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Best Campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI

811 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Mackinaw City, Michigan (111)

    1. Straits State Park Campground

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

    $22 - $42 / night

    "This bridge conects Upper and Lower Michigan at the crossing of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. This campground is clean, and well layed out with just about a campsite for the taste for everyone."

    "It's a universal location, you have Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, AND the beautiful Bridge all right here!! Sites are large, well spaced out. Trees to provide shade and it's right on the water"

    2. Wilderness State Park Camping

    76 Reviews
    Cross Village, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5381

    "Great campground only about 15 minutes from mackinaw city. Vault toilets but they are kept clean. Front desk was very nice and helpful."

    "The beach was beautiful, the water clear, and just a short drive from Mackinaw city!"

    3. Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA

    24 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5643

    "The pool was great for swimming, and mackinaw city is a great place to walk around and explore!"

    "Very nice campground, great service, facilities and location! You must go to Darrows Restaurant Mackinaw City!! You will thank me for sure, ya it’s that good! Have a piece of their pie."

    4. Tee Pee Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5391

    $34 - $52 / night

    "Close to downtown Mackinaw City."

    "Closest campground to Mackinaw city. Small campground but right on Lake Huron. The campsites are close to each other so I would recommend one of the outer campsites that backs up to the woods."

    5. St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA

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

    "We had site #16 right near the front, which meant we had some traffic noise and kids running to the adjacent playground, but the spacious lot size made up for it (and having 3 kids of our own, we didn't"

    "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."

    6. Tiki RV Park & Campground

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

    $28 - $42 / night

    "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."

    "This campground is a good location to activities within St. Ignace.  The person in the site next to us was in Site 5.  But, good luck trying to find it on the map. "

    7. Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping

    9 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5584

    $16 - $50 / night

    "Our site was just steps away from Lake Huron, so we got to enjoy swimming right from camp, which was such a bonus."

    "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."

    8. Lakeshore Park Campground

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

    $50 - $60 / night

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

    "There is a beachfront on Lake Michigan with a view of the Mackinac Bridge. Cozy campground that is well maintained with clean Bathhouse."

    9. French Farm Lake Rd

    5 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 732-3541

    "We were excited to find our first real free camping in Michigan, and so close to Mackinaw City."

    "Behind the site is a full-size mattress, clothes, shoes, and a remnant of a tent - it looks like it has been there for a while."

    10. Castle Rock Lakefront Mackinac Trail Campground

    5 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-9222

    "Here’s a review for the campground:

    I recently had the pleasure of staying at this wonderful campground next to Lake Huron, and I couldn’t be more impressed."

    "They have some on the lake spots as well. Overall a good experience and close to what we wanted to do in the area. Very friendly place."

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Recent Camping Photos near Mackinaw City, MI

257 Photos of 111 Mackinaw City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mackinaw City, MI

811 Reviews of 111 Mackinaw City Campgrounds

Guide to Mackinaw City

Camping near Mackinaw City, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something to suit your needs.

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 Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island for a day of biking and sightseeing. A reviewer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA noted, "There are great places to ride bikes outside of the campground."
  • Hiking and nature walks: Campgrounds like Tahquamenon Falls State Park offer beautiful trails. One visitor shared, "This was a really nice spot with clean bathrooms and showers, quiet, and close to some nice hiking and scenery."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Crowded during peak season: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially in summer. A camper at Michigan Straits State Park mentioned, "The campground is very close to the main road and you can hear the traffic."
  • Limited privacy: Some sites are close together, which can be a downside for those seeking solitude. A reviewer at Tahquamenon Falls State Park said, "The campsites are so close to one another, with absolutely no privacy."
  • Weather can be unpredictable: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially near the water. A camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground noted, "The park has a small sandy beach, but the playground needs some updating."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA, which has a playground and swimming pool. A reviewer said, "Lots of activities for the kids and a shuttle to the ferry."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Some campgrounds don’t have markets nearby. A camper at Michigan Fisherman's Island State Park mentioned, "There are no markets, so bring your own supplies."
  • Plan for quiet time: Some parks attract larger crowds that may not follow quiet hours. A visitor at Wilderness State Park Camping noted, "The crowd that this park attracts blatantly ignores quiet time rules."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A reviewer at Petoskey State Park Campground said, "Sites in the Dunes loop can be very tight."
  • Bring solar power: Many campgrounds, like Fisherman's Island State Park Campground, don’t have electric hookups. A camper advised, "No electricity, so have solar ready."
  • Be prepared for road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "A lot of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night."

Camping near Mackinaw City, Michigan, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any state parks with camping near Mackinaw City?

Wilderness State Park Camping is located about 15 minutes from Mackinaw City and offers excellent camping options. The park features three campgrounds, with two situated directly on the water offering spectacular views. Sites on the beach are highly sought after, so booking early is recommended. The park boasts beautiful beaches with clear water and tall trees providing shade. Another option is Straits State Park Campground, located on the north end of the Mackinac Bridge in St. Ignace. This well-maintained park offers diverse campsites to suit different preferences and provides strategic access to both the Upper and Lower Peninsula.

What are the best campgrounds in Mackinaw City for families?

Tee Pee Campground is excellent for families, offering lakefront sites with views of the Mackinac Bridge. It's the closest campground to downtown Mackinaw City, making it convenient for exploring local attractions. The campground features clean bathrooms and showers, and its location on Lake Huron provides beach access for children. Another family-friendly option is Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA, which offers a swimming pool, helpful staff, and typical KOA amenities that appeal to families. The campground is clean and provides easy access to explore Mackinaw City's attractions. Both campgrounds are well-situated for day trips to Mackinac Island.

What RV camping facilities are available in Mackinaw City?

Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping offers extensive facilities for RV campers, including water hookups, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. The campground features spacious sites that can accommodate larger RVs and provides convenient access to Mackinaw City attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, Michigan Oaks Camping Resort offers RV sites with necessary amenities. Both campgrounds provide reservable spots, which is essential during peak summer months when Mackinaw City experiences high tourism. Most RV campgrounds in the area are seasonal, typically operating from May through October, with full services available during summer months.

Are there camping options with cabin rentals near Mackinaw City?

Maple Bay State Forest Campground is located about 25 minutes from Mackinaw City and offers rustic cabin options for those who prefer more shelter than tent camping provides. The campground sits right on Burt Lake, offering beautiful water views and access. Another option with cabin accommodations is Cheboygan State Park Campground, which provides modern cabin rentals in a scenic setting. These cabins typically include basic amenities like beds and shelter, though specific features vary by location. Most cabins in the area require advance reservations, especially during peak summer season when Mackinaw City becomes a popular tourist destination.

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