Glamping near Crystal Falls, Michigan ranges from rustic sites to premium accommodations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The area sits at an elevation of about 1,600 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak season. Seasonal considerations include black fly season in late spring and prime northern lights viewing opportunities from September through March.
What to do
Beach activities at Bond Falls Campground: The free campground offers a beautiful lake full of fish alongside an impressive waterfall. Visitors can swim in the lake and explore the waterfall's accessible viewing platforms. According to Eric G., "Best free campground. Fire ring picnic table. Beautiful lake full of fish. Amazing waterfall. Clean campground with toilet and hand pump for water."
Wildlife viewing at Craig Lake State Park Campground: For those seeking a remote glamping experience, this park offers yurts and cabins with opportunities to observe local wildlife. Rebecca W. states, "For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is an absolute heavenly oasis." The park houses "loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others," according to Jeff P.
Night sky viewing at West Bass Lake: The campground has minimal light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing and aurora viewing. Adam A. notes, "Not much ambient light in this park, so it is great for viewing stars and Northern Lights. This park also is situated near the ATV trail, and has access to the 160 mile Blue Ox trail system."
What campers like
Privacy at Lost Lake Campground: Campers appreciate the spacious sites with some offering direct lake access. According to Art S., "The campground is along the lake. You can choose a spot lakeside or more wooded. Some sites are reservable and others are first come first serve." Rachel C. adds, "The campground is very rural, the closest town being Florence which is 20 miles away."
Clean facilities at Keyes Lake Campground: Glampers report well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. Bill B. comments, "It is very clean in the campgrounds and the site we had was privet and large enough for our 5th wheel and truck and boat. The bathroom was also spotless. The showers were free to campers with plenty of hot water."
Natural water sources at Chipmunk Rapids: The artesian well at this campground is a major draw for visitors. Kay K. notes, "Cute campground with an artesian well. The toilet is clean." Another camper, Art S., mentions, "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit."
What you should know
Road conditions and access: Several glamping sites have rough access roads requiring appropriate vehicles. For Craig Lake, Rebecca W. advises, "Do not recommend coming or going from the access road on the west... it's a VERY bumpy road, and my cockiness convinced myself I could do it in my truck, but didn't get very far."
Noise levels vary by location: Some campgrounds experience road noise while others offer quiet environments. At Lake Antoine, Lynn K. reports, "Loud cars, trucks and semi's were traveling the roads outside of the park at all hours. Drivers took great pleasure in stomping on the gas and racing past at an almost ear deafening sound."
Insect considerations at Bond Falls Campground: Bugs can be a significant factor depending on season. Nathan W. warns, "Mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us. We packed up and canceled our whole trip after that."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Several glamping sites offer family-friendly water features. At Michigamme Shores Campground, Steve notes, "There were several Large floating climbing structures in the swim area. Kids were having a blast. Great sandy beach with resort style lounge chairs."
Playgrounds and recreation: Family-oriented sites include play equipment. Ashley L. from Van Riper State Park shares, "The kids were able to play on the beach or the playground equipment. Very nice and relaxing way to celebrate."
Birthday celebrations: Campgrounds can accommodate special events. Ashley L. explains her experience, "Stayed at Van Riper a few years ago. Had my son's 6th birthday party here. We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and hookups: Many campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes with appropriate amenities. At Keyes Lake, Bill B. shares, "The site we had was privet and large enough for our 5th wheel and truck and boat."
Water quality considerations: Some glamping areas require bringing your own drinking water. Andrea B. from Van Riper notes, "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water. They do have two separate campgrounds, with rustic and modern (electric) sites."
Seasonal availability at Van Riper State Park Campground: While many campgrounds close after Labor Day, some remain open year-round. Richard H. comments, "Although most sites are for RV's with hookups, I'm a tent camper and they don't have a lot of these, but the sites are great."
