Best Tent Camping near Nisula, MI

Searching for a tent camping spot near Nisula? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Michigan tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Nisula, MI (17)

    Camper-submitted photo from Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness

    1. Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    36 Saves
    Watton, Michigan

    The Wild and Scenic Sturgeon River rushes out of the northern portion of this wilderness, over the 20 foot volcanic outcroppings of Sturgeon Falls, and through a gorge that reaches 350 feet in depth and a mile in width. Throughout this rugged, steep Wilderness, the Sturgeon and Little Silver Rivers and their tributaries have carved falls, rapids, ponds, oxbows, and terraces. Stunning views are possible from the eastern rim of the gorge. Except for a few naturally bare slopes, most of the land is forested with pine, hemlock, aspen, sugar maple, birch, and basswood. When the leaves of the hardwoods change color in the fall, they form a vivid tapestry. There are few established trails in Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, and the few overgrown logging roads are hard to find and follow. The North Country National Scenic Trail parallels the northern and eastern boundaries for about eight miles. Sturgeon River Campground offers seven sites on the southeastern boundary. In spring and during peak runoff, kayaking and white water canoeing are challenging, and only recommended for advanced paddlers. Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness Map

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Emily Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emily Lake State Forest Campground

    2. Emily Lake State Forest Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    29 Saves
    Nisula, Michigan

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-ppl

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lake State Forest Campground

    4. Big Lake State Forest Campground

    3 Reviews
    23 Photos
    25 Saves
    Covington, Michigan

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojibwa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake State Park Campground

    6. Craig Lake State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    22 Photos
    30 Saves
    Michigamme, Michigan

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burned Dam Campground

    7. Burned Dam Campground

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    25 Saves
    Watersmeet, Michigan

    This rustic campground provides visitors with access to deep woods with fishing and canoeing opportunities on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River. This dispersed campground is just a short walk from Mex-i-mine Falls. As you overlook this jewel you can feel the history when loggers used this area to transport their product to the saw mills.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

    8. Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    20 Saves
    Watersmeet, Michigan

    Overview

    Planning a trip to the Sylvania Wilderness? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Sylvania Wilderness encompasses 18,327 acres of primitive lands and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Visitors can camp in 50 designated campsites within the Sylvania Wilderness. Visitors enjoy endless canoeing, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

    Recreation

    Sylvania's abundant lakes provide plentiful non-motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Other popular activities include hiking and viewing wildlife.

    Natural Features

    The old-growth forests and pristine lakes in the region provide habitat for a wide range of animal and plant life, including rare orchids, bald eagles, loons and osprey. The wilderness contains 34 named lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by record-size red and white pines. The Ottawa National Forest is comprised of nearly 1 million acres and is located in the western reaches of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The forest's rolling, tree covered hills extend from the south shore of Lake Superior to the Wisconsin border. Lakes, rivers and waterfalls are found throughout this beautiful landscape.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations If you cancel reservation at least 14 days prior to check in date, all recreation fees, minus a $10 cancellation fee and the reservation fee ($8 if made online or $9 if made through the call center) will be refunded. If you cancel reservation less than 14 days prior to check in date, all recreation fees, minus $10 cancellation fee, reservation fee ($8 if made online or $9 if made through the call center), and first nights use fee will be refunded. The reservation fee ($8 if made online or $9 if made through the call center) is non-refundable. No Show Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. For more information about rules and reservation policies, visit the Recreaiton.gov Rules and Reservations Policy page.

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Schoolcraft Township Rustic Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Schoolcraft Township Rustic Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Schoolcraft Township Rustic Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

    10. Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

    3 Reviews
    14 Photos
    119 Saves
    White Pine, Michigan

    From the MI DNR Porcupine Mountains website:

    Union River Outpost is a small three-site rustic campground located on the Union River. The campground offers solitude and a camping experience unlike a typical modern campground. Union River is a classic UP trout stream. The sites are ideal for tent, van or compact campers.

