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Cedarville, Michigan offers both established and dispersed camping options in the eastern Upper Peninsula. Loons Point RV Park & Campground provides full hookup sites directly on the water with tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. Search Bay Dispersed camping area, located closer to Hessel than Cedarville, provides free lakefront camping with no amenities along Lake Huron. The region is characterized by cedar forests, lakefront views, and proximity to the Les Cheneaux Islands, creating diverse camping experiences within a 20-mile radius of town.
Road conditions vary significantly between developed and dispersed camping areas. Search Bay Dispersed features a gravel access road with numerous potholes and low-hanging branches that limit access for larger vehicles. Several reviewers note the road is manageable with smaller RVs and passenger vehicles but becomes challenging for anything over 20 feet in length. Weather patterns affect camping conditions, with mosquitoes being particularly problematic in the cedar forests during summer months. Cell service is generally available but inconsistent, with Verizon providing 1-3 bars in most areas. A visitor noted: "The terrain is slightly rocky, and there's a constant wind—both to be expected—but it only adds to the rugged charm."
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for camping in the Cedarville area. Campsites at Loons Point RV Park receive consistently high ratings for their views and water proximity. One camper described it as having an "incredible water view" while another mentioned it was "quiet and peaceful." Search Bay Dispersed camping area features multiple lakefront sites with views of Lake Huron, though recent management changes have restricted camping directly on the beach. Several visitors commented on the natural beauty despite occasional issues with trash left by previous campers. The combination of cedar forests and lake views creates a distinctive camping environment, though summer visitors should prepare for potential mosquito activity, especially away from shoreline areas where wind provides natural relief.
"We reserved site 83A for our family of 5. we were in close proximity to the newly constructed bathhouse complete with dish washing stations. it was a full campground on the Friday night that we were there"
"The Straits State Park in Michigan's Upper Penninsula sits on the North end of the Mackinaw Bridge in St. Ignace."
from $22 - $42 / night
Check Availability"I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road."
"Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience."
"Lots of trails nearby."
"Sites are narrow but the great hosts and location make it a hr eat stay."
"Got here the weekend it was closing for the season and aside from the beginning of duck season and the firing of lots of shotguns on my next to last morning here, it was a really peaceful place."
"Barbara is amazing as is her 50 some spots on private camping land on the lake! Electric hookups, water well, and honestly my favorite camping site so far! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!"
"Pretty secluded campsites with trees surrounding each site. Private little sandy trail from the site down to Lake Michigan allows for good distancing from others. Can’t beat the sunsets."
"You are within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the beach is nice and sandy. The sites are well maintained but there is not much distance between them so be prepared for that."
"Not once did we have a physical distance concern at the campground. We left home with a 6 hour drive to our location."
"As others have said, if you like a campground off the beaten path, this is it. We live in the UP and use this campground frequently for day and overnight use."
"The pool was great for swimming, and mackinaw city is a great place to walk around and explore!"
"Close to Leggs restaurant. Mackinac Island. Tunnel of Trees. Upper peninsula Michigan. All this and a great campground."
"We had site #16 right near the front, which meant we had some traffic noise and kids running to the adjacent playground, but the spacious lot size made up for it (and having 3 kids of our own, we didn't"
"Spent four nights here while we explored the surrounding area. Took two trips out to Mackinac Island - the ferry sompanies have free pick up at the KOA."
"Located up on a hill and there are some spots that overlook the lake and Mackinaw Island. Close to town. Very clean and friendly staff."
"This campground is a good location to activities within St. Ignace. The person in the site next to us was in Site 5. But, good luck trying to find it on the map. "
from $28 - $42 / night
Check Availability"Good distance between site and clean!!! Love this place!!! Easy access to carp river. Some site back up to river edge. I stayed at 14 which is quiet and is an amazing site."
"It was very spacious and right near the bathrooms. Our only complaints are that there were some potholes in the road that could be filled in, and the mosquitoes were horrendous."
from $24 / night
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TravelerOver 250 campsites divided into three separate sections. Electric only; no water or sewer at any campsite. Nice bathhouse in each section. Dump station and potable water filling station in each section also.
Guide1st time I've seen Lake Huron and I picked a great spot for it. Last 100 yards was muddy and rutty, but my Pilot and Shasta did fine. Nobody else is here except for the skeeters, and there's plenty of them.
TravelerStayed at many NF sites much better facilities for the cost. Hosts are , Awesome and bar-non the best there is.
GuideAbout 15 minutes to St Ignace. Quiet and clean. COLD at the end of May! (26 Degrees! ) Friendly camp host. We were the only people there. Paved road until campground, then easily access gravel. $24 cash or check only. Hidden gem by the river.
ScoutMe and the family camped at Tee Pee Campground last year during the weekend of the bridge walk. The camp ground and facilities were clean and the staff very friendly. I would definitely cajmp there agian.
ScoutYou won’t find a more secluded beachfront stay on Lake Huron in the Upper Peninsula. Tucked away on a quiet stretch of shoreline, this spot offers unmatched privacy, beautiful sunrises, and the calming sound of waves right outside your door. A hidden gem worth returning to
TravelerWe have stayed at Camp Petosega several times, the last was in October of 2025. Stayed in the Full hook up sites. very little traffic. Beautiful fall colors as we drove around the area. Clean bath house and nice walking areas, playground's and a beach with public park on Pickerel Lake.
TravelerThis campground was close to the town of Petoskey, had clean showers and bathrooms, which were toasty in the cool October night we stayed! Kudos! Our site was level, shaded, and close to the facilities, as we are van campers this was nice.
LegendNice big campground with a couple loop right on the lake. Woodsy and decent space between sites. Just us and one other van on a weekday in October. Road noise not an issue during our stay. Great AT&T cell service. $20/night camping fee plus recreation fee if you don't already have it.
