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Best Campgrounds near Alpena, MI

272 Reviews

Camping near Alpena, Michigan encompasses a variety of waterfront and forested sites along Lake Huron's western shore in northeastern Michigan. The area features several state forest campgrounds, county parks, and private RV resorts within a 30-mile radius of downtown Alpena. Notable options include Ossineke State Forest Campground, which sits directly on Lake Huron about 15 miles south of Alpena, and Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground, located west of the city. Many campsites provide access to Lake Huron's sandy beaches, inland lakes, and river systems. Campers frequently note the spacious waterfront sites at Ossineke, where "camp spots are spacious and all were either on the water or had a path to the water."

Most campgrounds in the Alpena region operate seasonally from April or May through October, with a few facilities like Harrisville State Park remaining open year-round. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions with occasional strong winds off Lake Huron. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better coverage in developed campgrounds closer to Alpena and limited or no service in more remote state forest locations. Michigan Recreation Passports are required for entry to state parks and forest campgrounds, while county parks and private facilities have separate fee structures.

The camping options around Alpena accommodate various preferences and equipment needs. Full-service RV parks like Campers Cove RV Park offer amenities including full hookups, showers, and recreational facilities such as fishing ponds and boat rentals. For more rustic experiences, state forest campgrounds provide vault toilets and drinking water but limited other amenities. Negwegon State Park offers a unique backcountry camping experience with sites accessible only by hiking, boating, or paddling in. The Alpena County Fairground provides an in-town camping option with water views of the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary and Thunder Bay River, making it convenient for exploring local attractions while maintaining access to urban amenities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Alpena, Michigan (72)

    1. Ossineke State Forest Campground

    12 Reviews
    Alpena, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 785-4251

    $20 / night

    "Great location, right on lake Huron. Close to Alpena and the dinosaur park. Quiet with moderately large sites."

    "The camp spots were spacious and all were either on the water or had a path to the water."

    2. Alpena County Fairground

    4 Reviews
    Alpena, MI
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (989) 356-1847

    $23 / night

    "Alpena Fairground camp sites are conveniently located right off Route 23 within minutes of local attractions and historic sites.  "

    "The cool northern Michigan air felt refreshing as well as watching the seagulls & Canadian geese. Adequate showers & restroom. Will stay here again."

    3. Campers Cove RV Park And Canoe Livery

    3 Reviews
    Alpena, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 356-3708

    "Campers Cove in Alpena is so nice!"

    "We have witnessed MANY OUTSTANDING POSITIVE changes in the operation of this park over our time here. The one thing that kept eluding Mark and Judy was the quality of the internet service."

    4. Negwegon State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Black River, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 724-5126

    $15 / night

    "It is possibly the nicest camping we've done in Michigan. Water filter is a MUST unless you want to walk to the parking lot every time you need potable water."

    "First of all, each of the sites are only a mile or two away from the parking lot of the park. This gives newbies the chance to take a small hike in for that backcountry feel."

    5. Long Lake County Park

    3 Reviews
    Alpena, MI
    8 miles
    +1 (989) 595-2401

    "Nice family campground right on the lake. If you like to bring your boat while you camp, this is the place for you! Beautiful lake 1 mile from Rockport State Park."

    6. Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

    1 Review
    Alpena, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 785-4251

    7. Harrisville State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    Harrisville, MI
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 724-5126

    $28 - $74 / night

    "Fire ring located near back corner... away from your awning. Path behind site makes for short walk to the beach."

    "Great wooded campground on the shores of Lake Huron. Great beach with sand and rocks. Once you’re out in about 2 feet of water it becomes all sand for as far as you can go."

    8. Hoeft State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Rogers City, MI
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 734-2543

    $25 - $147 / night

    "Lake Huron. Clean bathrooms. Some of the sites are not as deep as others. The lower numbered sites are closer to beach access. Great activities for kids, nice bike paths and hiking trails."

    "This is a beautiful state park with the best of pure Michigan woods and Lake Huron sandy dunes and beaches ."

    9. MI Lavender Farm

    1 Review
    Posen, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 229-0350

    $60 / night

    "Owners friendly and helpful with nice location"

    10. Thunder Bay Golf And RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Atlanta, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 729-9375

    $45 - $65 / night

    "No restrooms but if you are in the area(Hillman Michigan) this is a great place to rest and relax!

