Best Campgrounds in Michigan

When you think about camping in Michigan, it’s the water that draws most to the Great Lakes State. Michigan has 3,288 miles of shoreline, the second longest of any state, including 1,056 miles of island coast. Plus, you’re never more than six miles from a natural water source, or more than 85 miles away from a Great Lake.

There are plenty of opportunities for coastal and island camping in Michigan, but it’s more than just water. Michigan has the largest state park and state forest system of any state, with over 100 state parks, recreation areas, and state forests. There are also several national parks, forests, and lakeshores to pitch a tent or park the adventure rig. Needless to say, you have some options, so stick with The Dyrt to help you narrow it down. Consider these main Michigan attractions when deciding on where to go camping in Michigan.

For most campers, the epicenter of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountainous dunes slope from high peaks and plateaus down to meet with the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Hiking, biking, hang gliding, off-roading, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, or just simply sandy beach lounging can all be found in and around Sleeping Bear Dunes. Also, when you take a camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the nearby quaint towns and rolling inland hills speckled with fruit orchards provide the perfect bonus excursions.

Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in the country. Michigan waterways have been essential to the growth of the nation, but they’ve also been treacherous for mariners for centuries, and continue to demand respect. When camping in Michigan, touring some of the iconic Michigan lighthouses can be a great way to learn about the history of the region, while also taking in stellar views of natural landscapes and architectural achievement. Check in with The Dyrt for information on camping near some great Michigan lighthouses.

Finally, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an entire playground of its own for outdoor recreation and exploration. Discover some of the many waterfalls like the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, or kayak on Lake Superior for a memorable view of the famous Pictured Rocks. The power of Lake Superior can be seen across the northern shore with unique rock formations, and remnants of the prominent mining and shipping industry still exist throughout. If you’re thinking about more remote or wild camping options in Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is for you. Whatever your camping style, stay tuned to The Dyrt for inside information on the best camping in Michigan.

Best Camping Sites in Michigan (1,319)

    1. Straits State Park Campground

    73 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-8620

    $22 - $42 / night

    "We reserved site 83A for our family of 5. we were in close proximity to the newly constructed bathhouse complete with dish washing stations. it was a full campground on the Friday night that we were there"

    "The Straits State Park in Michigan's Upper Penninsula sits on the North end of the Mackinaw Bridge in St. Ignace."

    2. Wilderness State Park Camping

    72 Reviews
    Cross Village, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5381

    "Pretty secluded campsites with trees surrounding each site. Private little sandy trail from the site down to Lake Michigan allows for good distancing from others. Can’t beat the sunsets."

    "You are within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the beach is nice and sandy. The sites are well maintained but there is not much distance between them so be prepared for that."

    3. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."

    "Stopped for a night on a road trip around Lake Michigan. Campgrounds was clean, and so were the toilets/showers. There were hiking trails close by, but wish they were clearly marked."

    4. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "Happened upon this Gem when driving the coast of Lake Michigan.  Watched the solar eclipse from the beach.   The DBR had a viewing area setup for adults and kids.  "

    "I've visited many dune parks along Lake Michigan, but there is a grandness about these ones that I haven't found elsewhere."

    5. Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park

    55 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $28 - $32 / night

    "Showers and a modern toilet are available in the modern portion of the campground which is a short walk through a playground and separating trees."

    "A must if you live in Michigan. Portage camp is a walk from the lower falls. Brand new and clean bathrooms. Sewage dump is a mile at hemlock camp. Get water there before you go to your site."

    6. Hoffmaster State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    Norton Shores, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 798-3711

    $38 - $42 / night

    "Site 31 and any along that path back up to a little creek and trail which was just perfect for the kids to play in."

    "This is one of the absolute best campsites in Michigan, in my opinion. With great access to dunes and Lake Michigan, stunning sunsets are just part of the charm."

    7. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    52 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $20 / night

    "Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash."

    "DH Day campground is the perfect rustic camping spot in Northern Michigan. All campsites are within easy walking distance to a beautiful Lake Michigan beach."

    8. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park

    52 Reviews
    Copper Harbor, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 289-4215

    $30 / night

    "Things I love about this campground: sites with easy access to private lakeside swimming, clean restrooms with Wifi and laundry, the fort is an interesting piece of history to explore, and the conglomerate"

    "Situated on the very tip of Copper Country in Copper Harbor, Michigan and the beginning of U.S. HWY 41 that makes its way all the way to Florida!"

    9. Rivermouth Modern Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park

    49 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $20 - $23 / night

    "This has and will remain my favorite campground in Michigan."

    "Located just outside of the town of Paradise on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan."

    10. Munising Tourist Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Munising, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 202-2694

    $29 - $45 / night

    "AMAZING views of Lake Superior just steps away from the camp site. Spots don't stay empty for long. The RV park stays full"

    "Spacious sites although could have been more level along the road side."

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Showing results 1-10 of 1,319 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Michigan

5947 Reviews of 1319 Michigan Campgrounds



Guide to Michigan

Camping in Michigan offers a fantastic way to connect with nature, explore beautiful landscapes, and enjoy outdoor activities. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, there's something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

What to do

  • Explore the Beaches: 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!”
  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Many parks, such as Leelanau State Park Campground, offer great hiking opportunities. A visitor shared, “Very quiet campground on the shores of Lake Michigan. Sites are large and private with large fire rings and picnic tables.”
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Campers at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground enjoy fishing and swimming. One review noted, “Each site is secluded and there are about 10 sites that are directly on Lake Michigan.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Traverse City State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms there were still nice! It has a good location in Traverse City.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds foster a welcoming vibe. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort mentioned, “The campground is great with a lot of amenities for young and old alike.”
  • Beautiful Scenery: Campers love the natural beauty of Michigan. A review from Petoskey State Park Campground highlighted, “The dunes are incredible to wander around and enjoy a beautiful sunset from.”

What you should know

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some parks can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground noted, “When the campground is full, you are quite close to your neighbors in typical state campground style.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground mentioned, “No electricity, so have solar ready.”
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or airports, which can be noisy. A review from Traverse City State Park Campground stated, “It’s close to the airport and 4 lane road. There are cars passing by frequently.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, “My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool.”
  • Plan for Beach Days: Many campgrounds have great beach access. A visitor at Burt Lake State Park Campground shared, “Has a beautiful sand beach with a shallower swim area for younger kids.”
  • Pack Games and Activities: Bring along games for downtime. A camper at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, “They have a playground. They also offer Gaga ball, horseshoe, and corn hole.”

Tips from RVers

Camping in Michigan is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but knowing what to expect can make your trip even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Michigan?

According to TheDyrt.com, Michigan offers a wide range of camping options, with 1319 campgrounds and RV parks in Michigan and 45 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Michigan?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Michigan is Straits State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 73 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Michigan?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 45 free dispersed camping spots in Michigan.

What are the best parks in Michigan?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Michigan that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.