Tent camping near St. Ignace, Michigan offers access to both Lake Huron and Lake Michigan shorelines along the Straits of Mackinac. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Rainfall averages 30 inches annually with peak precipitation occurring during the summer months when most campgrounds operate.
What to do
Kayaking on inland waters: Sturgeon Valley Campground provides direct access to the Sturgeon River for paddling adventures. "Judy is lovely. River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak," notes camper Sue R. about the Sturgeon Valley Campground.
Waterfall swimming: Cool off during summer months at Ocqueoc Falls where the river creates natural swimming holes. "What's not to love? Only a few sites, but this campground has it all... a private swimming hole in the river. I could have used this as a base of operations for a week," writes Sarah B. about Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground.
Freighter watching: From Lime Island Recreation Area, observe massive Great Lakes cargo ships passing within yards of shore. "One of the favorite pastimes of guests is sitting and watching the large Great Lakes freighters pass by at all hours of the day. They pass so close to the island you feel you could almost touch them," explains Ari A.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds feature well-separated tent sites with natural buffers. "Sites are widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake. It was a pleasant place to spend a night for $10," reports Eddie N. about Garnet Lake State Forest Campground.
Island camping experiences: For adventurous campers, Beaver Island offers secluded beachfront tent camping. "Private, quiet, and easy access to the beach (pebbly). Clean outhouses, nice fire rings, and a water pump. Very windy so prepare by packing the right gear. No crowds which are very nice," notes a camper about Beaver Island Bill Wagner Memorial Campground.
Trail connectivity: Many campgrounds connect to hiking trail networks for day adventures. "Campground connected to a pretty long hiking trail (not too difficult) with nice wildlife, lookouts, etc. Falls are small enough to allow people to play and swim in them," writes Dan N.
What you should know
First-come basis: Many state forest campgrounds don't accept reservations. "This rustic campground is just across road from Ocqueoc falls... campground is rustic with outhouses and hand pump for water," explains Jayne W.
Water access challenges: Lime Island requires boat transportation across 2 miles of open water. "The only way to reach the park is by boat but there are no designated ferries, so the only way to reach it is by using your own boat or finding someone in the area with a boat willing to charter you and your gear," warns Ari A. about Lime Island State Recreation Area.
Basic amenities only: Most tent sites feature minimal facilities. "Nice little metro park for tent camping. Most sites are dispersed. You can pull your car up to the site for unpacking. Modern bathrooms and a snack shop on site," reports Christopher P. about Stoney Creek Trail Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing: For swimming at popular waterfall areas, weekdays offer fewer crowds. "It can be very crowded on holidays and weekends, especially during nice weather, so I'd recommend going during the week," advises Maria L.
Water safety preparations: Bring water shoes for rocky shorelines and river bottoms. "Falls are small enough to allow people to play and swim in them, so don't expect Niagara but it's still lovely," notes Dan N.
Activity variety: Some campgrounds offer multiple recreation options beyond hiking. "Park offers kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals. Also paddle boards. Disc golf and regular golf available. Nice sandy beaches," mentions Christopher P. about Stoney Creek Trail Camp.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Many rustic campgrounds can accommodate compact travel trailers despite being primarily tent-focused. "We fit our small travel trailer easily into a fairly level lot. The lack of big rigs makes for a generally laid back and quiet atmosphere - a certain plus," shares Joshua M. about Ocqueoc Falls.
Road noise considerations: Some seemingly remote sites may still experience vehicle sounds. "The camp is semi-isolated. There is adequate space between sites and ample shade, but you can still certainly tell if you have neighbors. Additionally, you can hear road noise from M-68," notes Joshua M.
Fishing from camp: Many lakeside sites allow direct shore fishing. "Decent fishing on the lake," reports Mike K. about Garnet Lake State Forest Campground, where some sites directly border the water for easy angling access.
