Tent camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers solitude among dense forests and access to Lake Superior's shoreline. Hiawatha National Forest spans nearly one million acres with over 400 lakes and ponds, creating diverse habitats for wildlife viewing. Winter temperatures often drop below zero while summer days typically range from 65-80°F with cool evenings requiring extra layers.
What to do
Fishing for brook trout: East Branch of Fox River State Forest Campground was built on the site of an old fish hatchery, with stone bridges crossing the designated trout stream. According to one camper, "The brook trout fishing is great, especially if you're willing to put on waders and break brush. But you can catch some decent sized ones from one of the many stone bridges that cross-cross the river." Water access points are available directly from campsites.
Star viewing after dark: North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "At night, the stars are glorious and we've easily spotted the International Space Station on more than one occasion," notes a review from East Branch of Fox River. Bring red-light headlamps to preserve night vision.
Winter snowshoeing: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites offer cold-weather camping opportunities for the adventurous. "Traveling in the winter by snowshoes requires more planning and skill. We brought a sled and embraced the weather. Did see a few large bear prints on the way to the bear canister. Seeing picture rocks in the winter is well worth the adventure and exhaustion to get there," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Artesian well water: The water source at East Branch of Fox River State Forest Campground receives high praise from campers. "The well water is fantastic. One of the best we've found in a state campground," notes one review. Many locals come to fill jugs from this reliable source.
Remote lake access: Campers appreciate the small, uncrowded nature of Canoe Lake State Forest Campground with only four sites total. "Canoe Lake was still secluded and had a beautiful lake view - if you don't mind the drive or backwoods camping, this is perfect since many of the Pictured Rocks campgrounds now require reservations," reports a visitor who found the 15-minute drive on dirt roads worthwhile.
Year-round options: Dispersed camping at Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite provides flexibility during off-season periods. "We were lucky, we went pre-season. We did have to clear a bunch of down trees to get down the road but we had the site and the lakes to ourselves. It was gorgeous. There is a permitted site (May-Sept) at the end but multiple pull out spots for dispersed camping along the forest road."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: Bug pressure varies significantly between sites, with some experiencing severe mosquito activity. At Canoe Lake State Forest Campground, one camper noted, "I will say, this site had the most mosquitos we've encountered at any campground in the UP....be more prepared than us!" Thermacells and proper repellent are strongly recommended.
Variable cell service: Most remote tent sites in the region lack reliable connectivity. "There is no cell phone service at all there. Not a big deal at all for those who like to get off the grid, but for families who might need to have emergency calls or travelers who like to stay connected, or if you need an updated weather report/radar, you won't be able to get that there," explains a regular visitor to East Branch of Fox River.
Navigation challenges: Finding some of the best tent camping near Hiawatha National Forest can require preparation. At North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground, a camper shares: "Great little campground in the middle of nowhere. 15 minute drive off the beaten path keeps the crowds away." Download offline maps before departure as GPS reliability decreases in remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Consider larger campgrounds during peak times: Finding space can be challenging at smaller sites during busy periods. "Camped here over Memorial Day weekend and had a great time! The campsite itself was pretty nice, and I was right next to the lake. The campsites are close to each other though so if you're looking for something where you don't have close neighbors I would recommend somewhere else," advises a visitor to North Gemini Lake.
Select campgrounds with playground access: Luce County Park & Campground offers family-friendly facilities uncommon at more primitive sites. "Park offers electric and water sites. Nice playground and beach area. Caretakers are on site - everyone seemed very friendly. We really enjoyed the lake, the water is beautiful," notes a visitor, making it suitable for families seeking more amenities.
Plan shorter backpacking options: For families wanting to try backcountry camping, Pictured Rocks offers manageable trails. "This is another easy-hike site located in the park. The site is situated not along Lake Superior, but Little Beaver Lake--although the name can be misleading. The lake itself is rather expansive and the campsite is situated along the shore, offering beautiful views of the calm water. This site is great for first timers or individuals seeking a mild hike."
Tips from RVers
Campground size limitations: Most state forest campgrounds near Hiawatha National Forest cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Nice views of the water. not many spots. seemed very quiet," notes a visitor to Canoe Lake State Forest Campground, which only fits small trailers or pop-ups. Sites at Fox River Campground similarly limit vehicle size.
Consider road conditions: Accessing the best tent camping sites requires navigating unpaved roads of varying quality. A review of Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite mentions, "In response to the previous review, your best directions will come from locating the site on your GPS (in our case Google Maps) and dropping a pin. That took us straight to the location no problem."
Look for pull-in waterfront options: Cusino Lake State Forest Campground offers sites suitable for small trailers. "Sites were very pretty, pull in sites. Small camper or trailer could probably fit. I tent camped so it was no problem. Sites are right on the water so you can swim right from your campsite," notes a visitor, making it worth consideration for those with modest-sized RVs seeking water access.
