Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Elmira, MI has a lot to offer. Elmira is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Elmira, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"A great campground about 20 min south of gaylord, on otsego lake, as with most michigan state parks they have nicely taken care of campsites and easy access to bathrooms, the beach from our site was a"
"Otsego Lake provides a needed escape from the city while still being close enough to a happening town that one can camp and get into town for a nice dinner. The lake and campsite are clean."
"Some sites were not in use because of high lake levels and park water problems. Leaking pipe? The small dune area leading up to Lake Charlevoix makes you feel like you are at Lake Michigan."
"very nice lake and beach
bathrooms and amenities are excellent
sites are close to each other, you can hear the other campers talking next to you
overall really enjoyed our stay"
$61 - $95 / night
"While it was pricey at $65 night, we had a very spacious full hookup site within easy walking distance of pool. Shower house was very nice and modern, with 4 shower stalls."
"The CG is pretty heavily wooded, so access to satellite TV and/or Starlink is highly dependent on location."
"We were here two days and fell in love with the town, the surrounding area, and never got tired of beautiful views of Lake Michigan. "
"There were a number of hiking trails that take you into the woods and up the dunes. Some are more difficult than others, but nothing miserable."
"This is a great campground South of Gaylord on Otsego Lake. I believe all sites have electric. The park is beautiful with a many sites having lake views."
$20 / night
"Driving in to the campground, wear your blinders as there's a concrete plant right next door. I camped this past week and there were signs the park hadn't been used by many at all just yet."
"Our family really enjoyed the scenery and the proximity to Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. Unfortunately we just couldn’t quite handle the level of mosquitos there."
$35 - $50 / night
"Swing set, walking trail, ORV trail, pool, volleyball, pickle ball court and other games! This campground is extremely clean and has beautiful bathrooms/showers."
"They made us feel like family the minute we walked through the door. We would defiantly visit again!"
$15 / night
"This campground is hike in/walk in only. The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground."
"The park is run by the City of Petoskey and sits on 21 acres in downtown Petoskey overlooking Lake Michigan. "
"The location makes this campground. Stayed 6 nights as it was so relaxing."
"A few trails walking distance from the campground.
The old growth trail is beautiful and really well maintained. The trees are crazy TALL."
"Some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I’ve seen."
GuideThe staff member at check-in was very pleasant even though it was past her shift time. Stayed at walk-in site 113. It was clean and had sufficient privacy especially with site 114 being vacant. Vault toilet was clean and not far.
TravelerNice to find some free dispersed camping near mackinaw city. Came in early September and it was pretty packed - gotta imagine it’s even busier in the peak of summer.
RangerWe were passing through and didn't have time to explore campground arriving around 7p & road tired.
Site # 3 was without metal fire ring as shown to have in reservation picture. In its place was a hole and pile of ash with a hardened ash plug as if it was dug out of ground and thrown near bushes, strange. We were only campers there but heard faint voices outdoors after turning in to sleep, kinda creepy.
Pictures taken just before leaving early morning. Heard there might be poison ivy around camp so only took basic photos but stayed clear of foliage around site.
TravelerThis is a military base and need proper identification to enter. The sites are well maintained (sand pads). The beach area is well maintained and relaxing. The wireless internet is GREAT! Also have cell coverage. Clean and quite for only $20 per night (cash or check only). The camp site manager (Tim) was fantastic!
GuideAbsolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.
From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.
I’d love to come again.
RangerThere’s LOTS of sites at this state park. There’s 3 different sections, the first 2 being older with mostly “no camping pad” electric sites, and the 3rd is newer with gravel full hookup sites. The lake is easily accessible and wonderful. There are no bathrooms or showers in the new section. AT&T and T-Mobile service was fairly good. Easy access to lots of things to do during the day.
GuidePretty nice campground. The sites vary is size - some are close together. We stayed at site 145 which was large but there is a path to the beach right next to it so it's not very private. The park store was closed Labor Day weekend. There is a vending machine for firewood at the entrance. One bundle is $10 which is expensive. The campground is close to I-75 but we couldn't hear any traffic noise.
TravelerThe site was truly rustic. About 1/4 mile to the next site. Nice clearing with multiple spots you could maneuver a small camper back into if you are a good enough driver. If not, there is a nice clearing by the road that also works. Had a fire ring with a flip over grill. Trails run back into woods to potential cat hole locations. For water, you can head up the road a few miles to the lumberman monument park, and they have a fauset by the parking lot. Also, about 1/8 mile down the road is an established path down to the Au Sable River to get water to extinguish your campfire but not for drinking (this stretch of the river is not safe to drink). During the day and sometimes at night you can hear a lot of road traffic and also jet engine noise from the local airport. Good openings for solar if you are using movable panels or can get your camper back far enough, but not so good in the default parking spot. Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G.
ScoutFall camping here is the best. So quiet, and so dark you can see all the stars! Elk were bugling and it was wild!!!
Camping near Elmira, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a rustic getaway or a family-friendly spot, there are plenty of options to explore.
Exploring the elmira, mi campgrounds can lead to memorable adventures, whether you're camping with family or enjoying a solo retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Elmira, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Elmira, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 196 campgrounds and RV parks near Elmira, MI and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Elmira, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elmira, MI is Otsego Lake State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 24 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elmira, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Elmira, MI.
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