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

Agate, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. 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 Agate and user-submitted reviews.

Agate

The Best Camping Near Agate, Michigan

i have a 19 plus acer property large hardwoods and pines 9 aceres alone is a sand dune inside a forest

many nice camping sites curently set up for 15 camp sites large sites some can be tent camped others for popups and a few for rv travel trailers



Fredricks

Sparrow Rapids Campground

Although not part of the Ottawa National Forest, this beautiful waterfalls is surrounded by the Ottawa National Forest. One of the most popular Upper Peninsula waterfalls. Managed by the U.P. Power Company, a developed trail is maintained with steps and bridges across the river at the base of the falls. This is one fall that is beautiful yearlong, and a variety of plants can be viewed throughout the summer.

Bond Falls Campground

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground is located seven miles southwest of Watersmeet, Michigan, adjacent to the 18,327 acre Sylvania Wilderness Area. This 48-site campground provides a home base for visitors who venture into the wilderness on day outings. Recreation Sylvania's abundant lakes provide plentiful non-motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Other popular activities include hiking and viewing wildlife. Facilities This campground consists of four camping loops with a total of 48 campsites and provides drive-in campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers and motor homes. All sites are spaced with natural vegetation for screening. Each campsite offers a wood table, fire ring, lantern post and parking spur. Drinking water is provided by faucets in loops 2, 3, and 4, while two flush toilet facilities and one accessible vault toilet are evenly spaced throughout the campground. Also located adjacent to the campground is a day use facility that has showers, a picnic area, canoe access landings, trailheads and a swimming beach. Located adjacent to the campground is a water and sewage dump station. Natural Features The old-growth forests and pristine lakes in the region provide habitat for a wide range of animal and plant life, including rare orchids, bald eagles, loons and osprey. The wilderness contains 34 named lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by record-size red and white pines. The Ottawa National Forest is comprised of nearly one million acres and is located in the western reaches of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The forest's rolling, forest covered hills extend from the south shore of Lake Superior to the Wisconsin border. Lakes, rivers and waterfalls are found throughout this beautiful landscape. Nearby Attractions Bond Falls located about 20 minutes North East. Porcupine Mountains located about 1 hour North West. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore located about 2 hours North East. Keweenaw Peninsula is located about 1.5 hours North. ADA Access: N

Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground

Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground

Stannard Township RV Park - CLOSED

This rustic campground provides visitors with access to deep woods with fishing and canoeing opportunities on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River. This dispersed campground is just a short walk from Mex-i-mine Falls. As you overlook this jewel you can feel the history when loggers used this area to transport their product to the saw mills.

Burned Dam Campground

## Overview

**Planning a trip to the Sylvania Wilderness? Click on "Show alert" at the top of the page and read the latest Alert regarding this facility.**

The Sylvania Wilderness encompasses 18,327 acres of primitive lands and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Visitors can camp in 50 designated campsites within the Sylvania Wilderness. Visitors enjoy endless canoeing, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

## Recreation

Sylvania's abundant lakes provide plentiful non-motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Other popular activities include hiking and viewing wildlife.

## Facilities

Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camp is not a physical campground located at one location. The 50 individual sites are located along eight lakes within the Sylvania Wilderness. Camping is allowed only at designated sites. Campsites are primitive, but each is equipped with a campfire ring and a wilderness latrine.

## Natural Features

The old-growth forests and pristine lakes in the region provide habitat for a wide range of animal and plant life, including rare orchids, bald eagles, loons and osprey. The wilderness contains 34 named lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by record-size red and white pines. The Ottawa National Forest is comprised of nearly 1 million acres and is located in the western reaches of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The forest's rolling, tree covered hills extend from the south shore of Lake Superior to the Wisconsin border. Lakes, rivers and waterfalls are found throughout this beautiful landscape.

Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

Bob Lake Campground located in Houghton County is 18 miles southeast of Ontonagon, MI, in the Ontonagon Ranger District. This campground features a single loop with 17 campsites which are spaced with natural vegetation for screening. Many of the sites are situated near the lake. These drive in sites can accommodate tents, trailers or motor homes. Each site offers a wood picnic table, fire ring, lantern post and parking spur. The camping loop contains three vault toilets, one of which is accessible. Drinking water is provided by a hand pump which is located near the campground entrance. Adjacent to the campground are the Day Use Picnic area, a beach, a boat landing with a parking area and the trailhead to the 1.2 mile long Beaver Lodge Interpretive Trail. Bob Lake is a shallow lake with depths averaging 3 to 10 feet with deepest at 17 feet. Walleye, small mouth bass, and perch are to be had for fishermen from shore or boat.

Bob Lake Campground

Imp Lake Campground located 6 miles southeast of Watersmeet, MI, provides visitors with a unique camping experience. Lakeside sites offer a quaint view of a small island populated with nesting loons, while off lake sites are perched beside towering hemlock. Visitors are free to roam the nearby Imp Lake Interpretive Trail, canoe or fish the quiet wake free lake. This campground consisting of two camping loops, with a total of 22 campsites, provides drive-in sites that can accommodate tents, trailers and motor homes. All sites are spaced with natural vegetation for screening. Each site offers a wood table, fire ring, and parking spur. Three sets of vault toilets and two hand pumps for drinking water are located within the camping loops. A beach, picnic area, and boat landing are located adjacent to the campground.

Imp Lake Campground

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 Agate

Top Campgrounds in Agate (139)

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