Tent camping near Covington, Michigan centers primarily on rustic sites within the Ottawa National Forest. Winter conditions arrive early in the Upper Peninsula, with first snowfall often occurring by mid-October. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through November, closing during the harsh winter months when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on Craig Lake: Visit Craig Lake State Park Campground where non-motorized watercraft dominate the lake. "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky," notes Jeff P. who considers this his "absolute favorite place to camp, hike, kayak, fish, and just get away from it all."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer prime opportunities to spot native species. At Emily Lake, campers report catching bluegills right from shore. "Several great sites to tent camp. Caught some blue gills. Good times," states Adam about Emily Lake State Forest Campground.
Waterfall exploration: The Ontonagon River and nearby falls create ambient background noise at some campsites. "Beautiful, quiet, free campgrounds right next to the Ontonagon River and Mex-i-mine Falls (you can hear the rushing water)," reports Kyle K. about Burned Dam Campground. He adds that it has "in-ground firepits, picnic table, and a hanging post for trash on each site."
What campers like
Remote locations: For campers seeking solitude, the Covington area delivers genuine isolation. "This is my absolute favorite place to camp, hike, kayak, fish, and just get away from it all. If you want seclusion, you can find it here with many remote campsites that are only accessible through the water or overland by hiking the trails in the park," explains Jeff P. about Craig Lake State Park.
Unique landscapes: The terrain differs significantly from typical Midwest settings. "This patch of wilderness within the Ottawa National Forest is unmatched. I didn't think I was in the Midwest. Remote and not well traveled," reports Will H. about Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness.
Waterside campsites: Many sites offer direct water access. Connor H. appreciates Emily Lake State Forest Campground for its "great view down a small hill at the back of the site," though notes "you will be able to hear your neighbors." Art S. describes Burned Dam Campground as "right on rapids at river" where you can "follow the trail 20 yards and you can find a variety of boulders or logs to perch upon."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles or significant hiking. "Most isolated camp site I've been to. Requires driving down a dirt road the branches off another dirt road. It's 8 miles down the road with major washouts," warns Clint B. about Blockhouse Campground.
Insect populations: Biting insects can be relentless in this region. "BUGS. This campground was FULL of mosquitos and biting flies. Even with bug spray, the assault was nonstop. Bring a screen-printing popup shelter with you or you will suffer," cautions Kyle K. about Burned Dam Campground.
Recent forestry activity: Some campgrounds have undergone logging operations. "This area is being logged so many trees are gone. This makes it less pleasant now but that will change over time," notes Art S., who recommends reflecting "on the logging before heading over."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established sites: For families, state forest campgrounds provide more amenities than wilderness areas. "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," shares Shari G. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Consider structure rentals: Craig Lake State Park offers alternatives to tent camping. "The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway and a great place to take your spouse," recommends Jeff P.
Check for swimming safety: Lakes may have water quality concerns. "Here in late July and lake was quite warm, not sure I'd trust it to be swimmers itch free. I suspect it's a shallow lake," mentions Rebecca W. about Craig Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Watch for clearance issues: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "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 Shari G. about Paint River Forks NF Campground.
Prepare for weather changes: Temperature swings occur rapidly, especially in fall. "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season," cautions Shari G. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Limited services: Most campgrounds lack typical RV amenities. "No outhouses, no picnic tables, no fire rings. No cell service," reports Clint B. about Blockhouse Campground, suggesting this area primarily serves those seeking primitive camping experiences.
