When you think about camping in Michigan, it’s the water that draws most to the Great Lakes State. Michigan has 3,288 miles of shoreline, the second longest of any state, including 1,056 miles of island coast. Plus, you’re never more than six miles from a natural water source, or more than 85 miles away from a Great Lake. 


There are plenty of opportunities for coastal and island camping in Michigan, but it’s more than just water. Michigan has the largest state park and state forest system of any state, with over 100 state parks, recreation areas, and state forests. There are also several national parks, forests, and lakeshores to pitch a tent or park the adventure rig. Needless to say, you have some options, so stick with The Dyrt to help you narrow it down. Consider these main Michigan attractions when deciding on where to go camping in Michigan. 


For most campers, the epicenter of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountainous dunes slope from high peaks and plateaus down to meet with the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Hiking, biking, hang gliding, off-roading, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, or just simply sandy beach lounging can all be found in and around Sleeping Bear Dunes. Also, when you take a camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the nearby quaint towns and rolling inland hills speckled with fruit orchards provide the perfect bonus excursions. 


Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in the country. Michigan waterways have been essential to the growth of the nation, but they’ve also been treacherous for mariners for centuries, and continue to demand respect. When camping in Michigan, touring some of the iconic Michigan lighthouses can be a great way to learn about the history of the region, while also taking in stellar views of natural landscapes and architectural achievement. Check in with The Dyrt for information on camping near some great Michigan lighthouses. 


Finally, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an entire playground of its own for outdoor recreation and exploration. Discover some of the many waterfalls like the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, or kayak on Lake Superior for a memorable view of the famous Pictured Rocks. The power of Lake Superior can be seen across the northern shore with unique rock formations, and remnants of the prominent mining and shipping industry still exist throughout. If you’re thinking about more remote or wild camping options in Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is for you. Whatever your camping style, stay tuned to The Dyrt for inside information on the best camping in Michigan. 

Michigan

The Best Camping in Michigan | 100+ MI Campgrounds

Sunrise Landing is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Sunrise Landing is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Sunrise Landing. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Sunrise Landing

The Best Camping Near Sunrise Landing, Michigan

Exploring the UP is such a cool idea but why is a simple PRIVATE and affordable campsite impossible to find? That's why I decided to fix the problem.



I realized my location is ideal for exploring the major UP attractions like Pictured Rocks, Taquamenon Falls and Kitchittikippi. And there’s even a convenience store within walking distance!

You’re not stacked on top of your neighbors and you can’t see any buildings from the sites.



The sites are carved out in some rolling hills and older growth forest.



Woodpeckers, hummingbirds, chipmunks, mallards, wood ducks, turtles, a hawk carrying a big ole bullfrog overhead. (Poor little fella’)



Showers are also available in town (Pickelmans gas station).



Neat UP Retreat

Northland Outfitters
          We are Northland Outfitters Campground and Canoe/Kayak Livery

Nestled comfortably in a hug from the Manistique River, you will effortlessly feel at ease in your natural abode.

With mature trees and water in every direction, our campground is something that only the hands of time and nature can create.

Let us help you discover the Upper Peninsula by boat.

 Whether you are just wanting to get your toes wet, or seeking to dive right in for an extended venture through the

Seney Wildlife Refuge, we are here to help gear you up for the perfect trip.﻿



Northland Outfitters

## Overview

Twelvemile Beach Campground is a beautiful campground along Lake Superior located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just 15 miles west of Grand Marais. There are 36 sites total, including 2 handicap accessible sites. Twelvemile Beach has water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and an interpretive amphitheater. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet. 

## Recreation

There are three sets of stairs to the beach as well as a day-use picnic area and parking. The two-mile long White Birch Trail begins and ends at the campground. The North Country Trail treks through the campground. The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch.

## Facilities

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore drive-in campsites are rustic and do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campsites provide a picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, and tent pad. The campgrounds have vault toilets and well water. Typically there is no cell phone reception.

## Natural Features

Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.

## Nearby Attractions

Guided kayaking and other boat tours within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation.

Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window:

If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.

There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure.

There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility.

If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date.

Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window

Twelvemile Beach Campground

## Overview

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore hugs the Lake Superior shoreline for more than 40 miles along Michigan's northern coast. Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, coldest, and most pristine of all the Great Lakes. In addition to boating and kayaking on the lake, the park's backcountry offers nearly 100 miles of walking and hiking trails and opportunities for solitude, inspiration, physical challenge, renewal, and camping. Access to Pictured Rocks' backcountry is primarily along the 'Lakeshore Trail', a part of the 42-mile long North Country National Scenic Trail where you can experience forests, dunes, beaches, waterfalls and wonderful panoramic views. 

