Pet friendly camping near Posen, Michigan provides access to Lake Huron shorelines and inland forests across Presque Isle County. Most campgrounds in this northeastern Michigan region remain open from May through October, with temperatures ranging from 70-80°F in summer and dropping to 50-60°F during fall months. Sites in state forest campgrounds typically cost $15-20 per night while established RV parks charge $30-45 for full hookup options.
What to do
Swimming at Clear Lake: The spring-fed waters at Clear Lake State Park Campground offer unusually clear visibility to depths of 30 feet. "The lake is absolutely beautiful and super blue and clear. The beach at the state park was nice but not really a natural beach but the lake itself is naturally sandy," notes Lydia T. from Clear Lake State Park Campground.
Fossil hunting along shorelines: Lake Huron beaches provide excellent opportunities for discovering Petoskey stones and other fossils. "Rock hounds will slight in the fossil, Petoskeys and puddings along the shoreline," mentions Rose M. about the beaches near Hoeft State Park.
Visit Michigan's only Lower Peninsula waterfall: Located just 20 minutes from Posen, Ocqueoc Falls offers accessible recreation areas. "This is one spectacular place... It's the only handicap accessible falls in the country, and the only real and constant river falls in the lower peninsula," explains Maria L. from Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront sites with direct lake access: Multiple campgrounds offer sites right on Lake Huron. "About half the sites have waterfront access, beautiful beach, nice wooded sites," reports Rachel K. about Ossineke State Forest Campground. The rustic setting and easy water access make these sites popular for campers with pets.
Well-maintained shower facilities: Despite rustic settings, some campgrounds offer surprisingly clean facilities. "The bathrooms here are very well maintained as well as the showers. The Guest Host is a character and extremely friendly," writes Shawn B. about Clear Lake State Park.
Hiking trail networks: Connected paths through forest and along shorelines provide excellent pet exercise options. "There are tons of trails through beautiful deep woods that lead out to various points along the lake. great paved bike paths to Rogers City and up north," states RA S., highlighting the trail system accessible from campsites.
What you should know
Limited cell service in some areas: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "The WiFi is exceptional and our satellite had no difficulty in spotting a signal. Our phone coverage was very good," notes Carol W. about Thunder Bay Golf And RV Resort, but many rustic sites have minimal coverage.
Water access challenges: Not all water pumps function consistently at rustic campgrounds. "There needs to be some maintenance done at this campground, at least two water pumps are without handles, one was without a handle three years ago as well," reports DonW about Ossineke State Forest Campground.
Reservation windows and availability: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Have to get site six months before thru DNR site," advises Jan M. about Clear Lake State Park, noting the competitive reservation process for peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "This location is the definition of family friendly. The playscape, the dunes, the lake, all are easily accessible and centrally located," shares Emily S. about Hoeft State Park Campground.
Consider weekday visits: Reduced crowds provide better experiences for families with pets. "If you don't want to fight the peak season crowds, plan a weekday trip and enjoy the seclusion!" suggests Emily S. about Hoeft State Park.
Look for shallow swimming areas: Several beaches offer gradual entry points ideal for children and pets. "Shallow in parts for the kids but deep enough to snorkel for pudding stones," notes Rose M., describing the beach access at Hoeft State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Choose sites based on your specific rig requirements. "We have a 25' Class A motorhome and spent 2 days in July at Hoeft State Park. We had camped here several years ago and decided to revisit. It was great then and just as great now. The site we had (54) was a perfect combo of sun and shade," shares Mary S. from Campers Cove RV Park And Canoe Livery.
Check hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer limited electrical service. "The camp spots were spacious and all were either on the water or had a path to the water. One downside was the fire pit was so tall (like over 2 ft off the ground)…you had to stand up to feel the heat from it," mentions D G. about Ossineke State Forest Campground.
Monitor seasonal weather changes: Fall camping offers unique experiences but requires preparation. "Came up here to sneak away on a warm weekend in November as this is one of the few State Park campgrounds open year round. We were really impressed," shares Bill W. about Clear Lake State Park, noting that water spigots are turned off during winter months.