    There is a good restaurant on site and lovely walking area."

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Recent Camping Photos near Alpena, MI

102 Photos of 72 Alpena Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Alpena, MI

272 Reviews of 72 Alpena Campgrounds

Guide to Alpena

Camping near Alpena, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Tawas Point State Park Campground, have stunning beaches. One camper mentioned, "Two swimming beaches. Dog beach. A few trails to walk on, not many to ride bikes."
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the nearby lighthouses and parks. A reviewer at Hoeft State Park Campground said, "It is close to Rogers City shops, a really cool lighthouse a few miles away, and Ocqueoc Falls is 15 - 20 minutes away."
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A camper at Harrisville State Park Campground noted, "Not a huge park, but complete with bike and walk/jog trails."

What campers like:

  • Privacy and space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. One visitor at Ossineke State Forest Campground said, "Most are well spaced and offer lots of privacy."
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at P.H. Hoeft State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms had showers, though they definitely could use an update."
  • Natural beauty: Campers love the scenic views. A visitor at Au Sable River Primitive Camping shared, "The perfect morning and evening view of the river."

What you should know:

  • Crowded on weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy. A camper at Tawas Point State Park Campground noted, "It can get really packed here on weekends."
  • Limited amenities: Some sites are rustic with fewer facilities. A visitor at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground mentioned, "There are two outhouses, and a well with good drinking water."
  • Reservations recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground said, "Sites require a reservation either at the office or online."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A reviewer at Onaway State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a playground area with swings, sand pit, and jungle bars."
  • Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier to bring the whole family. A camper at Aloha State Park Campground noted, "Pets allowed, picnic table, reservable."
  • Family-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. A visitor at Cheboygan State Park Campground said, "If you're looking for a 'Northern Michigan' experience, this is a must."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have smaller sites that may not accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Tawas Point State Park Campground mentioned, "Can feel a little tight on some spaces."
  • Electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, but not all have full hookups. A camper at Harrisville State Park Campground noted, "Does not have water nor sewer hookups at sites."
  • Plan for tight roads: Some campgrounds have narrow roads, which can be tricky for big rigs. A visitor at P.H. Hoeft State Park Campground said, "Big rigs, note that the roads can be tight."

Camping near Alpena, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Alpena, Michigan?

Alpena offers excellent camping options for all preferences. Ossineke State Forest Campground stands out with its spacious sites right on Lake Huron, providing beautiful water views and convenient access to local attractions like the dinosaur park. For RV travelers, Campers Cove RV Park And Canoe Livery delivers amenities including putt-putt golf, waterfront sites, boat rentals, a fishing pond, and helpful services like on-site tank draining. Other notable options include Long Lake County Park with reservable sites and Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground for a more rustic experience. Most campgrounds in the area provide easy access to Alpena's attractions while offering the natural beauty that makes Northeast Michigan special.

Is the Alpena County Fairgrounds open for camping?

Yes, Alpena County Fairground is open for camping and offers convenient sites located just off Route 23. The fairgrounds feature RV and trailer sites with views of the Alpena wildlife sanctuary and Thunder Bay River, making it particularly appealing for sunset watching. Its strategic location puts you within minutes of local attractions and historic sites. For those seeking an alternative free overnight option, Walmart — Alpena Supercenter allows overnight parking with easy access in a convenient location within Alpena, though it has a smaller parking lot with limited space.

What state parks offer camping near Alpena, MI?

Several state parks near Alpena offer excellent camping opportunities. Harrisville State Park Campground features shaded sites with easy beach access and well-positioned fire rings. Hoeft State Park Campground delivers clean facilities on Lake Huron with sandy dunes, beaches, bike paths, and hiking trails—just reserve early as it's popular. Onaway State Park Campground provides lakeside sites along Black Lake, Michigan's seventh-largest lake, with playground facilities. For a more rustic experience, Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground offers first-come, first-served sites adjacent to Tomahawk Lake in the Atlanta State Forest Area, providing access to Oqueoc Falls and numerous hiking trails.

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