C
Christopher S.
Traveler
TravelerBay Furnace Campground
Good experience
Of the 50 available sites all looked private and all are dry sites. I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and had no problem finding an available site.
Camping near Ishpeming, MI
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Campgrounds near Ishpeming, Michigan range from developed RV parks to rustic forest sites, with several options located within a 30-mile radius of the city center. Country Village RV Park offers tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals directly in Ishpeming, while Forestville Campground provides a more primitive experience with tent-only sites approximately 15 miles east near Marquette. The broader region includes mixed-use facilities that accommodate various camping styles, with some properties featuring yurts and glamping options alongside traditional tent and RV sites.
Access to many camping areas varies seasonally, with several campgrounds operating only from May through October due to the Upper Peninsula's harsh winters. Most developed campgrounds near Ishpeming require reservations, particularly during summer weekends when mountain biking events attract visitors. A camper noted, "This campground is well placed for hiking as well. Sugarloaf Mountain and Hogsback are only a short drive away." Cell service is generally available at developed campgrounds, though coverage may be limited at more remote sites. Forestville and other rustic options typically offer pit toilets with no running water, while RV parks provide full hookups, showers, and additional amenities.
The region's camping is closely tied to outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly mountain biking on the extensive trail networks. Rustic campgrounds like Forestville serve as trailheads for hiking and biking paths, making them popular despite their limited amenities. "Part of the Noquemanon Trail Network for mountain biking. First come, first serve and only rustic sites," reported one visitor about Forestville. Proximity to water is another draw, with several campgrounds located near lakes or rivers. Campers frequently mention the area's natural beauty and relatively uncrowded conditions outside of special events. Sites in more developed areas like Country Village RV Park offer conveniences like nearby restaurants and shopping, while the rustic campsites provide a more secluded experience despite being close to Marquette's urban amenities.
Best Campgrounds near Ishpeming (90)
1. Rippling Rivers RV Resort
"Rippling River is a really nice campground, very close to downtown Marquette and right in/on a huge mountain bike park."
"Nice new place, located next to bike trails, orv trails, and the ski hill. Good location."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability2. Marquette Tourist Park Campground
"Stayed on our drive from Mackinac to see the pictured rocks lake shore. The campground is surrounded by 18 miles of trails. No camp store, but a convenience store is a quarter mile away."
"This campground is in Marquette, near Northern Michigan University. But once you're camped there, you won't feel like you're in one of the largest cities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. "
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability3. Van Riper State Park Campground
"We took a week long trip and toured Michigan. We spent 2 nights at Van Riper, the other campers were nice, the playset was large, and the beach was nice."
"We found this campground located along U.S. Hwy 41 about 40 minutes west of Marquette MI. The Park sits on the west shores of Lake Michigamme. "
from $20 - $120 / night
Check Availability4. Country Village RV Park
"It is located off US-41 which is a major Upper Peninsula thoroughfare but set back about ½ miles so you don’t get road noise but it is still convenient. "
"This is our 2nd time staying & both were because of its convenience to ‘civilization’ not to get away from it."
from $35 - $51 / night
Check Availability5. Forestville Campground
"Great spot if you’re looking for something near to, but away from Marquette."
"Rustic sites only, this is the trail head to a network of snowshoeing, biking, and hiking trails. There are 19 sites, three of which line the field the other 16 are tucked in the woods."
from $25 / night
Check Availability6. Brasswire Campground
"Quiet rustic campground located on the RAMBA Mountain Bike Trail System"
from $25 / night
Check Availability7. Michigamme Shores Campground
"My family and I took a 3 week vacation to visit Michigan. We stayed at a few different campgrounds, and did lots of hiking."
"Beautiful lake, great swimming area, secure, full hook ups. Very helpful we came in late night- they left reservation info in the mail box for us."
8. Tourist Park Campground
"Great spot in the city of Marquette, Michigan, on the northern edge of the Upper Peninsula. Stayed two nights during the week of the 4th of July, and there were plenty of open sites."
