Camping options near Iron Mountain, Michigan range from rustic tent sites to modernized glamping facilities across the Upper Peninsula. Located in Dickinson County where Michigan's Upper Peninsula meets Wisconsin, the area sits at approximately 1,160 feet above sea level with dense forest cover and numerous small lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with higher humidity levels, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to do
Swimming at clear water beaches: West Bass Lake Campground offers a large playground next to a small beach area where families frequently gather. A camper noted, "There is a large playground next to a small beach. Many people used the boat launch to go out on the water."
Artesian well water collection: Several campgrounds provide access to natural spring water sources. At Chipmunk Rapids, a visitor mentioned, "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit."
Peaceful kayaking: Bear Lake Campground offers excellent kayaking opportunities on electric-motors-only waters. A camper reported, "The lake is electric motors only, so boat traffic is quiet, and there are minimal private properties on the lake. It is flat between the campsite and the lake, so easy to access the water from your campsite."
Hiking wooded trails: Multiple forest trails connect campgrounds throughout the region. At White Birch Village, a visitor simply stated, "Nice last min stop. Good hiking."
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Governor Thompson State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site privacy. One camper reported, "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. Very quiet and peaceful. Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private."
Clean facilities: Keyes Lake Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and shower facilities. A visitor mentioned, "The bathroom was also spotless. The showers were free to campers with plenty of hot water."
Waterfront access: Many sites at Bear Lake provide direct lake access. A camper explained, "Most of the camp sites are waterfront with views or lake access to Bear Lake. Some sites are located on a ridge along the lake with stairs leading down to the water."
Abundant wildlife: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Governor Thompson State Park, a camper shared, "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night."
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Multiple parks report heavy tick presence, especially in spring. A camper at Governor Thompson State Park advised, "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."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Lake Antoine Park Campground, one visitor reported, "Loud cars, trucks and semi's were traveling the roads outside of the park at all hours. Drivers took great pleasure in stomping on the gas and racing past at an almost ear deafening sound."
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have minimal or no cellular connectivity. A camper at Bear Lake warned, "ZERO WiFi and cell service."
Weather preparations: Spring camping often means wet conditions. At West Bass Lake, a reviewer observed, "This campground seems pretty popular. Campers had their a/c on in their smaller RVs on this warm July weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: J.W. Wells State Park Campground features family-friendly recreation areas. A visitor noted, "The playground was nice and clean, the grounds were well kept, the showers were pretty clean too."
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas designed for children. At Bear Lake, a camper shared, "The beach is nice size with a roped off swimming area that has plenty of space for the kids to swim and explore."
Geocaching opportunities: Some parks offer this family-friendly activity. A visitor to Governor Thompson State Park mentioned, "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy."
Safe beach swimming: Most lakefront campgrounds provide designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. A West Bass Lake visitor reported, "There is a large playground adjacent to, but not in the campground. It is a nice short walk."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Keyes Lake Campground, RVers recommend specific sites for larger rigs. A visitor mentioned, "The site we had was privet and large enough for our 5th wheel and truck and boat."
Electric hookup options: Some sites offer multiple electrical connections. At West Bass Lake, a camper noted, "Each site has electric hookup, and some sites have more than one box."
Level site considerations: Look for established, level sites to minimize setup time. At J.W. Wells State Park, a visitor warned, "Mostly grassy campsites so things get a little wet after heavy rains."
Site size limitations: Veterans Memorial Park Campground accommodates smaller units better. A visitor advised, "Easy to get to. quiet campground. I would suggest smaller campers and tents."
