Best Campgrounds near Paradise, MI

Paradise, Michigan provides access to numerous camping opportunities with diverse options ranging from state parks to dispersed areas. Tahquamenon Falls State Park features both the Rivermouth Modern Campground and Lower Falls Campground, offering sites for tents, RVs, and cabins. These established campgrounds provide amenities like electric hookups, showers, and toilets. For those seeking more primitive experiences, dispersed camping is available at sites like Wide Waters and Lake Superior North Shore, approximately 15-20 miles from Paradise, where free camping with minimal amenities can be found.

Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with many closing between November and April due to harsh Upper Peninsula winter conditions. Developed campgrounds typically require reservations, especially during the summer months when tourism peaks. "We always go after Labor Day for less bugs. The weather is always perfect and camping right on the river is great," noted one visitor about timing their trips to Tahquamenon Falls. Road access varies throughout the region, with dispersed sites often requiring vehicles capable of handling rough terrain. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many camping areas, particularly at remote dispersed sites like Wide Waters, where visitors have reported no connectivity.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Paradise area. Several campgrounds, including Rivermouth Modern Campground, offer sites along the Tahquamenon River with opportunities for kayaking and fishing. A camper mentioned, "Easy access to the river for fishing, swimming, etc. 20 min drive to the lower falls where there is great hiking." Bug activity presents a common challenge in this region, particularly during summer months, with multiple reviews advising visitors to bring insect repellent. The proximity to natural attractions like Tahquamenon Falls, Whitefish Point, and Lake Superior enhances the camping experience, providing visitors with multiple day-trip options within 30 minutes of most camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Paradise, Michigan (72)

    1. Rivermouth Modern Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park

    50 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $20 - $23 / night

    "Located just outside of the town of Paradise on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan."

    "The camp sites are situated in the middle of a river bend and the area is very picturesque. The town of Paradise is close nearby and one can find almost anything in the very well stocked stores."

    2. Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park

    57 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $28 - $32 / night

    "Showers and a modern toilet are available in the modern portion of the campground which is a short walk through a playground and separating trees."

    "Close to the falls, local bar open in summer minimal winter hours.

    Beautiful look outs, site seeing, hikes, snowshoeing and good snow mobile trails in the area."

    3. Andrus Lake State Forest Campground

    9 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 293-3293

    $20 / night

    "The closest town is Paradise which is very limited and only has a small general store. There is no cell service in most of the area."

    "They had sites big, small, on the lake, and off so something for everyone. Only thing is that it fills up fast."

    4. Lake Superior North Shore

    12 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    9 miles

    "There is a sign that says “Closed To Thru Traffic”. Just keep driving. You will get there. Road is sandy and some parts pretty rutted so keep the vehicle moving."

    "There are a few spots with packed sand that are easy to drive in, but the middle path is pretty deep loose sand."

    5. Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, MI)

    18 Reviews
    Brimley, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 203-9872

    $21 - $24 / night

    "Gorgeous Lake Superior shore experience! Fall asleep to the sound of waves. 

    Address of property:  19456 West Lakeshore Drive, Brimley, Michigan 49715

    There are no services nearby."

    "Best campground in Michigan. Sites aren’t too close together yet there are bathrooms in a reasonable walking distance from each site."

    6. Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground

    20 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $20 / night

    "This rustic campground is located 35 miles north of the town of Newberry on Lake Superior. "

    "Mouth of the Two Hearted River Campground is a quiet, secluded campground on the shores of Lake Superior."

    8. Bodi Lake State Forest Campground

    9 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 293-3293

    $20 / night

    "Quiet campground tucked way back in. Most sites have lake access. All have fire pits. Vault toilets. Hiking trails are right there. Fresh blueberries on trail."

    "If you’re one who likes the thrill of winding backroads and wants to be away from all the noise and commotion of the city this is your spot."

