upper peninsula campgrounds

15 Upper Peninsula Campgrounds For Fun And Adventure

Thinking of planning a camping trip and looking for a place to truly get away from everything? Consider these 15 amazing upper peninsula campgrounds!

There are countless places to stay, but these upper peninsula campgrounds are some of the best you’ll find.

PS- These campgrounds are perfect if you are thinking of trying any of the 25 Amazing Things To Do In The Upper Peninsula!

truck pulling a camper

Camping in upper Michigan is a great time so pack up your gear and get ready for an adventure!

Here’s what we’ll go over in this article…

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15 Upper Peninsula Campgrounds You Don’t Want To Miss

Ready to take that road trip to the U.P. but not sure where to stay? Here are 15 of the best campgrounds to consider before you set out!

1. Lakeshore RV Campground

Lakeshore RV Campground is a nice upper peninsula campground just a few miles outside of St. Ignace and offers full hook-ups, good wi-fi and satellite signal, clean restrooms and showers, washers and dryers, friendly service, and a beautiful view.

This campground is perfect if you’re looking for a place to relax after a day of sightseeing. There are no amenities such as a pool or game room, but with so much to do in the area and the lake so close, you really don’t miss any of that. It’s a great place to break out the yard games, play a few hands of cards, or sit around the campfire and enjoy time with family or friends.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • quiet time is 10pm and enforced
  • sites can be a little tight in some spots for bigger RV’s
  • the campground is not directly on the lake but just a short walk across the road
  • there are extra costs ($3/day) for children over 16 and the use of AC, fireplaces, electric heaters, or clothes dryers
  • to make a reservation call 906-643-9522, online reservation is not available

2. Straights State Park

Straights State Park Campground is a great place to spend a night or two (or longer!) if you’re visiting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s only minutes from many attractions, including Mackinac Island and makes a great home base for exploring and enjoying the area. Within a short drive, you’ll find historical sites and museums, awe-inspiring natural wonders like the Straits of Mackinac, charter fishing, shopping, and swimming beaches that will make your vacation complete.

This campground is always a favorite of ours because of the clean facilities, friendly staff, close proximity to amenities, and of course the beautiful view of the Mackinac Bridge!

Interested in staying at this Campground? Here are a few tips:

  • book early- this is a very popular campground
  • if you have a big RV you may want to ask for a larger site (if it’s available), some sites are a tight fit
  • road noise can be loud-bring ear plugs, a fan or something to drown out the noise at night
  • bathrooms/showers close in October so plan accordingly!
  • a Michigan Recreation Pass is required for entry and costs extra
  • online reservation is available here, or you can call 906-643-8620
Mackinac Bridge

3. Drummond Island RV Park

Drummond Island RV Park is a great choice if you are visiting the island to check out Turtle Ridge Off-Road Park, or just want to get away and enjoy a relaxing camping experience.

R.V. sites here are full hook-up (water, sewer, electric 50/30/20 amps) and each site has a picnic table. In addition, Drummond Island RV also offers wi-fi and satellite tv, a basketball court, shuffleboard, a pool, a fish cleaning house, laundry facilities, and boat ramp/docks.

And best of all canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are free to use if you stay here!

If you’re looking for a great location to enjoy nature and family activities, consider staying at Drummond Island RV Park.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • in an effort to keep smoke from bothering neighbors, sites do not have a fire pit. A central firepit is available or it may be possible to bring a portable propane fire pit (something like this might work!)
  • dogs are allowed for a small fee
  • tent camping is not usually possible unless you are part of a Jeep group
  • be sure to check the ferry schedule before you leave for times and prices
  • reservations can be made by calling (906) 493-5445 or (877) 493-5445

4. Aune-Osborn Campground

Aune-Osborn campground is a city-run campground that offers water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings for their 24 waterfront and 76 non-waterfront sites. There is a laundry facility, fish cleaning station, two boat launches, and wi-fi.

