Oak Grove Campground/chippewa Landing
This private campground is located in the Northwestern region of the lower peninsula. Two big sites exist to which you can paddle up in a canoe up to your chosen spot, or you can drive in and hook up to electricity and plumbing.
There is WiFi, and they do allow pets in the park, something a lot of state parks refrain from doing. Essentially whatever you can do on the nearby river, including tubing and fishing, are the available activities.
Its a very quiet and peaceful spot, and loud noises are discouraged so that all campers can enjoy the sounds of the surrounding woods and the bubbling sounds of the river.
Camping is typically by membership only, so you do have to purchase a season pass or membership to camp here.
Best Rv Camping In Michigan
Most of the campgrounds above welcome RVs in addition totents. Some even have RV hookups and dump stations. But we wanted to round upthe best RV parks in Michigan for those that prefer a less rustic, primitive RVcamping experience with the most amenities possible.
Dont have your own RV? Weve partnered with Outdoorsy and RVshare to help you find the best RV rental for your Michigan RV camping trip. And dont forget to check out our popular guides: renting your first RV and buying your first RV for more information.
Top Rated Campground In Michigan
9& 10 News conducted a poll on their viewers’ favorite place to go camping for their news segment “MiFavoriteThings.” Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping was chosen as one of the top rated campgrounds in northern Michigan and featured during this news segment.
Vince Rogala of Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping is interviewed and talks a little about the park and it’s history.
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Port Crescent State Park
The ThumbThe central-eastern shores of Lake Huronthe Thumb, as its known to localsdoes not get the love it deserves. Lake Huron is a vast inland seaever cold, and ever pure. On whats considered Michigans sunrise side, you dont have to deal with rich locals in boat shoes like the west side of the state. It feels more free over here on the east coastmore wildand this little state park even has a Dark Sky preserve. Watch the sunrise and sunset from your campsite at this privileged peninsula, just a short drive from the Detroit area.
Fishermans Island State Park
Northwest Lower PeninsulaThis rustic gem has a beautiful beachfront and enough space between sites to make you feel like you have the campground to yourself, which if you go during the middle of the week or slightly off-season, you probably will. Despite its close proximity to busy Charlevoix, the city-going folks tend to stay there, and this little nook of great swimming and hiking often goes overlooked.
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Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Shriram Patki / Shutterstock
You might never have a drive thats as spectacular as the one you get at Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
This is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The wonders of this drive help even more to make Sleeping Bear one of the top vacation spots in the state.
For seven miles, youll be driving in a loop and experiencing scenery that rivals the greatest tourist attractions of many states.
The views youll get of Lake Michigan are the kind that would be posted on a postcard.
As you drive uphill and through dunes and forests, you can be filled with anticipation and stunned by how beautiful everything is.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive mightve started out as a relatively well-kept secret, but its since become one of the top tourist attractions in the area.
Going for a drive in nature can help to clear your mind, but Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive takes that relaxation to a whole new level.
For a fun but also spellbinding car trip, you should come to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
The Detroit Institute Of Arts
EQRoy / Shutterstock
One of the best things to do in Michigan is to go to the Detroit Institute of Arts.
It could easily rank among the top 10 art museums in the United States.
At this Michigan museum, you can explore thousands of phenomenal works that span the globe in origin.
Part of Detroits Cultural Center Historic District, the Institute of Arts has some of the most must-see works in all of Michigan.
In the collection, there are pieces from the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
You can feel near all kinds of incredible eras when youre at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Going to the Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the most fun things to do in Michigan.
Its open from Tuesday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is free for people who live in Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb county, museum members, and children five and younger.
Otherwise, its $14 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for college students, and $6 for youths.
Address: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
Planning a trip to Detroit soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Detroit!
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Best Campground For Bird Watching: Tawas Point State Park
Its no surprise why Tawas Point State Park has been called the Cape Cod of the Midwest.After all, this scenic park and its campground are situated on an ideal site along Tawas Bay. The protected waters in the bay provide warm, shallow water for swimmers and plenty of wind for sailboaters and kiteboarders.
This part of the world is also well known for its exceptional birdwatching because it is an important stop for birds during the spring migration season. For many, it provides the first opportunity for them to rest after flying over Lake Huron. For others, its a good place to pause before tackling the rest of the journey to Canada. Its easy for birders to get a nice, long look at the birds, too. Since they are so exhausted, they often stick around for a little bit.
One of the best places to camp in Michigan, the campground at Tawas Point State Park is well organized. There are centrally located restrooms, a sanitation station and playground. Many campsites have mature trees that offer shade during the height of the summer sun.
