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

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

Bitely

The Best Camping Near Bitely, Michigan

Secluded Campsite with a private pond.  Overlooks a large meadow in the middle of 20 acres bordered by tall pine trees.
Escape the everyday hustle and bustle of the city and find peace beside the pond in your own private getaway! Minutes from Traverse City shopping and wineries, but close to many recreational activities like horseback riding, swimming, hiking, kayaking or canoeing. Lay back to the sounds of chirping crickets and croaking frogs and take in the view of endless stars. Free from light pollution, the Northern Michigan night sky offers an amazing view of the Milky Way and even an occasional view of the Northern Lights. Bluetooth rock speakers on deck. Power is available for a small fee.

Pine Meadows

Harvest Village is an agritourism business - the 2 parts of this word reflect the two aspects of our business. First we are a small organic farm, second we host farm stay guests. We are located in beautiful Northern Michigan. Fresh air, organic gardens, humanely raised animals and natural beauty are all available for our guests’ enjoyment. Harvest Village offers a unique camping experience. With only 4 campsites you can enjoy quiet privacy and beautiful Farm views. You also have the option of delicious Harvest Village breakfasts to start your day.

1. RV Sites: Includes: Water and Electric. Bathroom and Shower available. 
2. Improved Campsites: Includes: Water and Electric. Bathroom and Shower available.







Harvest Village

We are located approximately 90 miles northwest of Grand Rapids, and 40 miles northeast of Ludington. We are nestled into the heart of Michigan's Manistee National Forest, where there are limitless opportunities for all types of outdoor recreation activities.

We welcome you to our quiet, family atmosphere park, where a clean, well kept park and a friendly atmosphere are our promise to you. The 6 1/2 acre park has 250 feet of waterfront on Seaman Lake, where park patrons can swim, boat, or fish in the spring fed lake.

Spend the day relaxing in front of your campfire in one of our spacious, grassy campsites; enjoy the enchanting quiet of Seaman Lake at our beachfront; relax by our swimming pool; or spend the day exploring with your ORV on the nearby trail system. Challenge the waters of the Pine River by canoe, or find a private trout fishing hole on the Little Manistee River. Whatever you do, the choice is yours... it is your Leisure Time!

There is a network of ORV trails available for the trail riding enthusiast that connects to a statewide system of trails. We offer 2017 Trail Maps in the camp store - pick yours up today.

The Pine River and Pere Marquette River are both very popular canoeing rivers, there are numerous canoe liveries available in the area.

Both the Pine and the Pere Marquette rivers boast excellent spring and fall salmon runs. People come from all over to fish these runs. Area lakes, including Seaman Lake where the campground is, have some of the best fishing available in the state.Seaman Lake even claims two (yes two!) state record largemouth bass. People fish the area lakes for bass, pike, bluegill, and perch. The Little Manistee River is a popular fishery for the trout fisherman, and Lake Michigan has countless charter boats that can take you on a deep sea type of fishing expedition.

Leisuretime Campground

## Overview

Located on the south side of Nichols Lake, the campground and surrounding area offer excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, picnicking, hiking, camping, or just relaxing.

## Recreation

Fishing and boating are popular activities at Nichols Lake. There is a paved boat launch at the campground. This site is one of the locations on the National Forest's for Kids Fishing Day Events for Michigan's Free Fishing Day in early June. Ice fishing is also popular in the winter. Swimming areas are marked with buoys, but there are no lifeguards. The North Country National Scenic Trail goes through the site near the boat ramp, providing good hiking opportunities.

## Facilities

Nichols Lake has 29 family sites on paved spurs. Drinking water, flush toilets, and showers are provided. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. A wood ramp and stairs lead down to the lake from the campground. A short path along the lake provides access for fishing.

## Natural Features

At 160 acres, Nichols Lake offers shore, pier, and boat fishing. Typical fish species available include bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, and northern pike. There is a swimming beach and accessible fishing pier available.   
  
Those wishing to enjoy the day at Nichols Lake will find a day use area located on the north side of the lake. 

## Nearby Attractions

The North Country Trail covers 4,600 miles from Crown Point, NY, to Lake Sakakawea State Park, ND. The segment that includes Nichols Lake has beautiful sections for both the advanced and weekend hikers. The nearest towns are Woodland, Bitely, and Brohman, about two miles to the south.

Nichols Lake South Campground

## Overview

Gleasons Landing is a very popular campground on the banks of the Pere Marquette River. With a selection of shaded and secluded spots, the campground is perfect for peaceful nature immersion.   
  
