Ada R.
Traveler
TravelerBrasswire Campground
Simple county campground
Nice grassy areas around spacious sites, though no trees or shrubbery between sites. Clean toilets and access to multiple trails in the adjacent forest.
Camping near Marquette, MI
99 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Campgrounds in Marquette, Michigan span from established municipal facilities to rustic forest sites, with most offering both tent and RV camping. Marquette Tourist Park Campground provides over 100 electric sites and 38 full hookup sites within city limits, while Rippling Rivers RV Resort offers cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options. Public lands surrounding the area include smaller developed campgrounds like Forestville with 15 tent sites and primitive options like Kona Hills with 40 sites. Several facilities maintain proximity to Lake Superior beaches and inland water features, with varying levels of amenity access and privacy.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May to October, with limited winter availability. The Ojibwa Casino RV Park remains open year-round for RV campers, though with reduced amenities. Several visitors noted the variable weather conditions typical of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. As one camper stated, "We have been camping every Labor Day at Marquette Tourist Park for about 8 years. We come up from mid Michigan for Marquette's Blues Fest." The area experiences cool temperatures even during summer months, making it a popular destination for those seeking relief from heat. Cell service is generally strong near established campgrounds, though more remote forest sites may have limited connectivity.
Campgrounds near Marquette generally receive high ratings for their proximity to outdoor recreation and urban amenities. Rippling Rivers RV Resort earned praise for its mountain bike trail access, with one visitor noting, "Great campground, very close to downtown Marquette and right in/on a huge mountain bike park." Waterfront camping locations are particularly popular, with several developed campgrounds offering river or lake views. Sites with full hookups tend to book quickly during peak summer months. Many campers appreciate the balance of natural settings with convenient access to downtown Marquette, which is typically 10-20 minutes from most camping areas. The region's combination of outdoor recreation and proximity to urban amenities makes it a versatile destination for various camping styles.
Best Campgrounds near Marquette (99)
1. Marquette Tourist Park Campground
"We have been camping every Labor Day at Marquette Tourist Park for about 8 years. We come up from the mid Michigan area for Marquette’s Blues Fest."
"Very nice campground with old growth trees located in the city of Marquette. Close to bike paths and mountain bike trails. Nice beach area."
from $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability2. Rippling Rivers RV Resort
"Rippling River is a really nice campground, very close to downtown Marquette and right in/on a huge mountain bike park."
"Stayed here while visiting Marquette! Honestly, the campground is not the best. Most sites too open.
We did enjoy the pool and hot tub... plus the walk up bar with pizza."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability3. Forestville Campground
"Great spot if you’re looking for something near to, but away from Marquette."
"This is by far the best campground in Marquette. Rustic sites only, this is the trail head to a network of snowshoeing, biking, and hiking trails."
from $25 / night
Check Availability4. Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground
"Nice, clean, quiet right on the lake. Full hookups, level sites and lots of room for large gatherings at the party pit. A short drive to Marquette."
"You can walk across the street to the beach along Lake Superior and are drive distance to Black Rock and Pictured Rock. They even have a brewery in the campground."
5. Tourist Park Campground
"Great spot in the city of Marquette, Michigan, on the northern edge of the Upper Peninsula. Stayed two nights during the week of the 4th of July, and there were plenty of open sites."
"Access to trails is very convenient and close to town"
6. Country Village RV Park
"This park is located about 15 minutes from the town of Marquette and is a great alternative if you can’t get a site in the Marquette Tourist Park (which is closer to town and very popular in the summer"
"This is our 2nd time staying & both were because of its convenience to ‘civilization’ not to get away from it."
from $35 - $51 / night
Check Availability7. Kona Hills Campground
"Note that you can hear the highway from this site. But nice campground if you want to stay close to Marquette."
"Very neat property with small sites tucked away, nice picnic table and fire ring. Definitely would return."
from $45 / night
Check Availability8. Chocolay River RV & Campgrounds
"There are no trees for shade, but this is Marquette Michigan, where it’s unusual to get into the 80s during the summertime."