In addition to wildlife viewing opportunities, the campground provides easy access to all of the parks beautiful features. This includes the Tawas Point Lighthouse, the only true Victorian-era style station built on the Great Lakes. There is a separate, smaller beach area for campers with the day use beach and lighthouse just a short walk or bike ride away thanks to a paved hiking trail to both destinations.
Camp Lord Willing Rv Park
RV camping in Michigan doesnt get much better than CampLord Willing RV Park near Monroe, Michigan.
Not only is its location ideal for exploring southeastMichigan, including Lake Eerie, but its also one of the best campgrounds nearDetroit. It features around 100 campsites with full RV hookups. The peacefulwooded setting near a small fishing pond is perfect for year-round relaxation.
Thanks to its close proximity to Detroit, many RV campersstay here while visiting Michigans largest city. Exploring sleepy downtownMonroe is another must while staying here.
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Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
When you come home from your trip, you should be telling people about how much nature means to the state.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve sits beside Lake Michigan and gives creatures and plants a wonderful home.
It also gives people a wonderful place to visit.
The composition of Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is one of the coolest parts.
Dunes are in the upper regions and swampland in the lower ones.
There are also terrific observation platforms as well as an amphitheater and gazebo.
Your time at the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is great for letting go of stress and enjoying the moment.
Its open from 10 a.m. to 30-minutes post-sunset every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Parking costs $5.
Address: 6696 Lower Shore Dr, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States
Silver Lake State Park
Randall Vermillion / Shutterstock
If you want to really see how gorgeous Lake Michigan is, the place to be is Silver Lake State Park.
Comprised of close to several thousand acres, Silver Lake State Park deserves a gold star.
Whether you want to go camping or just spent a day here, this park will impress you.
You can take a boat out on the lake, go hunting, or take a hike.
The land is just as fantastic as the water, with 2,000-plus acres of sand dunes.
Theres also a portion specifically for driving off-road vehicles.
Fun with your family and other loved ones can really be had when youre at Silver Lake State Park.
You can get out of your element and feel all the more confident for it.
Additionally, you can enjoy dazzling views of the region.
Address: 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436, United States
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Dunes Harbor Family Camp
This family-friendly campground is based along the beautiful Silver Lake. Just a mile from the Sand Dune ORV entrance, its a perfect place for those looking for adventure. Walk the beaches of Lake Michigan, visit the Sable Point Lighthouse, or enjoy some of the many amenities of the campground.
Those include all sorts of family activities, such as horseback riding, archery, movie nights, or arts and crafts activities. Water lovers will like the heated swimming pool with a slide and kayak rentals.
The campground has 128 full hook-up sites, 55 of which face the waterfront. There are also 36 water and electricity hook-up sites as well as rustic cabins. Extra-large and group camping spots are available too.
Chapel Beach Campground Munising
There are several campgrounds in and around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, but Chapel Beach has almost universally positive reviews from anyone who has stayed there. This is a small, backcountry campground that requires a hike of a little over two to three miles. This is perfect for anyone that wants to combine some hiking with their camping experience. The rate is only about $5 a night, but you will need a backcountry camping permit and a reservation to use this location.
Those who stay at this location will be treated to a spectacular beach and views of Lake Michigan. It also gives the chance to get up close and personal with awesome natural features like Chapel Rock that most tourists only see from one of the guided cruises past the formations.
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The Best Places To Go Camping In Michigan
Michigan is rife with opportunity for outdoor adventures,including some of the best camping in the United States.
Touching four of the five Great Lakes, the state has more than 3,288 miles of freshwater shoreline plus more than 11,000 inland lakes. All this in addition to 20 million acres of forest just waiting to be explored.
Divided into two by the Straits of Mackinac, both the mitten-shaped Lower Peninsula and long, slender Upper Peninsula boast a diverse collection of terrain and natural beauty as well as countless camping opportunities.
Whether you prefer tent camping at a secluded rustic campground or RV camping in a bustling RV Park, the Wolverine State has you covered. Same goes for free camping, overnight backpacking, winter camping, and so much more.
Here are 33 of the best places to go camping in Michigan.
More Winter Things To Do In Michigans Upper Peninsula
While youre enjoying winter camping in Michigans Upper Peninsula, be sure to check out some of these other winter activities in Michigan that are unique to the Upper Peninsula like skiing in the Porcupine Mountains, exploring the Eben Ice Caves or Grand Island Ice Caves, climbing frozen waterfalls in Michigan, or even spending a day at Tahquamenon Falls in the winter!
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Best Camping Spots On The West Michigan Lakeshore
by Jeralin-Admin on July 21, 2021
What better way to experience the natural beauty of West Michigans lakeshore than to surround yourself with it at one of the many campgrounds found here? Whether youve got a trailer, a tent, or even just a hammock, there are all sorts of places throughout the area perfect for setting up camp.
