The Manistique area sits on Michigan's Upper Peninsula along Lake Michigan's northern shoreline at approximately 600 feet elevation. Camping options near Manistique, Michigan range from full-service shoreline sites to rustic forest campgrounds, with most locations experiencing peak visitation from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Water temperature at lakefront campsites varies significantly, with inland lakes typically warming faster than Lake Michigan, which remains cooler through early summer.
What to do
Visit Kitch-iti-kipi Springs: Located just 5 minutes from Indian Lake State Park South Campground, this natural spring is Michigan's largest. "If you are looking for things to do in the area consider: Kitch-iti-kipi Springs, Fayette State Historic Park, Canoeing on the Manistique River," notes Eric H., who visited in October.
Beach activities: The shallow, warmer waters at Camp Seven Lake Campground provide excellent swimming conditions. "The water is clear and warm (perfect lake for swimming) and there is both sand and grassy areas on the fairly large beach. The beach also offers picnic tables and benches," according to Kerri R.
Fishing opportunities: Merwin Creek State Forest Campground offers good fishing access on a mid-sized river. "The river is a medium size that looks nice for canoeing. Fishing seems to be another draw," explains Art S., who visited in June.
Paddling sports: Lake Michigan offers protected coves for kayaking and canoeing, especially at Portage Bay. "Secluded dense wooded area along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, which most sites have a trail leading to. Great spot for any paddling sports in the warmer months," shares Chris F.
What campers like
Beach access at varying price points: Manistique Lakeshore Campground provides more upscale waterfront camping. "I loved coming here. We tent camp and stayed in spot 1 and had great privacy being so close to the office. They had complimentary bikes you could use, fire wood and ice for sale, very very clean bathrooms," according to Alyssa C.
Quieter alternatives: For campers seeking less crowded options, Indian Lake State Park West Campground provides a more peaceful alternative. "After camping at the south shore for a night (way to many people for me personally) I went to the West campground. It's very quiet this week," reports Becky S., who found the campground host "super nice and very knowledgeable about the U P park system."
Waterfront proximity: Many campers appreciate how close sites are to water. "This is a beautiful Campground with sites a few feet or a few yards from Lake Michigan. Fantastic south facing views. Close to town and lots to do in the area," notes Dennis A. about Manistique Lakeshore Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently appears in reviews. "This probably was one of the cleanest campgrounds we ever went to. They have everything from full hookups to rustic tent sites. Each site has a huge permanent firepit," writes Lora H.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Nights can be cool even in summer. Prepare for temperature swings and sudden weather changes. "It stormed in the middle of the night and we did not have a car because we came on bikes. We tried to see if the beach house was open, but they locked it at night. We sat in the showers for a half hour waiting out the storm," shares Emily M. from Indian Lake State Park.
Bugs can be intense: Bring proper protection, especially in June and July. "Being that in the summer, it doesn't get dark until 10 pm, you can spend all day and most of the evening riding the trails. This year, the gnats were just about unbearable, but no fault of the campground (welcome to the UP)," notes Lora H. from Jack Pine Lodge and Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "Enjoy your visit. 0-1 cellular bars for ATT at #23, 1-2 bars at #1," reports John G. who stayed at Portage Bay. Some locations like Jack Pine offer WiFi to compensate for limited cellular coverage.
Reservation timing: Book waterfront sites months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "Book early because sites go fast in the summer," advises Christian F. about Manistique Lakeshore Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose spacious sites: Portage Bay State Forest Campground offers generous space for family activities. "This place has some very nice large sites that you can walk right out to the beach from. The drive in from US2 is kinda long but worth it. If you like secluded quiet campgrounds then check this place out," recommends Michael M.
Look for playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated children's areas. "This was such a surprise and such a great experience. Very clean campground, clean showers, great playground, beautiful beach and view of a lighthouse. Memorable experience for the whole family," writes Ally H. about her experience at Manistique Lakeshore Campground.
Consider weekly activities: Some state parks offer scheduled programming. "This is a great lakeside campsite just outside of Manistique. There is a main bathroom area with showers. Good shallow water to swim (and watch the beautiful sunset)... They even do weekly events such as 'Traveling Trivia' for kids," notes Evan P. about Indian Lake State Park.
Check swimming conditions: Water depth and temperature vary widely. Camp Seven Lake Campground offers particularly family-friendly swimming with "clear and warm" water and "both sand and grassy areas on the fairly large beach."
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Ask about specific site conditions when reserving. "We were having some issues with WiFi while we were here. They have pull through and back in sites. Very affordable pricing for the amenities," shares Marc W. about Manistique Lakeshore Campground.
Electric options vary: Know what hookups you need before booking. "There are different prices for the type of electric hook up you want. It was a big campground and well kept," explains Emily M. about Indian Lake State Park South Campground.
Size restrictions matter: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "Went here on a road trip with my parents in their camper. Nice spot! Picnic table and nice sturdy fire pit is provided at each site. Site had a paved pad with gravel surrounding," describes Tori K. about her experience at Manistique Lakeshore Campground.
Consider camping packages: Some locations offer amenities specially designed for RVers. "RV lots are large and private, Lots of trees and there is a constant breezy that comes off of Lake Michigan. The only downfall is, it's more expensive than your typical campground. $40 - $60 range for the RV sites," notes Lora H.
