Best Campgrounds near Gladstone, MI

Camping near Gladstone, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: This stunning area is perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views. One camper mentioned, "The views were breathtaking! The sites were very nice with so much space," highlighting the beauty of the area.
• Visit Munising Tourist Park Campground: Located right on the lake, this campground is a great spot for fishing and swimming. A reviewer noted, "We got a beautiful site right on the lake - big back-in with full hookups," making it ideal for water activities.
• Hike the trails at Newport State Park: With over 26 miles of trails, this park is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. A visitor shared, "The hike in is about 1.8 miles and can be pretty bumpy! We backpack with our kids and they do just fine with the hike."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "The shower facilities were immaculate, possibly the cleanest campground bathrooms I have ever seen!"
• Friendly staff: Many campers have noted the helpfulness of campground hosts. A visitor at Bay Furnace Campground said, "Friendly & helpful hostess. We arrived without booking and lucked out on FCFS."
• Beautiful scenery: Campers love the picturesque views. A reviewer at Wagon Trail Campground mentioned, "The place is super clean, the people are kind, the view is unbelievable."

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Some campgrounds, like Bay Furnace Campground, have reported issues with mosquitoes. One camper warned, "It was so bad that campers had to wear mosquito netting just to walk about."
• Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or showers. A visitor at Newport State Park Campground noted, "The park does not offer firewood for sale, so you'll want to forage from dead and downed trees."
• Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Marquette Tourist Park Campground mentioned, "I was surprised to even get a reservation so close to a holiday weekend."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and activities for kids. One camper at Wagon Trail Campground said, "There is a playground, recreation area with volleyball net, and laundry."
• Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A reviewer at Newport State Park Campground advised, "Bring a filter and grab your water right from Lake Michigan."
• Plan for quiet time: Some campgrounds can get busy, so having a plan for downtime is essential. A visitor at Marquette Tourist Park Campground noted, "The campground was a bit more populated than campgrounds where I normally stay, but quiet."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes before booking: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at J.W. Wells State Park Campground mentioned, "The views are beautiful but all the camping spots are grass; we instantly sunk the second we tried to park!"
• Bring extra cords and hoses: If you're staying at a site with tricky hookups, it's good to be prepared. A reviewer at Munising Tourist Park Campground suggested, "Make sure to have extra cord and hoses."
• Look for big rig-friendly sites: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A camper at Rippling Rivers RV Resort said, "Great sites, friendly staff, and close to the water."

Camping near Gladstone, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for you!