While this campground is very nice, clean, quiet, and in a good location, the real draw of this campground is the amazing view. Since it’s right on the water you can see huge freighters come into the Soo Locks. If you’ve never seen a ship that size, you definitely want to check it out!

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash, cleaned up after, and cannot be left unattended.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • there are no sewer hook ups at the sites, but there is a dump station available
  • this is a basic campground so don’t expect resort style amenities, but it is within walking distance of stores and attractions
  • all sites are back in- no pull throughs available
  • if you want to be sure to see freighters passing through you can download an app like Boat Watch or Marine Traffic and see what’s coming your way!
  • reservations can be made online or by calling 906-632-3268
Soo Locks

5. Kritter’s Northcountry Campground & Cabins

Kritter’s Northcountry Campground is centrally located to many attractions, has a friendly and helpful staff, clean facilities, and spacious sites.

This campground offers both modern and rustic sites, wi-fi, laundry facilities, picnic tables, fire pits, play areas, a book exchange, a nature trail, and more!

And I have to mention one more time how clean everything was because it’s obvious they work hard to keep it that way (and cleanliness is always appreciated ;))

Overall, this is a great campground that is close to Tahquamenon Falls, Oswald’s Bear Ranch, Dog Sled Adventures, and many other U.P. attractions.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • like other popular campgrounds, be sure to make reservations as early as possible
  • bugs can be absolutely terrible at times in the U.P. so be sure to bring your favorite bug spray (seriously, don’t forget!)
  • there are bear, deer, moose, wolves, and other wildlife in the U.P. so be cautious and prepared before setting out on a nature walk or bike ride
  • pets are allowed but must be cleaned up after and leased
  • reservations can be made online or you can call (906) 293-8562 for more info

6. Woodland Park Campground

Woodland Park Campground is on the shores of Lake Superior and is a great place to get away, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The beach is a great place to do a little rock hunting!

In addition to relaxing, enjoying the scenery, and rock hunting you can also check out some of the attractions in the area such as the Gitche Gumee Agate Museum, the maritime museum, and beautiful waterfalls.

Water and electric sites are available and have 30 & 50 amp service and cable, wi-fi is limited though.

This campground also offers two fully bathhouses, laundry facilities, two play areas for children, beach access, dump stations, and a drinking water fill station. 

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • pets are allowed but must be attended at all time
  • use of showers and laundry facilities costs extra and are open to the public
  • there are only 20 campsites available for reservation, others are first come first served
  • reservations can be made online or you can call 906-494-2613 for more info
lake superior beach

7. Munising Tourist Park Campground

Munising Tourist Park Campground is right on Lake Superior, offers full hook-ups at some sites, is pet friendly, and is the perfect place to stay if you plan to enjoy any of the area’s activities.

Since it is only a few short miles or a short boat ride away from Grand Island, you can easily take a day trip over to explore this beautiful island.

You’re also close enough to check out the Munising Falls, Miners Castle, Pictured Rocks, or take a glass-bottom boat tour.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

8. Manistique Lakeshore Campground

Located right on Lake Michigan, the Manistique Lakeshore Campground is a great place to stay if you plan to enjoy all of the outdoor activities in the area.

This modern campground has everything you could need including cable and wi-fi, nice showers and bathrooms with laundry facilities, full hookups, pull-through sites with paved pads (primitive sites are available too ), a beautiful view of Lake Michigan, and a playground for the kids.

You’ll also be within close distance to everything in Manistique including the shops and restaurants, swimming, beaches along Lake Michigan to explore, bike paths around town, and many nearby trails that are perfect for hiking or biking.

If you feel like taking a short drive you can also visit Lake Kitch-it-kipi or experience the fun of a drive-in movie!

