Best Campgrounds near Lewiston, MI

The forested areas around Lewiston, Michigan provide a range of camping experiences in the heart of northern Michigan. Little Wolf Lake State Forest Campground offers tent and RV sites within walking distance of lake access, while Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground features similar accommodations with a season running from April to October. Several state forest campgrounds in the region maintain rustic sites with basic amenities like vault toilets and drinking water, situated among lakes and woodland trails characteristic of Michigan's northern lower peninsula.

Road access to most campgrounds involves paved highways with short stretches of well-maintained gravel roads leading to the camping areas. Winter camping is limited as many state forest campgrounds close after November. "This is a cute little campground located in Central Lake. Many of the water sites are very close together, but it offers you access to the lake for fishing, paddling and more," noted one visitor. Cell phone coverage varies throughout the region, with better service closer to Gaylord and spotty coverage in more remote forest areas. Most campgrounds require a Michigan Recreation Passport for entry, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis at many locations.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Lewiston area. Campers particularly value the combination of wooded privacy and lake access available at several state forest campgrounds. A camper mentioned that "it was just before Labor Day and we had hoped to make it up to the Upper Peninsula before nightfall. This didn't happen, so we tried a couple of state parks, but everything was already full." The proximity to both Gaylord and Atlanta provides convenient access to supplies while maintaining a sense of woodland seclusion. Seasonal considerations include heavy mosquito activity in early summer and beautiful fall colors in September and October. Many campers report the best experience in late summer when water temperatures are warmer for swimming and fishing while bugs have typically diminished.

Best Camping Sites Near Lewiston, Michigan (206)

    1. Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Gaylord, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 732-5485

    "A great campground about 20 min south of gaylord, on otsego lake, as with most michigan state parks they have nicely taken care of campsites and easy access to bathrooms, the beach from our site was a"

    "Otsego Lake provides a needed escape from the city while still being close enough to a happening town that one can camp and get into town for a nice dinner. The lake and campsite are clean."

    2. Avery Lake State Forest Campground

    5 Reviews
    Atlanta, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 785-4251

    $15 / night

    "It’s on a beautiful lake that is great for swimming and boating. It has a few walk in sites that have beach access. All sites include picnic table and fire pit. Shared rustic vault toilets available."

    "The lake is amazing with several islands to explore and one of the islands has a campsite. No busy roads near by so you really feel like you’re deep in the woods."

    3. Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground

    4 Reviews
    Johannesburg, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 732-3541

    "Bait and convenience store across from entrance. Good hub for local hiking and activities around the area."

    "Ramps to walk down to water.

    Amazing sunsets"

    4. Little Wolf Lake State Forest Campground

    3 Reviews
    Lewiston, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 732-5485

    "Bathrooms are pretty far away from the camp spots in the front, fire pits are a little on the small end, and picnic tables HAVE to have a covered(plants growing out of them and very old)."

    "Each site is large and separated by trees and green space…pit toilets are clean and well equipped with tp… lake access fir fishing & swimming"

    5. Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-7068

    "A few trails walking distance from the campground.

    The old growth trail is beautiful and really well maintained. The trees are crazy TALL."

    "Some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I’ve seen."

    6. Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mio, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 473-2258

    $20 / night

    "I stayed here and rode dirt bikes from jere and swam in the lake afterwards. It was refreshing and there is a small sandy area to swim out of.

    The lake is very peaceful and quiet."

    "Lake is cute and ORV trails were great."

    7. Au Sable River Primitive Camping

    12 Reviews
    Mio, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 362-8961

    $10 / night

    "The absolute BEST campsite I have ever camped at in Michigan! The perfect morning and evening view of the river. Directly across from the best fishing spot and shoreline to soak up the summer sun."

    "You are surrounded by forest and dunes and the sites themselves provide ample space for a group of 5 or more."

    8. Gaylord KOA

    10 Reviews
    Gaylord, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 939-8723

    $61 - $95 / night

    "While it was pricey at $65 night, we had a very spacious full hookup site within easy walking distance of pool. Shower house was very nice and modern, with 4 shower stalls."

    "The CG is pretty heavily wooded, so access to satellite TV and/or Starlink is highly dependent on location."

