Northern Michigan's Upper Peninsula around Paradise offers tent camping in remote forest settings where cell service disappears and dirt roads challenge even seasoned travelers. State forest campgrounds dot this region where Lake Superior meets dense pine forests at elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain accessible from May through October, with seasonal closures during winter months due to heavy snowfall and limited road maintenance.
What to do
Paddling chain lakes: At Pretty Lake State Forest Campground, kayakers can access ten interconnected lakes via portage trails. "This means no ORV's allowed and no motors on the lakes. Peaceful as it can get. Many of the lakes have well marked and reasonably short portage trails, allowing kayakers and canoers great opportunities to explore," notes camper Chris M.
Fish for trout species: The Two Hearted River provides excellent brook trout and steelhead fishing opportunities. At High Bridge State Forest Campground, you can access prime fishing spots directly from your campsite. "Smaller State owned campground right along the BEAUTIFUL Two Hearted River located in the U.P. of the Mitten State! The views and fishing location is PRIME!" according to Mark N.
Hike the North Country Trail: Several campgrounds connect to this national scenic trail. "Reed and Green only has four sites available making you feel like you are in a very peaceful natural setting. The great thing is this campground connects to the North Country National Scenic Trail – the longest National Scenic Trail in the country," explains Nancy W.
What campers like
Direct beach access: Lake Superior State Forest Campground offers sites steps from the shoreline. "All sites are first come first served so get there early if you want a spot. Each site has direct access to the beach and it's absolutely beautiful," shares Brook W. Sites typically fill quickly during July and August weekends.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers regularly report bear, deer, and smaller mammal sightings. "Bear, Deer, Porcupine, Raccoons and other wildlife are easy to come across," notes Michael C. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Stargazing conditions: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "On clear nights, Star Gazing is Fantastic. I have never seen so many stars at one time as I did along Lake Superior," reports one camper. New moon phases provide optimal viewing conditions.
What you should know
Road conditions challenge vehicles: Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground requires navigating difficult roads. "The teeth-chattering ride. I don't know if that depends on the time of the year. My, 'I survived the road to Crisp Point' decal was well earned. I had to replace 4 self-threading bolts that vibrated out of my kayak trailer," warns Robert M.
Navigation requires physical maps: GPS and phone navigation often fail in this area. "DO NOT USE Google maps, Apple maps or GPS to get here. It will be worth every bit to invest in an actual map. There are numerous ORV trails here which come up as the actual roads," advises Samantha B. County road maps prove essential for navigating to remote campgrounds.
Insect protection necessary: Mosquitoes and black flies can be intense, particularly in early summer. "The mosquitoes are quite rough. If you plan on doing any of the hiking trails you'll definitely need a bug net," warns Christopher L. regarding Pretty Lake State Forest Campground. Black fly season typically peaks in June.
Tips for camping with families
Beach exploration: Superior shoreline offers rock collecting opportunities. "The beach is rocky and has lots of driftwood from the high lake levels a few years ago. Swimming is always cold in Lake Superior but getting in was refreshing," notes Mike B. about Lake Superior State Forest Campground.
Wildlife spotting activities: Garnet Lake State Forest Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing with lake access. "Sites are spaced out decent and plenty of privacy. Decent fishing on the lake," says Mike K. Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Swimming access: Several lakeside campgrounds provide child-friendly swimming areas. "This campground has 18 sites, lots of little walking paths, as well as hiking trails that lead you to other nearby lakes that don't have access for vehicles," explains Tyler N. about Pretty Lake State Forest Campground. Sandy-bottomed lakes provide safer swimming than Lake Superior shorelines.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and other rustic sites accommodate only smaller trailers. Most state forest campgrounds limit RV length to under 25 feet due to tight turning radiuses and limited site dimensions.
Leveling challenges: "Definitely a cute little spot a bit on the hilly side so if you're looking for level sites there are only a handful," notes Christopher L. about Holland Lake State Forest Campground. Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites feature uneven terrain.
Limited facilities: No hookups or dump stations exist at most state forest campgrounds. "No hookups but there are widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake. It was a pleasant place to spend a night for $10," shares Eddie N. about Garnet Lake State Forest Campground. Plan to arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks.
