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Best Campgrounds near Pellston, MI

838 Reviews

Pellston, Michigan serves as a gateway to multiple state parks and lakefront campgrounds with options for both rustic and modern camping experiences. The area features several well-maintained public campgrounds, including Wilderness State Park with over 250 campsites along Lake Michigan, and Maple Bay State Forest Campground on Burt Lake. These campgrounds accommodate a range of camping styles from tent sites to RV hookups and cabin rentals. State parks like Petoskey and Burt Lake offer additional camping areas with amenities varying from primitive sites to those with electrical hookups, showers, and sanitary facilities.

Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with peak visitation occurring from late May through September when temperatures are most favorable. Many campgrounds in the region operate with reduced services or close completely during winter months. As one visitor noted, "Maple Bay State Forest Campground is centrally located to make day trips to many popular outdoor recreation areas that the north county has to offer." Water access represents a significant draw, with several campgrounds providing boat launches for exploring the region's interconnected waterways. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods when lakefront sites fill quickly.

Campers consistently praise the region's waterfront camping opportunities, particularly those with Lake Michigan views. The shoreline campsites at Wilderness State Park receive high ratings for their proximity to beaches and sunset views. A camper described their experience: "Private little sandy trail from the site down to Lake Michigan allows for good distancing from others. Can't beat the sunsets." Several state forest campgrounds offer more secluded options with fewer amenities but greater privacy between sites. Mixed-use campgrounds like Petoskey KOA and Mackinaw City KOA provide more developed facilities including cabin rentals, full hookups, and organized activities. Most campground options in the area maintain a balance between natural settings and convenient access to small towns where supplies can be purchased.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pellston, Michigan (119)

    1. Wilderness State Park Camping

    76 Reviews
    Cross Village, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5381

    "Pretty secluded campsites with trees surrounding each site. Private little sandy trail from the site down to Lake Michigan allows for good distancing from others. Can’t beat the sunsets."

    "You are within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the beach is nice and sandy. The sites are well maintained but there is not much distance between them so be prepared for that."

    2. Petoskey State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Conway, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 347-2311

    "We were here two days and fell in love with the town, the surrounding area, and never got tired of beautiful views of Lake Michigan. "

    "There were a number of hiking trails that take you into the woods and up the dunes. Some are more difficult than others, but nothing miserable."

    3. Straits State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-8620

    $22 - $42 / night

    "We reserved site 83A for our family of 5. we were in close proximity to the newly constructed bathhouse complete with dish washing stations. it was a full campground on the Friday night that we were there"

    "The Straits State Park in Michigan's Upper Penninsula sits on the North end of the Mackinaw Bridge in St. Ignace."

    4. Burt Lake State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Indian River, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 238-9392

    "We stayed at site 145 which was large but there is a path to the beach right next to it so it's not very private.  The park store was closed Labor Day weekend."

    "The area we swam in was very shallow quite a ways into the lake. The showers and bathrooms are pretty close to the campsites."

    5. Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA

    24 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5643

    "The pool was great for swimming, and mackinaw city is a great place to walk around and explore!"

    "Close to Leggs restaurant. Mackinac Island. Tunnel of Trees. Upper peninsula Michigan. All this and a great campground."

    6. Petoskey KOA

    15 Reviews
    Conway, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 347-0005

    "Lake Michigan beach is about a 5 minutes drive."

    "The KOA campground is close to Petoskey, but outside town enough to be a bit quiet.  A short drive to breweries, wineries, and dinner. "

    7. Maple Bay State Forest Campground

    8 Reviews
    Brutus, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 732-3541

    "Pros: Location! 25 minutes from Mackinaw City, 10 Minutes from Pellston for supplies. Right on Burt Lake. Clean pit toilets. Generally not too crowded."

    "Then, for $15 a night, we found this beauty along the northwest shore of Burt Lake, one of the larger inland lakes in northern Michigan. "

    8. Tee Pee Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mackinaw City, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5391

    $34 - $52 / night

    "This is a great location to camp if you are looking for proximity to Mackinac Island. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. They have electric and water but no sewer."

