Cabin options near Champion provide access to the Upper Peninsula's diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 1,800 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 75°F while winter can drop to -20°F with heavy snowfall. Year-round yurt camping in Champion, Michigan has grown increasingly popular as these structures withstand the harsh northern climate better than standard tents.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Several trails lead to waterfalls within driving distance of Champion. Canyon Falls, located along the Sturgeon River, offers a moderate hike. "A short distance from the modern campground is the rustic campground. There are 40 sites and a Camper's Cabin available... If you are really looking for a awesome adventure not too far from camp, you can drive an ½ hour west on Hwy 41 to the 'Grand Canyon' of Michigan, this gorge and waterfalls are located along the Sturgeon River," shares a visitor to Van Riper State Park Campground.
Beach activities: Lake Independence has designated swimming areas with amenities. "The beach area for swimming in Lake Independence is nice with a pavilion, volleyball, and ping pong nearby. You can launch your boat or fish from the dock," notes a camper at Perkins Park & Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Upper Peninsula hosts diverse wildlife including moose, bears, and eagles. "Beautiful lake with great facilities. Sites are bigger than parks in the lower peninsula. Ask the rangers where to go to look for moose," recommends a visitor at Van Riper State Park.
What campers like
Lake access: Most campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing and boating. "This is a state park with a host usually at camp. Games available for campers from the host site as well as dog poop supplies. Great waterfront improvement with a store, kayak and SUP rentals, and inflatable water feature to use for a fee," says a camper at Van Riper State Park.
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Champion, Michigan provides sturdy shelter in all seasons. "The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway and a great place to take your spouse. The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others," notes a visitor to Craig Lake State Park Campground.
Quiet settings: Many sites offer seclusion from crowds. "For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is a an absolute heavenly oasis," shares another Craig Lake visitor. "Access is from 41 turn on the gravel road outside Michigamme coming from the East."
What you should know
Campground amenities vary widely: Some parks offer modern facilities while others remain primitive. "The sites are reasonably sized and well described on the county website, even details about how level each site is. There seem to be sites available for all sizes. Showers are great ($.25 for 6 minutes) and bathrooms are really clean," explains a camper at Perkins Park & Campground.
Water conditions: Some campgrounds have water restrictions or quality issues. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water. They do have two separate campgrounds, with rustic and modern (electric) sites," advises a visitor to Van Riper State Park.
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. "I CAN'T WAIT TO GO BACK!" says an enthusiastic Craig Lake visitor, though they note most sites are only accessible by water or hiking trails.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities for kids: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly water features. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net. Large bathhouse with private shower rooms. Huge playground," shares a visitor to Van Riper State Park.
Camping birthday celebrations: Campgrounds can accommodate special events. "Stayed at Van Riper a few years ago. Had my son's 6th birthday party here. We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area. This area has scattered trees for those who wanted shade and those who didn't. The kids were are to play on the beach or the play ground equipment," recounts a camper.
Water toys: Some lakes feature inflatable water structures. "The lake was a great temperature and very swimmable. Quiet hours are all the time so it was very peaceful and enjoyable," notes a visitor to Michigamme Shores Campground. "Beautiful lake, great swimming area, secure, full hook ups. There were several Large floating climbing structures in the swim area. Kids were having a blast."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level sites with appropriate hookups. "We originally had a 10 day reservation and enjoyed it so much that we extended it for another 10 days. Beautiful natural swimming area in the rear of the property and we picked blueberries and raspberries right here on premise," shares a camper at Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park.
RV-friendly campgrounds: Several parks accommodate larger vehicles. "The full hookup sites were well marked but not a lot of shade and septic hook up was far back. There is a dump site on premise so we utilized that," notes a visitor to Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park.
Seasonal access: Many RV campgrounds close during winter months. "On the shores of Independence Lake, just south of Lake Superior, sits this gorgeous, sparkling clean county park with a well-managed campground. Lots of site options: non-electric, with electric only, with full hookups, walk-in or boat-in sites on the water, as well as a couple cabins," explains a Perkins Park camper.
