Campgrounds near Rudyard, Michigan offer unique camping experiences within a 40-mile radius. The area features the eastern Upper Peninsula's typical mixed forest terrain and clay-loam soils, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak camping season from June through September. Winter camping options are limited with freezing temperatures from November through March, though Kinross RV Park West remains open year-round for hardy campers.
What to do
Freighter watching: View massive Great Lakes ships from Aune-Osborn Campground where campers can see vessels navigating St. Mary's River. "This is a great campground if you want to watch the freighters. Also make sure to visit West Pier Hamburger. Definitely one of the best burgers I've ever had," notes one visitor.
Casino gaming: Several campgrounds provide easy casino access for evening entertainment. "If you want to gamble it's the place for you. If you want to camp find a better place," advises a camper about Bay Mills Casino RV Campground.
Water activities: St. Mary's River and Lake Huron shorelines offer boating and swimming opportunities. A camper at Loons Point RV Park & Campground mentions "a small area for swimming" and notes the campground is "quiet and peaceful."
Island exploration: Many campers use these sites as base camps for day trips to Drummond Island and Mackinac Island. "Great location to stay if you are planning to head over to Mackinac Island!" states a visitor to Lakeshore Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Riverside sites at Paradise Point RV Park provide direct water access. "We decided to try this campground due to the difficulty in finding a campsite this year...There are 14 sites here right on St. Mary's river. The boat traffic to the zoo locks can be seen from the campground," shares one camper.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. At Lakeshore Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "cozy campground that is well maintained with clean Bathhouse."
Value for money: Several parks offer reasonable rates for amenities provided. "We were passing through the area at end of season...Grateful to have a place to stop, and to be able to stay hooked up! Full hookup, discount if you pay with cash!" reports a guest at Lakeshore Park Campground.
Bridge views: Select campgrounds feature views of the Mackinac Bridge. "We had some great views of the mighty mack bridge and even saw the northern lights one night!" shares an enthusiastic camper at Lakeshore Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonality: Most campgrounds operate mid-May through mid-October. "This well-maintained city park is located directly on St. Mary's River just downstream of the Soo Locks. Sites are ample with gravel pads," reports a visitor to Aune-Osborn Campground.
Site variability: Quality and spacing between sites differs significantly among RV parks Rudyard, Michigan area. A Tiki RV Park & Campground visitor notes, "The campsites weren't particularly scenic, but relatively private. We ended up sleeping in the car because the ground was so wet due to rain."
Reservation systems: Some parks require advance bookings while others operate first-come, first-served. "First come, first serve, no reservations. Choose your site, then go to the hotel registration located inside the west entrance of the hotel," explains a Kewadin Casino RV Park guest.
Facility limitations: Not all campgrounds offer complete amenities. "You will need a self contained rig since there are no bathroom/shower facilities but all sites are full hookup," cautions a Paradise Point RV Park reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome pets with designated areas. "There is a nice dog area (not fenced) across from this site but the poop bag garbage can had not been emptied in some time as it was overflowing," notes one camper at Bay Mills Casino RV Campground.
Playground access: Limited playground facilities exist at select parks. "Adjacent to the campground is a boat launch, playground (which looked like it was from the 1960's), fish cleaning station, and an RV dump station," shares an Aune-Osborn visitor.
Alternative accommodations: For families without camping equipment, Tiki RV Park & Campground offers yurts. "We decided to splurge on a yurt for our first camping trip of the summer. Well worth it! We stayed in 'Kai' one of the newest yurts. Complete with electricity, indoor and outdoor string lights, two deck chairs, a heater, a queen sized bed, and an electric kettle with pour over coffee supplies."
Nearby attractions: Family-friendly destinations include museums and natural areas. "Be sure to visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture," recommends a Tiki RV Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size and hookup requirements. At Kewadin Casino RV Park, a visitor advises, "I stayed here for 1 month. $25/night, $700/month. Mostly level grass sites with 30A, some have 50A. Most sites have a picnic table."
Budget considerations: Casino RV parks often offer affordable options with basic amenities. "My husband and I took a trip to the Upper Peninsula for our Anniversary a few weeks ago. I was very impressed that it was only $15 a night and we were able to use the pool and weight room at the casino!" notes a Kewadin St. Ignace RV Park guest.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring blocks. "Site 16 somewhat unlevel but blocks worked. Nice wooded area," reports a Tiki RV Park camper.
Hookup variations: Electric service varies between parks with some offering only 30-amp connections. "The sites are tight in this campground but with our teardrop we had no problem," explains a Tiki RV Park visitor.
