All Year Campgrounds in Michigan: Find Your Perfect Spot

Hey there, readers! Are you looking for the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV in Michigan, but you want somewhere that’s open all year round? Maybe you’re a die-hard camper who enjoys the crisp air of winter camping, or perhaps you’re just looking for a getaway that doesn’t require you to pack up and head home when the weather turns colder. Whatever your reason, Michigan has a great selection of all-year campgrounds that can accommodate your needs. We’ve analyzed the best all-year campgrounds in Michigan, considering factors like amenities, location, and accessibility. Keep reading to discover your ideal camping destination!

Finding the Best All-Year Campgrounds in Michigan

Michigan boasts a stunning array of landscapes, ranging from picturesque lakes and forests to rolling hills and charming towns. It’s no surprise that the state is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially campers. But what if you want to enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s natural wonders year-round? That’s where all-year campgrounds come into the picture. These campgrounds provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the state’s natural beauty, no matter the season.

Finding the perfect all-year campground in Michigan can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. To make your search easier, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide that outlines the key factors to consider when choosing an all-year campground and highlights some of the best options across the state.

Things to Consider When Choosing an All-Year Campground

When selecting an all-year campground in Michigan, it’s essential to consider the following factors:

Location: Consider the type of outdoor activities you enjoy and choose a campground close to your favorite attractions. Do you want to be near a lake for fishing and water sports, nestled in the woods for hiking and exploring, or within easy reach of a charming town for shopping and dining?
Amenities: What amenities are important to you? Some campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, while others provide basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Some campgrounds even offer unique amenities like fire pits, playgrounds, laundry facilities, or even swimming pools.
Accessibility: If you have mobility issues or are traveling with young children, consider the campground’s accessibility. Look for campgrounds with paved roads and accessible restrooms and showers.
Cost: All-year campgrounds often have different rates depending on the season. Compare prices and choose a campground that fits your budget.
Reservations: Many popular campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.

Types of All-Year Campgrounds

All-year campgrounds in Michigan come in different forms, each catering to specific needs and preferences.

State Parks: These offer a traditional camping experience with beautiful natural surroundings and basic amenities. Some state parks provide heated restrooms and showers during the winter, making them ideal for those who want to camp in any weather.
Private Campgrounds: These offer a wider range of amenities and services, from full hookups for RVs to on-site activities like swimming pools and playgrounds. They also tend to be more geared towards comfort and convenience, with features like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
National Forests: Providing a more rustic experience, national forests offer dispersed camping options, allowing campers to set up their tents or RVs in designated areas. These campgrounds usually have basic amenities like fire rings and pit toilets, offering a more secluded and natural experience.

Best All-Year Campgrounds in Michigan

Upper Peninsula

Known for its pristine wilderness and stunning beauty, the Upper Peninsula offers a range of all-year campgrounds perfect for those seeking a true outdoor adventure.

Mackinaw City

Located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Mackinaw City offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. The city is known as the gateway to Mackinac Island, a car-free island with charming Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac.

Campgrounds near Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City State Park: This popular campground offers scenic views of the Straits of Mackinac and easy access to Mackinac Island. The park provides a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the winter, the park offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of winter camping.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park: Located near Mackinaw City, this park is a haven for stargazers and offers stunning views of the night sky. The park provides basic amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own camping gear.
Indian Trails Campground: This private campground offers a range of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, a heated pool, and a playground. It’s an excellent choice for families looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

Sault Ste. Marie

Nestled on the shores of the St. Marys River, Sault Ste. Marie offers a wealth of attractions and recreational opportunities. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and access to the Soo Locks, a marvel of engineering that connects Lake Superior to the rest of the Great Lakes.

Campgrounds near Sault Ste. Marie

Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Located about an hour’s drive from Sault Ste. Marie, this park is home to the legendary Tahquamenon Falls, a majestic waterfall that plunges over a series of rocky cliffs. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Seney National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is an important location for migrating birds and offers a haven for nature enthusiasts. The refuge provides a variety of hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and dispersed camping areas for those looking for a secluded and natural experience.
Sault Ste. Marie KOA: This private campground offers a wide range of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, a heated pool, and a playground. It’s a great option for families looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

The Keweenaw Peninsula

Known for its rugged beauty and historic copper mines, the Keweenaw Peninsula offers a unique blend of adventure and history. The peninsula is home to scenic hiking trails, picturesque towns, and stunning views of Lake Superior.

Campgrounds near the Keweenaw Peninsula

Fort Wilkins State Park: Located near Copper Harbor, this park offers a glimpse into the history of the Keweenaw Peninsula. The park is home to a restored 19th-century military fort, and visitors can explore the fort’s buildings and learn about the region’s past. The park also offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Known for its rugged beauty and abundant wildlife, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers a range of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. The park is home to a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge: Located near Houghton, this lodge offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins, yurts, and campsites. The lodge is a great option for those seeking a comfortable and convenient camping experience, especially during the winter months.

Lower Peninsula

The Lower Peninsula of Michigan offers a diverse range of all-year campgrounds, from bustling locations near major cities to serene spots nestled in secluded forests.

Traverse City

Known as the cherry capital of the world, Traverse City offers a vibrant blend of culture, nature, and recreation. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, charming wineries, and delicious food scene.

