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Campgrounds in Northern Michigan are really beautiful places to visit because of their pure lakes, amazing weather and welcoming locals. You will find camping areas close to or on the shores of either Lake Michigan or Huron. These are the two large lakes that border Northern Michigan.
So, it should come as no surprise that campers totally love this region of Michigan Let's find out more about the beautiful campgrounds in Northern Michigan.
1. Ludington State Park
Northern Michigan's Ludington State Park is a fantastic place to camp because of its combination of nature and recreational amenities. You'll have lots of alternatives thanks to the 355 campsites split among the four campgrounds (Beechwood, Cedar, Pines, and Jack Pine). However, it's a good idea to reserve in advance since some campgrounds are in high demand and sell out months before summer.
This state park offers access to kilometers of sandy shoreline along with the picturesque forests, bodies of water, and dunes that surround it.
The famous Big Sable Point Lighthouse is one of the park's key draws. It offers a distinctive opportunity to explore the area on foot or by bike and is accessible by a 1.8-mile sand and gravel track. The historic beach house on Lake Michigan also houses a number of exhibits and events.
We like Ludington State Park's location because of how well it's situated between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan. For those who want to spend the afternoon on the water, the park has boats that can take you to Hamlin Lake.
Also, the Big Sable River flows directly through the park, making it a great place to cool down on hot summer days or go fishing.
2. Hartwick Pines State Park
The 49 acres of old-growth pine forest in this park, one of the biggest in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, are among the last of their kind in the state. Its 21 miles of paths are perfect for biking or hiking, and its four tiny lakes are perfect for paddling.
If history interests you, you can visit the Hartwick Pines Logging Museum, where you will learn about logging in Michigan throughout the 19th century.
The contemporary campground contains a lot of amenities like shower building, dump station, and their playground is open seasonally. Also, it is pet-friendly, so anyone traveling with a canine buddy will feel at home.
Because of the variety of natural features, we believe this to be one of Northern Michigan's top campgrounds.
When visiting in the winter, you can also take part in winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
3. Wilderness State Park
With its expansive 10,500 acres and 26 miles of Lake Michigan beachfront, Wilderness State Park offers several opportunities to get close to nature. Here, you can choose from a variety of rustic or contemporary camping areas.
It provides easy access to other nearby sites like Mackinac Island and offers stunning lake vistas and amazing sunsets just a short distance from Mackinaw City in Northwest Michigan.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, this is undoubtedly your nirvana. You have a wide range of options, from hiking or bicycling on the park's paths to swimming and fishing in Lake Michigan's clear waters.
One of the best spots in Northern Michigan to view the cosmos is Wilderness State Park, which has been classified as a dark sky preserve.
4. Lakeport State Park
Lakeport State Park ought to be at the top of your list if you're looking for a special outdoor adventure. It is tucked away in Burtchville Township in Michigan's St. Clair County and provides several outdoor activities.
The state park's campsites are only one of the features that sets it at the top of Northern Michigan's camping destinations. Each one has a picnic table, a fire pit, and electricity so you have everything you need right there.
Their favorite feature of Lakeport State Park is its uninterrupted vistas of Lake Huron's magnificent seas. It also gives the people of southeast Michigan direct access to the Great Lakes, making it attractive if you want to take a break from the city.
There is no better site than Lakeport State Park to set up camp along its beachfronts or to take in the scenery while hiking along its paths.
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5. Fisherman’s Island State Park
This 2,678-acre northern Michigan treasure gives you the rare opportunity to go camping alone right on the shore of the lake. You can go hiking on more than 6 miles of pristine shoreline and view the scenery. This park is conveniently situated four miles from downtown Charlevoix and within striking distance of a number of attractions in each direction. It is halfway between Traverse City and Mackinaw City.
The park has about 80 basic campsites tucked away among sloping dunes. You will find different maple, birch, aspen, and cedar trees, which contributes to its rustic appearance.
You won't have to sacrifice comforts while camping in Northern Michigan thanks to the variety of amenities available at these campgrounds. Pets are welcome (as long as they're on a leash), full connections for RVs are available if needed. Showers and restrooms are accessible, and Wi-Fi is an option when you need it. Fires are permitted with firewood provided.
6. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
One of the nicest camping areas in Northern Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is more than just a campground. You're entering a landscape filled with soaring dunes, crystal-clear inland lakes, and dense woodlands. Each of the various campgrounds like Platte River Campground or D.H. Day, offers a variety of amenities and is close to stunning views of Lake Michigan, so you can pick one of them to stay at.
There is always something to do here. You can trek along the expansive lakefront or tan on the sand beaches. There’s a "rescue mission" at the Maritime Museum to try out if you have kids.
Structures like island lighthouses and US Life-Saving Service stations shows the park's rich historical heritage. Also, going to the Leelanau County by car allows you to take in flora and fauna, which improves your camping trip.
7. Hiawatha National Forest
With its vast landscape and many natural features, Hiawatha National Forest is arguably the most beautiful wilderness hideaway for camping.
This forest, which covers approximately 900,000 acres, is one of the wildest areas in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. You can unplug from your everyday routine and enjoy the peace of nature here.
It has several camping options, from contemporary campgrounds for a more traditional experience to free dispersed sites if you prefer a more private camping trip.
Most of the camping spots in this area are best suited for tents as many can't hold big campers or RVs.
Hiawatha National Forest stands out because of its woods, marshes, and even waterfalls. With more than 100 miles of coastline, there are plenty of chances for swimming, boating, and other water sports.
You'll like traveling through hundreds of miles of trails if hiking is your thing. Biking, and even equestrian riding are permitted on these pathways.
8. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
With its magnificent sandstone cliffs, peaceful beaches, and lush woodlands that provide an unmatched camping experience, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will undoubtedly win your heart.
Take a moment to picture up your tent at one of the quaint drive-in campgrounds. It can be the Little Beaver Lake Campground or Twelvemile Beach Campground( the choice is yours!). There are facilities like fire pits for s'mores-by-the-fire nights, picnic tables for s'mores-by-the-fire outdoors, and pit toilets. Most of these locations are ideal for tent camping so that you can experience a sense of being embraced by nature.
It won't take you long to understand why this park is regarded as one of Northern Michigan's top camping destinations. You can spend your days exploring the 42 miles of undeveloped shoreline between Munising and Grand Marais along Lake Superior, taking in the blooming wildflowers, or keeping an ear out for the tranquil sounds of waterfalls.
There are many backcountry camping choices along the North Country Trail if you're interested in trekking across this gorgeous area.
9. Young State Park
Young State Park, which is tucked away on Lake Charlevoix's eastern shore, offers an irresistible combination of outdoor recreation and tranquillity surrounded by nature. This may be one of the most underrated camping spots in Northern Michigan.
It is 563 acres in size and is located not far from Boyne City. Its campgrounds allow you to set up camp there, or you can choose to stay the night there.
When you're not taking in the scenery, launch your boat from the park's launch point and enjoy sailing or waterskiing on Lake Charlevoix's vast 17,260-acre water body.
Nearly five miles of nature trails that are suited for hiking and cross-country skiing in the winter can be found at this park. These routes gives you a chance of a lifetime to experience the beautiful landscapes, from the lowlands to the cedar swamp regions.
This region also includes riding options if that's what you're searching for.
If you’ve fishing, you will be delighted by what Lake Charlevoix has to offer. Each year, it is stocked with lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, providing you plenty of chances to do more of catch-and-release fishing.
10. South Higgins Lake State Park
In the northeast of the state, South Higgins Lake State Park is a haven for water lovers and a fantastic place to go camping.
This park, which covers 1,364 acres, has a lot to offer. You're close to the beautiful swimming conditions of the crystal-clear Higgins Lake. For hiking and wildlife observation, there is a large network of pathways that wind through the forest. Even a smaller that is hidden away on the southern side and encircled by 5.5 miles of serene forest pathways offers a more tranquil environment that is perfect for non-motorized boating.
You don't come across a park with one mile of shoreline and one of Northern Michigan's biggest state park campgrounds every day, though! Anyone who wants to go out on the lake has access to nine boat launches and a boat basin, so the fun really is endless.
11. Isle Royale National Park
This island park offers you a one-of-a-kind chance to camp in a perfect wilderness because it is located right in the middle of Lake Superior.
You will find peace and stunning views at every turn because of the island's hike-to campgrounds like Daisy Farm Campground and Chickenbone. Just keep in mind that only groups of seven or more people can reserve tent sites.
