Camping sites near DeTour Village offer a mix of rustic and modern options along Lake Huron's shoreline. This eastern Upper Peninsula region features limestone bedrock beneath shallow sandy soil, creating unique shoreline formations where exposed rock shelves meet cedar forests. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day with nighttime temperatures dropping to 55-65°F, requiring proper layering even during peak camping season.
What to do
Shoreline fishing and kayaking: Drummond Island Township Park Campground provides direct lake access for fishing. "Popular family destination for fishing. Nice kayaking right from camp," notes camper M.C. The protected waters around the campground create ideal conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers.
Fossil hunting: Several locations offer excellent fossil hunting opportunities, especially at low tide. "If you have 4 wheel drive, go to fossil beach," recommends Tracie S. about Drummond Island Township Park Campground. The shoreline contains Paleozoic marine fossils from when this region was an ancient seabed.
Stargazing: The rural location provides exceptional dark skies. "On clear nights make sure to make your way to the beach for some of the best stargazing!!" says Alexandra D. about DeTour State Forest Campground. The minimal light pollution allows viewing of the Milky Way on clear nights from late spring through fall.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: DeTour State Forest Campground offers secluded camping spots. "Most sites are pretty secluded. Full of large pine trees," notes Sara S. The outer ring of sites provides the most privacy, tucked among mature pines that create natural separation between campsites.
Calm swimming areas: The shallow waters at several campgrounds allow easy water entry. "The beach was what made this place incredible. No matter where you camped a virtually private beach to Lake Huron was less than a 5 minute walk," writes Sherrie W. about DeTour State Forest Campground. The protected bay creates gentle conditions ideal for wading.
Watching freighter traffic: Paradise Point RV Park offers views of passing ships. "The boat traffic to the zoo locks can be seen from the campground," explains Matt S. These massive cargo vessels pass through the St. Mary's shipping channel, sometimes coming close enough to shore for detailed viewing.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating rough roads. "The road to the campsites once you turn off m-134 is gravel/dirt and a bit windy, we usually tent camp so I am unsure how it feels to drive a trailer down it," explains Alexandra D. about DeTour State Forest Campground.
Self-registration systems: Most rustic campgrounds use self-service check-in. "Run a lot like a rustic state park, it's a self-serve, pick a spot, and put the money in the slot kinda place," explains Kate K. about Drummond Island Township Park Campground. Bring cash or checks for payment.
Limited amenities: Lime Island State Recreation Area requires significant preparation. "The island has limited electricity (solar-powered only) and no running water. Portable toilets are provided and there is a pump for a potable-water well. Cabin guests need to provide all their own gear, including sleeping and cooking supplies and equipment," notes Ari A.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible shallow beaches: Find locations with gradual water entry for children. "The water is clear and shallow," reports Alexandra D. about DeTour State Forest Campground. These protected swimming areas allow younger children to wade safely while still enjoying Lake Huron.
Rock collecting opportunities: Local beaches offer natural educational activities. "Rock hounds will delight in the fossil, Petoskeys and puddings along the shoreline," notes Rose M. about Hoeft State Park Campground, which is dog friendly and approximately an hour's drive from DeTour Village.
Wildlife observation: Evening shoreline walks provide educational opportunities. "If you check out the lake at night you can watch HUNDREDS of crawdads crawling across the rocks!" shares Niki M. about Drummond Island Township Park Campground. Bring flashlights for night viewing during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Self-contained requirements: Paradise Point RV Park requires fully self-contained RVs. "You will need a self contained rig since there are no bathroom/shower facilities but all sites are full hookup," explains Matt S. The park provides water, electric, and sewer connections at each site.
Limited cell connectivity: Prepare for spotty cellular service. "1bar for TMobile, 3bars for AT&T," reports Donald N. about DeTour State Forest Campground. Download maps and campground information before arrival.
Site selection considerations: For larger RVs, carefully research site options. "Walking around during the day, I'd say site 20 might be the best. There were other sites with better water views, directly on the water, but they were flooded and also lacked any privacy," advises Dare To Everywhere about Drummond Island Township Park Campground, which welcomes pets and offers numerous dog friendly campgrounds near DeTour Village.
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