Primitive camping sites dot the remote forests and lakeshores surrounding Champion, Michigan, a small community in the central Upper Peninsula. Located about 30 miles west of Marquette, the area sits at elevations of 1,500-1,800 feet with mixed hardwood and pine forests. Tent camping near Champion typically runs from late May through mid-October, though early snow can arrive by mid-September.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Craig Lake State Park Campground offers multiple lakes for canoe and kayak exploration without motor noise. "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky," notes Jeff P. Boats must be carried or portaged in as motorized craft aren't permitted.
Hiking and backpacking: The North Country Trail runs through multiple camping areas around Champion. At Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, "the hike in was one of the most beautiful switch back type hikes, with breathtaking views of the gorge on the way down, a quick hike to the top of gorge once you're down, then look down and see the waterfalls," according to Rebecca P.
Winter activities: Some Champion area campgrounds remain accessible for winter camping. Near Marquette, Forestville Campground provides winter access to facilities. "We camped here in a van in December and were able to access the pit toilets. They were very clean. We had the whole place to ourselves," reports Jenny K.
What campers like
Remote solitude: Big Lake State Forest Campground provides a true wilderness experience despite being accessible by vehicle. "Long windy road into the campground resulting in a peaceful area. The lake was nice and there was a small beach. Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning," writes Amy K.
Wildlife viewing: The Champion area offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. At Craig Lake State Park, one camper notes that "the wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others," making it ideal for nature photography and wildlife watching.
Off-grid experience: Forestville Campground provides a rustic camping experience with trail access. "Close to Marquette but feels secluded. At the head of some great mountain biking trails and backcountry rock climbing or bouldering. Also just great hiking, our site backed up to the NCT," reports Molly M.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. At Big Lake, "the entrance is not for low clearance vehicles...it is full of HUGE flooded potholes (small ponds really). Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles," according to one visitor.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping sites near Champion have minimal facilities. "Vault toilets and no shower. Very clean. Boat launch," notes Tracy W. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Reservation systems vary: Many smaller campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Forestville uses a self-registration system: "There's no one on site to tell you if anything is available so you just have to go look," explains Aleia W. Arrive early on weekends, particularly during summer months.
Cold weather camping: Paint River Forks NF Campground and other sites can experience dramatic temperature drops, even in summer. One camper advises: "Would be great Mid summer with a big group of people! Just keep on lights!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for campsites with level ground and easy water access. Big Lake campground offers "HUGE" sites according to visitors, making them suitable for families with multiple tents or larger camping setups.
Alternative accommodations: For families new to tent camping near Champion, consider cabin options. "The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway and a great place to take your spouse," notes Jeff P. about Craig Lake State Park.
Safety considerations: When camping with children, select established campgrounds rather than remote sites. Some isolated areas like Paint River Forks may not be suitable for families, as one visitor warns it "would be great Mid summer with a big group of people" but not recommended for early or late season family camping.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Bates Township Park offers limited options for RVs and trailers. "If there was a drawback would be sites have some slope toward lake. Being only one there I found flat spot to tent but if busy choice might be limited," notes Dan S., suggesting the terrain presents challenges for larger vehicles.
Site limitations: Many campgrounds around Champion aren't designed for RVs. At Forestville Campground, "no types of hookups for anything, and large RVs will not be able to access these sites! Only a one lane path with tight turns. The largest vehicle I saw during my few days here was a pickup truck with a bed-mounted camping unit," reports Joshua L.
Plan ahead: RV campers should call ahead to verify site conditions and access. Most primitive camping areas around Champion have no hookups, limited turning radius, and often challenging access roads that may be impassable after rain.