    9. Monocle Lake

    11 Reviews
    Brimley, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 203-9872

    $24 / night

    "This campground is a hidden gem, close to the small town of Brimley, Michigan where you can purchase forgotten items, visit the library, or visit local tourist attractions."

    "It was quiet, sites are far from each other, and it was only a short drive from where we wanted to go."

    10. Brimley State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Brimley, MI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 248-3422

    "The park offers a nice sandy beach, but we mainly used it as a ‘home base’ for checking out other upper Michigan attractions."

    "Some sites have trees in odd places, so positioning your camper can be a slight challenge, but the lake is right here and I love this park!"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 72 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Paradise, MI

484 Reviews of 72 Paradise Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lake Superior North Shore

    Mosquito Hatchery

    Pros: just steps from the shores of Lake Michigan. Near whitefish point. 4-5 sites.

    Cons: about 2-3 miles down road of mosquito hatchery so you will get swarmed - only my late season (early sept) tour of UP, this was the only place I ran into heavy mosquitos and it was unbearable. Sites are closer than the pin shows and the furthest 2-3 are in deep sand/can’t be driven to on most vehicles.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    East Branch of Fox River State Forest Campground

    Spacious

    Found on way to another campsite. Large sites with plenty of flat ground for tenting. Think there were 19 primitive sites in total. There’s a water pump but no electrical. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit. Does technically require a Michigan recreation passport ($40 out of state annual, $11 out of state daily, or $12 in state annual) and a $20 campsite fee but did not appear to be enforced late in the season when I was there.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Castle Rock Ponds

    Perfect Hidden Gem

    We came in Mid September, the weather was still warm but 60/70. No bathrooms or hook ups, but perfect for tent or car campers. There was one other camper with a pop up camper and looked to be doing great. The road was long but worth the drive back!

  • Hannah W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Carp River Boat Launch

    Easy to get to !

    We drove a 24 ft RV at night to the site and the road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that ! No one else at the site! Just parked off to the side of the road near the boat launch and had a view of the water ! Very secluded feeling and peaceful !

  • Vidalia S.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Superior North Shore

    Literally driven back by a wall of mosquitoes

    Site was quite crowded when we arrived, with no suitable campsites for our van. You may have been able to go further and find a spot with four-wheel drive. However, if you go this way, do not miss the incredible Whitefish Point cemetery just off the road to the campsite.

  • Vidalia S.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Wide Waters Dispersed Camping

    Wide sandy meadow

    Fairly large area of sandy meadow, interspersed with copses of trees to give a greater sense of privacy. A lot of truck traffic and ATVs during the day. We were there with two or three other campers Labor Day weekend. Very few bugs, several established fire rings. Several vehicles seem to have been left here in the open for long-term storage. And a large tractor tire was dumped here, as well as springs from an old car seat or mattress. Other than that, it was pretty clean. Fairly good gravel road access, but once you're there, be careful not to get stuck in the sand. Despite the signage, the road does not go through to Whitefish Point.

  • Vidalia S.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Carp River Boat Launch

    Too good to be true.

    Beautiful view of lake Huron. Labor Day weekend and no one else is here except the ubiquitous mosquitoes. Easy and easy out on a good gravel road. Access to Lake Huron.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Castle Rock Ponds

    Castle Rock easy in and out

    Just minutes off of 75 down a well maintained gravel road are the Castle Rock ponds. Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs.


Guide to Paradise

Camping near Paradise, Michigan, offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. With stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and serene lakes, it's a great spot for families, solo adventurers, and RV enthusiasts alike.

