Tent camping near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan offers several options within the rugged eastern Upper Peninsula environment. The region features a mix of waterfront and forested campgrounds where temperatures range from summer highs around 75°F to nighttime lows in the 50s. Seasonal camping opportunities typically run from late spring through fall, with most rustic campgrounds closing for winter due to heavy snowfall and limited access.
What to do
Fishing at Garnet Lake: Garnet Lake State Forest Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "Decent fishing on the lake," notes camper Mike K., who gave the campground a five-star rating. The modest-sized lake supports panfish species and occasional pike.
Watch freighter traffic: At Lime Island State Recreation Area, visitors can observe massive Great Lakes cargo ships passing by at extremely close range. According to Ari A., "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."
Hiking island trails: Lime Island features approximately 7 miles of hiking trails through relatively undisturbed habitat. "With so little human activity you never know what you'll find," reports one camper who appreciated the opportunity to encounter wildlife while exploring the island's trail network.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: The best tent camping near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan often includes waterfront access at uncrowded locations. Eddie N. noted about Garnet Lake State Forest Campground, "This small campground on Garnet lake was a nice surprise. No hookups but there are widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake."
Site separation: Unlike more developed campgrounds, the rustic options near Sault Ste. Marie provide good privacy between sites. Mike K. observed, "Sites are spaced out decent and plenty of privacy. Vault toilets were clean and stocked."
Industrial history: The Sault Ste. Marie region campgrounds feature connections to maritime and industrial past. Lime Island contains numerous historical structures from its time as a ship refueling station. "The coal dock, fuel storage tanks, Quonset hut with bunker, fuel heating and pumping equipment, other supporting buildings, and scattered industrial equipment, provide a complete picture of the island's use as a ship refueling depot," explains a reviewer.
What you should know
Water transportation required: For tent camping at Munuscong State Forest Campground, campers should prepare for limited amenities with no drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Campsites require self-sufficiency for all supplies.
Limited facilities: State Forest Campgrounds in the region typically offer vault toilets but no potable water. Campers must bring all drinking and cooking water for their stay. Some locations provide trash collection, but a pack-it-in, pack-it-out approach remains advisable.
Reservation systems vary: While Lime Island sites can be reserved, other state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, including Garnet Lake. During summer weekends, arriving by early Friday afternoon increases chances of securing preferred sites.
Tips for camping with families
Boat access logistics: Families planning to camp at Lime Island State Recreation Area should arrange reliable watercraft transportation. Ari A. advises, "Non-motorized boats are not recommended due to the many freighters and choppy water conditions." Families must coordinate transportation for all camping gear across a 2-mile water crossing from Raber.
Cabin alternatives: For families not equipped for tent camping, Lime Island offers six cabins accommodating between four and seven guests. "The park is a favorite among fishermen, couples, and large families who like to rent out all the cabins for annual reunions," reports a visitor, though note that cabins require bringing all sleeping and cooking supplies.
Weather preparedness: Upper Peninsula weather can change rapidly. Even summer nights often drop into the 50s, requiring proper sleeping bags and layered clothing. Afternoon thunderstorms occur regularly in summer months, necessitating adequate tent rainfly setup and gear protection.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most rustic campgrounds in the eastern Upper Peninsula accommodate smaller campers and trailers only. Large motorhomes and fifth-wheels face significant access challenges on narrow, unpaved entry roads. Sites rarely offer designated parking pads.
Leveling requirements: RV campers at Garnet Lake should bring leveling blocks. Eddie N. mentioned the campground has "widely spaced, level sites ringing the lake," but slight terrain variations require adjustment for comfortable trailer setup.
Generator policies: State forest campgrounds near Sault Ste. Marie typically prohibit generator use. RVers dependent on electrical appliances should verify their solar or battery capacity will meet needs for the duration of their stay, as no hookups exist.
