Rv campgrounds near Skandia, Michigan concentrate in a 20-mile radius around Marquette County. Most camping options lie within the Hiawatha National Forest, which spans over 880,000 acres of the Upper Peninsula. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer averages 75°F with frequent thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Lake Superior beaches: Visit the shoreline just across from Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground. "Definitely a unique spot. The staff was really kind. They have some cool amenities like billiards and house crafted beer. The spots were spacious in the woods and had a good feel. Can't beat the location either, given it's right across from Lake Superior beach access," notes Brandon D.
Mountain biking trails: Access nearby trails directly from Rippling Rivers RV Resort. "If you love mountain biking or hiking you stay here. Period. You are right on the trails. Bathrooms and showers are nice. If you have little ones the grom trail rims next to the top camp site," says Rory L. The trails connect to Marquette Mountain ski area with multiple difficulty levels.
Lighthouse exploring: Drive to Peninsula Point Lighthouse for sunset views and seasonal monarch butterfly migrations. "We camped one night at the first dispersed site and had a great view of the lake from the site. The sunset was incredible," writes Willow M. The lighthouse access road has two designated dispersed camping sites along the drive.
What campers like
Clean, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds at Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground. "This is a very wide open center, or back in to Wooded sites. All site are very large and spacious. Picnic tables and site rings. Check in at noon, check out at noon," reports Lauren M. Sites are designed for easy access even for larger RVs.
Pool and hot tub access: Several campgrounds offer swimming amenities for post-hike relaxation. "Fantastic. Large spots. Full hookups. Amazing hiking and mountain biking and easy access to all Marquette has to offer. Cool river access. Pool is good enough, nice hot tub, putt putt, excellent bar, camp store," writes Craig C. about Rippling Rivers RV Resort.
Casino proximity: Some RV parks provide shuttle service to nearby casinos. "There is a phone at the shower house that can be used to request a free shuttle to the casino," notes Julia H. about Island Resort and Casino RV Park. Electric hookups at Kewadin Casino in Christmas cost $20 nightly with a "$5 casino credit per night per person staying," according to Victoria K.
What you should know
Limited shade in newer parks: Many campgrounds in the area are relatively new with young trees. "Newer campground, not much shade but outer ring surrounded by trees. Site 50 has beautiful view. Hook ups are very nice quality," writes Nancy S. Expect more sun exposure during summer months.
Varying water quality: Hard water can be an issue at some locations. "The campground has very hard water, to the point our shower is stained pretty bad even though we had multiple filters and a water softener," reports Noah P. about Gitche Gumee RV Park.
Strict checkout policies: Some campgrounds enforce tight checkout times with penalties. "Check in at noon, check out at noon. Just make sure to leave by noon or they charge you $100," warns Lauren M. Always confirm checkout procedures during registration to avoid surprise fees.
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: Kids enjoy recreational facilities at Country Village RV Park. "Our kids loved that there is a pool, hot tub & bouncy pillow! This is our 2nd time staying & both were because of its convenience to 'civilization' not to get away from it," writes Jessica P. The park also features a dog play area.
Sand dunes access: Look for natural play areas beyond formal playgrounds. "The kids stumbled upon a sand dune just off the main stretch of campsites. Not sure if they were supposed to be there, but a little playing in the dirt can't hurt, right?!" shares Melissa H. about Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground.
Bug preparation: Insect activity can be intense during summer months. "There were a lot of bugs while we were there, so it was hard to stay outdoors for a long period of time during certain times of the day. But this is the Mid-west and it is just part of this region of the US. Next time I would bring a screen tent," recommends Sam C.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require adjustments for proper leveling. "Site 4 is gravel and very up hill. But we were able to make our Solitude work off autolevel," notes Lauren M. about Pictured Rocks RV Park. Carrying leveling blocks is recommended for many area campgrounds.
Power reliability: Most parks maintain stable electrical service despite weather conditions. "We stayed in a full hook up 50 amp site, and experienced no power issues despite 2 days of freakishly high winds and scorching heat in the 90s," reports Jennifer B.
Reservation timing: For Peninsula Point Lighthouse dispersed sites, early arrival improves chances of securing a spot. "Great sunset area, pretty drive there. Lighthouse to explore. Would love to be there for the monarch migration," writes Neil T. These first-come, first-served sites allow stays up to 14 days.