What to do:

  • Explore Waterfalls: Visit the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls State Park to see the famous waterfalls. One camper shared, “Words cannot really explain the beauty all around,” highlighting the park's stunning views and trails.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent a kayak at the park and paddle around the lower falls. A visitor mentioned, “We spent two days there, one kayaking around the lower falls and river,” making it clear that this is a must-do for water lovers.
  • Hiking Trails: There are convenient trails connecting the lower and upper falls. As one reviewer noted, “Convenient trails connect Lower and upper falls, 4 miles,” making it easy to enjoy the scenery on foot.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Lower Falls Campground stated, “Clean bathrooms and showers, quiet, and close to some nice hiking and scenery.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many sites are large and provide a sense of privacy. One camper noted, “The sites on the outside ring of the campground are better than the inside as there are more trees and seem a little more private.”
  • Wildlife: Campers enjoy the local wildlife, especially the chipmunks. A visitor mentioned, “Lots of chipmunks, some that are not very shy,” adding a fun element to the camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Lower Falls Campground advised, “If I were to camp there in the future, I would be sure to make my reservations much further in advance.”
  • State Park Pass Required: Even with camping reservations, a state park pass is necessary. One camper pointed out, “You will need to pay for state park pass even with camping reservations.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground, are rustic and lack modern amenities. A visitor mentioned, “Vault toilets were clean,” but be prepared for a more basic experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campsites that offer more space for kids to play. A family camper at Brimley State Park Campground said, “The kids loved the beach and swimming in the clean Lake Superior water.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along kayaks or paddleboards for fun on the water. One reviewer noted, “We brought our paddle board and kayaks and had a great time.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks handy can keep the kids happy during hikes. A camper mentioned, “We enjoyed delicious bison burgers and beer,” at a nearby restaurant, which is a good option for a family meal.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to choose a site that fits your RV comfortably. A reviewer at Bay Mills Casino RV Campground said, “The only good thing about the site for us was that it was along the dog run,” indicating that some sites can be tight.
  • Be Prepared for Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways, so expect some noise. A camper noted, “The campground is right off the highway, so be prepared for road noise.”
  • Use Local Amenities: Take advantage of nearby facilities like gas stations and restaurants. A visitor shared, “Close to food and fuel,” which can be a lifesaver during your stay.

Camping around Paradise, MI, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to explore. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing by the campfire, there's something for everyone in this stunning part of Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What lodging and accommodation options are available in Paradise, Michigan besides camping?

Beyond traditional camping, Paradise offers diverse lodging options for travelers preferring more amenities. Near Paradise, Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, MI) provides a gorgeous Lake Superior shore experience where you can fall asleep to the sound of waves, with several sites fronting a sand beach. For those wanting amenities while maintaining a natural setting, Brevoort Lake Campground offers nice lakeside campsites with clean facilities, though slightly pricier. Paradise and surrounding areas also feature motels, cabins, and vacation rentals for visitors seeking indoor accommodations. When planning your stay, note that services can be limited in this remote Upper Peninsula region, so reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer and fall color seasons.

What are the best campgrounds near Paradise, Michigan?

Paradise offers exceptional camping experiences centered around Tahquamenon Falls. Rivermouth Modern Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a stunning option with spacious sites for larger RVs, clean facilities, and beautiful fall colors. Just outside of Paradise, this well-maintained campground features fire rings, picnic tables, and modern bathrooms. For a more rustic experience, Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park provides quieter riverside sites with vault toilets, water access, and a fishing deck. Other excellent options include Hog Island Point State Forest Campground with its Lake Michigan shoreline and Lake Superior State Forest Campground, which offers surprising availability even during holiday weekends.

What activities and attractions are available near Paradise, Michigan camping areas?

Paradise, Michigan camping areas offer abundant natural attractions and outdoor activities. The crown jewel is Tahquamenon Falls, with hiking trails showcasing spectacular waterfalls. Water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking at Little Brevort Lake North State Forest Campground, which features a non-motorized boat launch and peaceful forest setting. Beach lovers should visit Lake Michigan At St. Ignace, where gorgeous sunset views and moonrises over the water create perfect photography opportunities. The Paradise area also serves as an excellent base for exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Fishing is popular at multiple locations, with river and lake access available. During fall, the region transforms with stunning colors, making it an ideal destination for scenic drives and nature photography.