"Access to trails is very convenient and close to town"
9. Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park
"Quiet and relaxing, tucked in the woods with a nice hiking trail, picnic tables, swimming area, full hookups or rustic sites. The only down side is that they are by reservation only."
"Full hook-ups, bathrooms with showers, basketball court, fishing, Escanaba River, and hiking trails all right at the park. Close to Marquette, Presque Isle, and many more beautiful spots."
10. Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground
"You can walk across the street to the beach along Lake Superior and are drive distance to Black Rock and Pictured Rock. They even have a brewery in the campground."
"Nice, clean, quiet right on the lake. Full hookups, level sites and lots of room for large gatherings at the party pit. A short drive to Marquette."
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 42 min from Green Bay, WI
- 3 hrs 2 min from Appleton, WI
- 3 hrs 17 min from Wausau, WI
- 4 hrs 52 min from Traverse City, MI
Recent Camping Photos near Ishpeming, MI
161 Photos of 90 Ishpeming Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Country Village RV Park
Forestville Campground
Rippling Rivers RV ResortR
Marquette Tourist Park Campground
Van Riper State Park Campground
Michigamme Shores CampgroundR
Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park
Moose Rapids Campground
Gitche Gumee RV Park & CampgroundB
Little Lake State Forest Campground
Perkins Park & Campground
Craig Lake State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Ishpeming, MI
480 Reviews of 90 Ishpeming Campgrounds
- jjoe
ScoutMouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping
Beautiful spot along Lake Superior
Sandy beach and shaded areas along this beautiful Lake Superior. This spot fills up fast on weekends but is mostly empty during the week.
- jjay T.Scout
Munising Tourist Park Campground
Rooftop tent 9.1.26
Very convenient to pictured rocks excursions. 2 miles. $45 water, electric, showers. Toilets (good).close sites, open to the lake, clean. Would recommend this spot again
Janel G.
GuideBay Furnace Campground
Historic Bay Furnace
Bay Furnace was divided into two loops with approximately 50 campsites. Some of the sites were more private but most were in plain view of the other sites. It was a fairly clean campground. The lakefront view from the furnace park was nice and the proximity to Munising was great. The area has an extensive amount of activities including the must see Pictured Rock Cruise.
David L.GuideBaraga State Park Campground
Beautiful place
This state park was just beautiful! It is very well maintained, has clean restrooms and polite and friendly staff. It is right beside the highway, but if you’re in a hard sided camper, you do not hear the noise. It has a great area to walk, very dog friendly, & an exceptionally nice playground for kids. You can even order a pizza at Irene’s and pick it up less than a mile away It was one of our favorite stops!
- ccaitlyn T.Scout
Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping
Awesome place
Camped here twice and it’s a pretty good spot, having the lake/beach right there is really pretty and calming. The wind was horrible throughout the night and into the morning. Lots of campers left and a couple tents destroyed but it’s a nice spot.
- GGayle B.Guide
Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land)
Beautiful area
Great area, down a gravel road. Camp spots are identified with fire rings, and lots of space between. Port-a-potties were in need of emptying, but the beach area is easy to walk down to, there are beautiful trees, and it is so quiet at night!
- GGayle B.Guide
Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping
Beautiful area
Gravel road access leads to dirt/sand lane. Camp area is directly next to the water. Beautiful sunrise and sun set. Fire rings not fire pits. Port-a potties not vault toilets.
- KKelly W.Traveler
Baraga State Park Campground
State park
Site 28 is right on 41 so lots of traffic noise, but view of the water. On one side you have lots of breathing room (not on top of other campers). Showers were private rooms which is always a bonus.
