RV camping near Hancock, Michigan allows access to multiple routes along the Keweenaw Peninsula. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F with over 200 inches of annual snowfall, while summer averages remain in the 70s. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with larger parks offering both lakeside and wooded sites for varying camping preferences.
What to do
Hiking nearby waterfalls: Twin Lakes State Park Campground offers proximity to several cascades within a short drive. "We hiked Sturgeon River Falls about an hour away. Fall colors were stunning!" mentions Meredith J.
Biking accessible trails: Fort Wilkins Historic State Park provides direct trail access from campsites. "The great thing about this site was biking and hiking were accessible right from the campsite," notes one reviewer, adding that "you will finds many local stores with lots of character" in the nearby town.
Historical exploration: The Fort Wilkins area provides educational opportunities with its preserved buildings. "Great place for history and fun," shares one camper. "They've done a great job of making history understandable," reports Cheryl K. after visiting the historic fort.
Beachfront relaxation: Ontonagon Township Park Campground features a sandy beach along Lake Superior. "The sunsets on the sandy beach that is connected to the campground were a highlight," writes Cullen H., who appreciated having the lake just steps from his campsite.
What campers like
Waterfront viewing options: City of Houghton RV Park includes wooden patios overlooking the water. "The patio is a wooden deck that hangs over the river bank and was such a perfect [spot] to sit after a long day of exploring," one camper reports.
Scenic sunset spots: L'Anse Township Park & Campground offers prime sunset viewing positions. "There's a great view of Lake Superior, and the sunset from our site was wonderful," Deb M. mentions about Site 7, adding that it was "nice and quiet too."
Privacy between sites: Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground offers better spacing in certain areas. "There are tent sites all along the beach front to watch the sunset and pick rocks," notes Stephen L., while another reviewer points out that "the north side not too crowded with some trees still."
Honor system amenities: Sunset Bay provides a laundry facility where payment operates on good faith. "Two washers, two dryers, and a sink for scrubbing plus all of the laundry soap and dryer sheets you needed. It was just payment on the honor system to use them. Very reasonable!" mentions Amy G.
What you should know
Reservation limitations: Many parks operate on first-come, first-served basis with early arrival essential. At Ontonagon Township Park, "You really have to be there, in person by 7AM to wait in line to get a site," advises Susan H., noting that "they do not take reservations, so it's a gamble to just show up."
Site spacing considerations: River Road RV Park has varied site arrangements. "Some sites do face each other which we find a little awkward when you are not traveling with friends," one camper noted, while another described it as "a glorified field" with "RVs spaced about awning to awning."
Facility age differences: Twin Lakes State Park mentions older bathrooms but clean conditions. "A very clean campground, but old facilities, currently. A huge facelift in 2024 is being touted. New paving, new bath/shower rooms, and pavilion are coming. Shutdown during some of 2024 is anticipated," reports Roger W.
Local supplies access: Grocery options outside major towns are limited. "Stores, restaurants and gas stations nearby but expensive," reports Susan H. about the Ontonagon area, though she mentions "there is a dollar store" for basic supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Many parks include play areas for children. Ontonagon Township Park "offers a very nice children's play area, frisbee golf, and accommodations for equestrians," according to Carrie C., making it family-friendly beyond just camping.
Beach quality assessment: Keweenaw Waters Resort and neighboring parks have varying water access points. At Fort Wilkins, one camper notes "no real sandy beach for littles - so make sure you bring water shoes," a practical tip for families with young children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Local parks provide nature viewing chances. "You are in the middle of the best of both worlds. On one side you have Lake Fanny Hooe and in the other Lake Superior. Both offer a great place for water fun," Maria M. shares about Fort Wilkins, highlighting the diverse ecosystem.
Tips from RVers
Fresh water management: Plan water filling strategically when staying at non-full hookup sites. At L'Anse Township Park, campers note the site has "water, electric, but no sewer," making trip planning to dump stations necessary.
Pull-through availability: Larger rigs should research specific sites in advance. River Road RV Park has "nice pull through sites and full hookups," according to one RVer, while another noted it's "really great spaces for long Class A and C Motorhomes."
Winter RV options: Year-round RV camping is limited but available. River Road RV Park remains open through winter months, providing a base for cold-weather exploration, though many RVers recommend additional insulation and preparation for the harsh Upper Peninsula conditions.