The Pere Marquette River was designated a National Scenic River in 1978, the first in Michigan, and it regularly attracts many canoeing, kayaking and fishing enthusiasts. The 66-mile stretch of river begins east of Baldwin and empties into Lake Michigan at Ludington.

## Recreation

A major draw to the campground is world-class fishing. The free flowing river maintains large populations of resident brown trout, steelhead and salmon. Gleason Landing marks the start of a zone for fly fishing and catch and release only. Reel fishing is available upstream. A boat ramp is located within the campground.   
  
Canoeing and kayaking is very popular on the river, and boat rentals are available in Baldwin. A permit is required to float the river from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.   
  
Trails along the river provide shore access for anglers and short, scenic nature walks for hikers.

## Facilities

The walk-in campsites promise lovely views of the river. Family sites are each equipped with a picnic table, lantern post and campfire ring. Two group sites can accommodate up to 20 people each. Drinking water is provided but no hookups are available.

## Natural Features

The campground sits on a bluff overlooking the picturesque Pere Marquette River. It is surrounded by a mix of white pine and oak trees.   
  
The Huron-Manistee National Forests encompass a million acres throughout the northern portion of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The forests provide recreation opportunities for visitors, habitat for fish and wildlife and resources for local industry. 

## Nearby Attractions

A trailhead for the North Country National Scenic Trail is a short drive away. The trail extends from New York to North Dakota, spanning 4,600 miles.

Gleasons Landing

## Overview

Bowman Bridge Campground is perfect for true nature immersion. Campers come here for easy access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River and for the delightful views of the great outdoors.

## Recreation

The top three activities for campers at Bowman Bridge are canoeing, fishing and hiking. Anglers cast for brown trout, salmon, steelhead and rainbow trout.   
  
Watercraft rentals are available at two nearby liveries in Baldwin. A permit is required to float the river from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Monday of Labor Day weekend. Watercraft hours during the permit season are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.   
  
Hikers can head up the campground's connector trail to the North Country National Scenic Trail. This "north country" trail weaves through many scenic, historic and cultural areas across seven states, measuring 4,600 miles end-to-end.

## Facilities

Campsites are in a wooded setting, but due to a tornado that passed through in 2005, tall trees and shade are less dense than in neighboring campgrounds.   
  
The campground has a single loop 16 paved family campsites. There are also 4 walk-in family campsites and 4 tent-only group sites that can accommodate up to 20 people each.

## Natural Features

The campground is situated along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, a 66-mile stretch of clear, unspoiled waters within the Huron-Manistee National Forests in Michigan. Large blocks of public land offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and hunting can be found in the surrounding area. 

## Nearby Attractions

Visitors enjoy exploring the extent of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River. Other nearby attractions include the Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area and the historic community of Idlewild.

Bowman Bridge Campground

Benton Lake Campground Benton Lake is a 33-acre lake completely surrounded by National Forest land. The North Country National Scenic Trail is located off Pierce Drive, about 2 miles east of the campground entrance road. This site is usually quiet, but there are lots of activities, including fishing, swimming, picnicking and hiking. This campground is very popular during hunting season.

Benton Lake Campground

Sawkaw Lake

Highbanks Lake Campground This campground is located on the 20-acre Highbank Lake, which is completely surrounded by National Forest System land. This is a popular campground for anglers and hikers. The beach is very swim friendly, shallow with a sandy bottom.

Highbank Lake Campground

Come experience camping the way it should be, in a natural environment where you may see a coyote, a pair of American Bald Eagles fishing in the lake, a bobcat stalking a rabbit or just a pair of whitetail deer drinking along the side of the lake. We have 180 acres of woods and water with miles of trails to roam at your leisure. In the middle of our campground is our private 40 acre sand bottom Lucky Lake with over a mile of shoreline and the most unique sandbar in the center that is a gathering spot for kids of all ages.

We have large, flat RV sites, Pull-Thru's, tent and group sites available. A limited number of water and 50/30/20 amp electric sites, waterfront 30/20 amp electric sites, 2 separate 5 and 8 acre group sites to meet the needs of one family or the largest group outing. Nearly 100 of our sites are directly on the waterfront with swimming and fishing at your very door step. Walk or bike the miles of scenic nature trails on our property -- experience camping all over again!

EZ off and EZ On to US-31 at the Rothbury / Winston Rd., exit #136. Our entrance is just a couple hundred yards to the east.

Lucky Lake Campground & Outdoor Center LLC

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 Bitely

Top Campgrounds in Bitely (258)

1.