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • pets are allowed but must be leashed, cleaned up after, and attended at all times
  • the beach has a lot of driftwood and sawdust which means that it is not ideal for swimming (there is a great view of the lighthouse though!)
  • this is a busy campground so be sure to reserve early
  • the campground is very new and modern (a lot of concrete), it may not be ideal for those looking for a more traditional, rustic, or secluded experience
  • reservations can be made online or you can call (906) 286-1696 for more info
people walking on lake Michigan beach with their dog

9. Fayette State Park Campground

Fayette State Park Campground is a great option and very convenient if you want to take more than a day to enjoy the Fayette Historic State Park or the surrounding beauty. (This is one of our favorite state parks- the history and buildings are fascinating!)

This is a relatively small campground and sites fill up fast so make sure to make a reservation early!

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times
  • the sites seem a little small so check to see if your RV will fit comfortably before making reservations
  • bring your camera, you don’t want to miss the historic buildings and natural beauty!
  • cell service is spotty (or non-existent) at the campground
  • reservations can be made online or by calling 800-447-2757

10. River’s Bend RV Resort & Campground

River’s Bend RV Resort & Campground is a family-friendly RV park that offers clean restrooms, cable (on some sites), a dump station, 20-30-or 50 am electric, laundry facilities, a playground, and even a dog park!

There is a nice river that is great for fishing, swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing.

This is a great landing spot if you’re thinking of enjoying activities in the area such as the Iron Mountain Mine Tour, visiting Pine Mountain, or checking out one of the local museums.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • pets are allowed, but be sure to clean up after them
  • showers are coin operated
  • no on-site sewer hook-ups ( a dump station is available though)
  • online reservation is not available so call 906-779-1171 for more information or booking
camper near water

11. Tourist Park

Tourist Park in Marquette is a city-run campground right on the river that offers picnic tables, a fire pit, modern restrooms and showers, a playground, hiking trails, picnic area, and is close to bike paths and is just one mile from Lake Superior beaches.

This campground is right in town so you will be close to stores, restaurants, and activities like cliff jumping, rock climbing, and if you want to take a short drive you can visit the K.I. Sawyer Heritage Air Museum.

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • the city location is convenient, but there is an industrial park next to the park so you can hear truck noise during the day
  • the showers were not as clean as we would have liked, but I’m sure that depends on the season and how busy it is
  • if you have a bigger RV be sure to ask for a big lot
  • don’t forget your bike!
  • online reservations are available or you can call 906-228-0465 for more information

12. Country Village RV Park

Country Village RV Park is located just 15 miles away from Marquette in Ishpeming, Michigan. This park offers full hook-up sites, modern facilities, wi-fi, an outdoor pool, hot tub, playground, friendly staff, a small camp store and is within walking distance to some stores, and restaurants.

Attractions in the area include a few museums, a brewing company, the U.S National Ski Hall Of Fame, and don’t forget to check out unique and quirky items at Da Yoopers Tourist Trap. And of course, with Marquette only about 15 miles away, you can enjoy all that there is to offer there as well!

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • the pool and hot tub are somewhat small so they can get busy
  • the wi-fi was ok, but not great (not uncommon in parts of the U.P)
  • Many of the campsites have very few trees so if you require shade you may need to ask them for a recommendation before booking
  • if you’re looking for winter accomodations, this park has rental cabins and is open all year
  • online reservations are not available but you can use this email form and they will contact you, or call  (906)486-0300 for additional information
people swimming in a pool at a campground

13. Lake Linden Village Campground

Lake Linden Village Campground is a great choice if you’re looking for a family-friendly place to stay that is reasonably priced.

This well-maintained campground offers amenities such as modern bathrooms, water, electricity, a good cell signal, a small playground, a dump station, and a beach (although I don’t know if I would personally swim there).

The village is small and very cute, and this campground is centrally located to attractions in Copper Harbor, Eagle Harbor, and the rest of the Keweenaw peninsula including lighthouses, ghost towns, berry picking, and the Jampot!