    9. Shupac Lake State Forest Campground

    2 Reviews
    Lewiston, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    "There’s 30+ spacious campsites all lake side! Multiple bathrooms along the way. Beach is clean and Sandy! And has tons of places to hike and explore."

    "All sites are along the lake, most (all?) are on a small bluff above the lake with stairs or trail down to the shore. Arrived on a Saturday in July to find 75% full, but was able to get in."

    10. Clear Lake State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Atlanta, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 785-4388

    "Had a site next to the woods. Nice walking paths. Lots of orv's in other sites."

    "The Guest Host is a character and extremely friendly and will be happy you chose Clear Lake State Park. He has plenty of games from cornhole to frisbee to playing cards, etc..."

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Recent Reviews near Lewiston, MI

669 Reviews of 206 Lewiston Campgrounds


  • Byron S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Campers Cove RV Park And Canoe Livery

    Campers Cove

    Stayed 4 nights in early September. Nice area and RV spots around the lake. Check in was easy and friendly. Internet and cell coverage were good. Showers were clean and maintained. Level site, had shade trees. Very quiet and laid back. The site is clean, Overall it’s a nice place to unwind and spend a few days, I would recommend it to others.

  • alicianlv The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Au Sable Loop Campground — Huron Manistee National Forests

    Au Sable Loop #3

    We were passing through and didn't have time to explore campground arriving around 7p & road tired.
    Site # 3 was without metal fire ring as shown to have in reservation picture. In its place was a hole and pile of ash with a hardened ash plug as if it was dug out of ground and thrown near bushes, strange. We were only campers there but heard faint voices outdoors after turning in to sleep, kinda creepy.

    Pictures taken just before leaving early morning. Heard there might be poison ivy around camp so only took basic photos but stayed clear of foliage around site.

  • Byron S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Camp Grayling Trailer Park

    Great RV park

    This is a military base and need proper identification to enter. The sites are well maintained (sand pads). The beach area is well maintained and relaxing. The wireless internet is GREAT! Also have cell coverage. Clean and quite for only $20 per night (cash or check only). The camp site manager (Tim) was fantastic!

  • Deb M.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aloha State Park Campground

    Big. Beautiful lake. Nice open sites.

    There’s LOTS of sites at this state park. There’s 3 different sections, the first 2 being older with mostly “no camping pad” electric sites, and the 3rd is newer with gravel full hookup sites. The lake is easily accessible and wonderful. There are no bathrooms or showers in the new section. AT&T and T-Mobile service was fairly good. Easy access to lots of things to do during the day.

  • D
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Burt Lake State Park Campground

    Nice campground

    Pretty nice campground.   The sites vary is size - some are close together.  We stayed at site 145 which was large but there is a path to the beach right next to it so it's not very private.  The park store was closed Labor Day weekend. There is a vending machine for firewood at the entrance. One bundle is $10 which is expensive. The campground is close to I-75 but we couldn't hear any traffic noise.

  • Jonathan  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Au Sable River Primitive Camping

    Primitive camping, but too close to the road/airport

    The site was truly rustic. About 1/4 mile to the next site. Nice clearing with multiple spots you could maneuver a small camper back into if you are a good enough driver. If not, there is a nice clearing by the road that also works. Had a fire ring with a flip over grill. Trails run back into woods to potential cat hole locations. For water, you can head up the road a few miles to the lumberman monument park, and they have a fauset by the parking lot. Also, about 1/8 mile down the road is an established path down to the Au Sable River to get water to extinguish your campfire but not for drinking (this stretch of the river is not safe to drink). During the day and sometimes at night you can hear a lot of road traffic and also jet engine noise from the local airport. Good openings for solar if you are using movable panels or can get your camper back far enough, but not so good in the default parking spot. Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G.

  • C
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Elkwood Campground

    Amazing!

    Fall camping here is the best. So quiet, and so dark you can see all the stars! Elk were bugling and it was wild!!!

  • K
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Au Sable Loop Campground — Huron Manistee National Forests

    Spacious Private Sites

    We camped on the ausable river camping on alcona pond. The sites are very secluded from one another, no bathrooms, no water available, but its quiet, private, and had access right to the river. Lots of poison ivy in July, so be aware. Lots of campers across the river that you can see, but nothing overly noisy or distracting. Our site had room for 3 families with tents. Some walking paths, but we didn’t wander too far. Short drives to beautiful overlooks, or the dam for fishing. We wanted 006 site originally. its level with the river and right on a winding bend! Sites seem to reserve fast, so be ready!

