Upper Peninsula camping near Moran, Michigan offers a mix of heavily wooded and lakefront options throughout a region known for its variable terrain. Seasonal operation runs primarily from May through October due to harsh winter conditions, with temperatures during camping season typically ranging from 45°F to 80°F. Cell service across campgrounds varies significantly, with many locations experiencing limited connectivity especially in more remote areas.
What to do
Visit Mackinac Island: Tiki RV Park & Campground provides a strategic base for island excursions. "Our site was pretty hidden so with no map (because it wasn't in self check in folder) it was hard to find our site," notes one camper, but the location makes up for it as "this is a pretty decent campground. It met our needs for a day trip to Mackinac Island. It's within biking distance to the Shepler's Ferry dock."
Explore local culture: When staying near St. Ignace, take time for cultural attractions. "Be sure to visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture," recommends a visitor at Tiki RV Park & Campground. The museum offers displays of regional Native American history and is within short driving distance from most area campgrounds.
Watch freighters: Aune-Osborn Campground sits directly on St. Mary's River downstream from the Soo Locks. "This well-maintained city park is located directly on St. Mary's River just down stream of the Soo Locks. Sites are ample with gravel pads," states one visitor, adding that "Site 96, while not waterfront, has excellent view of the river, freighters and all river traffic."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers choose RV sites near Moran, Michigan specifically for water access. At Loons Point RV Park & Campground, guests report "Waterfront campsite are very nice... Some are a bit small but overall very comfortable." Another visitor notes the "Water view is incredible" despite some sites being narrow.
Quiet atmosphere: Paradise Point RV Park receives consistent praise for its peaceful environment. "Quite, clean and very relaxing. Was everything we were looking for," writes one reviewer. Another mentions it's "right on the St. Mary's river" and includes "large campsites and clean, well maintained campground."
Central location: Indian River RV Resort earns high marks for its strategic position. "Location is central to several activities; Mackinac Island, Petosky, Burt Lake, Mullet Lake etc," writes one camper. Another mentions it's "centrally located to Mackinac Island and Petoskey," making it ideal for travelers wanting to explore multiple Upper Peninsula destinations.
What you should know
Site quality varies: Some campgrounds offer inconsistent site quality. At Bay Mills Casino RV Campground, one reviewer described it as "basically a field with power" and noted "unreliable power. It was super hot and the park wasn't even half full, yet our AC kept going out due to the power."
Off-season accessibility: Most campgrounds close completely between October and May. Paradise Point operates seasonally, while Loons Point has limited off-season availability. When open, waterfront sites typically book 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
Campground maintenance: Quality of grounds maintenance differs significantly between properties. Kinross RV Park East received criticism for poor upkeep: "Very cheap - 30 amps, water and sewer hookup on unlevel overgrown sites. Not exaggerating that weeds are a foot high covering all the sites and grounds like a pasture."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Lakeshore Park Campground offers direct lake access for children. "Right on Lake Michigan with a view of the Mackinac Bridge. Great little beach for enjoying the lake," writes one visitor, noting the campground is "quiet and well maintained" making it suitable for families with young children.
Yurt options: For families not wanting to tent camp, some campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. "We decided to splurge on a yurt for our first camping trip of the summer. Well worth it! We stayed in 'Kai' one of the newest yurts," reports a camper at Tiki RV Park & Campground, adding it comes "complete with electricity, indoor and outdoor string lights, two deck chairs, a heater, a queen sized bed."
Playground facilities: Aune-Osborn Campground includes a playground, though one visitor noted it "looked like it was from the 1960's." For more modern play equipment, Indian River RV Resort features "a large playground" along with "a large heated swimming pool, plus volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, basketball and pickleball courts."
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: At Petoskey RV Resort, RVers will find "cement pads at each site" but some report issues: "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers." The resort charges premium rates ($165/night reported by one camper) but offers full hookups.
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require substantial blocking for larger RVs. Bay Mills Casino RV Campground has sites described as "unlevel" while at Tiki RV Park, a visitor noted "Site 16 somewhat unlevel but blocks worked."
Big rig accessibility: For motorhomes over 35 feet, Indian River RV Resort offers dedicated large sites. "Excellent campground with even better service," reports one RVer, adding "Staff escorts you to your site and lines you up with water/sewer." Another camper in a 36-foot trailer mentioned "We stayed in site 32 which worked out perfectly for our 36' trailer."