Interested in staying at this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • be sure to bring bug spray, mosquitos can be a real irritation at times
  • there is an adjacent village park for recreation
  • online reservations are available or you can call 906-296-9911 for more info.

14. Ontonagon Township Park and Campground

Ontonagon Township Park And Campground is an ideal spot if you’re looking for friendly people, great views of beautiful sunsets, and beach access that is in close distance to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

This campground is clean, well maintained, pet friendly, has good wi-fi signal, modern restrooms, a playground, firewood and ice for sale, and if you don’t want to deal with sewage disposal they will pump out your tanks (for a fee).

This is a great campground if you’re thinking of hiking to the Lake Of The Clouds. If you want to drive just a little longer you can take a trip to see the Paulding Light.

Interested in staying in this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • this campground does not take reservations, it is first come first served, but they will hold a site for the day of your arrival if you call that day
  • you may want to bring your own water or a filter- the water tasted a little bit too much like chlorine for us
  • showers are coin operated
  • pets are allowed-must be leashed and attended at all times
  • online reservations are not available, but you can call (906) 884-2930 the day of your arrival and they will hold a site (if available)
lake superior sunset

15. Union River’s Big Bear Campground

Union River’s Big Bear Campground is situated right on Lake Superior and right at the entrance to Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park.

This campground offers amenities like 30 amp electric service, spacious sites, firewood and ice for sale, propane exchange, sandy beach, wi-fi, pull-through sites, modern restrooms and showers, fire ring, picnic table, and access to hiking trails.

This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a relaxing camping trip that includes fun on the beach, hiking through nature, and fun with family or friends.

Interested in staying in this campground? Here are a few tips:

  • only 1 camper or tent is allowed per site (and only 1 vehicle), no more than 6 people per site
  • additional charges for more than 2 adults per site, over 4 children, or more than one vehicle
  • there is an extra cost for visitors
  • phone service and gps are spotty because it is a remote area
  • online reservations are available or you can call 906-885-5324 for more info.

Helpful Tips For Camping In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Camping in the upper peninsula can be full of fun and adventure, but if you’ve never been there I have a few tips that can help make your trip safe, comfortable, and convenient.

1. Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray

Bugs can be terrible in the U.P. depending on where you stay and the season. Not every town or store will have your preferred products so be sure to bring your own.

2. Don’t rely on your phone or GPS for directions

Phone service, GPS, and wi-fi are spotty in the upper peninsula so be sure to print out directions or bring a map.

3. Pack warm clothes

Even if you’re heading up to the U.P. in the middle of summer be sure to pack at least one pair of pants and a sweatshirt, hoodie, or sweater. If you’re by Lake Superior (or another one of the great lakes) the wind can be chilly, especially at night. If you’re going in the spring, fall or winter- you definitely need to pack warm clothes!

4. Have realistic expectations

My family and I love and visit the upper peninsula every year, it is a place like none other. It offers natural beauty, numerous recreational activities, interesting history, and generally very nice and helpful people.

But…. you may not find all of the comforts and products you are used to buying at home if you live near a larger city.

The grocery stores may not carry a wide selection of specialty foods (allergy-free, organic), the restaurants may offer what seems like more limited options, and, like previously mentioned, wi-fi and cell signal can be spotty (or non-existent). All of this is dependent on the area, but if you take a trip to the U.P. please be aware that this could be a possibility.

If it’s important- be sure to pack it. And for all of the other stuff- enjoy what the U.P. has to offer!

Last Thoughts

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful natural surroundings in America.

From sandy beaches to deep, dark forests; from rocky cliffs overlooking Lake Superior to rolling hills covered with wildflowers and deer-filled meadows, there’s no end to what you can explore here.

If camping is your idea of a perfect vacation or if you want an affordable family getaway that will give everyone something new to see every day, then check out these upper peninsula campgrounds and start planning your next trip!

Oh! And when you go- don’t forget to try the pasties!

camping in Michigan's upper peninsula

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