Michigan has 3,000 miles of coastline and almost four millions acres of land that's managed by the Department of Natural Resources. Lighthouses, historical sites, cultural activities, casinos and amusement parks draw thousands of visitors to the state each year. From the horse-drawn carriages of Mackinac Island to the unspoiled setting of the Upper Peninsula, scenic views and outdoor adventures await vacationers of all ages. Many types of lodging are available in Michigan, including public and private campgrounds.
Michigan's State Parks
Michigan state parks have a variety of activities for visitors and campers. Hiking, swimming, cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing, boating and canoeing are just a few. Shelters and concessions are available at some parks. Ultra-modern camping facilities are available at Algonac Riverfront-Modern, which offers 50 amp hook-ups, showers and toilets. Baraga Semi-Modern has moderate facilities and amenities, while rustic camping with minimal comforts is offered by Fisherman's Island.
Michigan's State Forests
For those who enjoy no-frills camping, Michigan's state forest campgrounds offer spacious sites with vault toilets and hand-pumped water. Each campground is located near a lake or river for fishing, boating and canoeing. Lime Island can only be reached by boat, and Little Presque Isle can be reached by hiking down a non-motorized trail.
Campgrounds at State Parks
You can choose from any number of activities while camping in Michigan's State Parks. Playgrounds are available at Brimley State Park, Fayette Historic State Park and Leelanau State Park. Enjoy the sandy beach at Island Park State, the shooting range at Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, or equestrian rentals as at Brighton Recreation Area.
Camping in State Forests
The state of Michigan offers "undeveloped/dispersed" camping throughout the state forest system if camping is done a mile from a designated state forest campground. Campers must post a camp registration card at their campsite, which can be obtained from the Department of Natural Resources Operation Service Center. Rustic camping sites that include vault toilets and water from hand-pumps can be found at several locations, including Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground and the Platte River State Forest Campground. Cottages can also be reserved at Lime Island, and cabins can be reserved at Little Presque Isle.
Private Campgrounds
Michigan also has a number of private campgrounds also. Campgrounds may have full hook-ups and water for large RVs and sites for small trailers and tents. Many have heated pools, showers and arcades. Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping in Mackinaw City even has a free shuttle to the ferry to Mackinac Island, the historic 19th-century community that allows no motor vehicles. Many other campgrounds are also available, including a St. Joseph KOA campground, Oak Grove Resort, and Cedarville RV Park & Campground.
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