Republic, Michigan sits in the western Upper Peninsula at about 1,600 feet elevation, surrounded by dense northern hardwood forests and small lakes. Winter temperatures often dip below zero, while summers remain mild with average highs around 75°F. Many glamping sites in this region remain accessible year-round despite heavy annual snowfall that can exceed 150 inches.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Craig Lake State Park offers excellent fishing for multiple species. "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky," notes Jeff P. from Craig Lake State Park Campground.
Winter activities: Many sites transform during colder months. "This campground has it all! Rustic or modern you will enjoy the beach, hiking/biking trails, boating, fantastic fishing, kayaking and year round events," says Ashley S. about Van Riper State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife beyond what most visitors expect. "Ask the rangers where to go to look for moose," recommends Tracie S. from Perkins Park & Campground.
Scenic hiking: Trails connect many sites with varying difficulty levels. "The Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!" shares Jenny G. from Van Riper State Park Campground.
What campers like
Remote camping options: Craig Lake offers true wilderness glamping. "For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is an absolute heavenly oasis," writes Rebecca W. from Craig Lake State Park Campground.
Water activities: Access to water features prominently in positive reviews. "They have a cool trampoline type thing in the water that kids loved playing on," mentions Ashley W. about Michigamme Shores Campground.
Waterfront locations: Sites directly on water receive high ratings. "Beautiful lake with great facilities. Sites are bigger than parks in the lower peninsula," notes Tracie S. about Perkins Park.
Dark skies: The region's limited light pollution enables stellar nighttime views. "Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake. Probably my most beautiful site in the UP so far," shares Tracy W. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites require advance booking. "This is a reservation only campground... the website allows you to book for the same day, and there is decent cell service at the campground," explains Shari G. about Perkins Park.
Access challenges: Some glamping sites require special transportation. "Access is from 41 turn on the gravel road outside Michigamme coming from the East. Do not recommend coming or going from the access road on the west... it's a VERY bumpy road," advises Rebecca W. about Craig Lake State Park.
Seasonal availability: Check operating dates before planning. "Long windy road into the campground resulting in a peaceful area. The lake was nice and there was a small beach. Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning," says Amy K. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Noise concerns: Location relative to roads matters. "Loud cars, trucks and semi's were traveling the roads outside of the park at all hours. Drivers took great pleasure in stomping on the gas and racing past at an almost ear deafening sound," warns Lynn K. from Lake Antoine Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach amenities: Several sites feature family-friendly water access. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours," shares Jenny G. about Van Riper State Park.
Birthday celebrations: Parks can accommodate special occasions. "Stayed at Van Riper a few years ago. Had my son's 6th birthday party here. We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area," explains Ashley L. from Van Riper State Park Campground.
Amenities for children: Recreation facilities keep younger campers engaged. "A great place to take the family on vacation. There is a fine sandy beach, and playground. The park offers areas for boating, kayaking, and jet skiing, and fishing," says Nona A. about Van Riper State Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites add learning dimensions. "During your visit to the park there are lots of scenic, historic, and recreational sites to visit. A few miles from the park is the location of where Iron ore was first found in the Lake Superior region," notes Nona A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose appropriate locations based on vehicle type. "The full hookup sites were nice and long and well spaced, but they were dirt so could be muddy in the rain," advises Greg S. about Perkins Park & Campground.
Water considerations: Check water status before arrival. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water. They do have two separate campgrounds, with rustic and modern (electric) sites," warns Andrea B. about Van Riper State Park.
Hookup availability: Utilities vary widely between glamping options. "Beautiful & clean. Great site overlooking Lake Superior. Need to walk over highway to get to water. Very orderly and great Park Manager. Family & pet friendly with awesome playground," notes Debra R. about L'Anse Township Park & Campground.
Site spacing: Privacy levels differ between parks. "Although most sites are for RV's with hookups, I'm a tent camper and they don't have a lot of these, but the sites are great. On the Shore of Lake Michigamee, there is great canoeing, kayaking, and some decent hiking trails," shares Richard H.
