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Wilderness State Park Camping permits dogs at all 250 campsites, offering both tent and RV options with fire rings at each site. Petoskey State Park Campground, Magnus Park, and Petoskey KOA maintain similar pet-friendly policies with designated walking areas. The sunsets are incredible while walking dogs along Lake Michigan's shore at these campgrounds. Most require pets to be leashed at all times, with standard leash lengths not exceeding six feet. Facilities range from basic (Fisherman's Island has no showers but allows pets) to full-service (Petoskey RV Resort features cement pads at each pet-friendly site). Sites are generally close together with limited privacy, so reactive dogs may need careful management. Campground hosts enforce quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, particularly at Magnus Park where sites are arranged in typical RV park fashion.
The Little Traverse Wheelway runs directly through Magnus Park Campground, providing 23.5 miles of paved pet-friendly trail stretching from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix. Dogs can join their owners on this scenic route that parallels Lake Michigan. Petoskey State Park offers dog-friendly hiking trails through wooded areas and dunes, though pets are prohibited on the main swimming beach. The dunes are incredible to wander around with leashed pets, especially during sunset. Local veterinary services are available in Petoskey, approximately 5-15 minutes from most campgrounds. Summer temperatures range from 60-80°F, ideal for outdoor activities with pets, though waterfront sites can be windy. Wildlife encounters are possible, so keeping pets secured is essential, especially at dusk and dawn when local fauna is most active.
"the potable water spigot near our campsite (just a short walk away) was still on!"
"Beaches are not dog-friendly (as is the case throughout Michigan, although dog beaches are starting to make headway). There is a dark sky park nearby - don't bother."
"The beach was convenient to walk to and we enjoyed the 3 amazing fire work shows you can see on the 4th of July from the beach."
"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. "
"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."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"We reserved site 83A for our family of 5. we were in close proximity to the newly constructed bathhouse complete with dish washing stations. it was a full campground on the Friday night that we were there"
"The Straits State Park in Michigan's Upper Penninsula sits on the North end of the Mackinaw Bridge in St. Ignace."
from $22 - $42 / night
Check Availability"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."
"There is an off-leash dog park but it was pretty small for our lab to get a good run in. The laundry was nice and clean but a bit expensive $2.25 per load. "
"Lake Michigan beach is about a 5 minutes drive."
"This lot (a premium lot) comes with a concrete patio with a round table with four chairs, two Adirondack chairs and a fire pit and a charcoal box grill."
"The pool was great for swimming, and mackinaw city is a great place to walk around and explore!"
"Family friendly and pet friendly, beach was close by and clean. Reservations were very easy to make online and allows you to pick your site."
"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."
"This is a great location to camp if you are looking for proximity to Mackinac Island. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. They have electric and water but no sewer."
"Small campground but right on Lake Huron. The campsites are close to each other so I would recommend one of the outer campsites that backs up to the woods."
from $34 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Very dog friendly."
"He told us everything is closed but to call in the am and he’ll move some things around and get us in."
TravelerThe owners were constantly driving around and correcting people. Rules are okay but they were over the top. They would even stop and just stare at our site while we sat outside.. it was very odd. Also not kept up at all. The playground was old and my 30 lb dog slipped out from under the “dog park” fence because it was so high off the ground where they were allowed to be unleashed, luckily we got her and she’s ok.
GuideLarge, level electric sites. Very large campground in general. Since we were there in September and mid week, it was quiet. Bath house clean, but a bit outdated. Nice beach and swimming area. Dog park and beach area for dogs. Large, grassy recreation area and nice playground. Park hosts on site with daily activities for campers. Town is nearby with restaurants, shopping, etc. Burt Lake is stunning. Bring your kayaks, boats, and fishing gear.
ScoutWe spent a 4th of July weekend up in Petosky with our family. It was a perfect mixture of rustic modern camping. The facilities are nice and clean and the campground is well kept. Even on a busy holiday weekend it was so enjoyable. The beach was convenient to walk to and we enjoyed the 3 amazing fire work shows you can see on the 4th of July from the beach. The only downside is that no dogs are allowed on the beach which is kind of a bummer. There is a great dog park however in Petosky nearby.
LegendThis is a great campground if you like to bring your boat along too. We were able to tie our boat up and use it all weekend. The campground is beautiful with an awesome dog park as well.
LegendWooden Shoe Campground in Ellsworth, Michigan is a small campground set on a hill above Ellsworth Lake. This park is great if you want to sometime explore Michigan’s waterways. When we visited the park, it was about 25% full which made it very quiet and relaxing. There are some great sites that overlook the lake that are inviting for an evening fire and enjoying a pleasant view.
