Best Tent Camping near Newberry, MI
State forest campgrounds dominate the tent camping landscape surrounding Newberry, Michigan, with several primitive options located along lakes and rivers. Lake Superior State Forest Campground offers waterfront tent sites with direct access to Lake Superior's shoreline, while Pretty Lake State Forest Campground provides secluded tent camping in a designated quiet area that prohibits motorized vehicles on the water. Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground sits where the river meets Lake Superior, offering tent campers beach access via a walking bridge.
Most tent sites feature basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables, with vault toilets available at all locations. Potable water is accessible via hand pumps at some campgrounds, though availability varies seasonally. Sites are typically set on dirt or forest floor with minimal grading. The majority of tent campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration stations. Recreation passports are required for vehicle entry. Seasonal operation varies, with many campgrounds open from April through October, though some like Mouth of Two Hearted River remain open year-round for winter tent camping.
Tent campers frequently mention the privacy between sites at locations like Pretty Lake, where walk-in options provide additional seclusion. Areas farther from main roads offer deeper quiet, though some campgrounds like Hog Island Point have sites close enough to roadways that traffic noise can be heard. Lake-adjacent tent sites provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. A recent review noted, "Pretty Lake State Forest Campground is one of my favorite campgrounds in Michigan because it offers so many opportunities for outdoor activities in a great location." Backcountry tent camping is available at designated sites throughout the region, particularly along the North Country Trail which traverses the area, providing more remote experiences for those willing to hike in with gear.
