Camping near Wetmore, Michigan offers access to several rustic campgrounds nestled within the eastern Upper Peninsula. The area sits 938 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter accessibility due to heavy snowfall that can exceed 180 inches annually.
What to do
Waterfront recreation at Bay Furnace: Just 36 miles northwest of Wetmore, Bay Furnace Campground offers direct access to Lake Superior shoreline. "Swimming beach provided and a smaller day use area is also available. The views are incredible overlooking lake superior, grand island and its smaller brother islands," notes camper Corey O. Historical elements add educational value as "the history of the campground with the bay furnace within the limits. Where they used to smelt iron in a 150 year old furnace is fascinating."
Explore mountain biking trails: The network of trails accessible from Rippling Rivers RV Resort near Marquette provides excellent mountain biking opportunities. "If you love mountain biking or hiking you stay here. Period. You are right on the trails," explains Rory L. The trails connect directly to the campground, making it convenient for riders of all experience levels to access without needing to transport bikes.
Visit Kitch-iti-kipi natural spring: Located near Manistique, this 40-foot deep natural spring maintains a constant 45°F temperature year-round. "Right in Manistique near Kitch-iti-kipi, this campground was easy to book last minute," mentions Amanda L. about Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground, which provides a convenient base for exploring this crystal-clear spring where visitors can observe fish and ancient tree trunks through remarkably clear water.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campgrounds offer sites with water views or lake access. At Bay Furnace Campground, Beth H. recommends specific sites: "AMAZING views of Lake Superior available for all, but for the best experience aim for sites 9-11; watching sunset from your own tent just can't be beat!" The beach areas are particularly appreciated for their natural features like "plenty of neat rocks and glass" that make for interesting shoreline exploration.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of campground facilities throughout the region. "Cleanest campsite bathroom I've been in," notes Kelly C. about Indian Lake RV Resort. Similarly, at Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground, Brandon D. appreciates the "unique spot" with "really kind" staff and mentions "they have some cool amenities like billiards and house crafted beer."
Spacious sites: Reviews frequently highlight site size and layout as a positive feature. Jennifer B. describes Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground as having "open, level gravel sites and some concrete pads scattered throughout this pretty new campground," noting that the "sites offer plenty of privacy and are large and well maintained."
What you should know
Limited shade in newer campgrounds: Several recently established campgrounds haven't developed mature tree coverage. At Pictured Rocks RV Park, Jennifer B. notes: "A few baby trees in the open meadow are trying to get started, but other than those there is no shade." Another camper, Melissa H., adds that "there were no trees to speak of, which made it hot, but it cooled down nice enough at night."
Variable connectivity: Cell service and internet access fluctuate throughout the region. At BayRidge RV Park, Alan B. reports "No Verizon service. Only T-Mobile and AT&T. WIFI only works around the office/facilities building." Prepare for limited connectivity, especially at more remote sites.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. At BayRidge RV Park, Alan B. advises: "Have plenty of levelling equipment available!! Some are very level, some are not level at all. We were in spot 32 and 4" laterally and 19" longitudinally out of level to start - at my max hitch jack limit and still 3" nose low."
Tips for camping with families
Sand dune exploration: Children can enjoy natural play areas at some campgrounds. At Pictured Rocks RV Park, Melissa H. notes that while there were "no playgrounds, trails, etc, the kids stumbled upon a sand dune just off the main stretch of campsites." These natural features provide entertainment without formal playground equipment.
Budget-friendly firewood: Campfire activities remain affordable at some locations. Beth H. found Bay Furnace Campground offered "firewood available for very good prices sold at campground; for $14 we got enough wood for 4 large, longburning fires. Wheelbarrow is available to take wood to your camp site and wood is cash only."
Water safety considerations: Lake Superior provides swimming opportunities but requires caution. Lisa R. describes the water at Bay Furnace as "clean/clear but cold as would be expected. Perfect for a refreshing cool off in hot weather!" Parents should monitor children closely as water temperatures rarely exceed 65°F even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RV camping near Wetmore, Michigan, selecting the right site significantly impacts comfort. Lee D. at BayRidge RV Park recommends: "Most sites are back-in but there are about a half dozen pull-through sites. All sites are gravel and there is a varying amount of site size and privacy between sites. Most appeared to be level or at least have a level spot, although Sites 22, 23, and 30 might be a bit challenging."
Seasonal power considerations: RVers should be aware of potential electrical capacity issues during peak summer months, particularly at older campgrounds. At Rippling Rivers RV Resort, one camper praised power reliability: "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."
Budget RV options: Casino locations offer economical overnight alternatives. Victoria K. explains that at Kewadin Casino, Christmas MI, "Sites have electric but no water. Some road noise but that's to be expected. Gas station right next door. Casino closed at 1am. It is actually $20 a night, not $15. You get a free $5 casino credit per night per person staying."
