Glamping options near Covington, Michigan include both rustic and modern accommodations across several state parks and private campgrounds. The Upper Peninsula location sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet with dense northern hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, while summer averages reach the mid-70s with cool evenings even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking the North Country Trail: Access multiple sections of this 4,600-mile national scenic trail from Big Lake State Forest Campground. "Getting to Big Lake leads you through some marvelous pine meadows and wetlands with browsing deer and pheasants. The North Country Trail winds through this part of the UP, and the Big Lake campground would make a perfect starting or ending place for a section hike," notes Shari G.
Fishing for multiple species: Lake fishing opportunities range from small inland lakes to massive Lake Gogebic. "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky," reports Jeff P. from his stay at Craig Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife year-round. "The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others," according to a Craig Lake visitor. Morning and evening provide the best viewing times along shorelines and wetland areas.
Winter recreation: Many campgrounds maintain winter access. "In mid-October, we woke up to full-on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season," warns a Big Lake State Forest visitor. Snowshoeing trails and ice fishing opportunities expand during winter months.
What campers like
Remote camping experiences: Lake Gogebic State Park Campground provides relative isolation. "Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake. Probably my most beautiful site in the UP so far," writes Tracy W. about nearby Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Access to multiple water bodies: Most campgrounds feature direct water access. "The campground was never dark or quiet. The shower house was clean and the hosts invited guests to hot chocolate in the morning," notes Kay K. about Twin Lakes State Park.
Budget-friendly options: State forest campgrounds offer economical camping. "The Michigan State Forest Campgrounds continue to delight us. For $15 a night you can experience camping like I did as a child – simple, unelectrified, and in beautiful outdoor locations," writes one visitor.
Seasonal variety: Each season brings distinct advantages. "Fall colors were stunning! Hiked Sturgeon River Falls about an hour away," reports Meredith J. after an autumn visit to Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some remote sites require preparation. "The entrance to this campground 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," warns a visitor to Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Insects can be intense: Mosquitoes peak in early summer. "Mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us. We packed up and canceled our whole trip after that," reports Nathan W. about Bond Falls.
Varied site quality: Site conditions differ significantly within campgrounds. "Some sites are close together - perfect if you need a group type spot," notes one reviewer about Big Lake State Forest. Research individual site locations before booking.
Water safety concerns: Lake conditions change rapidly. "Remember it is the UP plan on cooler weather," advises Andrea B. about Van Riper State Park's swimming areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Van Riper State Park Campground offers structured water activities. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net," shares Jenny G.
Versatile recreation options: Campgrounds provide varied activities. "They have a cool trampoline type thing in the water that kids loved playing on," reports Ashley W. about Michigamme Shores Campground.
Birthday celebration spots: Group gathering areas work well for special occasions. "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," shares Ashley L. about Van Riper State Park.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing. "Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning," writes Amy K. about her Big Lake stay, highlighting natural learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds offer varying site qualities. "Long windy road into the campground resulting in a peaceful area. The lake was nice and there was a small beach," notes Amy K. about Big Lake State Forest.
Amenities vary significantly: Check facilities before arriving. "Bathrooms are simple pit-toilets, and water is accessible year-round with the hand operated well pump," explains one visitor at Big Lake State Forest, while Perkins Park & Campground offers "Showers are great ($.25 for 6 minutes) and bathrooms are really clean."
Hook-up availability: Full service sites are limited. "The full hookup sites were nice and long and well spaced, but they were dirt so could be muddy in the rain," reports Greg S. about Perkins Park & Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Pack leveling equipment for most locations. "A lot of the sites are kinda uneven, and some are grass, some are sandy... definitely do your research before you pick a site," advises Alissa B. about Lake Gogebic State Park.
