RV travel and destinations
The Best Camping in Michigan [15 Must-See Locations]
Posted on June 13, 2022
![The Best Camping in Michigan [15 Must-See Locations]](https://ghost-cdn.rvezy.com/2022/06/Best-Campgrounds-in-Michigan.jpg)
Looking to camp in Michigan?
We surveyed Michiganders to get the insider scoop on where to find the best campgrounds across the state.
In this guide, we will help you find the best camping in Michigan by region and give you a snapshot of each campground, so you'll be able to plan your next RV road trip like a local.
Let's hit the road!
Michigan camping regions
Do you need an RV rental for your Michigan road trip? With RVezy, you can drive, tow, or get your RV rental delivered directly to your favorite campsite.
Upper Peninsula
You'll want to camp in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.) because of the lush forests, rivers, and lakes. The U.P. is surrounded by three Great Lakes and has some of the most scenic places to explore in Michigan, like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Hiawatha National Forest, and historic Mackinac Island
1. Straits State Park
720 Church Street St. Ignace, MI 49781
Why you should camp here
Straits State Park is the perfect jumping-off point to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The campground has views of the Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas and is less than two miles away from the Mackinac Island ferry terminal in St. Ignace.
Campground
Straits State Park has one large campground with three loops, a mini cabin, and a group camping area for youth. The campground has both modern and semi-modern campsites, which are similar, except the semi-modern campsites don't have any electrical hookups.
- 270 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30- amp electrical service with some 50-amp sites available.
- Modern restrooms, showers, and potable water faucets.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
- Generators and power cords are not permitted on waterfront sites.
First time camping at a state park? Here's everything you need to know.
2. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
41382 West M-123 Paradise, MI 49768
Why you should camp here
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to the Upper Falls, the second-largest waterfall east of the Mississippi. The Upper Falls earned its nickname, Root Beer Falls, because of its rust-colored water.
Campgrounds
Tahquamenon Falls State Park has several multi-loop campgrounds, a camper cabin, and backcountry camping. You can camp year-round, but be aware that the park winterizes some of the facilities once the temperatures drop below freezing.
Lower Falls Modern
- 188 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms with showers.
- Dump station.
Rivermouth Modern
- 72 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms with showers.
- Dump station.
Rivermouth Pines Rustic
- 36 dry sites best for tents or compact campers.
- Group camping location for 50+ tents.
- Vault toilets.
- Potable water faucets.
- Generators are not permitted.
3. Woodland Park Campground
21666 E. Braziel Street Grand Marais, MI 49839
Why you should camp here
This campground is close to the beaches of Lake Superior and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and has been a favorite local campground for over fifty years. This campground has a playground and modern conveniences like cable TV, internet, and restrooms with showers.
Campground
- 36 reservable and 132 first-come, first-served and RV and tent campsites.
- Primitive camping or sites with 20/30/50-amp electrical service and water available.
- Pet-friendly.
- Fire ring and picnic table at every site.
Pro tip: If the site you want isn't available, try snagging one of the first-come, first-served campsites.
4. Indian Lake State Park
8970 Co Hwy 442 Manistique, MI 49854
Why you should camp here
Indian Lake State Park is located minutes away from one of Michigan's most stunning natural attractions, Kitch-iti-kipi, a 200-foot deep freshwater spring. Since you can't camp at Palms Brook State Park, home to Kitch-iti-kipi, Indian Lake State Park is your best bet if you want to stay close to the springs.
Campgrounds
The campgrounds at Indian Lake State Park operate seasonally and are typically open from mid-June through Labor Day.
South Shore
- 145 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical hookups with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
West Shore
- 72 first-come, first-served primitive tent and RV sites.
- Fire pit and picnic table at each site.
- Hand pump with potable water.
- Vault toilet.
- Showers are available in the South Shore campground for a fee.
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
N8391 Sand Point Road Munising, MI 49862
Why you should camp here
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stretches for 50 miles along Lake Superior and is home to waterfalls, lakes, and undeveloped beaches. While visiting the park, take a ranger-led canoe tour, lighthouse tour, or participate in one of the other ranger programs the park offers throughout the summer months.
Campgrounds
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has three rustic campgrounds. The campgrounds are open from the mid-May through the mid-October, and all campers must have a reservation to stay overnight.
- 36 standard, non-electric tent and RV sites.
- 36-foot max vehicle length.
- Potable water faucets.
