Seney, Michigan sits in the central Upper Peninsula at an elevation of roughly 700 feet with annual snowfall exceeding 100 inches. The area features a mix of state forest lands, wildlife refuges, and inland lakes that create unique camping opportunities. Many glamping locations in this region operate seasonally due to the harsh winter conditions, with most closing by mid-October.
What to do
Paddle the Fox River: Seney Township Campground offers direct access to the Fox River for kayaking and canoeing. "Small township campground with vault toilets, artesian well, 20/30 amp hook-ups, and Fox River access, $20/night (no reservations)," notes Nikki P. The Fox River Pathway hiking trail begins just down the road from the park.
Explore multiple lakes: The Pretty Lake State Forest Campground connects to several other lakes in the area. "Pretty Lake is connected to other lakes and is excellent for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. We also enjoyed the hiking trail several times with our dogs," shares Nikki P. The campground is located in a designated Quiet Area with well-marked portage trails between ten different lakes.
Visit Tahquamenon Falls: Located about 30 miles from Seney, these impressive waterfalls are easily accessible. "We stayed in the Lower Falls modern campground for 3 nights. The Lower falls were a short hike away, and there was a nice hike to the Upper falls 4 miles away," explains Jess O. The area offers both day hiking and overnight camping options.
What campers like
Private beach access: Twelvemile Beach Campground provides direct access to Lake Superior. "We were here in late May, almost zero bugs (it was too cold). Big spacious sites, we tented in site 4 although in the generator loop area we couldn't hear them over the waves of superior," reports Cameron H. The campground features both generator and generator-free zones.
Solitude and quiet: Many campers appreciate the remote setting of smaller campgrounds. "Pretty Lake State Forest Campground is one of my favorite campgrounds in Michigan because it offers so many opportunities for outdoor activities in a great location. This means no ORV's allowed and no motors on the lakes. Peaceful as it can get," writes Chris M. Sites are typically well-spaced and offer privacy.
Lake views: Campers consistently mention the quality of waterfront sites. "We had an absolutely gorgeous site that was right on a ridge overlooking the lake. We just had to walk down the ridge to get to the lake. The site had a nice amount of trees to hammock from and a good amount of space for our larger tent," says Anna A. about her experience at Twelvemile Beach.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most upscale glamping in Seney, Michigan closes by mid-October. "We camped at 12mile towards the end of October. Sites are first come which can be an issue peak season. The campsite was great other then that the outhouses were screwed shut by late fall, which made #2's interesting," reports Bryan K.
Reservation systems vary: JoeIda Campground takes reservations, while other sites are first-come, first-served. "There are 8 campsites, 1 cabin and a pair of vault toilets, so I'm reluctant to let anyone else know about Joeida Campground...just keep it quiet, ok? The owners welcomed us and gave us a few tips on hikes and other things to do in the area," says Steve S.
Limited facilities: Most state forest campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "This campground has 18 sites, lots of little walking paths, as well as hiking trails that lead you to other nearby lakes that don't have access for vehicles. The camp sites are set into three loops and each loop has vault toilets for easy access," explains Tyler N. about Pretty Lake State Forest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Newberry Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "They have a playground, playroom and a pool. None of this was open during our visit but I imagine in the summer it is all going strong and the kids have a blast," notes a reviewer. The campground also provides a game room and store for additional entertainment options.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities. "We were able to get a waterfront spot for one night. We loved location and moved to overflow for 2 more nights. Private beach was cold but we got in every day," shares Beth B. about Munising Tourist Park, which is about an hour's drive from Seney.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy wildlife spotting opportunities. "This is one of my favorite campsites in Michigan. There is a beautiful sand bottomed lake for swimming on many sites are right on the lake. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table and some friendly chipmunks," mentions Megan A. about Pretty Lake State Forest Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Munising Tourist Park Campground offers various site types. "This campground is all about what site you can get. I reserved a full hookup/waterfront site and it was amazing. All we had to do was step out our door to be looking at the water. However, if you're not lucky enough to get one on the waterfront, then there's just crowded, open sites that will possibly be sharing water and electricity with others," advises Deb M.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The road into the campground is one lane tight," warns Jim W. about JoeIda Campground. Similarly, South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground requires "15 minute drive off the beaten path keeps the crowds away," according to mike K.
Site size considerations: For those with larger rigs, check site dimensions carefully. "Fox Park on Hyw 35, small community park with 21 sites. Big rig friendly $15 night, has a well for water and porta potty's," notes Blaise B. about Seney Township Campground, while other reviewers caution that Pretty Lake's sites can accommodate "pick up campers and towed pop-up campers" but may not be suitable for larger RVs.
