Camping options near Naubinway, Michigan offer rustic to modern accommodations within Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The region features a mixed coniferous-deciduous forest environment with sandy beaches along Lake Michigan's northern shore. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with overnight temperatures dropping to 40°F even in summer months.
What to do
Explore Tahquamenon Falls: Lower Falls Campground provides convenient access to both Upper and Lower Falls. "The Lower falls were a short hike away, and there was a nice hike to the Upper falls 4 miles away," notes one camper at Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Winter visitors can enjoy multiple snow activities as another camper mentions, "Snowmobiled, snowshoed, hiked, cross countries, oh and nice waterfalls."
Beach access: Lake Michigan at St. Ignace offers sandy shorelines perfect for swimming. "Sites are not super private but the sites on the lake side had a small walk to the gorgeous beach. That was private and quiet. From the beach the sunset and moonrise were beautiful," shares a reviewer at Lake Michigan At St. Ignace. Many beachfront sites have private paths leading directly to the water.
Winter camping: While most glamping in Naubinway shuts down after October, some campgrounds remain open year-round. One camper notes about winter activities, "Snowmobiled, snowshoed, hiked, cross countries, oh and nice waterfalls" at Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park maintains some winter access roads and trails for cold-weather recreation.
What campers like
Secluded lake sites: Little Brevort Lake North campground offers waterfront campsites with limited development. "Little Brevort lake is a great spot for stargazing with good visibility and shooting stars. Large sites, close to Lake Michigan, quiet, secluded, great views, shaded sites, inexpensive," shares a reviewer at Little Brevort Lake North State Forest Campground.
Convenient ferry access: Located near ferry services to Mackinac Island, St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA provides transportation assistance. "The shuttle they have to the island ferry's is great. They even haul your bikes there for you," notes one camper at St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA. Most ferry companies offer pickup service directly from campgrounds.
Peaceful waterfront camping: Brevoort Lake Campground features spacious lakefront sites. "The loop up the peninsula has spacious sites but have a feeling of close neighbors. The first loop on the left is more spread out and seems more private," says a visitor at Brevoort Lake Campground. Many sites include direct water access for swimming and fishing.
What you should know
Limited services at rustic sites: Most state forest campgrounds have minimal amenities. "Prepare to bring enough firewood and supplies as many of the shops nearby close early," advises a camper at Little Brevort Lake North State Forest Campground. Most rustic sites feature vault toilets but no showers or electrical hookups.
Highway noise concerns: Roadside campgrounds can experience traffic sounds. A camper at Lake Michigan At St. Ignace noted, "The traffic from highway 2 was louder than the waves at the beach." Sites farther from main roads generally offer quieter camping experiences.
Variable cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region. At Newberry Campground, a visitor reported, "Wifi is a little spotty at the end of the campground but our jet pack works wonders out here." Most state forest campgrounds have no cell service, while private campgrounds sometimes offer limited WiFi.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreational areas. "They have a playground, playroom and a pool. None of this was open during our visit but I imagine in the summer it is all going strong and the kids have a blast," shares a visitor at Newberry Campground. Many campgrounds include game rooms and organized activities during peak season.
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies by season but can be intense. "Be sure to take yard guard, some mosquitos and black flies," advises a camper at Brevoort Lake Campground. Early summer typically sees the highest concentration of biting insects, particularly in wooded areas.
Alternative accommodations: For families seeking luxury glamping in Naubinway and surrounding areas, cabin options provide comfort. "The yurt is worth the splurge! Complete with electricity, indoor and outdoor string lights, two deck chairs, a heater, a queen sized bed," notes a reviewer from a local glamping resort.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Check campground specifications before booking. "We had a pull through site and a cabin booked. The pull-through sites are SMALL!" cautions a visitor at Newberry Campground. Most state forest campgrounds can only accommodate smaller RVs under 30 feet.
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality. "Greeted with a huge pothole in the driveway entrance. Dirt roads in campground," reports an RVer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA. Spring camping often means navigating muddy or uneven roads, particularly at rustic sites.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited to private campgrounds. "Site was $99.89 night. We had Full hook-up with a gravel pull-through," notes a camper at Mackinaw City KOA. State forest campgrounds typically offer no hookups, while state parks may provide electrical connections only.