- Each campsite has a fire ring, grill grate, and a tent pad.
- Vault toilets.
- 21 standard, non-electric tent and RV and sites.
- 42-foot max vehicle length.
- Potable water faucets.
- Each campsite has a fire ring, grill grate, and a tent pad.
- Vault toilets.
- 8 standard, non-electric, tent and RV sites.
- 26-foot max vehicle length.
- Potable water faucets.
- Each campsite has a fire ring, grill grate, and a tent pad.
- Vault toilets.
6. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
33303 Headquarters Road Ontonagon, MI 49953
Why you should camp here
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness is Michigan's largest state park, and it's known for its thickly forested trails and beach-front camping along Lake Superior. While you're there, you won't want to miss the park's most popular natural attraction, Lake in the Clouds. Visit the overlook for an aerial view of the lake, or hike one of the lake's many waterfront trails.
Campgrounds
Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park has one RV campground with electrical hookups. The rest of the camping areas in the park are for tents, backcountry, or a unique stay in a tiny house, yurt, or cabin. Even though parts of the park are open for winter activities, campgrounds and other facilities may be closed during the off-season.
Union Bay Modern Campground
- 100 tent and RV sites.
- Lake-front camping.
- 20- and 30- amp electrical service.
- Restrooms, showers, and potable water faucets.
- Vault toilet and dump station.
- Generators or power cords are not allowed on any waterfront campsite.
Check out what park rangers love about Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan is known for its beaches, wineries, and some of Michigan's top-rated small towns worth visiting. If you plan to take a road trip from mid-June through early August, you'll be in the heart of the Cherry Capital of the World and some of the best u-pick cherry orchards in the country.
7. Petoskey State Park
Why you should camp here
Petoskey State Park is located along the shores of Lake Michigan and is a popular beach combing site for people searching for the unique Petoskey stone. The Little Traverse Wheelway, a 26-mile paved trail, runs near the park entrance and connects to the neighboring towns of Charlevoix and Harbor Springs.
Campgrounds
The campgrounds at this state park have RV and tent camping, mini cabins, and a group camping area. Pets are allowed in the campground but not on the beach.
Petoskey-Dunes Campground
- 80 tent and RV sites perfect for tents, smaller travel trailers, and campervans.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service.
- Potable water faucets.
- Playground.
- Vault toilets, modern restrooms, and showers.
- Dump station.
Petoskey-Tannery Creek Campground
- 100 tent and RV sites.
- Lake access.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Vault toilets, modern restrooms, and showers.
- Dump station.
Campground guests can take the free trolley between the state park and downtown Petoskey during the summer months.
8. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
5685 Lake Michigan Road Honor, MI 49640
Why you should camp here
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has one primary campground and several group tent camping areas. The Platte River Campground is close to the shores of Lake Michigan and the Platte River.
Platte River Campground
- 36 reservable and 132 first-come, first-served and RV and tent campsites.
- Primitive camping or sites with 20/30/50-amp electrical hookups and water available.
- Pet-friendly.
- Fire ring and picnic table at every site.
Find out how to make the most out of your trip to the national lakeshore by reading the park's Top Ten Tips for Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes.
9. Ludington State Park and Campgrounds
8800 W. M-116 Ludington, MI, 49431
Why you should camp here
Ludington State Park has wetland trails, beaches, dunes, a lighthouse, an interpretive program, and plenty of park events. Campers can set up their campsites, rent bikes and other recreational equipment, and find everything they need to be comfortable without leaving the park.
Campgrounds
Ludington State Park has RV and tent camping, mini cabins, and rustic walk-in tent sites. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table. Be aware that pets are not allowed on the shores of Lake Michigan except on the designated pet-friendly beach.
Beechwood Campground
- 147 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
Cedar Campground
- 106 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilet and dump station.
- Camp store.
Pines Campground
- 99 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical service.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
Mid Michigan
Mid Michigan is known for the beaches along Lake Huron, small towns, and big cities. Although Lansing and Flint are two of Michigan's top-ten largest cities, Mid Michigan still has abundant scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
10. Port Crescent State Park
1775 Port Austin Road Port Austin, MI 48467
Why you should camp here
Port Crescent State Park is one of six Dark Sky Preserves in Michigan. Dark sky parks promote stargazing, nighttime recreation, and astronomy and limit the number of lights in the facility. As a result, this park has some of the best views of the stars along Saginaw Bay.