"It’s a work in progress but brand new, all gravel no tree all pull thru easy setup sites, 20/30/50amp electric, water & sewer, new bathrooms, showers, washer & dryer coming soon, it’s near the"
from $35 / night
Check Availability9. The Ojibwa Casino Baraga RV Park
"Huge parking lot off the highway, so no road noise. Casino is a bit smoky, but not that bad. It is mostly slots, but still fun. $20 free play when you sign up. Nice little restaurant and bar."
10. Brasswire Campground
"Nice grassy areas around spacious sites, though no trees or shrubbery between sites. Clean toilets and access to multiple trails in the adjacent forest."
"Quiet rustic campground located on the RAMBA Mountain Bike Trail System"
from $25 / night
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Drive Time
- 2 hrs 53 min from Green Bay, WI
- 3 hrs 13 min from Appleton, WI
- 3 hrs 33 min from Wausau, WI
- 4 hrs 36 min from Traverse City, MI
Recent Camping Photos near Marquette, MI
172 Photos of 99 Marquette Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Marquette Tourist Park Campground
Rippling Rivers RV ResortR
Forestville Campground
Gitche Gumee RV Park & CampgroundB
Country Village RV Park
Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park
Little Lake State Forest Campground
Perkins Park & Campground
Van Riper State Park Campground
Michigamme Shores CampgroundR
Superior TimesJ
Au Train Lake Campground
Recent Reviews near Marquette, MI
482 Reviews of 99 Marquette Campgrounds
Meghan B.
LegendKing Lake State Forest Campground
King Lake State Forest Campground
Six FCFS sites make up this little slice of paradise. We arrived late afternoon on a Wednesday in mid-September and only two sites (Sites 1 and 3) were still available. Of the two, we chose Site 3, which sits up on a small hill overlooking the lake. It has a beautiful view and a short, somewhat steep path down to the boat launch. Sites 4 and 5 are the prime spots though, situated right on the lake and offering the best access to the water. The campground filled up on Thursday. After the crowds left on Sunday, we were finally able to grab one of the two lakefront sites--Site 5.
Pretty good privacy between most sites, but sound carries in this small loop. Two vault toilets. Currently $20/night. Okay cell service, surprisingly.
A small, peaceful campground with a beautiful setting made for tenters and small trailers—definitely worth getting there early if you want one of the best sites!
Just a heads up, Google Maps couldn't figure out the proper way to get here (from Marquette way, King Lake Road off of US-41). Our Garmin actually knew the best route in this instance. I recommend double-checking your route before heading this way.
- AAlex R.Traveler
Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land)
Beautiful Site, got stuck BAD, “no camp” signs. Idk what that means.
This spot is beautiful for someone with a 4x4. Unfortunately my rear wheel drive tundra did not make it very far. That said, I walked the remaining 100 feet to the site, right on Lake Superior. There are local walkers, I encountered about 5 - 8 teams walking the beaches.
Emily A.
GuideHaymeadow Creek NF Campground
Forest vibes, mosquitos present
There were no open sites when we got here on a Thursday afternoon so we had to stay in an overgrown site. It was very shaded from the trees so it was not great for our solar capabilities. Loved that there was a cute trail nearby though. No cell service for us with Verizon, only way to get it was to go 10 miles by the main turn in road. There’s no big towns nearby so you had to travel quite a ways for groceries etc. Campsites a bit close to one another for my taste but everyone was respectful so it was peaceful and lovely otherwise! Mosquitos were around definitely.
- GGayle B.Guide
Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping
Second time here
Love staying in dispersed camping, being right on the water and spaced further apart. Mid-September so the port a potties are gone, bring your own facilities. Fortunately I came prepared. The dirt road is in pretty good shape.
- GGeorgeann M.Traveler
Van Riper State Park Campground
Clean bathhouse. Right on the lake.
The campsites are very close together so not for anyone looking for solitude. Other campers are very friendly. It is right on Lake Michigamma? Nice beach for swimming. Boat launch with dock for fishing. Big playground
- KKaitlyn N.
ScoutPerkins Park & Campground
Gorgeous, peaceful, friendly and clean
This Campground offers peaceful beauty. The staff are very helpful and friendly. The office ladies will help with your needs like firewood, waterfall locations, hiking trails, recommending great sites (especially if you want to watch the sunrise in the mornings), there is a Campground host and emergency number for anything after hours that may happen (noisey neighbors for example) but those are rare!
Bathrooms are CLEAN, showers (do NOT have the coin machine anymore, so no need for quarters), grounds and campsites & fire rings are clean and kept up on.
Beach is clean and the staff keep dogs off the beach so there's no poop or dog pee in areas where families can swim. BUT there is a designated area for dogs to go swimming! The staff gives treats to dogs in the park (with the owners permission of course)! A pier to go fishing off of, boat launch, kayaking launch areas!
They have several rustic sites, electric &water sites, electric only, and full hook up sites. There are handicap accessibility to the beach and 2 of their shower/ bathroom buildings.
General Store, laundry mat and café right across from the Campground.
Remember as any Campground they do get their busy times but they also have slower times, just ask the ladies in the office and they will tell you the time of seasons that would give you a more quiet relaxing experience if that's what your looking for & don't forget to catch those sunrises!
Trust me tho, this is a unforgettable beautiful place to camp AND with some history!
Make sure to watch Anatomy Of A Murder and don't be afraid to ask the staff and locals about it!
- bbrittany G.Scout
Kewadin Casino, Christmas MI
I wouldn’t come here for gambling or to park
I saw on a different app that they had overnight parking with free electric hookup, no fee was mentioned. I called at 7:45pm and spoke with a guy in security and asked “Is it enough space to set up a tent there?” and he said “Yeah, you can put it on the pavement in a parking spot, we had a group of bikers here that did that not too long ago.” Verbatim. I asked if he happened to know if there were spaces available and he said yeah theres..1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 empty spaces right now. I said alright, great, thank you, have a good night. He said youre welcome, you too. I arrived at 8pm, set up my tent, which is a small 2 person tent, just me and my dog. I moved my jeep to a regular parking spot in the middle of the lot. Then i went inside to use the restroom and asked about buying some used playing cards, spent $20 in slots and came back out to sit in my jeep until about midnight when I went to my tent and got settled into bed. Then a guy comes out at 12:35am and says “Hey, we don’t allow tents here.” I explained that I had explicitly asked someone in security if it was ok to set up a tent and he said yes. The guy went back in and asked the manager about it, came back out with a second security employee and said we dont allow tents. I asked who was working security around 7:45 and they said theres 3 security employees and neither of them two took a phone call from someone asking about a tent. I asked ok then who is the 3rd person? They said we can’t give that information but you’re welcome to come in and talk to the manager. Did you pay for this spot? I said the guy I spoke with on the phone never told me I needed to pay but I can do that. He said well we don’t allow tents, this is RV only and they come in at all times of the night so if you want to come talk to the manager, you can. I said ok I’ll be packed up in ten minutes. So I went in at 12:50, they close at 1AM. As i walked in i heard the announcement saying the casino closes in 10 minutes, please print your tickets and make your way to the cashier to cash out. I asked the security guy “can you get your manager, please?”he said we close in 10 minutes but I’ll get her for you. I said “I know.” I simply wanted to tell her that she should make sure all her employees are on the same page and to avoid this problem in the future, she should inform the employee that gave me incorrect information of what the rules are. The security gaurd went over to the door where the managers office is, whispered back and forth for a few seconds, closes the door and says she busy, we’re locking the doors now, you need to leave. I said you just told me less than 10 minutes ago that i could speak with her. He said yeah that was when we were open, now we’re closed and you need to leave. I said you just told me you guys close in 10 minutes..? And what did that announcement just say? He hesitated because he knew it said they were closing in 10 minutes but he said its to let ppl know that they need to bring their tickets to the cashier. And i said so they have 10 minutes to do that… he said per the manager, we are locking the doors now and you need to leave. I said i just don’t understand why you said i could speak with her, you said you’re open for another 10 minutes but now 30 seconds later you’re closed? The manager then gets on the walkie talkie and asked if he’s good and he responded shes not leaving, can you get tribal on the phone? She gave a really enthusiastic “I’M ON