When you think about camping in Michigan, it’s the water that draws most to the Great Lakes State. Michigan has 3,288 miles of shoreline, the second longest of any state, including 1,056 miles of island coast. Plus, you’re never more than six miles from a natural water source, or more than 85 miles away from a Great Lake. 


There are plenty of opportunities for coastal and island camping in Michigan, but it’s more than just water. Michigan has the largest state park and state forest system of any state, with over 100 state parks, recreation areas, and state forests. There are also several national parks, forests, and lakeshores to pitch a tent or park the adventure rig. Needless to say, you have some options, so stick with The Dyrt to help you narrow it down. Consider these main Michigan attractions when deciding on where to go camping in Michigan. 


For most campers, the epicenter of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountainous dunes slope from high peaks and plateaus down to meet with the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Hiking, biking, hang gliding, off-roading, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, or just simply sandy beach lounging can all be found in and around Sleeping Bear Dunes. Also, when you take a camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the nearby quaint towns and rolling inland hills speckled with fruit orchards provide the perfect bonus excursions. 


Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in the country. Michigan waterways have been essential to the growth of the nation, but they’ve also been treacherous for mariners for centuries, and continue to demand respect. When camping in Michigan, touring some of the iconic Michigan lighthouses can be a great way to learn about the history of the region, while also taking in stellar views of natural landscapes and architectural achievement. Check in with The Dyrt for information on camping near some great Michigan lighthouses. 


Finally, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an entire playground of its own for outdoor recreation and exploration. Discover some of the many waterfalls like the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, or kayak on Lake Superior for a memorable view of the famous Pictured Rocks. The power of Lake Superior can be seen across the northern shore with unique rock formations, and remnants of the prominent mining and shipping industry still exist throughout. If you’re thinking about more remote or wild camping options in Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is for you. Whatever your camping style, stay tuned to The Dyrt for inside information on the best camping in Michigan. 

Michigan

The Best Camping in Michigan | 100+ MI Campgrounds

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Best Camping Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Make Yourselves to home @ Camp Squid Off -The - Grid! Have you ever wanted 1 acre of tent camping space to yourself? How about a Yurt Glamping experience, or a night in one of our on-site Airstream trailer? You've found it, at Camp Squid Off The Grid!

Tent Sites - Feel free to walk around in the Squid Wood’s and bring your hammocks there’s plenty of trees to hang out in :) Camp Squid Off The Grid! has Freedom Camping! You're free to pitch your tent anywhere in the Squid Wood’s. Experience Camp Squid Off The Grid! how camping is truly meant to be.

Jolly Geen Yurt - Camp Squid Off The Grid enjoys Jolly Green, Nature’s Wonderland, a relaxing Cannabis Friendly retreat in the tranquil settings of 20 acres of Pine Tree Lane in Northwestern MI, Squid forest, bordered by a beautiful scenic farmers wheat field with trails throughout.

Our amenities include: A tour of our grounds, 24/7 coffee and drink access, and live entertainment when available.



Camp Squid Off The Grid

Offering the accommodations you need for all the ways you camp; in a destination that delivers: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Lake Michigan beaches, miles of hiking/biking trails, Traverse City, and more. A place where food, art, and events are abundant in everyday life. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable weekend, a family vacation, or planning your entire season, this is the place. Families have spent a century vacationing and building memories here; we created a place that allows you to do the same with your family and friends.

Indigo was named after the shades of blue that dominate the surrounding landscape. Leelanau, the peninsula we are located on, is a Native American name meaning “Land of Delight”. That's all the inspiration we needed to create one of the country’s most distinctive outdoor lifestyle resorts.

Indigo Bluffs RV Park

**Thank you for your interest in relaxing at our rustic retreat along cedar run creek!**

**About this special place:**

This is a century old cabin sitting on 30 acres of land halfway between Traverse City and Empire just off M-72 West. This is a protected natural area so please be mindful of your presence on the land and among the plants and creatures. Leave things as they are.

