Michigan offers countless camping spots and outdoor adventure opportunities than any place in the world. Home of Lake Michigan, one of the five great lakes of North America, it touches the other four also. There are another 11,000 inland lakes, more than 3,288 freshwater shorelines, and 20 million acres (8 million hectares) of forest for you to explore nature at its best. Michigan has much to offer. If you are seeking a distinctive experience with scenic views, explore the allure of beachfront Airbnbs along Lake Michigan’s shores. Winter enthusiasts, on the other hand, can bask in the charm of ski-in ski-out accommodations within Michigan’s snow-covered wonderland.
But that’s not all; Michigan’s state parks boast modern and sophisticated campsites, making it the most sought-after recreation area not only for Americans but for everyone in the world. Escape the concrete jungle to spend time with nature in some of the best camping sites out of 1,000 in Michigan. Read on to find the best camping spots in Michigan, USA.
1. Lakeport State Park - Lakeport
Discover the best place for camping in Michigan at Lakeport State Park, nestled along the serene shores of Lake Huron. Divided into 2 units, this park offers a total of 250 spacious sites - each thoughtfully equipped for your comfort and convenience. Each campsite is furnished with a fire circle, picnic table, and electricity. Modern toilet and shower facilities make your stay even more enjoyable.
The park’s commitment to accessibility shines through with wheelchair-friendly restrooms, ensuring everyone can explore the beauty of nature. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family seeking adventure, Lakeport welcomes all. While reveling in the splendors of summer, spring, and fall, don’t miss out on the Bridge to Bay Trail or a visit to the Lakeport Camp Store, stocked with camping essentials, beach gear, and charming souvenirs. Note that camping is allowed here between the months of May and October, but dates may vary.
Lakeport State Park
Address: 7605 Lakeshore Rd, Lakeport, MI 48059, United States
Website: Lakeport State Park
2. Petoskey State Park - Petoskey
Explore the splendid Petoskey State Park, positioned on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay. This destination boasts a 1-mile (1.61-kilometer)-long stretch of picturesque lakeshore, drawing in beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. With two well-equipped campgrounds and an array of scenic trails, this camping site ensures relaxation and excitement. The park is open to campers from May to October. Do consult the official websites for specific dates.
Conquer the Old Baldy Dune by taking on the Old Baldy Trail or meander through the wooded dunes along the 1-mile (1.61-kilometer) Portage Trail. For those seeking longer trails, the 26-mile (41.84-kilometer) Little Traverse Wheelway awaits, conveniently passing right by the park entrance and connecting Charlevoix and Harbor Springs. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Petoskey State Park and uncover the allure of camping sites along Lake Michigan’s stunning coastline.
Petoskey State Park
Address: 2475 M-119, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States
Website: Petoskey State Park
3. South Higgins Lake State Park - Roscommon
Take your family this summer to the nearly century-old South Higgins Lake State Park in Roscommon city in Michigan. The 1,000-acre (404 hectares) park surrounds the Marl Lake and stretches along the Higgins Lake and part of the Cut River. The park has over 400 modern campsites with 50 having amp service to keep your family safe and happy. Go swimming, boating, fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and hunting in the 700 acres (283.2 hectares) of forest area. Children will enjoy ice fishing, trying out the metal detecting area, heading to the pet-friendly shoreline of the vast Higgins Lake, along with going on trips in the rowboat, paddleboat, small motorboat, canoe, pontoon rentals, and other activities.
South Higgins Lake State Park
Address: A 106 State Park Drive Roscommon, MI 48653
Website: South Higgins Lake State Park
Opening hours: 7am – 9pm (daily)
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4. Porcupine Mountains State Park - Ontonagon
Play golf in the 238 square kilometers (92 square miles) of virgin forest on the foothills of the ancient Porcupine Mountains in Porcupine Mountains State Park – Ontonagon. With 35,000 acres (14,163 hectares) of forest in its rough total area of 60,000 acres (24,281 hectares), it is Michigan’s largest state park. Hike along the 144.8-kilometer (90 miles) stretch enjoying the roaring waterfalls and watching the picturesque rivers that fall into Lake Superior. Enjoy the Lake of the Clouds, which is an ADA-accessible viewing area, and the gorgeous Presque Isle River corridor of the Summit Peak observation tower.