IT!” And the guy tells me theyve got tribal on the way so i need to leave. His voice was shaky and he seemed like a ball of nerves. Im a single female in my late 20s. There was no reason for him to be so worked up. I never raised my voice, I didn’t cuss, I didnt even give the impression that I was upset. When he told me I couldn’t be there I politely explained that I specifically called and asked security about it and then when he came back outside i said ok ill be packed up in 10 minutes, I didn’t argue or give them any trouble about it. So i just kind of laughed and shook my head and left. The fact that they waited until 25 minutes until closing, well past midnight, to come tell me to leave, the fact that my tent had been there for 4 hours at that point, the fact that there were 5 other open spaces, the fact that I was told I could speak to the manager and then she was unwilling to do so, and the fact that I’m still in the parking lot because Im not about to find another place to camp at 1am and its now past 3am and not a single other RV has pulled in, all has left me with a very bad taste in my mouth. I just think they handled the situation very poorly, in my opinion. I understand that the spaces are meant for RVs, though the information on the other app did not mention that but I called ahead to confirm it was ok. They could have made an exception, made 20 more dollars than i already put in their machines, explain that it was a one time thing because of the miscommunication, or at the very least the manager could have spoken to me face to face. I’m also wondering, if RVs come in at all hours of the night as the secuirty gaurd says, how are they paying the 20$ to be there for the night if the casino is closed? I guess if you need a place for an RV that bad and all the campgrounds around are full like they are tonight, Its a last resort but I think you should give your money to anywhere else than to such an unprofessional business. If you’re in an RV, just go to any other parking lot to sleep. The management here is not good people.
- MMarc V.Traveler
Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground
Don’t do it
Turned us away after calling ahead and telling us to come, said he didn’t need the money and I politely said ok even though I was miffed about being told to come. He started taking photos of our vehicles even though we told him calmly we were leaving and had no visible aggression towards him. Turned into a weird altercation.
Guide to Marquette
Camping near Marquette, Michigan offers access to both rustic forest sites and developed campgrounds within the western Upper Peninsula. Most sites sit at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, contributing to the region's cooler temperatures even during summer months. The camping season typically runs May through October, with average summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and nights often dropping into the 50s.
What to do
Hiking the North Country Trail: The North Country Trail passes through Forestville Campground and connects to numerous local trails. "Sites are heavily wooded, it would be difficult to navigate a camper here, but it's great for tents! Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Bathrooms are fine, basic pit toilets. Potable water on the side of the barn plus firewood for a price. Peaceful and pretty," notes one visitor at Forestville Campground.
Mountain biking: Rippling Rivers RV Resort provides direct access to Marquette's extensive trail network. "If you love mountain biking or hiking you stay here. Period. You are right on the trails. Bathrooms and showers are nice. If you have little ones the grom trail rims next to the top camp site. We love going here," writes one camper at Rippling Rivers RV Resort.
Lake activities: Van Riper State Park offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. "Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net. Large bathhouse with private shower rooms. Huge playground. Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!" reports a camper at Van Riper State Park Campground.
What campers like
Easy town access: Many campgrounds provide a balance of natural settings with proximity to urban conveniences. "This campground is in Marquette, near Northern Michigan University. But once you're camped there, you won't feel like you're in one of the largest cities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula," notes a camper about Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds offer sites near rivers or lakes. "We camped right on the lake at number #13 which is the last site towards the back of the camp ground. Great fishing right off the waters edge, swimming and paddle boarded the lake as well. Super close to downtown Marquette, like a 10 minute bike ride," shares a visitor at Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Cabin options: For those without tents or RVs, cabin rentals provide alternative accommodations. "We stayed in a basic cabin - and were astounded at how clean they were and how good they smelled - like fresh cut wood! The bathrooms were the same, and the button lock entry to cabin, bathroom and shower room is an excellent touch," reports a guest at Rippling Rivers RV Resort.