**We Provide:**

Electricity, a full size bed, a couch, table, chairs, and a fan. We have an outhouse for you to use. Drinking water is available by hand pump and in the berkey inside the cabin. We are not far from Cedar Lake for swimming/bathing. We have a few hiking trails in the woods and one that leads to the creek. There is a fire pit outside for small fires (please check if there is fire danger and always put out your fire completely). There is very little cell service, a great way to unplug.

**You should bring:**

Bedding/sleeping bags, a way to keep your food cold, and a way to cook. Anything for camping. We suggest that you bring books, instruments, art making materials, and anything creative.



Rustic Retreat

Located at the northern edge of Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore National Park. Heritage and Tart bike trails nearby. Pristine inland lakes and Good Harbor Bay on Lake Michigan for fishing and beach strolling. Dog friendly camping. Golf and restaurants a plenty. Like winery tours? You're in luck there too. Along with Brew Pubs and distillery tasting rooms. Sorry, we are not able to accommodate tent campers.



Brown Dog Farm - Temporarily Closed

Nature is an 80 acre glamping resort located in the heart of Leelanau County, close to Glen Arbor, Leland, Empire. We are a 40 minute drive to Traverse City Airport (TVC) and many other small airports for private aviation. Our resort has very nice private showers, toilets, charging stations, and high speed fiber connected WiFi For remote work, streaming, etc. We are minutes away from kayaking, canoeing, fishing, endless sandy beaches on Lake Michigan, many boating lakes, cycling, hiking trails, and much more. We are a foodies paradise with lots of great options nearby and in the city, although we do have an outdoor kitchen with local options for vegetarians and omnivores.

Our Lodge building is a $2M state of the art facility with plenty of space for the kids to run around on a runny day and a rec room with games, toys, and pinball machines for older children or enthusiasts. Located next to our very large natural pool aka swimming pond with a sandy beach safe for the kids but also has spots that are 14’ deep for the adults.

Our property has 40 acres of private meadow space and 40 acres of Hardwood forest. We have glamping locations in both sections (each with 2 queen beds on frames with sheets, pillows, etc.) and many of our tents are very private and others are grouped together for friends traveling together. Located in our forest are trails, a collective bon fire area, and 3 true sanctuaries to relax and commune with Nature. Our site also has a sacred First Nations Witness tree that is used for gatherings and orienteering.

Nature also has weekly activities like yoga, women’s circles, and sound healing with more be added during the high season. Also our guests take advantage of 10% discounts on local kayak, canoe, and bicycle rentals that can even be delivered directly on site for convenience. Nature’s Free Concierge services includes over 30 pre-planned day trips all within a short distance of our amazing central location in Leelanau.

It is hard to express in words the beauty, calm, adventure, and awesomeness of our facility - the best is to stop by and check it out or just give it a try. Most of our glamping guests return every year after just one visit.

We are pet friendly, LGBTQIA+ friendly, Cannabis Friendly, and basically everything friendly as long as everyone is respectful to one another, safe, and very respectful to Nature itself. Feel free to give us a call to learn more, check us out on Instagram, or our website.

Basic & Deluxe Glamping available or Bring your own tent. We have special deals for 1 or 2 week stays. Please call in for those. We also Host weddings, business events, family reunions, and much more for groups of 50-500. Glamping is closed for weddings generally (most guests stay on site).



Nature

This Tentrr site is outfitted with an extensive range of Coleman gear. Unwind in style with a large cooler, camp stove, food prep table, shade canopy, lanterns, speaker, insulated cups, and more! 

Escape the everyday hustle and bustle of the city and find peace beside the pond in your own private getaway! Minutes from Traverse City shopping and wineries, but close to many recreational activities like horseback riding, swimming, hiking, kayaking or canoeing. Lay back to the sounds of chirping crickets and croaking frogs and take in the view of endless stars. Free from light pollution, the Northern Michigan night sky offers an amazing view of the Milky Way and even an occasional view of the Northern Lights.  Bluetooth rock speakers on deck.  Power is available for a small fee.

