Dispersed tent campsites near Rapid River, Michigan provide wilderness camping options within Michigan's eastern Upper Peninsula. The region features a mix of state forest lands and established campgrounds along the limestone bluffs and wooded shorelines of Lake Michigan. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and fewer insects in camping areas.
What to do
Fishing adventures: Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground offers excellent access to trout fishing spots. According to one camper, "Hopkins is your dream camp site. Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area, that you won't want to leave."
Hiking trails: Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites features multiple interconnected trails for day hiking. A visitor reports, "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."
Paddling opportunities: Keystone Landing State Forest Campground provides direct river access for canoeing and kayaking. One camper shared, "You get the best of both worlds here, camping on the river but close to Grayling. The campsites are fairly secluded and shaded. Perfect for trout fishing as there are three access spots to the river."
Island camping: For a unique adventure, Power Island County Park Primitive Campsites offers boat-in camping on an island. A visitor noted, "We kayaked with all our gear! If you do this, Early morning! Past 2pm forget about it. The water is visible up to 10' maybe more. Beautiful Caribbean blue waters."
What campers like
Lakeside sites: At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, campers appreciate the waterfront locations. One camper mentioned, "great spots near lakeside, hiking nearby, quiet, hardly saw anyone."
Wildlife viewing: Camp Stonewood Ranch provides opportunities to spot local wildlife on its 40-acre property. A reviewer wrote, "Situated on 40 acres, your tipi site is in the center of it all. Close to town, you'll have access to amenities, while still feeling like you're secluded from it all."
Fishing productivity: Many primitive campgrounds offer excellent fishing. One camper at Sand Lakes Quiet Area stated, "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast."
Campsite privacy: Multiple campgrounds in the region offer secluded sites. A visitor to Keystone Landing noted, "The campsites are fairly secluded and shaded. Perfect for trout fishing as there are three access spots to the river."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding some campsites requires preparation. A Sand Lakes visitor advised, "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer."
Seasonal pests: Be prepared for insects, especially in warmer months. A camper at Keystone Landing State Forest Campground warned, "Watch out for ticks in the spring."
Permit requirements: Some areas require camping permits. At Sand Lakes, a camper noted, "permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service."
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites have minimal amenities. A camper at Keystone Landing described it as "Rustic. Maintained Gravel Road. Variety of trees. Walking path to AuSable River."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: Some campgrounds offer drive-up options for easier camping with kids. At Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground, a visitor noted, "The front area is equestrian also, if that's your thing" - indicating multiple use areas suitable for families.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with safe swimming areas. At Power Island, "The water is visible up to 10' maybe more.. Beautiful Caribbean blue waters."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds can get busy with day visitors. One camper at Sand Lakes observed, "To many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure," suggesting weekdays might be better for families seeking quiet.
Short hikes: Sand Lakes offers accessible walking paths for children. A visitor shared, "We explored a bit walking around on the foot traffic trails, which is beautifully wooded and shaded."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near Rapid River have size restrictions for vehicles. At Pinney Bridge, a camper warned, "This campground is hike in/walk in only. The closest parking space is 700 yards and 50 feet in elevation lower than the campground."
Campsite access: Many forest campgrounds have narrow, winding access roads. A visitor to Hopkins Creek advised, "Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty."
Alternative options: For RVers needing hookups, Torch Grove Campground offers more developed sites. A visitor described it as "A clean, private campground located near orv trails. Most sites were full hook up but they had some rustic sites too."