What you should know
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Because you're near a major UP city, you have access to plenty of shopping and services if you need them, plus there is great (Verizon) cellular service in the campground. The park wifi is a bit weak depending on where you are at in relation to the office, but we used our wifi booster and had smooth sailing," explains a camper at Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Reservation timing: During peak summer months, especially July and August, securing campsites requires advance planning. "Even though the signs said it was full, we rolled the dice anyhow and ended up getting a cancelation site for free!" shares one lucky camper, though this experience is uncommon during busy periods.
Site conditions: Terrain varies widely between campgrounds. "The sites are generally spacious and they have a lot of options to choose from based on what rig you have and how you like to camp. The sites aren't paved, so rainy days could lead to some mud to deal with," notes a camper about Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Huge playground," shares a parent about Country Village RV Park.
Water activities: Swimming areas provide entertainment for children. "At the beach there is a concession stand. The park offers areas for boating, kayaking, and jet skiing, and fishing," notes a visitor at Van Riper State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several nearby attractions offer learning experiences for children. "During your visit to the park there are lots of scenic, historic, and recreational sites to visit. A few miles from the park is the location of where Iron ore was first found in the Lake Superior region. There is an Iron Industry Museum," explains a visitor to Van Riper State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on hookup needs and rig size. "Only the FHU sites on the perimeter have paved camper pads, all others are either dirt, grass, or a combo. The electric sites closest to the Dead River are, although wide and fairly deep, still in an open grassy area with very few trees so don't count on shade," advises an RVer at Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Hookup placement: Be prepared for variable utility configurations. "The hook-ups are not laid out conveniently on some sites which requires extra hoses and electric cords," notes a camper at Marquette Tourist Park Campground.
Level sites: Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground offers prepared RV pads. "The sites are well maintained and we required no additional leveling. Sturdy and maintained picnic table at each site. Electric at our site -39- was error free. Water pressure is excellent," reports one RVer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free or dispersed camping available near Marquette, MI?
Is there free or dispersed camping available near Marquette, MI?
While designated free camping is limited near Marquette, Forestville Campground offers a newer developed option that some campers have discovered while exploring forest roads near the area. It provides a good balance of being close to Marquette while still feeling removed from the bustle. For those willing to venture a bit further, Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park in Gwinn (about 18 miles from Marquette) offers a well-maintained, quiet option tucked into the woods with hiking trails. Many campers use these less crowded alternatives when Marquette's popular campgrounds are full.
What is the best time of year to go camping in Marquette, Michigan?
What is the best time of year to go camping in Marquette, Michigan?
The prime camping season in Marquette runs from late spring through early fall, with July and August offering the warmest temperatures for swimming and water activities. Many locals consider Labor Day weekend an excellent time to visit, as evidenced by regular campers at Tourist Park Campground who return annually for Marquette's Blues Fest during this time. Early summer can be pleasant with fewer crowds, as some campers report plenty of open sites even during the July 4th holiday week. Fall brings spectacular colors to the region, making September an ideal time for those who prefer cooler temperatures and scenic beauty around areas like Perkins Park & Campground.
What are the best campgrounds in Marquette, Michigan for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Marquette, Michigan for tent camping?
For tent camping in Marquette, Marquette Tourist Park Campground offers a prime location with old growth trees, a nice beach area, and proximity to both bike paths and downtown attractions. The park features large sites and recently remodeled restrooms. Another excellent option is Little Lake State Forest Campground, which provides a quieter, more secluded experience away from crowds. This peaceful campground is conveniently located near Laughing Whitefish Falls while still being accessible to Marquette and Presque Isle, making it perfect for tent campers seeking a more natural setting.
What RV camping facilities are available in the Marquette area?
What RV camping facilities are available in the Marquette area?
The Marquette area offers several well-equipped RV facilities. Rippling Rivers RV Resort features amenities including a pool, hot tub, and walk-up bar with pizza. Located close to downtown and within a mountain bike park, it offers a creek-side setting with a patio area. For RVers seeking spacious accommodations, Country Village RV Park provides large, level sites that can accommodate bigger rigs. Located about 15 minutes from Marquette off US-41, this clean, well-maintained park serves as an excellent alternative when other campgrounds are full. Both parks offer full hookups and convenient access to Marquette's attractions.
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