The park has 45 RV sites with water, 30 amp electric, cable TV, and internet. There are seven designated tent sites in a heavily wooded area with some glimpses of the lake. Some sites have a nice amount of shade while those towards the front of the park are more open and have a better water view. Picnic tables and fire pits are at each site. The main road throughout the park is paved, in good condition, and easily navigable with even large RV. There is a dump station at the entrance of the park that is easy to get in and out of. A camp host is on site. The price per night to stay here is $25 and they offer a super inexpensive price of $125/week. Reservations can be made by emailing a reservation request or calling the city.
The town of Ellsworth is quite small with a couple of shops and restaurant or two. The quaint coastal town of Charlevoix is 10 minutes away where you will find plenty of shopping, restaurants, a pretty harbor, weekly live music (in the summer), a farmers market and really great library with a large room that has a great selection of books for sale for a few bucks. The towns of Boyne City and Boyne Falls are about 20 miles away and also worth visiting if you have the time. For dog owners, Boyne city has an off-leash dog park and Boyne Falls has a large ski resort that is perfect for walking dogs in the summer. The larger town of Petoskey is about a 45 minute drive but well worth a visit.
If you want to “get away” and enjoy water activities this is a good place to come. There is a canoe/kayak boat launch just down the hill from the park that puts you in a narrow stretch of water that connects Lakes Ellsworth and Saint Clair. A short (approximately 1 mile) paddle into Lake Saint Claire lands you in a beautiful nature preserve administered by the Little Traverse Conservancy. Be sure to visit Friske’s Orchard which has a fruit stand, bakery with pizza and sandwiches, general store and petting zoo and is only six miles away on Rt. 31.
The good things about this park are the price, access to pretty water for kayaking/canoeing/fishing and the view from some of the sites. You are not too far from some of northern Michigan’s most popular towns yet only paying $25 night. The small size of this park gives it a quieter feel than some of the nearby state parks that have hundreds of sites. When we were there about half the campers appeared to be seasonal who come to enjoy the boating and fishing. Many of these people were not there during the week which made the park super quiet.
A couple dings for this park are that many of the sites are not level and even pitching a tent can be difficult. The bathroom/shower facilities are old and run down. The main bathhouse is located in the front of the park with port-a-potty’s scattered about. Some of the sites are close together and give a crowded feeling.
Overall, I would say this is an average park which is why it gets three stars.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vBh0Dej5Ro
ScoutFriendly staff very accommodating. Pet friendly has small dog enclosure at front as well as mini golf and playgrounds. Lots of trees and wooded areas to feel more remote without the driving. Very peaceful.
TravelerRustic campground along the shores of Lake Michigan. 23 sites. Hand pump for water available. Beautiful spot on Lake Michigan with no signs of life for miles down the beach. Pets are welcome. Fire pits are available. Seven sights are along the lake. Six mile drive down a dirt road to access the campground. The road is usually in good condition. It is well worth it. An extremely peaceful and beautiful place.
GuideEdit: as of right now this listing is all jacked up. Coordinates are incorrect, "French Farm Lake Road" on Google Maps or 45.7621519, -84.7673995 will get you there. There is no water, trash services, or showers. Just 6 primitive sites with fire pits
We first came to French Farm Lake Rd to do a hike while staying with a local Boondockers Welcome host. We were excited to find our first real free camping in Michigan, and so close to Mackinaw City.
We showed up late Wednesday morning and just perfectly timed it when a couple had been packing up their camp, as there are only 6 or so sites and all were full. The sites back by the boat launch seem better for large groups.
We took site #1, which is one of the better sites IMO. Don't forget to grab a registration sheet on your way in (found near the camping sign before site #1). I had very little issue backing in our 24 ft class c with a utility trailer (37 ft total), though I had to maneuver the trailer into an opening off to the right of our driveway, as to find a more level spot. Only had to use one block under each front tire to level, with plenty of room to pull forward to unload my motorcycle. Plenty of wood around for a fire, though people had firewood for sale on the roadside when driving into the area.
Beware of sandy roads and make sure to scout before pulling in with your big rig. There is one opportunity to turn around via a parking lot of the right hand side when first entering French Lake Rd. The next spot would be what I think are sites 3 & 4, which is a big wide open lot also on the right, and also very sandy. The last would be the boat launch area at the end of the road, though that could prove impossible if there are a bunch of vehicles parked back there. So scout on foot first.
There are a few sites that would accommodate big rigs, the only way to know is to come check. It's kinda frustrating to be in states without dispersed camping, because there are a few spots that I would deem worthy, but alas you must stick to the designated sites. There are plenty of spots for a quick night's sleep in a van or smaller RV, just beware of the ranger. I've only seen them out here in the afternoon so far though.
My review is mostly based off of what we've been able to find in the area, this campground would not score as high if it were in WA or somewhere with endless options.
And as per usual in the Midwest, bring plenty of mosquito and fly products. They weren't horrible at our campsite, but evening walks are definitely not happening again.
The lake isn't anything special by my books so we skipped paddling here, though there appeared to be people fishing if that's your gig. Tons of trails suitable for hiking or biking, again, nothing too exciting on that front.