[Backcountry Planner](https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm) The backcountry campgrounds are accessed by hiking or kayaking only. A backcountry camping **permit is required** year-round for all overnight trips into the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore backcountry. Permits are not required for day hiking. To assist in planning an overnight backcountry trip into Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, take time to carefully plan and prepare for your adventure. Pictured Rocks offers fourteen backcountry campgrounds, that are located at two to five mile intervals along the Lakeshore Trail. Private shuttle services are available. 

Permit holder must print and retain one copy of the permit when hiking to the campground; permit must be visibly secured to tent at campsite. You will be assigned a campsite number at every backcountry campground. Permit holder may have only one permit reserved at one time. Camp only in designated sites and follow permit itinerary. You must camp within 15 feet of the numbered post at your chosen campsite. Individual campsites are available for groups of 1-6 people (2 tents or hammocks maximum, or 1 tent and 1 hammock). Groups of 7-20 people and up to a 10 tent max. must camp in designated group sites. Each campground has a specific capacity; campsites within each backcountry campground are identified by a numbered post. 

[Leave No Trace Principles](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMYTg0lHDG8) [Leave No Trace Principles with Audio Description](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lTozt-CjBw) Learn how to Leave No Trace in our beautiful campgrounds.

## Charges & Cancellations

**Cancellation Policy:**  
Prior to printing your permit, you may cancel any time before your reservation date and receive a 50% refund of all backcountry camping permit fees ($5 per person, per night). The $15 reservation fee is non-refundable. If you have printed your permit, there are no refunds.   
**Change Policy:**  
Prior to printing your permit, you may make changes to your permit before your reservation date. Changes may be made to the group size, campground, and the duration of your trip. An additional $15 non-refundable fee will be charged for changes.  
Changes may be made to the group size through your Recreation.gov account or through the Call Center and may incur additional backcountry camping permit fees or be refunded these fees depending on whether you increase or decrease your group size. If decreasing your numbers, you will receive a full refund of the backcountry camping permit fees for the numbers you are decreasing only.   
A change to the duration of the trip or campground may only be made through the Call Center. For changes to the duration of the trip, you may incur additional backcountry camping permit fees or be refunded these fees depending on whether you increase or decrease your number of nights. If decreasing your numbers, you will receive a full refund of the backcountry camping permit fees for the numbers you are decreasing only.  
To change your entry date, you must cancel your permit and reserve a new permit. All fees apply.   
**No Show Policy:**  
If you do not print your permit by 11:59 p.m. on the first day of your scheduled trip, your entire backcountry camping permit will be canceled. No refunds. Please cancel your reservation if you are unable to use it to open space for others.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Camping Permit

## Overview

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore hugs the Lake Superior shoreline for more than 40 miles along Michigan's northern coast. Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, coldest, and most pristine of all the Great Lakes. Camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauties the lakeshore has to offer. Campgrounds are rustic, and do not provide electric or sewer hookups. Campers, trailers, and RVs are welcome, note there are generator free areas. Cell phone reception is limited, so unplug, unwind, and enjoy the serenity Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds has to offer. 

Hurricane River Campground is located 12 miles west of Grand Marais and is divided into two separate sections off H-58, Hurricane River Upper, and Hurricane River Lower. The Upper Campground has 10 sites and the Lower Campground has 12. Campground amenities include water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and handicap accessible sites. Hurricane River Lower Campground is the trailhead for the Au Sable Light Station, which is a 3 mile round trip stroll to the lighthouse with views of Lake Superior, Jacobsville Sandstone, and Shipwreck remains. Upper Hurricane River is tucked back in the woods with beautiful deciduous trees between sites allowing for the woodsy experience of Northern Michigan. 

## Recreation

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers 100 miles of hiking trails leading to waterfalls, beaches, forest wilderness, cultural sites, and breathtaking cliff-top views of Lake Superior. Whether you have only a few minutes, hours, or days to see a portion of the lakeshore, one of these hikes may be for you.

Lake Superior's rugged shoreline invites boaters to explore the beautiful Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with its miles of colorful sandstone cliffs and long stretches of sandy beaches. Peaceful inland lakes also invite boaters to linger in the northwoods. Check the marine weather forecast before venturing out. Watch the weather carefully while on the lake. The weather can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Just because it's calm in Munising Bay or Grand Marais Harbor does not mean it is calm along the more distant shores. The Pictured Rocks cliffs rise 50 to 200 feet directly from the lake, offering precious few protected places if the wind and waves increase.

## Facilities

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore drive-in campsites are rustic and do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campsites provide a picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, and tent pad. The campgrounds have vault toilets and well water. Typically there is no cell phone reception.

## Natural Features

Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.