Being able to enter the island only via ferry, aircraft, or boat makes getting there in and of itself an adventure. But once you are there, you may engage in sports like canoeing on pristine waters or hiking through untouched forests teeming with wildlife. Even moose who live nearby can be seen while you're there!
However, each of Isle Royale's campgrounds only has three to six tent campsites. So, if your preferred place is already taken when you arrive, you might need to change your plans and pick an equally lovely area.
12. Barnes Park Campground
For those who can't resist the beauty of oceanfront camping, Barnes Park Campground in Northern Michigan is their ideal campground. It is located on Grand Traverse Bay.
You can take a stroll down the sandy beach and listen to the sound of the waves gently lapping against the shore as you lie down in your tent or RV. There’s extensive woodland trails if trekking suits you better.
You can gather around the campfire for storytelling with your family, as the sun sets under a sky filled with stars.
Online reservations are available for two pavilions that have electricity outlets. Also, there is a water fill station and a trash station. Even ADA accessible coin-operated showers and restrooms are available.
13. Petoskey State Park
Located on Little Traverse Bay, close to Petoskey and Harbor Springs, this park gives you a dreamy starting point for viewing the beauty of the region.
There is plenty of space to set up your tent or park your RV with 168 sites across two separate campground loops. You don't have to rough it while enjoying nature because both campgrounds provide showers and sanitation stations.
However, the park offers a lot of opportunity to get some exercise on the trails, including Old Baldy Trail and Portage Trail, which offer beautiful vistas of the surrounding area.
Finding Petoskey stones along the shore of Lake Michigan may be a lot of fun for people who are interested in geology or who just want to have some fun at the beach.
Don't forget to take advantage of Petoskey State Park's accessibility to nearby attractions like the Little Traverse Wheelway and North Western State Trail while you're there. These paved routes, which connect Charlevoix and Harbor Springs or Petoskey and Mackinac City, are good for cyclists who want to explore. You can take a quick swim to unwind after all that exercise.
14. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a fantastic option for your upcoming camping trip in Northern Michigan because it has a blend of outdoor activity and natural beauty. The size of this park makes it different from other camping areas in Northern Michigan. It has 13 interior lakes, 40 miles of hiking paths, and 46,000 acres of land.
The Lower Falls Modern Campground is usually very crowded, because it is close to the waterfalls. Don't worry if you can't see any waterfalls from your campground; you can simply go on walks or boat trips to explore them. There are flush toilets, hot showers, and RV electrical hookups at this park.
The Upper Falls, which is located in the park and measures more than 200 feet in width and 50 feet in height, is one of the greatest waterfalls east of the Mississippi.
One of the campgrounds might serve as a base camp for your journey to Pictured Rocks or wherever else you want to go in the Upper Peninsula.
You can try the Tahquamenon Falls Rivermouth Pines location if you'd want a more rural experience.
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15. Muskallonge Lake State Park
For outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp in Northern Michigan, Muskallonge Lake State Park, which is close to Lake Superior, is a beautiful place.
It's only 28 miles northwest of Newberry in Luce County, nestled between two lovely bodies of water (Lake Superior and Muskallonge Lake). The park, which is 217 acres, was where the Native American campsite was and a former lumbering town.
Visitors are drawn to this camping for more than just its historical significance. Each campsite has a water pump and electricity to make your stay pleasant.
From your campsite, hiking trails run directly to Lake Superior's shoreline, providing you with stunning views and chances to see local wildlife. You can use boat ramps if you enjoy fishing or love participating in water sports.
The historical significance of the region is what distinguishes Muskallonge Lake State Park from other parks, rather than only its features or landscape.
You can find relics from a time when railroads were used to transport millions of white pine logs, which were then processed into lumber at numerous mills.
16. Huron-Manistee National Forest
Anyone who wants to go on a great camping trip will find the Huron-Manistee National Forest to be the ideal location.
If you enjoy backpacking, there are many routes to discover, including the Manistee River Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Benton Lake is brimming with fish that are just ready to be caught for people who want to be close to bodies of water. The Manistee River provides another option for kayaking, rowing, and hiking.
The wonderful thing about this place is that there are many of alternatives for camping, depending on your preferences.
There are no fees or permits needed, and dispersed camping is allowed within its bounds, with the exception of 200 feet from any water body.
Now, that you’ve known some of the campgrounds you can visit in Northern Michigan, it is time to start planning a camping trip with your family.
Remember to make reservations in advance, so you won’t be stranded.