Local Attractions:
Interlochen State Park (Swimming at Duck Lake) - 7 Minutes 
Traverse City's Front Street (Loaded with Quaint Shops & Restaurants) - 20 Minutes
Riverside Canoe & Kayak Rentals on Platte River - 27 Minutes
Frankfort Pier - 35 Minutes
Sleeping Bear Dunes - 37 Minutes
Old Mission Lighthouse Park - 40 Minutes
Leland's Historic Fish Town & Ferry to Manitou Islands - 42 Minutes
Mackinaw City & Ferry to Mackinaw Island - 2 Hours & 17 Minutes 

Like our Facebook page to see current upgrades and video tour.
https://www.facebook.com/Pine-Meadows-Campsite-107777757666647/?modal=admin_todo_tour

The Space:
Secluded Campsite with Private Pond overlooking a Large Meadow in the Middle of 20 Acres Bordered by Tall Pines

Guest Access:
This is an exclusive Tentrr Signature campsite. Tentrr partners with farmers, ranchers, and other property owners to offer unique outdoor accommodations on beautiful private land. Our campsites are off-the-grid which means they generally do not have access to electricity, wifi, or modern plumbing. Instead, they offer the chance to relax, unplug, and fully experience nature! You'll have the entire campsite to yourself, as you'll be the only Campers enjoying this piece of paradise.

Each campsite includes a 10'x12' safari-style canvas tent on a raised platform, and you'll find one queen bed or a queen-size bunk bed inside (each site is different, see photos for the exact setup). Larger groups can also use the extra 5-person pop-up dome tent that___s provided (you___re welcome to bring your own camping gear too). You'll also have a 6-ft picnic table, outdoor fire pit, and 2 Tentrr Adirondack chairs.

What you should bring:
-S'mores supplies & any food you'd like to eat
-A cooler to keep your grub from spoiling 
-Bedding and pillows
-Firewood for the campfire

Upon check out, you should leave-no-trace of your stay and be sure your campsite is returned to its natural glory! While Tentrr does not charge a cleaning fee, we do expect campsites to be left how they were found. After you check out, take everything you brought in and be sure to leave your trash at the designated location on the property. 

If a CampKeeper submits an incident report after your stay that details evidence of trash or damage to the campsite or the CampKeeper___s property, Tentrr reserves the right to charge a minimum cleaning fee of $50. Just make sure to follow the Camper Manual posted at your campsite and you'll be set!

Occupancy: Max occupancy refers to the total number of campers allowed at the site during your reservation.

Toilets: Every campsite is equipped with a camp toilet (we call it the Tentrr Loo). This is a simple wooden box with a toilet seat and a bucket inside. Line the bucket with a CleanWaste bag supplied at the camp (or another appropriate plastic bag) prior to use. Afterwards, simply tie the bag up and place it in a trash bag. We got this idea from bathrooms used on NASA spaceships, and we've used the Tentrr Loo countless times ourselves- don't worry!

Showers: Every Signature campsite comes with a Coleman Sun Shower. The sun shower has a reservoir that holds up to 5 gallons of water, potentially enough for multiple showers. It's constructed of heat-locking material that warms the water when it's left in the sun, even on cool days.

Interaction with Guests:
Upon check out, you should leave-no-trace of your stay and be sure your campsite is returned to its natural glory! While Tentrr does not charge a cleaning fee, we do expect campsites to be left how they were found. After you check out, take everything you brought in and be sure to leave your trash at the designated location.

If a Tentrr Host submits an incident report after your stay that details evidence of trash or damage to the campsite or the host's property, Tentrr reserves the right to charge a minimum cleaning fee of $50. Just make sure to follow the Camper Manual posted at your campsite and you'll be set!

