Glamping experiences in Michigan's Upper Peninsula feature varied seasonal operations and proximity to major attractions. Most locations operate from May through October with reduced hours in shoulder seasons. Yurts and canvas accommodations typically require advance booking, particularly during peak summer months when Lake Superior water temperatures become more tolerable. Sites near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore tend to fill fastest.
What to do
Hiking connected trails: At Twelvemile Beach Campground, visitors can access the North Country Trail directly from their campsite. A reviewer noted, "The North County Trail passes right through this campsite; the only downside is, no dogs allowed on the trail (we were issued a warning)." This trail offers scenic views along the colored rock shoreline and connects to multiple points of interest.
Lake activities: Superior Times offers multiple water-based recreation options including boat, kayak and jet ski rentals. "The campground is on Au Train Lake and the campground offers jet skis, boats, and kayaks for rent," shares one camper. Rentals start at $60/hour for Sea Doos, making this an accessible option for families looking to explore the water.
Waterfall exploration: Campers at Colwell Lake Campground mention its central location to several waterfall areas. A visitor stated, "It's about 35 minutes from camp to Manistique and Kitch-Iti-Kipi. About 65 minutes to Grand Marais and some waterfalls. And about 25 minutes to Munising or Pictured Rocks and Miner's Beach, with a bunch of waterfalls along the way." Most waterfalls are accessible just off the road with minimal hiking required.
What campers like
Waterfront access: At Munising Tourist Park Campground, lakefront sites are highly prized. One camper shared, "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." These premium sites typically book months in advance.
Natural lake camping: South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground offers secluded lake camping with primitive amenities. "This campsite was awesome! We camped right on the lake and due to how small the campsite is (only about 8 sites max). No reservations. You self-register when you arrive," explains one visitor. The small size ensures a quiet experience even during peak season.
Central location: Many campers appreciate Jack Pine Lodge and Campground's position between attractions. As one reviewer put it, "In the middle of the National Forest, smack in the middle of the UP. Everything is about 45 minutes away, but you'll get an amazing night sky and great camping hosts." This central position allows visitors to explore multiple areas without changing campsites.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At many campgrounds, site quality varies significantly. At Munising Tourist Park, "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. (Recommended to bring extra hose and cords)."
Bugs can be intense: The Upper Peninsula experiences significant insect activity during summer months. As one camper at Colwell Lake Campground observed, "These things were unphased by a number of citronella candles, obscene amounts of bug spray... Cooking anything was awful.. and they drove all 4 of my brood to the brink of madness at some point or another." Peak bug season typically runs from late May through July.
Weather preparedness: The proximity to Lake Superior means dramatic weather changes. A camper at Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA recalled, "We were not prepared for Lake Superior gusts of winds. Literally had to put our kayaks on both sides of the tent. For people that can't laugh that off, as we did, do not stay right on the water."
Tips for camping with families
Free activities: Superior Times provides numerous entertainment options for children. A reviewer mentioned, "Kids fished, rode Sea Doos, played basketball, and had a great time. We sat around our own firepit and had a chance to unwind and relax." The campground includes multiple play areas and equipment at no additional cost.
Dispersed options: Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping offers a quieter alternative to established campgrounds. "Just off M-28, down the right side road a bit you will see campfire remnants and a spot where people tend to park on the left. No signage and only saw 2 pre used spots," notes a camper. This free site works well for families seeking budget-friendly options with more privacy.
Kid-friendly beaches: Colwell Lake Campground features accessible beaches for children. A camper observed, "We love when there is a beach right at our site! This campground had a trail along the lake, a public beach and a fishing pier." The sandy beach areas provide safer water access than Lake Superior's rocky shores.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: RVers frequently mention the close quarters at certain campgrounds. At Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA, a camper reported, "The sites are incredibly close. See that orange hammock? It's not ours and is actually on the neighboring site... Our camper is maybe thirty feet away from our neighbors and we face each other."
Full hookup availability: Jack Pine Lodge offers some of the area's more complete RV services. "Most sites have water/sewage and 30 or 50amp service," notes one visitor. The campground also provides "dump station and 91 octane fuel on site" plus a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires.
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. At Munising Tourist Park, a camper advised, "The sites have plenty of room for multiple cars to park." However, they also noted the campground's layout means "you will see your neighbor clearly" with limited privacy between many RV sites.
