Glamping in Rudyard, Michigan offers access to both Lake Huron and Lake Superior shores within a 60-mile radius. The Eastern Upper Peninsula climate features warm summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F daytime with cool evenings often dropping to the 50s, making yurt accommodations practical alternatives to tent camping. Most glamping options remain open seasonally from May through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Waterfront activities near Bay Mills: Bay Mills Casino RV Campground provides access to waterfront recreation. "Close to the water and even closer to the casino. We used this as a base for seeing sites, mainly the locks," notes Sean N., highlighting the campground's convenient location for exploring the Soo Locks.
Visit shipwrecks in Superior: At Bay View Campground, visitors can explore maritime history. "There are sandy beaches and shipwrecks in the bay which have been preserved for tourists and history geeks," shares James D., who recommends taking "the trip to see Tahquamenon Falls" while staying in the area.
Experience Mackinac Island: St. Ignace provides ferry access to Mackinac Island. "The shuttle they have to the island ferry's is great. They even haul your bikes there for you," says David G. about St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA, mentioning the convenient transportation option that removes logistics challenges.
What campers like
Private beach access: Lake Michigan At St. Ignace offers shoreline sites with trails to the water. "Some of the beach-side sites looked really great, with private beach access," reports Emily K., noting that sites feature "a small walk to the gorgeous beach. That was private and quiet."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's natural settings provide wildlife spotting chances. "We camped here with our family of 5 for 2 nights. It's a very remote campground," writes Melissa A. about Bay View Campground, describing how their "campsite #3 walked right out to the sandy beach of Lake Superior."
Clean, comfortable facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. "Bathrooms are shared with the municipal park. Campground host was helpful and explained that the showers are kept locked (probably to keep out the day users) so we just needed to ask him to unlock them," explains Cheryl K. about Sherman Park.
What you should know
Varying hookup availability: Campground utilities can be inconsistent. "We reserved 50 amp full hook up... We arrived today to find a tight sloping site with only 30 amp service for our 34 ft motorhome," warns Jennifer B. about Tiki RV Park & Campground, suggesting campers verify their exact site amenities.
Weather preparation essentials: Upper Peninsula weather changes rapidly. "Camping here even in the summer requires warm clothes. The wind coming in from Lake Superior is cold," advises Wesley R. about Sherman Park, noting the temperature differences from inland areas.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely. "We got 2 bars on Verizon. The Wifi was below average for a CG this size, and even very early in the morning, it was mediocre," reports MickandKarla W. at Bay Mills, providing insight on connectivity limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Communal equipment access: Some campgrounds provide shared amenities. "The campground host, Gilly (Santa) helped us with firewood and made us feel very welcome. He had a community box of games that we could use during our stay. We used sand buckets and shovels to play with during or stay," shares Melissa A. about Bay View.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with recreation options. "There are games and things to do for the kids. Mini golf, carpet ball, volleyball, etc.," notes Gary J. at St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA, highlighting the variety of structured activities available.
Water safety considerations: Swimming areas vary across sites. "Sandy beaches and round rock lake bottom; bring aqua-socks for sensitive feet if going for a swim. Water was clean and cool but definitely swimmable," advises Kevin about Bay View's shoreline.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require preparation. "Site 16 somewhat unlevel but blocks worked," reports Barbara P. about Tiki RV Park & Campground, indicating the need for leveling equipment at certain locations.
Resource availability: Water access varies by location. "No water/sewer. Minimal ATT cell service. Level lot, busy on weekend," notes Beth B. about Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park, providing important resource information for RV travelers planning water usage.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. "29.00 a day with full hook-ups. 21.00 without sewer. All come with free cable tv and wifi antennas ever couple hundred feet so you get internet from any spot in the park," shares Master R. about Bay Mills RV Park, highlighting the cost differences between hookup options.
