Champion sits at 1,565 feet above sea level in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, positioned where terrain transitions from rolling hills to the flatter Lake Superior lowlands. The area experiences shorter camping seasons than southern Michigan, with frost possible into June and returning by mid-September. Cell service varies dramatically between sites within just a few miles of town depending on elevation and tree cover.
What to do
Beach activities at Lake Michigamme: Van Riper State Park Campground features water recreation opportunities for all ages. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net," writes Jenny G. The park added inflatable water features for summer visitors.
Wildlife viewing: Moose sightings are possible with proper guidance. At Perkins Park & Campground, visitors can ask rangers for wildlife information. "Ask the rangers where to go to look for moose," advises Tracie S., who appreciated the larger sites compared to lower peninsula parks.
Mountain biking and hiking: Access extensive trail networks directly from campgrounds. "If you love mountain biking or hiking you stay here. Period. You are right on the trails," notes Rory L. about Rippling Rivers RV Resort. For more adventurous hikers, Craig Lake State Park offers challenging backcountry routes with minimal signage.
What campers like
Remote experiences: Craig Lake State Park Campground offers true wilderness camping. "If you're looking for an off-the-grid escape this is it. The hike-in/paddle in camping spots are equipped with a picnic table and a firepit, everything else is up to you," reports Mike S., who has visited yearly for a decade.
Larger campsites: Many Upper Peninsula campgrounds offer more spacious sites than those in lower Michigan. "The sites are large and clean," says Ashley S. about Van Riper State Park, which offers both rustic and modern camping options with direct trail access from many sites.
Lake activities: Swimming opportunities range from small forest lakes to larger developed beaches. "Beautiful lake with great facilities. Sites are bigger than parks in the lower peninsula," notes one visitor about Perkins Park. The warmer waters of Lake Michigamme provide comfortable swimming conditions during summer months.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campgrounds require travel on rough roads. Rebecca W. warns about King Lake State Forest Campground: "I wouldn't suggest this park for larger rigs though - it is a long drive in and maneuvering within the park may be difficult." Most remote sites require high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
Water considerations: Some campgrounds have water quality issues requiring campers to bring drinking water. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," advises Andrea B. about Van Riper, noting the otherwise beautiful park setting.
Seasonal limitations: Most primitive campgrounds close by mid-October. Perkins Park operates from May 15 to September 15, while others like Country Village RV Park remain open until October 15. Craig Lake State Park technically remains open year-round but becomes accessible only by snowmobile or cross-country skis after first significant snowfall.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Michigamme Shores Campground offers family-friendly water features. "They have a water toy park. I would come back.. good wifi," notes Steve S. Another visitor described their "cool trampoline type thing in the water that kids loved playing on."
Playground equipment: Several campgrounds maintain playground facilities. Jenny G. appreciated Van Riper's amenities: "Huge playground. Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!" Country Village RV Park features a "playground which they are expanding" according to Linda P.
Bathhouse quality: Families appreciate well-maintained facilities. "Large bathhouse with private shower rooms," mentions Jenny G. about Van Riper. At Country Village, "Bathroom and showers are super clean. Plenty of hot water," according to Pete D.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Check site reviews for leveling information. Steph found King Lake's sites workable without modification: "We brought a camper trailer... sites are well maintained and we required no additional leveling." Other campgrounds may require significant adjustments.
Hookup placement: Some campgrounds have awkwardly placed utilities. John R. noted about Marquette Tourist Park: "Some of the hook ups were oddly placed make sure you have a longer water hose but shouldn't need over 50 feet."
Campground road conditions: Internal roads vary significantly in quality. Pete D. appreciated Country Village RV Park's layout: "The sites are well maintained and we required no additional leveling. Electric at our site was error free. Water pressure is excellent." Greg S. notes that at Perkins Park, "The full hookup sites were nice and long and well spaced, but they were dirt so could be muddy in the rain."
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