Our Guide to Michigan Camping
While Michigan is famous for the bustling auto industry in Detroit, it’s also a land full of natural beauty. Known as the Great Lakes State, Michigan is home to several enormous bodies of water – including Lake Superior, the largest lake in the United States. Michigan’s robust state and local park offerings make it a compelling place to spend time in nature. From glamping near urban areas to roughing it in the deep woods, Michigan campgrounds have something for everyone.
The Best Time of Year for Camping in Michigan
While you can go camping in Michigan during much of the year, the most popular time to do so is late May through early October. If swimming is on your agenda, lake temperatures tend to be highest from July through September. If you’re more interested in taking in the foliage and staying cool, the first few weeks of October are ideal. Some Michigan camping destinations are also open during the winter months for snow sport enthusiasts.
Things to Know About Michigan Campgrounds
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Make Your Michigan Campsite Reservations in Advance
Particularly during the busy season, Michigan camping reservations are a must. If you’re planning 6 months or a year out, you may need to wait for the campground to post their available inventory for the season before you can book. It’s a good idea to set a reminder on your calendar and then book on the day that the campsite listings go live. The ReserveAmerica website is a great resource for researching and booking your trip to Michigan.
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Respect Firewood Regulations
Unfortunately, millions of trees in Michigan have succumbed to invasive insects and diseases. Don’t bring in firewood from out of state – instead, purchase certified, heat-treated firewood at a Michigan-local park, store, or road-side stand.
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Make Sure Your RV Meets Wastewater Regulations
Some RV tank deodorizers contain corrosive chemicals that can pollute groundwater. Michigan campgrounds request that you use only bacteria or enzyme-based tank deodorizers, as these types are biodegradable.
Our Top Campgrounds in Michigan
From beaches, to boating, to long winding hikes, Michigan campgrounds have a lot to offer. Here are some fantastic destinations that you’ll want to consider.
Sandy Beach County Park
Located on the shore of Hardy Pond, Sandy Beach County Park is a favorite gathering place for boaters, fishers, and all lovers of the outdoors. At 4,000 acres, Hardy Pond is a great place to bring your boat – a 3 lane boat launch makes it easy to get your vessel in and out. Plus, dock rentals give you the convenient option of leaving your boat in the water for the entirety of your stay. If you’re more interested in life on shore, the local beach, picnic, and play areas all provide plenty of room for activities.
While Sandy Beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, it’s also only a 45 minute drive from the city of Grand Rapids. The largest city in western Michigan, Grand Rapids is home to a vibrant arts scene as well as many breweries and restaurants. The Grand Rapids Art Museum and John Ball Zoo are just a few of the local attractions that you can visit if you decide to take a day trip.
A popular Michigan camping destination, Sandy Beach County Park has a total of 176 campsites – this includes 26 full hook-up sites as well as 11 camping cabins. There are even some water view sites available. Depending on your site preferences, you may want to reserve well in advance to make sure you’re able to get your first choice. If you’re planning on bringing your boat, you’ll also want to double check that the pond is open for boating. Water levels at Hardy Pond are kept lower from early November through late May.
Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground
Lake Fanny Hooe is a unique, slender body of water that is located just steps inland from the shore of Lake Superior. The Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground provides easy access to the water and surrounding wilderness.
This location offers a ton of different lodging options. For a more traditional camping experience, tent and RV sites are available. But the campground is also home to cottages and a lakefront motel. So whether you want to hunker down by a campfire or contemplate the lake from a private balcony, you’ll soon understand why this is one of the best campgrounds in Michigan.
While the campground is deep in northern Michigan, it’s within easy walking distance of the nearby town of Copper Harbor. From there, you can explore Lake Superior by boat and take a ferry to Isle Royale, the largest island on the lake.
Amenities can vary quite a bit by reservation type – but Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground provides access to wifi, coin laundry, a playground, a beach, and bathrooms and showers. Pets are also allowed onsite.
Starlight Campground and RV Park
Named for its stunning views of the night sky, Starlight Campground and RV Park is a Michigan camping destination in the “Up North” region of the state. Set down within an area of mature pines, the campground is approximately 30 minutes from Torch Lake, and 50 minutes from both Traverse City and Petoskey. Starlight prides itself on hospitality and offers many activities that are geared towards family campers. While you’re here, you can enjoy a round of disc golf, a game of pickleball, and the heated swimming pool. When you’re ready to be immersed in greenery, take a stroll on the beautiful nature trail.
Starlight offers both RV and tent campsites. But unlike many other Michigan campgrounds, they also have several retro campers onsite that you can rent and stay in. Each of these accommodations features a unique and colorful layout. If you’re searching for a fun and memorable experience, look no further. Since there are only 6 retro campers at Starlight, it’s recommended that you book well in advance – particularly if you have your heart set on a specific one.
Amenities at Starlight include restrooms and showers, laundry, a rec barn, a camp store, and a dump station. Additionally, the campground will deliver items like wood, ice, and food directly to your campsite.
It’s Time to Plan Your Trip!
If you’re ready to head to Michigan, campground reservations should be right near the top of your to-do list – and we’re here to help you plan your dream getaway. Our huge inventory of campgrounds and seamless booking process make ReserveAmerica a leading destination for all things outdoors. Get started today!