Guide to Ishpeming
Camping options around Ishpeming span across 46° north latitude in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where the average winter temperature drops to 10°F and summer averages 75°F. The region features a mix of hardwood forests interspersed with small lakes and streams, with most campgrounds situated at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet. Internet connectivity varies significantly between developed and rustic sites, with most locations offering at least emergency cell service.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Access extensive trail networks directly from Rippling Rivers RV Resort where you can camp right alongside the routes. "If you love mountain biking or hiking you stay here. Period. You are right on the trails," notes Rory L. The resort even features a dedicated kids' trail for younger riders, with one camper mentioning "the grom trail runs next to the top camp site."
Kayaking on Lake Michigamme: Paddle the calm waters near Van Riper State Park Campground which offers affordable equipment rentals. "The park offers areas for boating, kayaking, and jet skiing, and fishing. They also offer kayak rentals the price on those was decent. $10 for a 2 hour kayak rental," reports Nona A. The lake provides ample space for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Winter camping opportunities: Unlike many seasonal operations, several campgrounds remain open year-round. The rustic sites at Forestville Campground maintain winter accessibility. "We camped here in a van in December and were able to access the pit toilets. They were very clean. We had the whole place to ourselves," shares Jenny K. Winter camping provides solitude and access to snowshoeing trails when conditions permit.
What campers like
Water recreation amenities: Campers consistently highlight the floating water features at Michigamme Shores Campground. "There were several Large floating climbing structures in the swim area. Kids were having a blast. Great sandy beach with resort style lounge chairs," notes Steve. The aquatic installations provide structured play options beyond traditional swimming.
Private wooded tent sites: For those seeking seclusion, Forestville Campground offers heavily wooded sites. "Sites are heavily wooded, it would be difficult to navigate a camper here, but it's great for tents! Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," explains Molly M. The campground's natural setting appeals to those wanting a more primitive experience without completely sacrificing access to facilities.
Fall camping conditions: The region's deciduous forest makes autumn camping particularly appealing at campgrounds like Perkins Park. "Lots of deciduous trees, making the fall truly glorious! The campground was about 10% full upon arrival, and everybody left before we did, so we had the place to ourselves. Did we mention how much we love fall camping?!?" shares Shari G. The decreased crowds and colorful foliage create a completely different camping experience compared to peak summer season.
What you should know
Limited drinking water at some sites: Van Riper State Park has had issues with water quality. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," advises Andrea B. Other campgrounds may have similar seasonal water restrictions, particularly during drought conditions or early/late season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in and around Ishpeming, MI?
What campgrounds are available in and around Ishpeming, MI?
The Ishpeming area offers several campground options within a reasonable driving distance. Country Village RV Park is located about 15 minutes from Marquette with large, level sites that accommodate RVs well. For those seeking more natural surroundings, Van Riper State Park Campground is a popular option with beach access and playground facilities. Other nearby options include Forestville Campground with water and toilet facilities, Brasswire Campground for a more rustic experience, and several campgrounds in the Marquette area that make good bases for exploring the region.
What amenities does Brasswire Campground in Ishpeming offer?
What amenities does Brasswire Campground in Ishpeming offer?
Brasswire Campground provides a more rustic camping experience with basic amenities including water access and vault toilets. The campground offers multiple access options including drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in sites, making it versatile for different camping styles. Unlike some of the larger facilities in the region such as Au Train Lake Campground, Brasswire doesn't offer shower facilities or electrical hookups. The campground is nestled in a wooded setting that provides natural shade and a quiet atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a more traditional camping experience away from crowds and modern conveniences.
What are the best times of year for camping in Ishpeming, Michigan?
What are the best times of year for camping in Ishpeming, Michigan?
The prime camping season in Ishpeming runs from late May through early October, with July and August being the busiest months. Summer offers warm days perfect for enjoying the area's lakes and trails. Marquette Tourist Park Campground is especially popular during summer months, so reservations are recommended. Fall brings spectacular color changes, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. Big Lake State Forest Campground offers a particularly beautiful autumn camping experience. Winter camping is possible for the adventurous, though most facilities close. Spring can be wet with lingering snow and mud, making late spring the better choice.
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