Near Cheboygan, Michigan, camping options spread across forest and lakefront terrain at elevations between 600-800 feet. The region experiences mild summers with average July temperatures around 75°F, while winter months see significant snowfall. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Hiking at Mill Creek State Park: Located near Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping, visitors can explore historical sawmill ruins and forest trails. "We took a scenic walk over to the bridge view side of the campground and were blown away by the views of the Mackinac Bridge," notes Chelsea & Wes J.
Water sports on Burt Lake: Campers at Indian River RV Resort enjoy proximity to several lakes. A reviewer mentioned, "Location is central to several activities; Mackinac Island, Petosky, Burt Lake, Mullet Lake etc." Access to boat launches and water rentals makes fishing and paddling convenient.
Cycling around St. Ignace: The area features paved trails connecting campgrounds to ferry docks. "Definitely bring your bike if you can! It makes exploring the park so much easier," reports a Mackinaw Mill Creek camper. Many campgrounds offer bike rentals for those unable to bring their own.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Loons Point Campground offers waterfront camping with excellent views. "Waterfront campsite are very nice... Some are a bit small but overall very comfortable," reports Ron M. Sites directly on the water typically cost $5-10 more than standard sites.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds prioritize cleanliness. At Lakeshore Park Campground, campers appreciate "clean Bathhouse" facilities and note the campground is "well maintained with clean Bathhouse." Most campgrounds offer shower facilities that operate from 7am-10pm daily.
Helpful staff assistance: Campground hosts frequently receive praise. A reviewer at Loons Point noted, "The owners are some of the sweetest I've ever met and they keep the campground clean and kept up." Many campgrounds provide site guidance for larger vehicles, with staff often escorting RVs to their assigned sites.
What you should know
Site size variations: Some RV sites near Cheboygan, Michigan can be tight for larger rigs. At Tiki RV Park & Campground, a camper noted, "Our spot was pretty level and no problem with full hookups," while another mentioned some sites are "tight in this campground but with our teardrop we had no problem."
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends fill quickly from June through August. Campsites with water views book earliest, often 6-12 months in advance for prime summer dates. Many campgrounds hold a limited number of sites for walk-ins.
Off-season limitations: Amenities vary seasonally, with some features unavailable in shoulder seasons. Most campgrounds around Cheboygan close between mid-October and early May due to winter conditions. Dump stations and water hookups may be winterized earlier than official closing dates.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Paradise Point RV Park receives praise for its child-friendly environment. "We where very happy with our stay. Quite, clean and very relaxing," notes Ray Y. Many families recommend requesting sites within viewing distance of playground areas.
Swimming areas: Natural beach areas vary in quality and safety. At Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping, a family noted their site was "a short walk away from the bath houses (private and clean), the playground, pool, and camp store." Most swimming areas lack lifeguards; supervision is required for children.
Store proximity: Camp stores stock essentials, though prices run 15-30% higher than town. A camper at Mackinaw Mill Creek mentioned, "The camp store is one of the nicest I have been in. It is stocked with all of your camping wants & needs." Many stores offer ice cream and basic groceries during limited hours.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites near Cheboygan require significant leveling. A reviewer at Tiki RV Park mentioned, "Site 16 somewhat unlevel but blocks worked." Most campgrounds recommend bringing leveling blocks as terrain varies widely.
Road access considerations: Most campground roads accommodate large rigs, though turning radius can be tight. "There are 14 sites here right on St. Mary's river. Lori explained the site in detail so I was comfortable that I could get my 36 ft toy hauler into the campground," noted a camper at Paradise Point RV Park.
Utility reliability: Water pressure varies between 30-60 PSI at most campgrounds. Electrical service is generally stable, though during peak usage periods, voltage drops may occur. Most RV parks provide 30-amp service standard, with 50-amp available at premium sites or for additional fees.