## Nearby Attractions

Guided kayaking and other boat tours within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities.

## Charges & Cancellations

A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply.

Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window:

If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.

There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure.

There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility.

If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date.

Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window

Hurricane River Campground

## Overview

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore hugs the Lake Superior shoreline for more than 40 miles along Michigan's northern coast. Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, coldest, and most pristine of all the Great Lakes. Camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauties the lakeshore has to offer. Campgrounds are rustic, and do not provide electric or sewer hookups. Campers, trailers, and RVs are welcome, note there are generator free areas. Cell phone reception is limited, so unplug, unwind, and enjoy the serenity Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds has to offer. 

This small campground (8 sites) is located 3 miles north of Alger County Road H-58 and 20 miles northeast of Munising on Little Beaver Lake. One campsite is wheelchair accessible .Because of the small campsites and the narrow, twisting, hilly access road it is highly suggested you check the campsite length, width, and height before booking.

A small boat ramp is available for launching boats. Only electric motors are permitted on Little Beaver Lake and Beaver Lake as these lakes are within the Beaver Basin Wilderness area. Little Beaver also features the White Pine Trail, a 1.0 mile loop trail. A 1.5 mile trail leads to Lake Superior and connects with the North Country Trail.

## Recreation

Hiking, fishing, boating using electric motor boats, and paddling are popular activities that can be done right from the campground. 

## Facilities

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore drive-in campsites are rustic and do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campsites provide a picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, and tent pad. The campgrounds have vault toilets and well water. Typically there is no cell phone reception.

## Natural Features

Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound

## Nearby Attractions

Guided kayaking and other boat tours within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation.

Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window:

If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.

There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure.

There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility.

If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date.

Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window

Little Beaver Campground

Adams Trail Dirt Lot

JoeIda Campground

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

Fox River Campground

Kingston Lake State Forest

Join the fun near Detroit. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Detroit is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Detroit camping trip.

Detroit

The Best Camping Near Detroit | Michigan Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Warren, MI has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Warren. Find the best campgrounds near Warren, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Warren

The Best Camping Near Warren, Michigan

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Sterling Heights, MI has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Sterling Heights. Discover great camping spots near Sterling Heights, reviewed by campers like you.

Sterling Heights

The Best Camping Near Sterling Heights, Michigan

Are you in need of a campground near Lansing, MI? Lansing is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Lansing

The Best Camping Near Lansing, Michigan

Ann Arbor is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ann Arbor. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Ann Arbor

The Best Camping Near Ann Arbor, Michigan

Join the fun near Grand Rapids. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Grand Rapids, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

Grand Rapids

The Best Camping Near Grand Rapids, Michigan

Flint is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

Flint

The Best Camping Near Flint, Michigan

Clinton Township, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Clinton Township is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Clinton Township camping trip.

Clinton Township

The Best Camping Near Clinton Township, Michigan

Join the fun near Dearborn. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Dearborn campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dearborn. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dearborn

The Best Camping Near Dearborn, Michigan

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Livonia. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Livonia campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Livonia, MI. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Livonia

The Best Camping Near Livonia, Michigan

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Hiawatha National Forest, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Hiawatha National Forest, MI. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Hiawatha National Forest

The Best Camping Near Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Ottawa National Forest, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Ottawa National Forest

The Best Camping Near Ottawa National Forest, Michigan

Looking for the best campgrounds near Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI? Sleeping Bear Dunes is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Sleeping Bear Dunes, reviewed by campers like you.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

The Best Camping Near Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Park is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pictured Rocks National Park campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Pictured Rocks National Park camping trip.

Pictured Rocks National Park

The Best Camping Near Pictured Rocks National Park, Michigan

Manistee National Forest camping is some of the best the midwest has to offer. You do not need a permit to camp on the National Forests or in designated campgrounds. If your campfire will be on National Forest System lands you will not need a wood permit to cut firewood. Dispersed and Primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".


Huron-Manistee National Forests

Searching for the best camping near Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Huron-Manistee National Forests and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping Near Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Best Camping Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Best Camping Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Surrounded by the water of Lake Superior is some of the best camping in Michigan on the isolated and quiet Isle Royale. Near Rock Harbor, MI, campers can enjoy a variety of activities from swimming and fishing to boating and scuba diving. Lake Superior’s seemingly bottomless depths offer a world of exploration for snorkelers and divers. Campsites close to the lake make it easy to put in a kayak or canoe for exploring the tiny islands and waterways found throughout the area. Campgrounds come with the amenities campers expect to find that include cabins, yurts, and plenty of sites ideal for tents. RV drivers will also find plenty of places to hook up their vehicles.

The Best Camping in Sunrise Landing

Top Campgrounds in Sunrise Landing (142)

1.