Reservation Modifications/Cancellations: Please note the terms of the cancelation policy as they are outlined in your confirmation email. Your Tentrr Host is unable to change or cancel your reservation on your behalf, and they are unable to waive any cancellation fees (if applicable). If you have any questions regarding modifications to your booking, please reach out to Tentrr Customer Support.

Other Things to Note:
Feel free to enjoy the pond and all amenities.  It is a spring fed pond stocked with goldfish, not ideal for swimming.  You are in the middle of 20 natural acres so be prepared to cohabitate with the animals from deer and bear to birds and frogs.  Beautiful view for an evening campfire to roast smores or dinner.  Porta John and water are provided at no extra cost.  Nice flat ground near the deck if you choose to put up additional tent. Cooking station available with charcoal and propane grills.  Book the propane grill if you would like propane ready on site for you otherwise feel free to use grill if you bring propane.  Corn hole, croquet & badminton, etc.   Hot water shower now available. 



Total Bathrooms: 1


Tentrr Signature Site - Pine Meadows - Coleman Cooking Site

Backyard Burdickville is a friendly rustic campground just outside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and near Empire, MI. In addition to camping, it offers a local food market featuring produce and flowers grown on-site at The Lively Farm, a large recreational area and occasional events. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore by day and our starry landscape by night.

We offer 28 large rustic campsites offer fire pits and a picnic table, 10 RV sites, and two camping cabins. Potable water hydrants and porta-johns are available. We also offer firewood for sale onsite. Rustic sites can accommodate small campers and camper vans.



Backyard Burdickville

289 campsites located within minutes of both the Betsie and Platte River. Nearby lakes include Lake Michigan, Crystal Lake, Big and Little Platte and many, many more. Fish for Salmon, Trout, Steelhead, Perch, Bass and Pike. Charter Boats available.

Rvino - Timberline, LLC

South Manitou Group Campground is a tent-only backcountry facility on South Manitou Island in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan. Campers must take a 1.5-hour ferry or boat ride to reach it, and must backpack their gear into the campground from the dock. This facility is comprised of three reservable group sites at Bay Campground and three others at Weather Station Campground. Each site is open to groups of nine to 20 people only. Smaller parties must plan to occupy multiple first-come, first-served individual sites at Popple, Bay or Weather Station Campgrounds on the island. Bay is the closest campground to the dock (less than a mile) and a short walk from the beach. Weather Station overlooks Lake Michigan from the bluffs on the south side of the island; the hike from the ferry is about 1.3 miles. If group sites are full, your group may be able to split up into multiple individual campsites. Be sure to make reservations for the ferry (231-256-9061) for transportation to the island. For more information, call 231-326-4700 ext 5010 Summer temperatures range from the upper 70s to 90s during the day and drop about 20 degrees at night. Winters are cold, with daytime highs in the 20s to 30s and lows in the 10s and 20s; snow is usually on the ground from late November through March. Natural Features: South Manitou Island is part of an island chain in Lake Michigan that extends north to the Straits of Mackinac. The island consists of a ridge of tilted layers of limestone, buried under a blanket of glacial debris. It features unique sand dune formations, 10 miles of pebble beaches and a grove of old growth white cedars that date back over 500 years. The campgrounds lie on sandy soils among younger forests. Recreation: There is no shortage of activities on South Manitou Island. Visitors can hike around the 10-mile perimeter of the island via pebble beaches, take a tour of the South Manitou Island Lighthouse during summer months, view the 1960 shipwreck of the Francisco Morazanon or go on a motorized tour to learn the history of the island. Visitors can also hike day-long excursions to unique sand dune formations and old growth cedar forests. Both campgrounds have beach access where campers can beachcomb and swim; group sites are closer to the beach at Bay Campground than at Weather Station. Facilities: Water is only available in the Village area. Group campsites are secluded and set apart from one another. Each site has a fire pit for open fires (firewood must be purchased or collected in the park). Wooden pit toilets are provided, however campers must bring their own toilet paper. ACTIVITIES Hiking Visitor Center: Ranger Station

South Manitou Island Group

We built our home 28 years ago on 8 acres of hay field. Everything you see on our property was put here by us!!



