Best Campgrounds near Mackinac Island, MI
Located along the straits connecting Lakes Huron and Michigan, campgrounds near Mackinac Island provide strategic access to both the island and northern Michigan attractions. Straits State Park Campground offers views of the Mackinac Bridge with established campsites for tents and RVs, while Wilderness State Park includes cabins alongside traditional camping options. KOA locations in both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City feature glamping and cabin accommodations. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds accommodating everything from tents to large RVs, with Tee Pee Campground and Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping providing waterfront options for those seeking lake views.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with the majority open from May through October. Winter conditions and bridge access can impact camping availability during colder months. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods when ferry service to Mackinac Island experiences peak demand. Developed campgrounds like Straits State Park provide electric hookups, showers, and sanitary facilities, while Search Bay offers dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking more primitive experiences. Campground selection often depends on preferred ferry access points, as both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City serve as departure points for Mackinac Island. As one camper noted, "Perfect place from which to drive to the Mackinac Island ferry boats just a couple of miles away."
The proximity to Mackinac Island represents the primary draw for many campgrounds in the region. Campers consistently mention the convenience of campgrounds serving as base camps for island exploration. Several visitors highlighted the Mackinac Bridge views as a significant amenity, particularly from waterfront sites at Straits State Park. A reviewer described their experience: "We had some great views of the mighty mack bridge and even saw the northern lights one night!" Campgrounds with ferry shuttle services receive positive feedback, with multiple KOA guests appreciating this convenience. While campground density varies, many developed sites throughout the region offer full or partial hookups, making them suitable for extended stays while exploring the island and surrounding attractions. Traffic noise from the Mackinac Bridge appears in some reviews of waterfront locations, suggesting inland sites may offer quieter experiences.