  • Noel L.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    East Jordan Tourist Park

    Small town campground

    Right of charlevoix lake with a nice beach. Our site was level.Very clean and well kept campground. 20 minute walk to downtown East Jordan. Lots are small


Guide to Lewiston

Camping sites near Lewiston, Michigan offer rustic experiences across several state forest campgrounds situated in Michigan's northern lower peninsula. The terrain features sandy loam soil with predominantly pine and oak tree cover, creating filtered shade throughout most sites. Summer temperatures typically range 70-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night, with higher humidity in July and August.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Shupac Lake State Forest Campground provides access to a spring-fed lake with clear waters. "There's 30+ spacious campsites all lake side! Beach is clean and Sandy! And has tons of places to hike and explore," notes a camper. The lake supports bass and panfish populations.

ORV trail access: Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground connects directly to regional ORV trails. "This rustic campground is right on the ORV route. This means you can camp here and even ride in your Jeep or side by side right from camp," explains one visitor. Trail maps are available at the campground entrance.

Kayaking and canoeing: Several small lakes within 15 miles of Lewiston offer paddling opportunities with minimal motorboat traffic. "The lake is very peaceful and quiet. Great for kayaking or canoeing! There are no houses on the small lake and it is typically calm water," notes a Muskrat Lake camper.

What campers like

Spacious sites: Avery Lake State Forest Campground receives consistent praise for site size. "This place was really nice and not very busy. It's on a beautiful lake that is great for swimming and boating. It has a few walk in sites that have beach access," reports one camper. Sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs with room for vehicle parking.

Lower crowds: Little Wolf Lake State Forest Campground typically remains less crowded than other area campgrounds. "Empty & Amazing... We were basically the only ones there other than a family all the way at the end. We had a giant site that had lake view and very clear access," writes one visitor. Most weekdays offer good site availability without reservations.

Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities around area lakes. "The morning on the water was amazing. Steamy sunlight kissed the morning while the loons sang their beautiful song," describes one camper at Little Wolf Lake. Common sightings include loons, deer, and various waterfowl.

What you should know

Variable cell coverage: Service varies widely based on exact location and provider. "I had 3 bars of service here," notes an Avery Lake camper, though coverage decreases in more remote sections of the forest.

Water availability: All state forest campgrounds in the region provide water via hand pumps. Water is potable but may have mineral taste. No direct hookups available at rustic campgrounds.

Site leveling considerations: Many sites have natural slopes. "Sites are good size. Reservation side has sites up to split rail fence. Ramps to walk down to water," notes a Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground visitor. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs and campers is recommended.

Tips for camping with families

Beach access options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "The lake was absolutely beautiful and super blue and clear. The beach at the state park was nice but not really a natural beach but the lake itself is naturally sandy," reports a visitor to Clear Lake State Park Campground.

Bike-friendly campgrounds: Some locations offer better biking terrain for children. "Nice paved path through the campground, great for kids riding bikes around camp. They also have a playground with a cool old fashion slide," notes a camper at Otsego Lake State Park.

Kid-friendly activities: Bring water toys and beach equipment during summer months. "Great bike riding park for little ones," mentions an Otsego Lake visitor. Several lakes feature gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most state forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs but have limitations. "Rustic and quiet. Lake is cute and ORV trails were great," notes a Muskrat Lake camper. RVs under 30 feet typically fit best at most area campgrounds.

Campsite drainage: Be aware of site drainage after rain. "During the downside is the sites are all sand. This is a problem when it rains. No matter how hard you try to clean your shoes, you end up tracking in wet, dirty sand," shares an Otsego Lake State Park Campground visitor. Choose elevated sites when possible.

Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the region. "The sites have been enlarged with plenty of space per site. Most of the sites overlook the lake," notes another Otsego Lake visitor. Make reservations 3-6 months in advance for electric sites during peak summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lewiston, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lewiston, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 206 campgrounds and RV parks near Lewiston, MI and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lewiston, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lewiston, MI is Otsego Lake State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 24 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lewiston, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Lewiston, MI.