Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Hiawatha National Forest near Escanaba, Michigan. Sites along Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road offer unobstructed views of Lake Michigan with direct water access. The region experiences average summer temperatures between 65-80°F with higher humidity near the water, requiring proper bug protection during peak summer months.
What to do
Visit Peninsula Point Lighthouse: Located at the southern tip of the Stonington Peninsula, this historic site provides both camping and exploration opportunities. "We stayed one night at the first dispersed site and had a great view of the lake from the site. The sunset was incredible," reports a camper at Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed.
Monarch butterfly migration: The peninsula is known for seasonal monarch butterfly migrations. "Would love to be there for the monarch migration," notes one camper, making this a unique wildlife viewing opportunity during late summer months.
Explore local attractions: Many visitors use Escanaba as a home base for UP adventures. "We did go to Oswald's Bear Ranch, Kitch-iti-kipi, and a few other places in one day," mentions a reviewer from BayRidge RV Park, demonstrating how the area serves as a central location for day trips.
What campers like
Casino convenience: Several rv campgrounds near Escanaba offer direct casino access. "There is a phone at the shower house that can be used to request a free shuttle to the casino," notes a camper at Island Resort and Casino RV Park. Another camper at Kewadin Casino states, "It's $15/night to stay in one of these sites. If you don't need any hookups you can stay anywhere in the center of the lot without even going in to register."
Waterfront views: Many campsites provide direct lake access. A visitor to Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground shared: "Every site is close to the lake. We were there for 8 days and would stay there again."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is consistently mentioned. "Cleanest campsite bathroom I've been in. Our site looked right over Indian Lake," reports one camper. Another noted the "very clean facilities" at BayRidge RV Park.
What you should know
Limited dispersed camping spots: The most scenic dispersed camping areas fill quickly. "This area is gorgeous, it's surrounded by lake superior... I would have rated 5 stars if there were more sites available, but if you manage to snag one of the permitted ones, lucky you!" explains a camper about Peninsula Point.
Cell service varies widely: Coverage depends on carrier and location. A camper at BayRidge RV Park mentioned: "There was zero cell service on Verizon and although free WiFi was offered, it was weak and we often had to reconnect."
Seasonal operations: Most rv campgrounds in Escanaba, Michigan close during winter months. Kewadin Casino Manistique operates "Apr 15 to Oct 15," while Whitefish Hill RV Park is open "Apr 30 - Oct 31."
Tips for camping with families
Check for bathroom proximity: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. At BayRidge RV Park, a camper noted: "Our site was located near the top of the loop, so it was a bit of a hike to the bath/shower house, but not unreasonable."
Consider site leveling needs: Uneven sites can create challenges. "Have plenty of levelling equipment available! Some are very level, some are not level at all," advises one RVer.
Look for activities: While many Escanaba area campgrounds don't offer extensive on-site recreation, nearby attractions provide family entertainment. At Hy-Land Court RV Park, a camper noted it's "not so far from Washington Island ferry. 3 min driving distance to the lake where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets."
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions: Larger rigs require careful planning. At Island Resort and Casino RV Park, a camper shared: "We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep."
Check utility locations: Some sites have inconvenient hookup placement. A visitor noted: "Sites are all full hookup, and no tents are allowed. Most sites are back-in but there are about a half dozen pull-through sites."
Prepare for various surface types: Different parks offer different pad materials. "Most sites are gravel and there is a varying amount of site size and privacy between sites," reports one RVer about BayRidge RV Park, providing practical insight for setup planning.
