Camping near Garden, Michigan offers a blend of Lake Michigan shorelines and inland forests at elevations averaging 600 feet. The region sits on the Garden Peninsula, surrounded by water on three sides with consistent summer temperatures around 70°F. Many campsites in the area remain open year-round with winter camping available at several locations for visitors seeking solitude during colder months.
What to do
Explore natural springs: Kitch-iti-kipi, just minutes from Indian Lake State Park South Campground, draws visitors with its crystal-clear waters. One visitor noted, "If you are looking for things to do in the area consider: Kitch-iti-kipi Springs, Fayette State Historic Park, Canoeing on the Manistique River."
Hike waterfall trails: Several trails near Haymeadow Creek NF Campground offer waterfall views within walking distance. "The campground is small but all the sites are spread out. Some look more frequented than others... Hay meadow falls hiking trail is an option that is right in camp," explains one camper who enjoyed the easy access.
Beach swimming: Clear lake waters provide excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. At Camp Seven Lake, a visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed the beach at this clean and quiet campground. The campground has a trail along the lake, a public beach and a fishing pier."
What campers like
Private lake access: Many sites at Colwell Lake Campground provide direct paths to the water's edge. One camper shared, "Most of the campsites here need to be reserved-there are only a handful of first come. Whichever site you get there is beach front access with an actual sandy beach! Very little boat traffic, no homes on this lake, an excellent biking/hiking trail around the lake too."
Central location for day trips: The Garden Peninsula serves as an ideal base for exploring the Upper Peninsula. A visitor at Camp Seven Lake Campground explained, "We stayed here for almost a week and were able to explore all the waterfalls in the area and the UP in general. P.S. it is really close to Kitch-Iti-Kipi! Go see these phenomenon; it is special."
Dark skies for stargazing: The region's minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, one visitor reported returning "for the next New Moon" specifically to take advantage of the clear night skies, noting the "great open sky site, next to the water."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, a camper noted the area is "super nice if you ride. WiFi is great, friendly people. Orv trails right on site. Nice and cool for august." However, at Camp Seven, visitors found "Internet and cell connectivity was nonexistent with Star Link and TMobile."
Mosquito preparedness: Summer brings persistent insects to the area, particularly near inland lakes. One Colwell Lake visitor warned, "The ONE thing I have to say is that the mosquitos came in droves and were absolutely ravenous. We aren't sure if they fog at this place but if not, they most certainly should."
Winter access changes: Many facilities close during winter months. At Pioneer Trail Park & Campground, a visitor noted seasonal limitations: "Right now because of Covid the only sites you can get are water and electric and the cost is $28 a night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. Pioneer Trail Park features "a wonderful playground and a large picnic shelter" separating the RV and rustic camping sections, making it ideal for families with children of different ages.
Beach safety considerations: Sandy beaches with gradual entry points work best for younger swimmers. A visitor at Indian Lake State Park described it as having "very nice with shallow, warm water. That was the highlight of this Campground. The beach house was stunning. There were many picnic tables and seating."
Group-friendly sites: For larger family gatherings, some campgrounds offer multiple adjacent sites. At Camp Seven Lake, one camper shared, "Sites are big and some even have electric. You can have two units on a site (you do both have to pay) and still have room to gather and play."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup variations: Power options vary significantly between campgrounds. At J.W. Wells State Park Campground, campers noted "most sites have electricity and water," making it suitable for those needing consistent power.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. A visitor at Munising Tourist Park mentioned, "It's all about what site you can get. I reserved a full hookup/waterfront site and it was amazing."
Winter camping considerations: For those seeking luxury glamping in Garden, Michigan during colder months, facilities may be limited. A camper at Fayette Historic observed, "FYI bathrooms, shower facility, water drops, and water dumpsite closes annually for winterization around Oct. 21. Keep this in mind when booking! Water was shutoff days after arriving."
