Camping options near Mackinac Island range from rustic to premium, with most located on the mainland in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. The region experiences humid continental climate with warm summers averaging 75°F and cold winters below freezing. Several campgrounds offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional RV sites near Mackinac Island, Michigan, providing balance between comfort and outdoor immersion.
What to do
Boat watching at St. Mary's River: The Aune-Osborn Campground provides excellent views of massive freighters navigating to and from the Soo Locks. "We found this site by accident looking to visit the locks. There isn't a lot to do in the park but watch the freighters but that's why we wanted to go. Minutes to town and the locks, tours and more," notes camper Chad K.
Golf near accommodations: Petoskey RV Resort offers a country club camping experience with proximity to area golf courses. "Great facility and staff. Country club camping at its best. Motor homes, 5r and Travel Trailers. Beautiful grounds were well maintained. Very dog friendly," according to reviewer Bob D.
Visit Ojibwa cultural sites: Take a short drive from camping areas to explore indigenous heritage sites. "Be sure to visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture," recommends Barbara P., highlighting educational opportunities beyond typical tourist attractions when staying at area campgrounds.
Ferry access via bicycle: Some campsites offer convenient bicycle access to ferry services. "It's within biking distance to the Shepler's Ferry dock which is super nice if you're planning to take bikes along," notes Doug A. about Tiki RV Park & Campground.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Paradise Point RV Park provides secluded camping directly on St. Mary's River. "We arrived to find the campground is very small but if you get a reservation it is well worth it... There are 14 sites here right on St. Mary's river. The boat traffic to the zoo locks can be seen from the campground," explains Matt S.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptional restroom facilities despite remote locations. "The bathroom/shower building is one of the nicest I've ever seen at a campground," reports Ashleigh M. about Aune-Osborn Campground, providing welcome comfort after outdoor activities.
Premium site upgrades: Indian River RV Resort offers luxury options beyond standard camping. "They also have 'premium' sites that include options like concrete/brick patios, paved sites, pergolas, BBQ grills, etc. The vast majority of sites are full hook-ups, and WiFi is available throughout the resort," notes Ron and Mary C.
Proximity to multiple attractions: Strategic campground locations provide convenient access to regional highlights. "This is a nice family-friendly campground. We appreciated that they squeezed us in on a weekend, short notice! It was centrally located to Mackinac Island and Petoskey, etc," shares Tracy K.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant precipitation, affecting site conditions. "We ended up sleeping in the car because the ground was so wet due to rain," reports Les R. from Tiki RV Park & Campground, highlighting the importance of weather preparation.
Site variability: Campground maps may not accurately represent actual site conditions. "Website makes promises campground doesn't deliver. We reserved 50 amp full hook up... We arrived today to find a tight sloping site with only 30 amp service for our 34 ft motorhome," explains Jennifer B.
Booking policies: Loons Point RV Park & Campground and others enforce reservation rules strictly. "Well managed, clean rules enforced! Very refreshing to say the least," comments Jim S., indicating the benefit of understanding policies before arrival.
Alternative accommodations: Several campgrounds offer yurt options for those without RVs. "We decided to splurge on a yurt for our first camping trip of the summer. Well worth it! We stayed in 'Kai' one of the newest yurts. Complete with electricity, indoor and outdoor string lights, two deck chairs, a heater, a queen sized bed," shares Meaghan G.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly facilities: Bay Mills Casino RV Campground welcomes pets and provides designated areas. "There's a nice dog area (not fenced) across from this site but the poop bag garbage can had not been emptied in some time as it was overflowing," notes MickandKarla W., suggesting checking pet amenities before arrival.
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for children. "We really loved it here! Great campground! First off I made a mistake and thought I booked, but never did. The campground is very nice. Beautiful clubhouse, nice pool. Everything is well kept, safe, and beautiful," shares Melissa B. about Petoskey RV Resort.
Playground accessibility: Look for campgrounds with updated play equipment. "Adjacent to the campground is a boat launch, playground (which looked like it was from the 1960's), fish cleaning station, and an RV dump station," observes Nancy W., highlighting mixed quality of child amenities at some locations.
Budget considerations: Casino campgrounds often offer economical rates. "29.00 a day with full hook-ups. 21.00 without sewer. All come with free cable tv and wifi antennas ever couple hundred feet so you get internet from any spot in the park," reports Master R., noting value options for family travel.
Tips from RVers
Escort services: Indian River RV Resort provides arrival assistance. "Owners lead you to your site and assist getting your rig lined up with water/sewer connections," shares Eric C., noting a helpful service for newer RV operators.
Electrical reliability: Check amperage specifications when booking during peak season. "It was super hot and the park wasn't even half full, yet our AC kept going out due to the power," warns Stacey R. about inconsistent electrical service at some RV parks near Mackinac Island, Michigan.
Site dimensions: Lakeshore Park Campground accommodates larger rigs but space may be limited. "The campground is well maintained, everything functioned properly, and the staff are friendly. My only complaint is that the sites are VERY narrow, putting you right next to your neighbors," notes Dan H.
Waste management: Many parks offer convenient trash solutions. "55 gallon trash bins throughout campground so you don't have to go all the way to front of campground for dumpsters and they collect regularly," reports Steve W., highlighting practical considerations for extended stays.