Best Campgrounds near Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island in Michigan draws many campers looking for something different than their usual spots. Brevoort Lake Campground sits about 20 miles from the island and has good lake access for fishing and swimming. Straits State Park Campground is closer - just five miles away - and you can see the Mackinac Bridge from your campsite. They have spots for both tents and RVs there. Remember that camping in Michigan state parks means you'll need both a vehicle pass and a camping reservation. Summer gets pretty crowded, so book early if that's when you're going. Many locals prefer camping in late spring or early fall when there are fewer people and the weather isn't too hot or cold. During dry spells, you might face fire restrictions, so check what's allowed before you go. You should make reservations online as far ahead as possible, especially if you're planning a summer trip. The island and nearby camping areas make for a good trip if you're looking to explore this part of Michigan.

Best Camping Sites Near Mackinac Island, Michigan (106)

    1. Straits State Park Campground

    73 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-8620

    $22 - $42 / night

    "This is a big state park with easy access to town. My campsite was right on the water. In fact two women kayaked up from Ludington, MI, and camped right next to me."

    "As with Wilderness, this park has two sections of campgrounds- a higher loop in the woods and a lower loop along the shore of Lake Michigan.  Both are desirable and have decent sized sites. "

    2. Wilderness State Park Camping

    74 Reviews
    Cross Village, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5381

    "This camp ground is located right on Lake Michigan, and close to the bridge, and the dark sky park. We camped here for a night since camping is not allowed on Mackinac Island."

    "It has wonderful trails around it, good sized sites, an active ranger program for kids."

    3. Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA

    23 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5643

    "Close to Leggs restaurant. Mackinac Island. Tunnel of Trees. Upper peninsula Michigan. All this and a great campground."

    "This campground was easy to drive our camper through and easy to find. It’s in a great location and there is a shuttle that will pick you up if you want to go to Mackinac Island."

    4. St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA

    19 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-9303

    "Spent four nights here while we explored the surrounding area. Took two trips out to Mackinac Island - the ferry sompanies have free pick up at the KOA."

    "Super close to the docks for a trip to Mackinac Island which was great."

    5. Tee Pee Campground

    15 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5391

    $34 - $52 / night

    "Nice family owned campground on Lake Huron. Very nice view of the Mackinac Bridge, very clean bathrooms and showers, perfect for families."

    "This is a great location to camp if you are looking for proximity to Mackinac Island. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. They have electric and water but no sewer."

    6. Tiki RV Park & Campground

    12 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-7808

    $28 - $42 / night

    "It met our needs for a day trip to Mackinac Island. It’s within biking distance to the Shepler’s Ferry dock which is super nice of you’re planning to take bikes along."

    "Located up on a hill and there are some spots that overlook the lake and Mackinaw Island.

    Close to town. Very clean and friendly staff."

    7. Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping

    7 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5584

    $16 - $50 / night

    "We traveled with two other families and chose to stay on the Lake View (Mackinaw Bridge not visible). For our families these were the best sites because they are on the water with beach sand."

    "Very peaceful, big, and a beautiful lake view. Will be making this campground a stop every year now."

    8. Reddmann's Sleepy Hollow

    8 Reviews
    Moran, MI
    12 miles

    "Got here the weekend it was closing for the season and aside from the beginning of duck season and the firing of lots of shotguns on my next to last morning here, it was a really peaceful place."

    "Barbara is amazing as is her 50 some spots on private camping land on the lake! Electric hookups, water well, and honestly my favorite camping site so far! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!"

    9. Lakeshore Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-9522

    $50 - $60 / night

    "Offers some sites close to the lakeshore and others a little farther back. Nice facilities and location. Picnic table provided at each site."

    "Right on Lake Michigan with a view of the Mackinac Bridge. Great little beach for enjoying the lake. Campground is quiet and well maintained."

    10. Search Bay Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Cedarville, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 428-5800

    "Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience."

    "I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road."

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Showing results 1-10 of 106 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mackinac Island, MI

730 Reviews of 106 Mackinac Island Campgrounds



Guide to Mackinac Island

Camping near Mackinac Island, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're into tent camping or RVing, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Wilderness State Park Camping, have stunning beaches. One camper mentioned, "The beach was beautiful, the water clear, and just a short drive from Mackinaw city!"
  • Visit Mackinac Island: Take a ferry from nearby campgrounds like Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA to experience the island's charm. A reviewer noted, "This KOA provides you information for Shepler’s Ferry."
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A camper at Petoskey State Park Campground shared, "Loved walking the trails, too."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Straits State Park Campground said, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
  • Scenic views: Many sites offer beautiful views of the water. One camper at Hog Island Point State Forest Campground remarked, "Our site was just steps from Lake Michigan."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Burt Lake State Park Campground are great for families. A reviewer noted, "Wonderful campground that is great for the family."

What you should know:

  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "When the campground is full, you are quite close to your neighbors."
  • Check-in times: Be aware of strict check-in times. A visitor at Wilderness State Park Camping cautioned, "Don’t try to arrive early and get in. They don’t allow early entry."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Brevoort Lake Campground, may not have water or electricity. A camper noted, "No water or electricity but has clean restrooms."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites to accommodate families. A camper at Petoskey KOA said, "Love this campground! Big sites!"
  • Plan for activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. A visitor at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, "Lots of activities for the kids and a shuttle to the ferry."
  • Bring outdoor games: Having games on hand can keep kids entertained. A camper at Tee Pee Campground noted, "There are swings down by the lake for adults and kids."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, "The sites are tight, particularly the inside pull-throughs."
  • Look for full hookups: If you need full hookups, make sure to confirm availability. A camper at Petoskey KOA said, "The sites are all basically on top of each other, very little room to maneuver."
  • Plan for noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to traffic or other campers. A visitor at Straits State Park Campground noted, "You can hear the bridge and interstate traffic."

Camping near Mackinac Island, Michigan, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for some crowded spots and plan your stay accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Mackinac Island, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Mackinac Island, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Mackinac Island, MI and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Mackinac Island, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mackinac Island, MI is Straits State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 73 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mackinac Island, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Mackinac Island, MI.

What parks are near Mackinac Island, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Mackinac Island, MI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.