Come check it out!
ScoutVery friendly staff and clean park. Family friendly and pet friendly, beach was close by and clean. Reservations were very easy to make online and allows you to pick your site.
Northern Michigan's Good Hart area sits on Lake Michigan's eastern shore with average summer temperatures ranging from 60-80°F, offering ideal conditions for canine companions. Seasonal challenges include mosquitoes in June and blackflies in May, with dense woodlands providing shade at most sites. While the Mackinac Bridge stands as the regional landmark, visitors can enjoy both inland lakes and Lake Michigan beaches at several pet-friendly campgrounds.
Stargazing sessions: Wilderness State Park Camping has exceptional night sky viewing. "Best star gazing in the LP," notes Ted B., while Tracie S. adds, "I believe the only dark park in Michigan. Beautiful expansive night views of the sky from the beach. Worth sleeping on the beach during meteor shows."
Northern Lights viewing: The shoreline at Wilderness State Park Camping offers prime opportunities to see the aurora borealis. Chris F. shares, "I made a spontaneous trip up towards Mackinac to catch a view of the northern lights. Wilderness State Park has fantastic beach sites all along the water that offer great views."
Petoskey stone hunting: The beaches near Charlevoix provide opportunities to find these unique fossils. At Fisherman's Island State Park Campground, Ashlyn K. reports, "If you can, get a campsite right on the water, you won't be disappointed and be sure to look out for Petoskey Stones as your walk the shoreline, there are tons!"
Off-season camping: For fewer crowds and bugs, consider fall camping. At Fisherman's Island, Kathie M. notes, "Fall camped here. First time and it lived up to all the good reviews! Absolutely beautiful fall colors throughout the campground!"
Lake views and beach access: Sites directly on Lake Michigan provide water sounds and views. "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," Karen O. shares about Fisherman's Island State Park.
Ferry access to Mackinac Island: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services. "Very friendly hosts! The shuttle for the island ferry picks you up right at the campground," Tom M. notes about Tee Pee Campground.
Halloween events: Fall visitors might enjoy special seasonal activities. At Wilderness State Park, Jenafer P. shares, "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun," while Craig F. notes about Petoskey KOA, "They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest."
Rustic camping options: For more privacy and nature immersion, Amy G. recommends, "Wilderness State Park is one of my favorite campgrounds in northern Michigan. They have true rustic sites, where you have to hike into, usually a little over a mile. If you want to get away into your own space, Wilderness has it."
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds have closely spaced sites. Laura B. cautions about Petoskey State Park: "Beware of poison ivy—it is everywhere. Extremely disappointed to find it all over the campground and site—but our site was fantastic."
Weather and bugs: Prepare for insects in summer months. Brittany B. warns about Wilderness State Park: "Sites are close together. Very kid friendly, not a ton of hiking trails right off campground but clean restrooms and beautiful area to stay. Very buggy in June, come prepared."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. Sara G. advises from experience at Wilderness State Park: "Bring paperwork," after they lost her reservation.
Water levels affect sites: Lake Michigan water levels can impact shoreline camping. About Fisherman's Island, Cory W. notes: "All the sites were well sized with the exception of the waterside sites which were flooded due to the high lake levels lately."
Beach-friendly options: Look for campgrounds with safe shorelines for children. At Young State Park Campground, jodi L. found "Very friendly staff and clean park. Family friendly and pet friendly, beach was close by and clean."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. Glynnis A. shares about Mackinaw City KOA: "They had a small playground for the kids. There was also a nice heated pool for them to swim in."
Island ferry packages: When visiting Mackinac Island with kids, look for special offers. Julia H. notes that "Both ferries offer packages that include horse drawn carriage rides, Fort Mackinac admission, Island Hotel Admission, Butterfly House admission, Mystery Town admission, and Parking options."
Halloween activities: Fall visits can include special events. Jenafer P. mentioned her Wilderness State Park experience: "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun."
Leveling challenges: Some campground pads may require blocks. At Magnus Park Campground, Barbara P. notes: "Park is good for a quick overnight but the rates were still $30 E/W $32 full hookups off season. Nice view of lake, grassy sites somewhat unlevel but blocks worked."
Site dimensions: Check site sizes before booking for larger RVs. Carol W. found Magnus Park accommodating: "Sites large enough for our 42 ft motor home! Level, quiet, close to shopping and a nice walk/bike trail along the bay."
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. Chris R. shares about Petoskey KOA: "The campground is well laid out and they have sites for anything from a tent to big rigs. Be sure when you book that you put down the correct size of your rig as they have site management down to a science."
Low-hanging branches: Watch for tree hazards when navigating campground roads. At Fisherman's Island, one reviewer cautions: "Some of the sites say they will fit a 40' RV but be careful as roads are narrow and there are low-hanging tree limbs."
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Good Hart, MI is Wilderness State Park Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 77 reviews.
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