Porcupine Mountains State Park
Address: Ontonagon / Gogebic counties, Michigan, United States
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - Munising
Want to enjoy miles of sparkling beaches with multicolored sandstone cliffs? Then Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising is the right place. The different colors come from streaks of mineral stains in colors like red, orange, blue, green, brown, black, and white, among others, which is a spectacular sight you will not forget for a long time. Hike along the 160-kilometer (100-mile) among the wildflowers or climb the historic 87-foot (26.5-meter) tall lighthouse. See lakes, streams, forest trails, waterfalls, and dunes, among other natural features. Ride in a kayak on the waves of Lake Superior to view nature’s beauty, stretching to several miles.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Address: Munising, MI 49862, United States
Website: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
6. Sleepy Hollow State Park - Laingsburg
With 181 modern campsites to enjoy the 228 different species from the rare Blue Jay to Bald Eagle, Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking the best campsites in Michigan. This quite unspoiled beautiful recreation area of 2,678 acres (1083.7 hectares) of a hardwood forest is filled with pine trees and prairie grasses. Go for hiking or biking or enjoy horseback riding and dog sledding. Enjoy snowshoeing, the most popular activity here, to keep the kids happy.
Sleepy Hollow State Park
Address: 7835 E Price Rd, Laingsburg, MI 48848, United States
Website: Sleepy Hollow State Park
Opening hours: 8am – 10pm (daily)
7. Ludington State Park - Ludington
For more than 80 years, Ludington State Park, situated between picturesque Lake Michigan and serene Hamlin Lake, has entertained thousands of visitors. All along its 29-kilometer (about 18-mile) trail encompassing 5,300 acres (2,144 hectares), this park has three campgrounds, sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, marshlands, forests, and–not to forget–the iconic lighthouse. Enjoy seeing all the wildlife and waterfowl on a canoe ride. You can also kayak on the canoe pathway from Hamlin Lake Beach.
Ludington State Park
Address: 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, United States
Website: Ludington State Park
Opening hours: 8am – 10pm (daily)
8. Huron – Manistee National Forests - Manistee
Find peace in the vast forests of Huron - Manistee National Forests by swimming through its sparkling rivers and enjoying the many lakes in it. Go fishing in Benton Lake or have an enjoyable canoeing experience along the Pere Marquette to celebrate life. Hike or go for a horseback ride in this fairytale forest to even strike gold from its abundant natural minerals and geodes. Do not miss Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary for an experience to remember.
Huron – Manistee National Forests
Address: Michigan 49601, United States
Website: Huron – Manistee National Forests
9. Wilderness State Park - Carp Lake
Choose from 250 modern campsites of many types, including rustic cabin houses. Spread over 10,000 acres (4046 hectares), it stretches 42 kilometers (26 miles) all along the Lake Michigan shoreline with coniferous and mature hardwood forests. You can enjoy nature at its best along its many trails, in the dog beach, and in the designated dark sky preserve to observe the nighttime sky.
Wilderness State Park
Address: 903 Wilderness Park Dr, Carp Lake, MI 49718, United States
Website: Wilderness State Park
10. Warren Dunes State Park - Sawyer
All of Michigan’s famous dunes start only from Warren Dunes State Park. Be among one of the million visitors annually to enjoy the dunes that are 260 feet (79.2 meters) above Lake Michigan. The nearly 2,000-acre (809.3 hectares) park offers many recreational opportunities including miles of hiking trails and shorelines where you can take your pet. Also, have mind-blowing views by going hang-gliding in this picturesque park.
Warren Dunes State Park
Address: 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, United States
Website: Warren Dunes State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
11. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Benzie and Leelanau counties
Hike along the 60 kilometers (35 miles) of maple forest at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It has the ancient glacial phenomena and the historic 1871 lighthouse, former life-saving service stations, along with an extensive, historic farm district. Kids can have adventures at Maritime Museum by taking part in the “rescue mission” of shipwreck survivors.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Address: Leelanau & Benzie counties, Michigan, US
12. Tahquamenon Falls State Park - Paradise
If you are looking for the best camping site in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is the place to go. The innumerable waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park are a great way to experience nature in all its glory. Fifty thousand gallons of water per second fall from a height of 50 feet (15.2 meters) is a spectacular sight never to miss. Rent a rowboat from the park concession and reach the river bank or the island to take a breathtaking view of the magnificent waterfalls. It’s half a million acres (20 million hectares) including the 20,000 acres (8,093.7 hectares) of natural area with the best flora and fauna in Michigan. Go hiking on 65 kilometers (40 miles) to enjoy the 13 inland lakes in the park.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Address: 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, United States
Website: Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Opening hours: 8am – 10pm (daily)
Camp in Michigan
The availability of many outdoor activities in Michigan such as swimming, kayaking, tubing, fishing, and more attracts many outdoor enthusiasts. The varied landscape of the state is another reason why many campers from around the world visit Michigan to have the best camping experiences.
Frequently asked questions about camping spots in Michigan, USA
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