Northern Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers rugged camping experiences through heavily wooded terrain and along the shores of Lake Michigan. Stephenson sits at an elevation of approximately 700 feet with a humid continental climate that creates distinct camping seasons from May through October. Most campgrounds in this area experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between daytime and nighttime during peak summer months.
What to Do
Hiking trails access: J.W. Wells State Park Campground provides trail systems through forest areas with varying difficulty levels. According to a visitor, "There are a couple short trails for hiking or ATV's and the Cedar River about a mile north of the site which I assume has some fishing and boating."
Water recreation: Diamond Lake Family Campground offers swimming with unique features for families. "We don't have small kids but 2 of the couples we were with did and they had so much fun with the water chute and inflatables," notes one camper who visited in August.
Fishing spots: Menominee River City Park Campground provides multiple fishing access points. "There are a number of good fishing areas within the park and just outside park. The river is on one side of the park with a canal on two sides. If you bring a boat you can beach it in the park," explains a regular visitor.
Wildlife watching: Governor Thompson State Park has diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, though requires preparation. A camper mentioned, "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night."
What Campers Like
Yurt accommodations: Wagon Trail Campground offers yurt camping near Stephenson, Michigan (approximately a 90-minute drive). "The customer service at this campground is impeccable. Bathrooms are always amazingly clean. Small camp store has all the basics. Playground for kids. Campsite was very clean... Cabins and yurts also available to rent," shares a satisfied guest.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention site privacy at multiple locations. At Shakey Lakes Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "They are well-known for having the cleanest bathrooms/showers in the area and their bathrooms did not disappoint! They are air conditioned with individual, private stalls and hot water!"
Waterfront access: Peninsula State Park's South Nicolet Bay Campground offers premium water views. "Park has multiple CGs. This CG has stunning views near water, restrooms, fire rings and tables at sites. Sites are well shaded with forest trees, trails to enjoy, fishing and paddling at water," according to a recent visitor.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards. At Kleinke Park, a camper noted, "We pulled in after a long day of driving and without a reservation. Fortunate to be able to pull right in and had several easily navigable sites available. Flat, clean and easy to maneuver."
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At J.W. Wells State Park Campground, a camper advised, "We always make a point to stay at least one night here when passing through the UP. We stay at site 40 but all the spots along there are in the water."
Seasonal considerations: The region experiences distinct seasonal changes that affect camping. "It was a clean, busy park. We had a nice shaded site along the woods great for tent camping. The bathrooms are kept up nicely, the only downfall of the trip was the rain and our leaky tent!!"
Bug activity: Insects can be abundant in certain periods. One camper at Governor Thompson reported, "Beautiful Lakes secluded areas and a crazy amount of ticks in May. This could be why we were the only people in our loop of the campground so early in the season."
Travel distances: Some campgrounds are remote. A J.W. Wells visitor noted, "It is a quiet campground and everyone is very friendly there. Great playground for the kids the only problem is it is far away from really anything and the gas station near by charges and arm and a leg for food."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Potawatomi State Park includes facilities for children. "There was also a child's playground with lots of space. Overall it was a great place to visit and check out the area," according to a summer visitor.
Swimming areas: Multiple locations offer swimming options with varying facilities. At Diamond Lake Family Campground, "The campground was quiet and everyone was friendly. We'll be back!"
Educational options: Some parks feature historical elements. "I didn't realize until we walked out to it that you can climb up inside and check out the whole thing. Super friendly staff to explain its history as well," reports a visitor to the lighthouse near Menominee.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important. As one camper at Governor Thompson State Park shared, "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: River Park Campground provides full services. "Right on the water way and gorgeous weather. Only bummer was no place to swim but everything else was great. Level well manicured grounds and views. Great price for full hook ups."
Site specifications: Many campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes but require research. "Drive in, select your site, put payment in envelope simple process to reserve a site at a nice campground! Brilliant sunrises over the lake," reports a Kleinke Park visitor.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer sanitary disposal. At Veterans Memorial Park, "Easy to get to, quiet campground. I would suggest smaller campers and tents."
Weather considerations: Seasonal variations affect sites differently. "Some sites are low, so water flows to the site on rainy days," notes a visitor to J.W. Wells State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of site selection during wet periods.
