The Keweenaw Peninsula extends northward into Lake Superior with elevations reaching over 1,300 feet at certain points. Winter camping options are limited due to heavy lake-effect snow, with the region receiving over 200 inches annually. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-75°F, making it ideal for RV camping from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Explore local waterfalls: Several small waterfalls are accessible near Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground. "Nice campground near lots of small waterfalls," notes one camper at Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground.
Visit historic sites: The area's copper mining heritage offers educational opportunities. "We toured the Quincy Mine and really enjoyed that," shares a visitor who stayed at City of Houghton RV Park. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park provides additional historical context with "a lot of rich history and historical site. The outdoors here is 2nd to NONE," according to one camper at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park.
Water activities: Lakes and rivers provide recreational opportunities throughout the region. Twin Lakes State Park Campground offers "great swimming" according to a reviewer who noted "beautiful lake, great swimming, too many four wheelers. Local black bears. Close to Lake of the Clouds and the Porcupine mountains."
UTV/ATV trails: For off-road enthusiasts, the area features extensive trail systems. "UTV friendly. Right on trail system. Nice lake boating activities drop watercraft in at launch enjoy," comments a visitor at Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many RV campgrounds in Houghton, Michigan and surrounding areas offer water access. At L'Anse Township Park & Campground, "Spots 7,8,9,10 have the best water views," according to one camper, while another notes it's a "Beautiful spot right on Lake Superior."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance is frequently praised. "The bathrooms are always clean. Nice pull through sites and full hookups," mentions a reviewer at River Road RV Park. Another camper adds, "We enjoyed our time here and would stay here again."
Scenic sunsets: Lake Superior shoreline camping provides spectacular evening views. "We had a great view. The patio is a wooden deck that hangs over the river bank and was such a perfect to sit after a long day of exploring and enjoy a glass of wine," reports a camper at City of Houghton RV Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer playground equipment and activities for children. A visitor at Sunset Bay RV Resort notes it has "a great camp store that has limited supplies but have the essentials. Everything is based on the honor system."
What you should know
Cell service variations: Coverage differs significantly by location and carrier. At Twin Lakes State Park Campground, "Cell Service (AT&T): Very good," reports one camper, while others note Verizon works better in certain locations.
Renovation plans: Several campgrounds are upgrading facilities. Twin Lakes State Park Campground has "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."
Site spacing: Many RV parks have limited separation between sites. River Road RV Park has been described as a "Glorified field. Not much to share here. RVs spaced about awning to awning in a field."
Seasonal operations: Operating schedules vary widely. A camper at Sunset Bay RV Resort notes, "This is a more modern camp site with a full bathroom and shower for those of us who dont want to make our own Blair witch movie but that doesn't take away from the beautiful lake view."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. At Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground, families appreciate that it's "a more modern camp site with a full bathroom and shower" which makes it more comfortable for children.
Consider beach access: Swimming areas vary in quality and safety. L'Anse Township Park provides "Beautiful vistas" with "beautiful spot right on Lake Superior," though some areas require "water shoes" due to rocky shorelines.
Book early for summer: Peak season fills quickly, especially for water-view sites. A visitor to Twin Lakes notes, "Had a nice spot right on the lake. Site 39. Fall colors were stunning!"
Farm experiences: For something unique, Constellation Farmstead offers a chance to "wake up to the sounds of the farm" with only three tent sites available, providing a more intimate camping experience for families wanting to connect with agriculture.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many RV campgrounds in Houghton, Michigan have tight spacing. At River Road RV Park, a camper noted: "We were fortunate to have a great family next to us which made the awkwardness feel much less uncomfortable. Some sites do face each other which we find a little awkward when you are not traveling with friends."
Consider alternate locations: If Houghton sites are full, nearby towns offer options. "River Road RV Park in Ontonagon has "nice size lots, clean, quiet," according to one reviewer, providing an alternative when closer campgrounds are booked.
Laundry availability: Some parks offer laundry facilities. Sunset Bay RV Resort features "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!"
Camp host resources: Local knowledge can enhance your stay. At River Road RV Park, "Nice selection of books and DVDs to borrow too," while another campground has a "camp host that wrote a book about coming of age in the Upper Peninsula."