Norway, Michigan offers additional camping opportunities beyond glamping, including traditional tent sites, RV spots, and yurt accommodations. The area sits within Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where the terrain features mixed hardwood forests and numerous inland lakes at elevations ranging between 1,000-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-80°F during the day with cooler evenings around 50-55°F.
What to do
ATV trail access: 160-mile network connects to multiple campgrounds near Norway, Michigan. West Bass Lake provides "access to the 160 mile Blue Ox trail system" where campers can enjoy "recently installed new showers and flush bathrooms" as of 2024.
Fishing opportunities: multiple species available at nearby lakes. At Keyes Lake Campground, "Keyes lake was right across the street and the fishing was great," according to one visitor. The lake offers accessible shore fishing and boat launch facilities.
Beach activities: swimming and rentals available at several locations. Lake Antoine Park offers family-friendly water recreation where visitors report having a "blast! Bbq and more! Swimming everyday and even kayak rentals!!"
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded camping spots. Governor Thompson State Park Campground features sites that are "very private and hidden away in their own little spots." Another camper noted that "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. Very quiet and peaceful."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. At Shakey Lakes Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "Clean bath house, reasonable fee, spacious sites, great staff." The park maintains both RV and tent-friendly sites with good upkeep.
Waterfront locations: Many campgrounds offer lakeside sites. J.W. Wells State Park Campground provides "Camping right in the water" where "We always make a point to stay at least one night here when passing through the UP. We stay at site 40 but all the spots along there are in the water."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. Governor Thompson State Park remains open year-round but experiences different conditions each season. One camper advised: "Beautiful Lakes secluded areas and a crazy amount of ticks in May. This could be why we were the only people in our loop of the campground so early in the season."
Noise factors: Some locations experience traffic or recreational noise. At Lake Antoine Park, one visitor noted: "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."
Site selection matters: Choosing the right site can greatly impact your experience. For yurt camping near Norway, Michigan, research site specifications before booking. At Veterans Memorial Park Campground, one camper recommends: "Easy to get to. quiet campground. I would suggest smaller campers and tents."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Shakey Lakes Park Campground includes "a playground. People either will walk or ride their bikes around the sites. There is parking for your cars, and places to keep kayaks and water toys!"
Water activities for kids: Beach areas provide safe swimming options. Van Riper State Park features a "Huge beach with volleyball net. Large bathhouse with private shower rooms. Huge playground. Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!"
Birthday celebrations: Some parks accommodate special events. Van Riper State Park Campground has been used for family gatherings: "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
Level sites available: RV campers will find suitable accommodations at several parks. Island Resort & Casino provides "all level black top parking pads with a side lawn and picnic table. The park is one of our best in the 5 state trip we are on."
Size restrictions vary: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At West Bass Lake, "There are no spots for big campers. Tents and pop-up size. Open year round but water is shut off in winter."
Hook-up options: Electrical and water connections differ between parks. West Bass Lake has been upgraded with "electric hookup, and some sites have more than one box," giving RVers flexibility when selecting sites.