Campgrounds
Port Crescent State Park is the area's premier glamping location. The park has several campgrounds with RV and tent camping, cottages, mini cabins, and geodesic domes for rent. Want to sleep under the stars? Check out one of the hammock-only sites.
Port Crescent Modern Campground
- 142 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30- amp electrical hookups.
- Potable water faucets.
- Camp store.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
Feeling adventurous? Rent a kayak and paddle the Turnip Rock Trail. Turnip Rock is less than five miles from Port Crescent State Park.
11. Sleeper State Park
6573 State Park Road Caseville, MI 48725
Why you should camp here
Looking to camp near Lake Huron in Michigan's thumb area? Sleeper State Park, known for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, is one of the best places to get away and spend time outdoors.
Campgrounds
The campgrounds at Sleeper State Park have something for everyone. Campers can rent a mini cabin, stay in a tent or RV in the modern campground, or sleep along the waterfront in a Tentrr Safari tent.
Sleeper Modern Campground
- 226 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical hookups with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
12. Sleepy Hollow State Park
7835 E Price Road Laingsburg, MI 48848
Why you should camp here
Sleepy Hollow State Park is a perfect place to camp if you enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. Hike or bike along the Little Maple River or head to Lake Ovid for a swim. If you have a dog, make sure you stop at the dog beach.
Campgrounds
Sleepy Hollow State Park has cabins for rent, a group camping area for youth, and a modern campground that's located within walking distance of the beach.
Sleepy Hollow Modern Campground
- 181 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30- amp electrical hookups with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
Southern Michigan
Southern Michigan includes the cities of Detroit and Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan's southern shoreline communities. When you visit this part of the state, you can do everything from attending a professional sporting event to exploring small towns and quiet recreational areas.
13. Addison Oaks County Park
1480 W Romeo Road Leonard, MI 48367
Why you should camp here
This park is pet friendly and has over 20 miles of multi-purpose trails, a disc-golf course, and a lake for paddling. During the peak season, the park hosts family-friendly activities and events perfect for guests of all ages.
Campground
The campground at Addison Oaks County Park operates seasonally and has RV and tent campsites, group areas, cabins, and yurts. Campers can rent bikes and boats and purchase firewood and ice on site.
- 170 tent and RV sites.
- Electricity and water.
- Restrooms and showers.
- Dump station.
14. Hideaway RV Park
3500 Updyke Road Grass Lake, MI 49240
Why you should camp here
Hideaway RV Park is close to Lansing and Ann Arbor, making it the ideal place to escape the city without traveling far. This seasonally operating campground is open from early spring to late fall and has paddleboard rentals, a fishing lake, and hiking trails.
Campground
- 57 full hookup spaces with 30- and 50-amp electrical service.
- Every site has a large, paved pull-through driveway.
- Picnic and fire rings.
- Firewood for sale.
- Laundry, showers, and restrooms.
15. Holland State Park
2215 Ottawa Beach Road Holland, MI 49424
Why you should camp here
Holland State Park is home to Michigan's most photographed lighthouse, Big Red. The park is known for its soft, sandy beaches and is an angler's paradise. Since the park is close to downtown Holland, a city with rich Dutch heritage, campers are close to restaurants, shopping, and local events.
Campgrounds
The park is divided into two areas, a beach and a lake unit, but campers will check-in at the same location, the campground registration building. Most of the park is set up for tent and RV camping, but a cabin and lodge are available in the Macatawa Campground.
Modern Beach Campground
This campground is located close to Lake Michigan. The sites don't have fire rings, but campers can bring fully-enclosed commercial fire pits as long as they have a lid.
- 98 paved tent and RV sites, most with 30-amp electrical service.
- 51 of the sites have full hookups with 50-amp electrical service.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
- Playground.
- Lake Michigan is within walking distance.
Macatawa Campground
This campground is located in the Macatawa unit of Holland State Park. Most campsites are grass or gravel, and the campground is right across from Lake Macatawa.
- 211 tent and RV sites.
- 20- and 30-amp electrical hookups with some 50-amp sites available.
- Potable water faucets.
- Modern restrooms and showers.
- Vault toilets and a dump station.
- Firewood and ice for sale.
Let's go camping
During the spring, summer, and fall, Michigan is one of the best places to explore the great outdoors and camp. Whether you prefer lakes and rivers or wooded campsites, Michigan has a spot for you.
If you decide to rent an RV in Michigan, we've got some helpful guides to get you started:
