Michigan is a land of natural resources and attractions, from the Great Lakes to the wooded areas. Camping in Michigan allows you to enjoy these natural resources and healthy outdoor recreation, but finding a campsite under $25 can be challenging. State- and federally-managed lands provide several options, as well as privately-owned campgrounds throughout the state.
Types of Camping
Several types of camping are available at the cheaper Michigan campgrounds. Tent sites ranging from rustic to premium, RV sites with varying hookups, and dispersed camping allow you to choose which site best fits your personal desires and needs for your camping vacation.
Rates and Amenities
As of 2010, campgrounds across the state offer wide schedules of rates for the different types of campgrounds and sites offered. Rustic sites at state parks--which provide only vault toilets and hand-pump water--range from $10 to $14. Semi-modern and modern state park campsites range from $16 to $27 and offer amenities which may include electric hookups; modern showers and restrooms; sanitation stations and accessible sites. Michigan state forests offer free dispersed/undesignated camping with a few restrictions. Dispersed camping is, in essence, backcountry camping where there may or may not be a campsite and no amenities. Semi-modern state forest sites cost $20 per night, while rustic sites are only $15.
Locations
Cheap campgrounds are located throughout the state and include state parks, state forests and privately-owned campgrounds. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers two campgrounds and is located on Lake Michigan in Michigan's lower peninsula. State parks are located in every region of the state, near wooded areas, lakes and other natural features. W.J. Hayes State Park, located in Onsted, is near several attractions including a lake and the Michigan International Speedway.
Activities
While camping in itself is a healthy, outdoor activity, several other activities are available in or near the campground you choose. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, for example, offers areas for hiking, biking, swimming and canoeing as well as $16 per night primitive campsites. State parks offer boundless opportunities for outdoor recreation, with many hiking trails--ranging from easy to rugged--stretching from the campgrounds to several areas throughout the park. While camping in the rustic, 99-site campground at Newaygo State Park, enjoy overlooking Hardy Dam Pond, fishing in its waters or enjoying a fresh, healthy picnic at one of the several picnic sites. While camping at Secord Lake Campground in Gladwin, enjoy several activities such as an entertainment tent, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball and a children's play area.
Michigan Wildlife
While camping, be aware of several wildlife species you will be sharing the land with. One species of venomous snake calls the state home: the Eastern massasauga rattlesnake. This snake is a rare species, avoiding confrontation with humans but willing to defend itself if necessary. Approximately 90 percent of Michigan's black bear population inhabits the upper peninsula, although sightings are becoming more common in the lower half of the lower peninsula, according to Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment's website. Safety among black bears requires being "bear aware," giving the animal space and respecting their natural behaviors. A good rule of thumb when dealing with wildlife is that if you cause the animal to change its natural behaviors, you are too close. Other species of concern are coyotes, raccoons, feral swine and wolves. Keep your food locked in your vehicle, not in your tent, to discourage wildlife from your personal belongings.
Member Comments