Best Campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI
Camping near Mackinaw City, Michigan encompasses a range of waterfront and wooded sites situated at the junction of Lakes Michigan and Huron, with views of the iconic Mackinac Bridge. The area features several state parks, private campgrounds, and limited free camping options within a short drive of town. Wilderness State Park, located about 15 minutes west of Mackinaw City, offers beachfront camping with direct Lake Michigan access and views of the Mackinac Bridge. Straits State Park sits on the north side of the bridge in St. Ignace, providing campsites with panoramic views of the straits. As one camper noted, "It's a universal location - you have Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, and the beautiful Bridge all right here."
Most campgrounds in the Mackinaw City area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons. Wilderness State Park's showers and camp office typically close around the first week of October, though some water spigots remain operational later in the season. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to state parks, which is separate from camping fees. Summer reservations should be made well in advance, particularly for waterfront sites, as campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Strong winds can affect lakeside camping, especially for tent campers. Mosquitoes are prevalent in summer months, particularly in wooded areas and near French Farm Lake.
Camping options range from full-service RV parks to primitive sites. The Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA offers amenities including a pool, playground, and full hookups, while Tee Pee Campground provides waterfront sites with views of the Mackinac Bridge. For budget travelers, French Farm Lake Road offers six primitive sites with fire pits about 10 minutes from town, though these fill quickly and have no facilities. Waterfront sites at state parks are highly sought after, with campers recommending early reservations. The region serves as an excellent base for exploring attractions including Mackinac Island (accessible by ferry), Headlands International Dark Sky Park, and the Upper Peninsula via the Mackinac Bridge, which has a $4 toll each way for vehicles.
