Dispersed camping opportunities near Stephenson, Michigan provide alternatives to developed RV parks. Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula at approximately 700 feet elevation, this area experiences long winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers with average July temperatures around 75°F. Most campgrounds operate from May through October with limited options during winter months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Peninsula Point Lighthouse: The lighthouse area offers excellent spots for nature observation, especially during migration seasons. "Great sunset area, pretty drive there. Lighthouse to explore. Would love to be there for the monarch migration," notes one Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed visitor.
Visit Door County: Many RV sites near Stephenson, Michigan serve as bases for exploring the Wisconsin peninsula across Green Bay. "Located right next to Potowatami State Park we were able to ride bike out of campground and directly only to state park trail," reports a camper at Tranquil Timbers Camping Resort.
Cherry orchards: Northern Door County offers seasonal fruit picking opportunities. "Just north of sister bay and right next door to a cherry orchard this campground was great! We camped in the older section of the the park and had huge sites with plenty of shade," reports a visitor to Hy-Land Court RV Park.
What campers like
Central location: Many camping areas provide convenient access to regional attractions. "They are uniquely situated just outside of Egg Harbor, with plenty of the local attractions within minutes of the park. Trolley Tours, Local Farmer's Markets, Local Wineries, and many other attractions are close by," notes a reviewer at HTR Door County.
Natural surroundings: Forest settings create privacy at many campgrounds despite proximity to developed areas. "Although some sites are rather close together, the fact that they are so wooded makes it feel more like a state park. The facilities, although older, are clean and well kept," remarks a camper about HTR Door County.
Stargazing opportunities: Remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing. "Caught northern lights, Milky Way, and glorious sights every day," writes a camper who spent six nights at Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Beyond what's mentioned in existing reviews, connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Our satellite was able to locate channels and we had ATT connectivity," notes a reviewer at Island Resort and Casino RV Park.
Pet policies differ: While most campgrounds allow pets, restrictions vary. "Tranquil Timbers advertises pet friendly but they ARE NOT pet friendly. If your dog makes any kind of noise whatsoever, they are NOT welcome. Motorcycles and noisy kids however, park approved!" warns a visitor to Tranquil Timbers Camping Resort.
Dispersed camping limitations: National Forest dispersed sites have specific restrictions. "This area is gorgeous, it's surrounded by lake superior... I stayed here 2 nights in what appears to be an established campsite before meeting a local ranger this morning, who informed me that there are only 2 dispersed campsites available here."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Several RV parks near Stephenson provide swimming options for children. "It has a pool for kids both older and small. It's very peaceful and quiet. I felt we got a lot of rest at night because it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop most nights," writes a visitor about Tranquil Timbers.
Recreation amenities: Look for campgrounds with multiple activities. "We love this place. Quiet. Lots to do for kids. Pool, mini golf, game room, tennis courts, soccer, volleyball a rec center with games, TV ect," shares a camper at Tranquil Timbers.
Kid-friendly bathrooms: Clean facilities make family camping easier. "Clean bathrooms and site trash up," notes a visitor at Hy-Land Court RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment to properly level larger rigs. "The site was easy to level but the wheels of our motor home were off of the ground," reports a reviewer at Island Resort and Casino RV Park.
Big rig accommodation: Most RV parks in the region can handle larger vehicles with towed accessories. "Not so big, there is no playground for kids, bathrooms and showers are really clean thats a plus, there is also a laundry machine," notes a visitor to Hy-Land Court RV Park.
Seasonal operations: Most camping facilities in the Upper Peninsula have limited operating seasons. "Very small but well kept. 16 parking spots with lawn, fire pit and a few trees. There is a small motel on site also. Located near very small village couple taverns and a mini mart. Less than a mile from the waters of Green Bay," reports a camper at Countryside Motel & RV Sites.
