Best Dog-Friendly Camping in Michigan

When you think about camping in Michigan, it’s the water that draws most to the Great Lakes State. Michigan has 3,288 miles of shoreline, the second longest of any state, including 1,056 miles of island coast. Plus, you’re never more than six miles from a natural water source, or more than 85 miles away from a Great Lake.

There are plenty of opportunities for coastal and island camping in Michigan, but it’s more than just water. Michigan has the largest state park and state forest system of any state, with over 100 state parks, recreation areas, and state forests. There are also several national parks, forests, and lakeshores to pitch a tent or park the adventure rig. Needless to say, you have some options, so stick with The Dyrt to help you narrow it down. Consider these main Michigan attractions when deciding on where to go camping in Michigan.

For most campers, the epicenter of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountainous dunes slope from high peaks and plateaus down to meet with the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Hiking, biking, hang gliding, off-roading, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, or just simply sandy beach lounging can all be found in and around Sleeping Bear Dunes. Also, when you take a camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the nearby quaint towns and rolling inland hills speckled with fruit orchards provide the perfect bonus excursions.

Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in the country. Michigan waterways have been essential to the growth of the nation, but they’ve also been treacherous for mariners for centuries, and continue to demand respect. When camping in Michigan, touring some of the iconic Michigan lighthouses can be a great way to learn about the history of the region, while also taking in stellar views of natural landscapes and architectural achievement. Check in with The Dyrt for information on camping near some great Michigan lighthouses.

Finally, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an entire playground of its own for outdoor recreation and exploration. Discover some of the many waterfalls like the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, or kayak on Lake Superior for a memorable view of the famous Pictured Rocks. The power of Lake Superior can be seen across the northern shore with unique rock formations, and remnants of the prominent mining and shipping industry still exist throughout. If you’re thinking about more remote or wild camping options in Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is for you. Whatever your camping style, stay tuned to The Dyrt for inside information on the best camping in Michigan.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites in Michigan (1,032)

    1. Wilderness State Park Camping

    74 Reviews
    Cross Village, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 436-5381

    ", the potable water spigot near our campsite (just a short walk away) was still on!"

    "Beaches are not dog-friendly (as is the case throughout Michigan, although dog beaches are starting to make headway). There is a dark sky park nearby - don't bother."

    2. Straits State Park Campground

    73 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-8620

    $22 - $42 / night

    "We reserved site 83A for our family of 5. we were in close proximity to the newly constructed bathhouse complete with dish washing stations. it was a full campground on the Friday night that we were there"

    "The Straits State Park in Michigan's Upper Penninsula sits on the North end of the Mackinaw Bridge in St. Ignace."

    3. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."

    "Hiking to Lake Michigan, bike trails, Sleeping Bear Dunes just a short drive away. For those with dogs, Esch Beach, at the end of Esch Road, is about 10 minutes by car and dog friendly."

    4. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "Happened upon this Gem when driving the coast of Lake Michigan.  Watched the solar eclipse from the beach.   The DBR had a viewing area setup for adults and kids.  "

    "The walk to the beach access is a beautiful one, and the beach is astounding! Pet friendly!"

    5. Lower Falls Campground — Tahquamenon Falls State Park

    55 Reviews
    Paradise, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 492-3415

    $28 - $32 / night

    "Showers and a modern toilet are available in the modern portion of the campground which is a short walk through a playground and separating trees."

    "A must if you live in Michigan. Portage camp is a walk from the lower falls. Brand new and clean bathrooms. Sewage dump is a mile at hemlock camp. Get water there before you go to your site."

    6. Hoffmaster State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    Norton Shores, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 798-3711

    $38 - $42 / night

    "Unfortunately, a red flag was flying on our visit, so we only waded at the water's edge- but - still cool to lay out on the sugar-like sand and walk its 3 mile length!"

    "Site 31 and any along that path back up to a little creek and trail which was just perfect for the kids to play in."

    7. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    52 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $20 / night

    "The foliage helps create privacy but the campsites are close in proximity overall."

    "We spent most of our time at the pet friendly beach. So many places to hike and so much fun to swim. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay."

    8. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park — Fort Wilkins State Historic Park

    52 Reviews
    Copper Harbor, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 289-4215

    $30 / night

    "Things I love about this campground: sites with easy access to private lakeside swimming, clean restrooms with Wifi and laundry, the fort is an interesting piece of history to explore, and the conglomerate"

    "The center is blacktopped surrounded by grass and trees. Grass sites are around the perimeter- they are still great. There is nothing better than to walk on the pier at night and star gaze."

    9. Munising Tourist Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Munising, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 202-2694

    $29 - $45 / night

    "If you can’t get into the campgrounds in Pictured Rocks this site is a good alternative due to its proximity (three miles) the downtown and the entrance to the park. "

    "AMAZING views of Lake Superior just steps away from the camp site. Spots don't stay empty for long. The RV park stays full"

    10. Traverse City State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5270

    "300+ sites, pet friendly, sites for all shapes and sizes. Open year round, with heated cabins. It's a great location, just across from Traverse Bay with just across the road."

    "Pets are allowed in the campground. The sites are a little tight, but if you are looking to hang out in Traverse City, this is a convenient location. Bathhouse was always well maintained."

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Showing results 1-10 of 1,032 campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews in Michigan

5969 Reviews of 1032 Michigan Campgrounds



Guide to Michigan

Discovering the great outdoors with your furry friends is a rewarding experience, and Michigan offers a variety of pet-friendly camping options that cater to both you and your pets.

Dog owners appreciate spacious sites and amenities

Pet owners like the variety of activities available

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great features for comfort