Camping sites near Cedarville, Michigan offer diverse outdoor experiences within the eastern Upper Peninsula's mix of cedar forests and Lake Huron shoreline. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak season. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though most campgrounds operate from May through October with reduced services during shoulder seasons.
Stargazing opportunities: At Wilderness State Park Camping, the night sky views are exceptional. One camper noted, "Best star gazing in the LP," while another mentioned, "If you want to explore some gorgeous dark night skies in Northern Michigan, I suggest checking it out!"
Island exploration: From Tee Pee Campground, campers can access Mackinac Island via convenient shuttle service. "The shuttle for the island ferry picks you up right at the campground," explains one reviewer. This campground provides water views, with another camper mentioning, "Great beach with a view of the Mackinaw bridge!"
Beach activities: At DeTour - Lake Superior State Forest, swimming and beachcombing are popular. A visitor described, "A virtually private beach to Lake Huron was less than a 5 minute walk. As a mom, I was ecstatic to find a beautiful beach full of small dunes, cool rocks and beautiful geography with a shallow bay that my kids could explore pretty far away from the beach without going above their belly buttons."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Reddmann's Sleepy Hollow, where one reviewer shared, "We were the only campers this time of the year, so it was very peaceful and quiet. Barbara runs this campground out of her home on site. She is a wonderful lady." Another camper called it a "Sleepy Hidden Gem for sure."
Waterfront access: At Loons Point RV Park & Campground, the lakefront setting gets consistent praise. A camper described it as having a "Water view is incredible," while another noted, "Nice views, quiet. Well managed, clean rules enforced! Very refreshing to say the least."
Clean facilities: Straits State Park Campground maintains quality amenities despite high usage. "The campground is pretty cramped, but the sites are well maintained. Clean bathrooms. Great location," wrote one visitor. Another mentioned, "The showers were private, deadbolt locking individual showers with hot water. They automatically go off every five minutes and you press a button to get another 5 minutes."
Road conditions: The road into Search Bay Dispersed varies by season. "There's a good road that leads to the shore road that isn't terrible. My 2wd Tacoma had no issue," reports one camper. However, conditions change seasonally, as noted by another: "Several campsites at the end of an excellent gravel road, more further down if you have four-wheel drive."
Seasonal pest considerations: Insect activity varies significantly by location and month. One camper at Search Bay warned, "If you go there it's mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad," while another had a completely different experience: "I don't know if it's just that I came at the right time but didn't see a single mosquito in three days, nor was I bothered by any other bug."
Beach camping restrictions: Management policies have changed at some dispersed sites. A visitor noted, "The USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move. We switched to one of the spots in the woods right before the welcoming sign."
Playground access: St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA offers various children's activities. "Friendly staff very accommodating. Pet friendly has small dog enclosure at front as well as mini golf and playgrounds. Lots of trees and wooded areas to feel more remote without the driving," shares one family.
Swimming areas: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming zones with varying water conditions. At Wilderness State Park, a visitor observed, "It was a short walk from my campsite to the beach. During a nice bike ride, I saw the boat launch and picnic area. I was solo, but most were family campers."
Educational opportunities: Family-friendly historical sites surround camping areas. "We stayed here while visiting Mackinac Island. The campground is pretty cramped, but the sites are well maintained," noted a visitor to Straits State Park, adding that it was a "Great location" for island access.
Hookup variety: RV sites vary considerably in service levels. At Tee Pee Campground, "The campsites are close to each other so I would recommend one of the outer campsites that backs up to the woods." The campground offers electric and water but limited full-service options.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require blocks for proper leveling. At Reddmann's Sleepy Hollow, one RVer advised, "Our site, F, is right on the beach. Wonderful experience watching the sunrise and storm roll in," though they noted it's a more primitive experience with "no electric at site, no water at site but pit toilets and a well to fill receptacles."
Navigating campground roads: Access roads vary significantly between established and dispersed camping areas. One visitor to DeTour noted, "The road going back in, while well maintained, can be narrow at spots allowing only a one car passage. Keep an eye out for oncoming traffic, and places to pull over if need be. Have seen folks with 5th wheels and trailers back in there, but not motorhomes."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Cedarville campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Cedarville typically offer basic to moderate amenities. Hog Island Point State Forest Campground provides clean outhouses, water pumps, and well-spaced sites with some directly on Lake Michigan. French Farm Lake Rd offers primitive camping with just fire pits and no water, trash services, or showers. For RV campers, facilities like Loons Point RV Park provide water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites. Most state forest campgrounds in the area feature vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, with potable water available from hand pumps. Full-service amenities are limited, so campers should plan accordingly and bring supplies.
Where are the campgrounds near Cedarville, Michigan?
Several excellent campgrounds surround Cedarville, Michigan. DeTour - Lake Superior State Forest is located east of Cedarville on M-134 and offers secluded sites with Lake Huron access. For those seeking island camping, Drummond Island Township Park Campground provides waterfront sites after a short ferry ride from DeTour Village. Other nearby options include Hog Island Point State Forest Campground to the north and French Farm Lake Road for primitive camping near Mackinaw City. Loons Point RV Park provides additional accommodations for RVers looking to stay close to the Cedarville area.
What is the best time of year to go camping in Cedarville, Michigan?
The prime camping season in Cedarville runs from late May through early October. Summer (June-August) offers warm temperatures perfect for enjoying waterfront sites at Lake Michigan At St. Ignace, where you can experience gorgeous sunsets and beach access. Early fall (September-early October) provides stunning colors and fewer crowds at places like Cheboygan State Park Campground, with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Spring camping (May-early June) can be beautiful but prepare for variable weather and potential black fly season. Winter camping is possible for experienced cold-weather campers, but most facilities close or offer limited services.
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