We have had dogs, a couple of horses, cats of course and chickens too. We have a pond off our deck with about 50 goldfish and a couple dozen frogs.



Our kids are all grown and we are left wondering what is next.



For the past ten years or so we have had at least one or two camp outs a year on our property with just friends. Then we started thinking "why not invite others?" We know how difficult it can be to get camping reservations in the area....then I bumped into a Hipcamp Host who told me about this.... so here we are!



We are animal and nature lovers and our gardens are here for you to enjoy. We'd love to give you a tour and tell you all about every plant if you are interested. Or we will ignore you and let you do your own thing in our 'backyard'!



Welcome to Traverse City and welcome to Camp David!!



I have a Facebook page with lots of fun and interesting things to do and see as well as great restaurant recommendations for Traverse City and beyond, on my travel page...Towhead Travels.



\*\*\*\*\*\*NEW FOR 2023\*\*\*\*\*\*



We have an outhouse on site!!



https://m.facebook.com/100057592452231/



Camp David

Join the fun near Detroit. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Detroit is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Detroit camping trip.

Detroit

The Best Camping Near Detroit | Michigan Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Warren, MI has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Warren. Find the best campgrounds near Warren, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Warren

The Best Camping Near Warren, Michigan

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Sterling Heights, MI has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Sterling Heights. Discover great camping spots near Sterling Heights, reviewed by campers like you.

Sterling Heights

The Best Camping Near Sterling Heights, Michigan

Are you in need of a campground near Lansing, MI? Lansing is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Lansing

The Best Camping Near Lansing, Michigan

Ann Arbor is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ann Arbor. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Ann Arbor

The Best Camping Near Ann Arbor, Michigan

Join the fun near Grand Rapids. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Grand Rapids, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

Grand Rapids

The Best Camping Near Grand Rapids, Michigan

Flint is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

Flint

The Best Camping Near Flint, Michigan

Clinton Township, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Clinton Township is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Clinton Township camping trip.

Clinton Township

The Best Camping Near Clinton Township, Michigan

Join the fun near Dearborn. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Dearborn campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dearborn. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dearborn

The Best Camping Near Dearborn, Michigan

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Livonia. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Livonia campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Livonia, MI. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Livonia

The Best Camping Near Livonia, Michigan

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Hiawatha National Forest, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Hiawatha National Forest, MI. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Hiawatha National Forest

The Best Camping Near Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Ottawa National Forest, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Ottawa National Forest

The Best Camping Near Ottawa National Forest, Michigan

Looking for the best campgrounds near Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI? Sleeping Bear Dunes is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Sleeping Bear Dunes, reviewed by campers like you.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

The Best Camping Near Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Park is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pictured Rocks National Park campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Pictured Rocks National Park camping trip.

Pictured Rocks National Park

The Best Camping Near Pictured Rocks National Park, Michigan

Manistee National Forest camping is some of the best the midwest has to offer. You do not need a permit to camp on the National Forests or in designated campgrounds. If your campfire will be on National Forest System lands you will not need a wood permit to cut firewood. Dispersed and Primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".


Huron-Manistee National Forests

Searching for the best camping near Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Huron-Manistee National Forests and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping Near Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Best Camping Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Surrounded by the water of Lake Superior is some of the best camping in Michigan on the isolated and quiet Isle Royale. Near Rock Harbor, MI, campers can enjoy a variety of activities from swimming and fishing to boating and scuba diving. Lake Superior’s seemingly bottomless depths offer a world of exploration for snorkelers and divers. Campsites close to the lake make it easy to put in a kayak or canoe for exploring the tiny islands and waterways found throughout the area. Campgrounds come with the amenities campers expect to find that include cabins, yurts, and plenty of sites ideal for tents. RV drivers will also find plenty of places to hook up their vehicles.

The Best Camping in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Top Campgrounds in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (137)

1.