Campgrounds near Traverse City

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: This national lakeshore is a stunning showcase of Michigan’s natural beauty. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, sandy beaches, and scenic overlooks. The park also provides a range of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Leelanau State Park: Located on the Leelanau Peninsula, this park is known for its stunning views of Lake Michigan and its diverse range of hiking trails. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Traverse City KOA: This private campground offers a wide range of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, a heated pool, and a playground. It’s a great option for families looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

Grand Rapids

Known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning parks, Grand Rapids offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Campgrounds near Grand Rapids

Grand Haven State Park: This park is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic dunes, and easy access to Lake Michigan. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Muskegon State Park: This park is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation, with its sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and easy access to Lake Michigan. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Grand Rapids KOA: This private campground offers a wide range of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, a heated pool, and a playground. It’s a great option for families looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

Holland

Known for its charming downtown, stunning tulip festival, and beautiful beaches, Holland offers a unique blend of Dutch heritage and natural beauty.

Campgrounds near Holland

Holland State Park: This park is a popular destination for those seeking beach recreation, with its sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and easy access to Lake Michigan. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Morden Park: This park is known for its beautiful hiking trails, scenic views of Lake Michigan, and its historic windmill. The park offers a variety of campsites, including some that are open year-round, perfect for those seeking a winter camping experience.
Holland KOA: This private campground offers a wide range of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, a heated pool, and a playground. It’s a great option for families looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

All-Year Campgrounds: A Detailed Table Breakdown

Campground Name	Location	Amenities	Open All Year?
Mackinaw City State Park	Mackinaw City	Restrooms, showers, playground, fire rings, picnic tables	Yes
Headlands International Dark Sky Park	Mackinaw City	Restrooms, picnic tables	Yes
Indian Trails Campground	Mackinaw City	Full hookups, heated pool, playground	Yes
Tahquamenon Falls State Park	Sault Ste. Marie	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, waterfalls	Yes
Seney National Wildlife Refuge	Sault Ste. Marie	Dispersed camping, fire rings, pit toilets	Yes
Sault Ste. Marie KOA	Sault Ste. Marie	Full hookups, heated pool, playground	Yes
Fort Wilkins State Park	Copper Harbor	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, historic fort	Yes
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park	Ontonagon	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, waterfalls	Yes
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge	Houghton	Cabins, yurts, campsites, hiking trails	Yes
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore	Empire	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, beaches	Yes
Leelanau State Park	Leelanau Peninsula	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, beaches	Yes
Traverse City KOA	Traverse City	Full hookups, heated pool, playground	Yes
Grand Haven State Park	Grand Haven	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, beaches	Yes
Muskegon State Park	Muskegon	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, beaches	Yes
Grand Rapids KOA	Grand Rapids	Full hookups, heated pool, playground	Yes
Holland State Park	Holland	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, beaches	Yes
Morden Park	Holland	Restrooms, showers, hiking trails, windmill	Yes
Holland KOA	Holland	Full hookups, heated pool, playground	Yes

FAQs about All-Year Campgrounds in Michigan

What amenities are typically available at all-year campgrounds in Michigan?

All-year campgrounds in Michigan offer a range of amenities depending on their type and location. Some common amenities include restrooms, showers, water hookups, electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, and dump stations. Some campgrounds may also offer additional amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and even on-site activities.

How do I find an all-year campground near my favorite Michigan destinations?

There are a few ways to find an all-year campground near your favorite Michigan destinations. You can search online using websites like Reserve America, Recreation.gov, or the Michigan DNR website. You can also use online mapping tools like Google Maps to search for “campgrounds” near your chosen location. Additionally, you can check with local tourism bureaus or visitor centers for recommendations.

What are the best tips for winter camping in Michigan?

Winter camping in Michigan can be an incredible experience, but it requires careful preparation. It’s essential to dress in layers, bring warm sleeping bags and pads, and have a reliable heat source. It’s also a good idea to bring snowshoes or traction devices for navigating snowy terrain. Additionally, make sure to check weather forecasts and be prepared for potential changes in conditions.

Conclusion

From the breathtaking shores of Lake Michigan to the rugged wilderness of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan offers a wide range of all-year campgrounds for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s natural wonders, no matter the season. So start planning your next all-year camping adventure today!

You can find other great articles about Michigan on our website, such as “Best Family Camping Spots in Michigan” or “Top 10 Hiking Trails in Michigan.” Check them out for more tips and inspiration on your next outdoor adventure!

As you plan your Michigan adventures, remember that All Year Campgrounds offer a gateway to countless experiences. Whether you seek the tranquility of a secluded lakefront site, the vibrant energy of a family-friendly resort, or the thrill of exploring nature’s wonders, these campgrounds cater to every preference. From cozy cabins to spacious RV hookups, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to match your desired comfort level. Embrace the opportunity to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories with loved ones, and immerse yourself in the beauty that Michigan has to offer.

Beyond the stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities, All Year Campgrounds also provide a sense of community. You’ll encounter fellow adventurers, share stories around the campfire, and forge connections with like-minded individuals. The campgrounds often host special events, activities, and programs that further enhance the camping experience. You might find yourself participating in a scenic hike, attending a live music performance, or engaging in a friendly game of volleyball. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and provide additional opportunities to enjoy all that Michigan has to offer.

Ultimately, choosing the right campground is a personal journey. Consider your desired amenities, proximity to attractions, and overall camping style. With so many diverse options available, you’re sure to discover the perfect spot to call home base for your Michigan adventures. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or a blend of both, All Year Campgrounds provide a gateway to an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on a camping adventure that will leave a lasting impression. Happy camping!

Discover Michigan’s best campgrounds! Open year-round, find your perfect spot for any season. Book your adventure today!