This particular farm is 138 acres with 8 acres of woods. We have working dogs, sheep, cattle, horses, a few ducks, chickens, a couple goats, a mini horse and outdoor cats on our farm. We have some super great animals. Most of which are very friendly. You never know what will be available to see on the farm when you visit. We are expecting a foal (baby horse) this summer (2021) and are already planning for another foal next summer as well. We often have puppies as well and sometimes we have to bottle feed lambs. There's never a dull moment. Our farm is unique in the way of having a very positive VIBE to it. The energy is awesome! It's really a space of tranquility and healing if you allow yourself to go there. After hosting with air bnb for a little over a year now, we decided to give this a try as well. We love hosting people and having them come to the farm and enjoy our way of life. It also helps to have a supplemental income as having and running a small family farm isn't very sustainable. Typically there's off the farm jobs to help pay for the farm life. It's a crazy equation. Small family farms are far and few between. Please support your local farmer if possible! It is greatly appreciated!

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Camp Bear Paw

4 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · West Branch, MI

Learn more about this land: There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish. You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early! Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water. Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well. Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking. There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising. Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property. Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon! Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used. We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details. Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!

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Morgan's Place

3 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Millington, MI

Morgan's Place is a nonprofit campground serving people who have been injured in traumatic accidents to full recovery. We also offer Hipcamp stays and Airbnb rentals so our visitors who are in recovery do not have to pay out of pocket during their stay if they cannot. We located on 37 beautiful acres outside of Millington, Michigan and only 15 minutes from Frankenmuth and Birch Run. We have hiking trails, little goats, chickens, fishing, kayak rental and/or drop off/pick up at Cass River, and offer yoga classes, karaoke on certain nights, and blacksmithing demonstrations! There is a 4 person camper on site to rent if needed or we offer water/electric and tent sites too just ask.

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Blue Heron Homestead

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Au Gres, MI

Spend an enchanting evening on the shores of the Saginaw Bay. We are located in the North Bay- the northern end of the Saginaw Bay in a secluded coastal marsh. Enjoy some of the best views of stars in the Lower Peninsula, or roast marshmallows around a bonfire while the sound of frogs singing lulls you to sleep. Wake up to the sounds of blue herons and snowy egrets coasting over the bay as the sun rises in the morning and enjoy the biodiversity of plants and birds that call this part of Lake Huron home. Watch eagles and kingfishers fish as you kayak the marsh or just lounge in hammocks and enjoy the tranquility of this region. Activities: Kayaking- bring your own kayak or use one of ours. The bay is very shallow here and an ideal spot for a leisurely paddle. Take a tour by kayak of the maze of marsh, or kayak out to the tip of Point Au Gres. Fishing-Perch, Walleye , catfish, bluegill, sunfish, pike and bass are common in the North Bay. Need fishing gear or a license? Stop to Norm's Sporting Goods at the traffic light in Au Gres for a local experience. Birdwatching- This spot is truly a birdwatcher's paradise. In the summer we see abundant herons, egrets, kingfishers, swans, grebes, and a myriad of ducks on a daily basis. During migration seasons the bird action is endless. Swimming- although the marshy coastline here is not ideal for swimming you can easily kayak out to a sandbar or jump in, or just down the road is a public county park with a sandy beach. Visit the Northeast Region! Au Gres has few amenities or restaurants, but 20 minutes north Tawas has ample public beaches, dozens of bars and restaurants, a Walmart and other provisions you may want. The Huron National forest outiside of Tawas also has many great hiking trails, ORV trails and more.

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Secord Lake Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Gladwin, MI

Nestled in the heart of Gladwin, MI, our campground offers a unique blend of convenience and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a day on the lake, the trails, staying for the season, or just passing through Secord Lake Campground has something for everyone. At Secord Lake Campground, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. From essential comforts to exciting recreational opportunities, we have everything you need for a memorable stay.

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Lake Huron Wooded Retreat 🚗🏕️🏖️

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Au Gres, MI

Our one-acre property offers a spacious front area with ample room to accommodate an SUV and a few tents.. The rear of the property is entirely wooded, featuring a quaint walking path that invites you to explore the serene landscape. Pop-up campers can fit in the space, but it is tight and not recommended. Just a short 4-minute stroll down our secluded street leads to public access to Lake Huron. Here, you'll find a largely undiscovered public beach, its seclusion due to the unique location making it an ideal spot for quiet relaxation by sandy shores. For those looking to enjoy local culture and dining, we are conveniently situated approximately 10 minutes from both Tawas City and Au Gres, each offering an array of charming shops and restaurants. This setting perfectly blends accessibility with a retreat into nature, providing a peaceful haven where you can watch the sunset over Lake Huron then return to the woods for an evening of solitude.

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Tawas Pointe In The Woods

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · East Tawas, MI

Park your RV or set up your tent and hook up to a 50 amp power outlet or a 110 outlet. Enjoy hiking the paths on the 25 acre woods, the campfire, the amazing stargazing, and only 2 miles to Tawas State Park and 3 miles to the charming East Tawas shops and restaurants. Located on Baldwin Resort Road in East Tawas. Ride your bike to Tawas State Park to enjoy one of the best sites for bird watching in the Spring; walk the white sugar sand beaches of Lake Huron and Tawas Bay all seasons, and swim in the warmer months. My 25 acre property has 3 lots of 2 acres of 260 feet frontage on Baldwin Resort Road. On the 60 foot frontage lot is a 3 bedroom home that I stay in at times and a shed; the outdoor 50 amp outlet and 110 power outlet is located at the back of the home for hookup. The 200 foot frontage are empty wooded lots and the 23 acres of woods is behind the home and south of the home. You have access to the 23 acres for hiking and pure enjoyment of the serene woods.

The best camping near Bay City State Park guide

Overview

About

To start with, Bay City State Recreation Area is a prime location for glimpsing migratory birds, so grab your binoculars and hit the trails! Home to Tobico Marsh, one of the biggest wetlands along the Great Lakes, and covering over 2,000 acres that vary between wetland woods, meadow, marshlands, beach and prairie, this park truly has something for everyone. If you’re not the walking-around-looking-at-stuff type, there’s more than a thousand feet of sandy beach for you to lie on, make into castles, or scour for buried treasure. Jump into Lake Huron for an afternoon dip, or take off on a hunting or fishing journey. With both modern and rustic camping options, plus miles of wilderness to explore, this place has your name on it. Seize the bay!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Bay City State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the lake is perfect for swimming. Fall also offers a spectacular display of changing leaves. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, making some activities less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the sun and bugs.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and exploring the trails.
Be aware of park hours, which may vary by season, and plan your visit accordingly.
Don't forget to bring your Recreation Passport for park entry.