Rustic camping and luxury glamping options flourish near L'Anse, Michigan, where the Keweenaw Bay of Lake Superior meets dense Upper Peninsula forests. The area sits at elevations between 600-1,200 feet with summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during peak camping season. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below 20°F with significant snowfall accumulations.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 5-10 miles from L'Anse. Bond Falls provides accessible viewing platforms with minimal hiking required. "Bond Falls is a very short walk from the car, with longer hiking opportunities nearby. I visited the falls in the wintertime when some of it was frozen, and the ground covered in snow. Very pretty that time of the year," notes Danielle A. from Bond Falls Campground.
Lake Superior rock hunting: Direct shoreline access. The beaches along the Keweenaw Peninsula feature unique red rock formations and agates. "Each site had a gorgeous campfire ring made out of stones pulled off of the beach. It's a red Rock Beach!" explains Amy G., who stayed at Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground.
Winter cross-country skiing: December-March. The North Country Trail sections near L'Anse provide groomed winter routes for skiing enthusiasts. "You can launch your boat or fish from the dock. The views are beautiful," says S G. about the recreational options at Perkins Park, which transforms into a winter recreation area during snow season.
What campers like
Tent sites directly on Lake Superior: $15-25 per night. The waterfront sites offer unobstructed views and immediate shoreline access. "Beautiful & clean. Great site overlooking Lake Superior. Need to walk over highway to get to water. Very orderly and great Park Manager," shares Debra R. about her experience at L'Anse Township Park & Campground.
Private, secluded campsites: 0.25-1 mile from common areas. Several campgrounds feature isolated sites accessible by short hikes or boat transportation. "Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake. Probably my most beautiful site in the UP so far," says Tracy W. about the camping experience at Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Family-friendly water amenities: $5-10 daily use fee. Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas with added attractions. "There were several Large floating climbing structures in the swim area. Kids were having a blast. Great sandy beach with resort style lounge chairs," Steve observed at Michigamme Shores Campground.
What you should know
Remote locations require supply planning: 30+ minutes to stores. Most camping areas have limited or no on-site provisions. "Do your homework before you commit the time and resources to camping at Bond Falls," advises Matt S., noting the importance of preparation when visiting isolated campgrounds.
Weather changes rapidly: Pack for all conditions. The Upper Peninsula experiences dramatic weather shifts even in summer. "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season," warns Shari G. about camping at Big Lake.
Insect preparation essential: May-August peak season. Mosquitoes and biting flies can be severe, particularly in early summer. "Mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us," reports Nathan W. from his experience at Bond Falls, suggesting fall visits instead.
Tips for camping with families
Beach amenities and playgrounds: All ages welcome. Family-oriented campgrounds feature dedicated recreational facilities. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net," shares Jenny G. about her family's time at Van Riper State Park Campground.
Bring all drinking water: Some sites have advisories. Local water quality can vary and some campgrounds require hauling in potable water. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," Andrea B. notes from her experience at Van Riper State Park.
Birthday parties and gatherings: Reserve group sites 3+ months ahead. Some campgrounds accommodate special events with dedicated spaces. "Had my son's 6th birthday party here. We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area," recalls Ashley L. about Van Riper.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Some access roads unsuitable for large RVs. Certain campgrounds have rough approach roads requiring high clearance vehicles. "Also, the entrance to this campground is not for low clearance vehicles...it is full of HUGE flooded potholes (small ponds really). Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles," cautions Shari G. about accessing Big Lake.
Full hookup availability varies: $22-35 per night. Several campgrounds offer complete services including power, water and sewage. "There are 147 sites and 2 Mini Cabins. Sites are equipped for tents, trailers and RV's up to 50'. There are free wifi by the restrooms, flush toilets, showers, drinking water, sanitation station, electric hookups," describes Nona A. about River Road RV Park.
Consider proximity to ATV trails: Noise factors. Some campgrounds serve as bases for motorized recreation enthusiasts. "Nice campground, UTV friendly. Right on trail system. Nice lake boating activities drop watercraft in at launch enjoy," mentions Jeff F. about Twin Lakes State Park's access to trail systems.