So, if you enjoy sitting around a campfire, going on day hikes, relaxing under the stars, and indulging in smores, check out this list of some of the best spots for West Michigan camping.
Lake Fanny Hooe Resort & Campground
I camped here on my first trip to the U.P. and its still one of my favorites. I went waterfall hunting and made multiple stops before reaching my destination in Copper Harbor. I stayed two nights in Munising and spent the day between visiting waterfalls. I was out early enough that I had every fall to myself. Also, the rock formations on the trails make for some great photos. At Lake Fanny Hooe, the campground was quiet, clean and peaceful. Again, as a history buff I was excited to see Ft. Wilkins and do not, I repeat, do NOT miss taking a trek through Estivant Pines. Its one of the best hikes I have done.
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Why Youll Love It
The campsites along Green Road are easily accessible and only about a mile east of the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan and a short drive from the city of Manistee.
There is great hiking in the Nordhouse Dunes Recreation area, just about a 10-minute drive away. While youre there, dont miss a visit to Ludington State Park!
Enchanted Treehouse Glamping On Lake Michigan
Location: West Olive, Michigan
Welcome to the incredible Enchanted Treehouse which sits on sits on a sand dune overlooking the iconic Lake Michigan! While the pictures really dont do this place justice, this 3-bedroom vacation rental is a treehouse glamping getaway that the entire family will adore!
It comes fully equipped with everything you need for a trip , and youre guaranteed a peaceful and tranquil experience while you enjoy sunsets and scenic views of the lake from this abode.
This is truly one of the best treehouse rentals in Michigan, and was even designed by an award winning architect! Its often booked up in advance, so be sure to reserve your dates ASAP!
Treehouse glamping in Michigan | Credit: VRBO
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Start Planning Your Trip To Michigan
Going to Michigan should appeal to you immensely if you love things like nature and culture.
You might not be able to see everything you want to in one trip, but that gives you the perfect excuse to come back.
You might even look into setting up residence here.
Its the kind of state that sticks with you and reminds you of how special America really is.
Fisherman’s Island State Park
Another gem that goes largely unnoticed by the crowds that swarm Traverse City to the south is this park near Charlevoix. This is a smaller park, but it offers miles of beautiful shoreline on Lake Michigan where you can just get away from it all. It is a great place to walk the beach and search for Petoskey stones.
The campground is rustic, so no WiFi, but it is tucked away into the woods and you might forget you have neighbors in this park. If you can make do without power or water, it makes for one of the best RV experiences on the Lake Michigan coastline. There are 50 sites, and the fees are a modest $17 a night.
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Nature And The Comfort At The Outpost Tent
Location: Sawyer
Set on a quiet 5-acre property, this glamping site is perfect for nature lovers. It provides no-frills simple living with a twist. Youâll have some added camping comforts, like a queen-size bed, solar shower, portable outdoor toilet, and a propane grill with basic cooking essentials.
Youâll also have your own fire pit where you can cook up some farm-fresh eggs supplied to you for free when the resident chickens are feeling generous. There are multiple trails you can explore from your tent, and the site is within walking distance to downtown Sawyer perfect for a night out. The beautiful Lake Michigan and the Warren Dunes are just a 5-minute drive from the site.
Apgar Campground Glacier National Park Montana
TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris
Glacier National Park is a vast array of pristine forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and rugged mountains. Adventurous visitors and campers visiting Montana enter a hikers paradise when coming here. Located under three miles from the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic mountain road through the Rocky Mountains, Apgar Campground, the largest in the park, is situated amongst the trees and wildlife that ranges from mountain goats to grizzly bears. With day hiking and sunsets on Lake McDonald, guided horseback riding, and kayak rentals, campers will relish in nature.
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Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Ontonagon
Activities: paddling, disc golf, fishing, hiking, hunting, swimming
Amenities: boat launch, concession, water , electric , showers
Price: $15 per night for backcountry or $17+ in one of the campgrounds
Porcupine Mountains is Michigans largest State Park at roughly 60,000 acres.
As you can imagine, there is quite a lot to see at Porcupine Mountains.
From roaring waterfalls and pristine lakes , rivers, and streams to over 90 miles of hiking trails, this area does not disappoint.
Porcupine Mountains is also home to the Lake of the Clouds, a magnificent body of water located in the middle of dense forest .
In the winter months, youll have access to fresh powder at the Porcupine Mountains ski area.
Tent camping in the State Park is a wonderful experience, where you have the freedom to stay in the traditional campgrounds or at one of the many backcountry camping sites.
If you plan to camp backcountry, make sure to read the specifics of each campsite as some come equipped with bear poles and lockers and some do not.