Glamping options near Gladstone, Michigan encompass forest-backed and waterfront sites across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The region sits at the northern edge of Lake Michigan, with average summer temperatures ranging from 65-75°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most luxury camping accommodations operate seasonally from May through October, though winter enthusiasts can find year-round options at select locations.
What to Do
Explore historic sites: Walk the short trail from Fayette Historic State Park Campground to visit the preserved iron-smelting town. "The historic site is a must see," notes one camper who appreciated the spacious shaded sites with electric hookups.
Discover natural springs: Visit Kitch-iti-kipi Springs near Indian Lake State Park South Campground, just 5 minutes away. The clear spring allows visitors to see to the bottom. A camper mentions, "Great lakeside campsite just outside of Manistique. They even do weekly events such as 'Traveling Trivia' for kids."
Enjoy water recreation: Access fishing spots along the Escanaba River at Pioneer Trail Park & Campground. "Access to fishing right at our site and disc golf across from our camper!" shares one visitor who enjoyed their riverside location.
Play disc golf: Try the 27-hole course at Pioneer Trail Park. One reviewer noted, "There is a really nice picnic pavilion that would be great if you had a lot of people in your group. It is covered with a 'kitchen' area and lots of picnic tables."
What Campers Like
Private glamping sites: Island Resort & Casino offers secluded luxury camping away from the main facility. "This park has all level black top parking pads with a side lawn and picnic table. The park sits back in a lush forest out of eye site of casino," reports one visitor.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained shower and bathroom facilities. At Pioneer Trail, "The showers and flush toilets were clean but a little on the old side. A store sells ice, firewood, soda, snacks and ice cream."
Seasonal events: Winter glamping provides a unique experience at Fayette Historic State Park. One visitor noted their "Great open sky site, next to the water. High winds, but local beach trail and historic town a short walk away." Another mentioned, "Had the entire park to ourselves over the last 4 weeks, on weekends."
Natural surroundings: While luxury amenities are available, campers appreciate the natural setting. At J.W. Wells State Park Campground, "You can see the water from most of them. Facilities are clean and the camp hosts are so sweet (they have matching vests and serve coffee every morning)."
What You Should Know
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping facilities close from November through April. "FYI bathrooms, shower facility, water drops, and water dumpsite closes annually for winterization around Oct. 21. Keep this in mind when booking!" warns a Fayette visitor.
Road and rail noise: Some sites experience traffic sounds. At Pioneer Trail, "The park is located off HWY 2 so access is easy but there is a bit of road noise. Plus, the real problem is the train tracks that runs alongside the campground and seemed busy 24/7."
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant along the shoreline. "High winds, but local beach trail and historic town a short walk away," notes a Fayette camper.
Limited privacy: Some glamping sites offer less seclusion. At Munising Tourist Park Campground, "This campground is all about what site you can get. I reserved a full hookup/waterfront site and it was amazing. However, if you're not lucky enough to get one on the waterfront, then there's just crowded, open sites."
Tips for Camping with Families
Plan for playground access: Several glamping sites include recreational facilities. Pioneer Trail features "a wonderful playground and a large picnic shelter. The playground is awesome and there is a large grassy ballfield for playing."
Consider beach access: Haymeadow Creek NF Campground offers a more rustic experience with "seven sites, but they're all pretty premium, spacewise and just general atmosphere. Each has its own fire ring and a picnic table. The loop is also directly connected to a cheeky little waterfall trail."
Check for kids' activities: Some parks offer organized events. Indian Lake State Park provides weekly activities like "Traveling Trivia" specifically for children.
Reserve early: Waterfront glamping sites book quickly, especially during summer weekends. "This campground is close to town and larger than expected. It's divided into two sections. The first one is set up for RVs. The one further back is rustic."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Island Resort & Casino provides complete services. "Easy back in sites as well as pull thru for big rigs..clean well maintained showers and restroom," notes one RVer.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at some locations. At Pioneer Trail, "The electric and water sites long enough for any size RV but leveling may be difficult in some of the sites (which are grass)."
Generator restrictions: Many glamping sites prohibit generators or restrict their use. One Pioneer Trail camper commented, "I didn't like the RVs in the tent/rustic campsites running their generators all night long."
Off-season access: Check which facilities remain open year-round. "Electric and camp wifi on year round. 30A and 20A service at each site, worked fine," notes a winter visitor to Fayette.