    There is a vault toilet, but no running water is available at any of the outpost campgrounds. Fill up at park headquarters or visitor center.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Alcohol
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Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Nisula

362 Reviews of 17 Nisula Campgrounds


  • Geena B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground

    Nice spacious spots

    Hancock campground has LOTS of RV sites as well as some really nicely hidden/shaded tent spots. You can walk down to the beach as well as some hiking trails nearby down the road. Also, it’s about a 33 minute walk to some restaurants and shops in town. Clean, heated restrooms. As of October 2024 when im writing this, their dryer is out of order, so laundry unavailable. Campground attendant is very nice as well

  • Micheal S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Van Riper State Park Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Van Riper State Park Campground

    Great campgeound

    We are not a big state park fan as, in Michigan, there are very close sites and tons of noise. This one was relatively quiet. The site were the standard Michigan close but the campgeound was t full and there many options to choose from. The lake is real nice and the beach area is clean, spacious and it has a general store that has firewood for sale. We first reserved a rustic site, then changed to an electrical hook up site after arriving. The ranger was very accomodating.

  • Adam A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Gogebic State Park Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Lake Gogebic State Park Campground

    Nice Spot, easy on and off highway.

    We stayed here the 2nd week of October. They were actually turning the water off for the year when we left. We had the park mostly to ourselves. They water access is nice and it is right off a main highway, although it was not too noisy. There are some state park hiking trails access from campground, also. Facilities were pretty standard state park fair.  Sites seem to have plenty of room.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Union River Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

    Secluded peace

    Very wooded and quiet camp area - only 3 sites total in this loop! Note that there is no cell service here or really nearby. Not an issue if you're prepared for that! Great that we could access hiking trails from camp! Great spot for exploring the Porcupines and also for some privacy compared to the modern campground in the park. Night and day difference and you can use the amenities which are like 5mins away

  • Stephen L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground

    Just awesome

    This place is way off the beaten path. Long dirt road to get back here. There are tent sites all along the beach front to watch the sunset and pick rocks. Most sites are fairly level. I feel like we got one of the only ones that wasn't but I'm not real picky. @ramblinsmurf

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Ontonagon Township Park Campground
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Ontonagon Township Park Campground

    Been coming here for years…

    We love the area. Very nice people, well run campground. Staying on Lake Superior is almost always beautiful. Sunsets are amazing!! The sites are generous and partially wooded. Drawbacks, no laundry facilities, even in town. Stores, restaurants and gas stations nearby but expensive. (Though there is a dollar store) They do not take reservations, so it’s a gamble to just show up. You really have to be there, in person by 7AM to wait in line to get a site.

    Overall, great place to stay!!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pine Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
    Aug. 8, 2024

    White Pine Rustic Outpost Camp — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

    Great Rustic Campground

    Awesome little campground on the south side of the Porcupines. It’s in a convenient location to the hiking around the park. The sites are large, the campground is small (and quiet) and there’s even a creek that runs along the west side of the campground. We stayed in site 1. If you do cook using the fire pit grates, they do not have them here in the fire pits at this campground. You need to reserve sites and check in at the visitor center before you head to the site. I’d highly recommend this place to anybody in a tent especially!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Van Riper State Park Campground
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Van Riper State Park Campground

    Serenaded by snoring

    I’m a very simple camper used to having space and quiet…this was not the best time to pass through for an overnight. I arrived and the campground was so loud with people and kids shouting. There is zero privacy (they pack you in) so be sure to get a spot along the edge where you’ll at least have trees. I was very surprised and grateful how respectful everyone was of the quiet hrs…other than snoring and some traffic it was quiet. On a positive, the pit toilet was really clean and spacious. And the ranger at check in was so nice.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground

    Great location. Friendly Hosts.

    We really liked this campground mostly for its location and beautiful beach on Lake Superior. It has a long driveway that is gravel and all of the campground loops are also gravel or sand so it can be a little dusty. The lake shore sites have beautiful, full views of the lake but just know that many sites will be a tight fit for larger rigs. We have a 26' travel trailer and stayed in the newer loop a little ways away from the beach. It didn't bother us as it was easier to park and a very short walk to enjoy the beautiful sunsets this campground is all about.

  • C S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ontonagon Township Park Campground
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Ontonagon Township Park Campground

    Holding spots for people who may never even come

    They don't do reservations, but despite having 10+ sites available, they're holding them for people who may never come.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtney Lake Campground
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Courtney Lake Campground

    Very quiet and relaxing

    We tented on lot 7 during the second week of June. It was very quiet. I was lucky to find this gem and you will only have spotty phone service at best. My dog had more fun than I did and we did a lot of hiking.

