Ishpeming sits at 1,400 feet above sea level in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where temperatures in summer months average 65-75°F. Winter camping conditions are harsh with average snowfall exceeding 180 inches annually. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and small lakes with camping options that stay open from mid-May through mid-October.
What to do
Mountain biking access: At Brasswire Campground, campers can directly access the RAMBA Trail System. "Quiet rustic campground located on the RAMBA Mountain Bike Trail System," notes Danny H. The trails provide varied terrain for different skill levels with no entrance fees.
Riverside fishing: Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park offers fishing access along the Escanaba River. "Wonderful fishing salmon and brook trout galore," reports Randall J. The campground provides easy river access with primitive sites starting at $15 per night.
Swimming at Lake Independence: The beach at Perkins Park & Campground features swimming areas with depths suitable for various age groups. "The beach area for swimming in Lake Independence is nice with a pavilion, volleyball, and ping pong nearby," mentions Greg S. Swimming areas aren't supervised, so parents should monitor children.
What campers like
Lake access: Van Riper State Park Campground sits on Lake Michigamme with a sandy beach area. "Great waterfront improvement with a store, kayak and SUP rentals, and inflatable water feature to use for a fee," writes Rebecca B. Kayak rentals run $10 for a 2-hour period.
Trail proximity: Tent campers appreciate Forestville Campground for its direct access to hiking routes. "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. Bathrooms are fine, basic pit toilets," explains Molly M. Sites are first-come, first-served at $15 per night.
Private sites: Many campers mention the spacing between sites at Marquette Tourist Park Campground. "The sites are generally spacious and they have a lot of options to choose from based on what rig you have and how you like to camp," notes Ari A. The campground offers 10 rustic tent sites, 57 electric-only sites, 4 water/electric sites, and 39 full hookup sites.
What you should know
Limited water access: Van Riper State Park has had water restrictions. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," reports Andrea B. This is particularly important for multi-day stays.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds don't allow walk-ins. "The only down side is that they are by reservation only. No 'walk-in's' if you will," mentions Emilee S. about Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park.
Site conditions: Site quality varies significantly. "Only the FHU sites on the perimeter have paved camper pads, all others are either dirt, grass, or a combo," explains Lee D. regarding Marquette Tourist Park. During rain, unpaved sites can become muddy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-oriented sites include structured play areas. "Huge playground" is noted at Van Riper State Park by Jenny G., who adds "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment."
Water activities: For families with children, water recreation options provide entertainment. "The kids were able to play on the beach or the play ground equipment. Very nice and relaxing way to celebrate," shares Ashley L. who held her son's birthday party at Van Riper State Park.
Off-leash areas: Dog friendly campgrounds near Ishpeming include designated pet areas. "This family-friendly campground offers a dog play area for exercise," explains a visitor to Country Village RV Park. Pack appropriate leashes as most trails require dogs to be controlled.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: RVers note variable utility placement. "The hook-ups are not laid out conveniently on some sites which requires extra hoses and electric cords," mentions Nancy W. about Marquette Tourist Park. Bring extension cords and additional water hoses.
Site leveling: Some sites require significant leveling. "We were assigned site #104 but could tell our motorhome was not going to get level in the site so we had to straddle the site and park partly in the adjacent grassy area," reports Nancy W. at Country Village RV Park.
Access limitations: Larger rigs have limitations at rustic sites. "Large RVs will not be able to access these sites! Only a one lane path with tight turns," warns Joshua L. about Forestville Campground. Always check size restrictions when booking.
