Best Tent Camping near Kinross, MI
Tent camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near Kinross includes several state forest campgrounds in secluded woodland settings. Munuscong River State Forest Campground and Garnet Lake State Forest Campground offer primitive tent sites approximately 30-45 minutes from Kinross. Lime Island State Recreation Area provides a unique experience with tent platforms overlooking the St. Mary's River, though boat access is required as the island sits between Michigan and Canada.
Most tent campsites in the region feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Garnet Lake State Forest Campground provides vault toilets, trash collection, and fire rings with sites spaced for privacy. A camper noted that sites are "widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake." Pike Lake State Forest Campground includes lakefront tent sites with toilet facilities but no drinking water. Visitors should pack in water supplies and essential camping gear, as most locations have limited or no services. Seasonal operation typically runs April through October, with some campgrounds closing during winter months due to snow conditions.
Several tent campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing and paddling. Pike Lake State Forest Campground provides good water access with several lakefront sites available. A review mentioned it was "small and quiet" with minimal occupancy even during peak summer months. Garnet Lake is described as a "great little campground" with "decent fishing on the lake." The most unique option is Lime Island Recreation Area, where tent platforms look out over the St. Mary's River. According to a review, "the only way to reach the park is by boat" and visitors can watch "large Great Lakes freighters pass by at all hours of the day." The island's seclusion creates opportunities for wildlife encounters along approximately 7 miles of hiking trails.