    "Small campground but right on Lake Huron. The campsites are close to each other so I would recommend one of the outer campsites that backs up to the woods."

    9. Aloha State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Mullett Lake, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 625-2522

    $30 - $34 / night

    "Right on Mullett Lake, close to town for easy access to food, but really enjoyed kayaking lake"

    "The lake is easily accessible and wonderful. There are no bathrooms or showers in the new section. AT&T and T-Mobile service was fairly good. Easy access to lots of things to do during the day."

    10. Magnus Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Petoskey, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 347-1027

    "The park is run by the City of Petoskey and sits on 21 acres in downtown Petoskey overlooking Lake Michigan.  "

    "The location makes this campground. Stayed 6 nights as it was so relaxing."

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239 Photos of 119 Pellston Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pellston, MI

838 Reviews of 119 Pellston Campgrounds

Guide to Pellston

Camping near Pellston, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Wilderness State Park Camping, have stunning beaches. One camper mentioned, "The beach was beautiful, the water clear, and just a short drive from Mackinaw City!"
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Young State Park Campground said, "There are lots of hiking and biking trails," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visit Mackinac Island: Just a ferry ride away, Mackinac Island is a must-see. Campers at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA appreciated the easy access to the ferries, saying, "This KOA provides you information for Shepler’s Ferry."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Straits State Park Campground noted, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. A camper at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground said, "You can't beat the location because it is absolutely gorgeous right on Lake Michigan."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Burt Lake State Park Campground are great for families. One visitor mentioned, "Wonderful campground that is great for the family."

What you should know:

  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is very close to the main road and you can hear the traffic."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground pointed out, "No toilets, no showers, but the beach is sandy with plenty of cool rocks for rock hunting."
  • Early check-in restrictions: Some parks, like Wilderness State Park Camping, have strict check-in times. One camper noted, "Don’t try to arrive early and get in. They don’t allow early entry."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose a beachside site: Sites near the water can be more enjoyable for kids. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground said, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area."
  • Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds that offer recreational activities. A visitor at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, "They have a playground, Gaga ball, horseshoe, and corn hole."
  • Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Young State Park Campground noted, "The beach was close by and clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be tight. A reviewer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA said, "The sites are tight, particularly the inside pull-throughs."
  • Look for full hookups: If you need amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Brimley State Park Campground appreciated the "bathhouses are new, in great shape."
  • Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear road traffic noise all day and night."

Camping near Pellston, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Pellston, Michigan?

The Pellston area offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Maple Bay State Forest Campground is just 10 minutes from Pellston on the shores of Burt Lake, making it convenient for supplies while enjoying waterfront camping. For those seeking a more primitive experience, French Farm Lake Rd offers six basic sites with fire pits. Other nearby options include Burt Lake State Park Campground, Cheboygan State Park on Lake Huron, and Petoskey State Park. The region's strategic location puts you within easy reach of both Lower and Upper Peninsula destinations, with many campgrounds providing lake access for water activities.

What amenities do Pellston area campgrounds offer?

Campgrounds around Pellston offer varying levels of amenities to suit different camping preferences. Cheboygan State Park Campground provides developed facilities right on Lake Huron with hiking trails throughout the property. For waterfront access with basic amenities, Thurston Park Campground offers lakeside sites perfect for fishing and paddling, plus a nearby playground for children. Most state forest campgrounds like Maple Bay provide clean pit toilets and water pumps but no electricity. Private campgrounds such as Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA and Petoskey KOA offer full hookups, showers, and recreational facilities. Primitive sites at French Farm Lake have only fire pits with no water or trash services.

When is the best season for camping in Pellston, Michigan?

The prime camping season in Pellston runs from late May through early October, with July and August being the busiest months. Fisherman's Island State Park Campground shows minimal usage in early spring, with natural debris still present from winter. Early fall offers spectacular colors with fewer crowds. Hog Island Point State Forest Campground is particularly beautiful in late summer when Lake Michigan is warm enough for swimming while nights remain comfortable for campfires. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers but requires proper cold-weather gear and preparation. Most facilities reduce services after mid-October, with some campgrounds closing entirely for winter.

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