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Paint River Forks NF Campground
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Paint River Forks NF Campground

    Nice free spot

    I love it here! However, as the camper above mentioned, probably not a safe place for anyone that is alone. it is free and therefore attracts vagrants. Cell service is 1/10 But it is beautiful and clean

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Baraga State Park Campground
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Baraga State Park Campground

    Camp sites are WAY too close together

    I can hear my neighbors talking at their campsite from mine. We are packed in here like sardines.

    Beautiful area, though. Caught a rainbow just as we were setting up camp. And they had wood and ice.

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Great little overlook of the lake

    Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from McLain State Park Campground
    Jun. 22, 2024

    McLain State Park Campground

    Amazing campground on the shore of Lake Superior

    Really nice and level site(62) just a short walk from the beach. Really clean and well kept state park. Hiking trails are plentiful. Centrally located on the Keweenaw Peninsula allows time for exploring many sites this location has to offer. Too bad the “Gitch” washed away some of the lakeside campsites, hopefully they rebuild soon! My family will definitely come back!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Township Park
    Jun. 4, 2024

    Bates Township Park

    Motorcycle camping

    Great find. Sunday night beginning of June. Only camper in the tent section. Quiet spot with good hosts. Close to the lake. Grass and gravel. Restroom share with the park/boat launch area. I would definitely stay here again. If there was a drawback would be sites have some slope toward lake. Being only one there I found flat spot to tent but if busy choice might be limited. No control over weather but woke up and had to pack up in the rain. Definitely check it out! Thanks to the Hosts!

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Bewabic State Park Campground
    May. 30, 2024

    Bewabic State Park Campground

    Nice State park!

    Really nice park! Some sites suffer from rather uneven parking spots with odd fire pit placements. There are plenty of really nice spots however. The Forrest is mature and very pretty, deer and other wildlife are abundant….including the Canada geese who leave their greasy calling cards all over the grassy lakeside areas. The nearby town has most of what you need. Overall, nice and quiet state park!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Apr. 29, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Idyllic camping spot.

    I spent an overnight in this beautiful place. I was all alone in the campground. A few people drove down to the water while I was there. The place is a "lovers lane" of sorts. 

    The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that. 

    There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Dec. 14, 2023

    Lake Perrault

    Free dispersed

    Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow. A couple of the campers looked like they’re long-termers, but there was still plenty of room. It’s a dispersed area with some sites with fire pits that are cleared and open for camping, maybe about 6 spots or so. A couple of the spots are right down at the water. 

    There’s also a little trail by the water but the mosquitoes were too bad for me to try and hike it. Though this is definitely a local hangout, with trucks coming in and out almost all day and late into the night, everyone was respectful and quiet, and it was really nice and peaceful overnight. 

    There was a little road noise but not bad at all. Some interesting animal calls overnight as well. There was good cell reception for Verizon and ATT.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground
    Nov. 27, 2023

    Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground

    Good location for base camp

    City run operation. Close to downtown Hancock. A few sites right along the canal. Variety of site configurations - from remote tent pads to open areas that permit families to set up camp units close together. Limited sites that have sewer, water, and/or electric.


Drive Time


Guide to Nisula

Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Nisula offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility in nature.

Tent campers should check out Lake Perrault

  • Enjoy a peaceful experience at Lake Perrault, where you can set up camp with a stunning view of the lake and a cozy fire pit made of rocks.
  • This spot is perfect for those who appreciate solitude, as it often feels like a hidden gem with plenty of space for tent camping.
  • Be prepared for a rough road leading in, but the serene environment makes it worth the drive.

Tips for tent camping near Nisula

  • When visiting Big Lake State Forest Campground, keep in mind that the area is remote, so plan for basic amenities like vault toilets and a hand pump for water.
  • For a truly secluded experience, consider Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, which requires a hike in and offers breathtaking views and pristine wilderness.
  • If you're looking for a quiet spot with good fishing opportunities, Emily Lake State Forest Campground is a great choice, featuring several tent sites surrounded by dense forest.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $15

  • Camping at Burned Dam Campground is free, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers who enjoy riverside views.
  • For a small fee of $15 per night, you can experience the charm of Big Lake State Forest Campground, which offers a peaceful setting and ample space between sites.
  • If you're seeking a unique experience, Craig Lake State Park Campground provides a remote escape with various camping options, including tent sites, for a reasonable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nisula, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nisula, MI is Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Nisula, MI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Nisula, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.