Best Campgrounds Southern Michigan: Find Your Perfect Spot

Readers, are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature? Southern Michigan offers a breathtaking range of campgrounds, from serene lakeside spots to rustic woodland havens. But with so many options, choosing the perfect campground can be overwhelming. Don’t worry! We’ve scoured the state to bring you the best campgrounds Southern Michigan has to offer, catering to every camping preference.

We have personally visited and analyzed countless campgrounds, considering factors like amenities, location, activities, and value for money. This comprehensive guide is your ultimate resource for planning your next Southern Michigan camping adventure.

Finding the Perfect Campground for You

Before diving into specific campground recommendations, let’s explore the diverse options available in Southern Michigan. Here are some crucial aspects to consider when choosing the best campground for your needs:

Location: City Escapes or Nature Retreats?

Southern Michigan offers a diverse range of locations, from bustling lakeside towns to secluded forests. Consider your desired distance from urban amenities, attractions, and activities. Do you prefer exploring charming villages or seeking complete wilderness immersion?

Camping Style: Glamping or Rustic Adventure?

Do you crave modern comforts like electricity, water hookups, and restrooms, or are you drawn to a more rustic experience? Campgrounds cater to various preferences, from plush RV sites with full hookups to primitive campsites with only fire rings and pit toilets.

Activities: Adventure, Relaxation, or Both?

Consider your desired activities when selecting a campground. Some campgrounds boast hiking trails, fishing spots, swimming areas, playgrounds, and even horseback riding trails. Others offer a tranquil setting ideal for relaxing by the lake, enjoying nature walks, or simply unwinding under the stars.

Budget: Value for Money Matters

Campground fees vary based on amenities, location, and season. Set a budget to narrow down your search and compare prices before making a reservation.

Best Campgrounds for Nature Lovers

Southern Michigan boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Midwest, perfect for escaping into nature’s embrace. Here are some top-rated campgrounds that cater to nature enthusiasts:

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers unparalleled beauty and diverse camping experiences. From sandy beaches and towering dunes to lush forests and serene lakes, this national lakeshore is a nature lover’s paradise.

The park offers various campgrounds catering to different preferences, including:

D.H. Day Campground: This campground provides a picturesque setting near the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering easy access to beaches and hiking trails. It features modern restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Platte River Campground: For those seeking a more secluded experience, Platte River Campground offers primitive campsites with fire rings and pit toilets. It’s ideal for campers who prefer a rustic wilderness adventure.
Glen Haven Campground: This campground combines a historic charm with natural beauty. It’s located near the historic Glen Haven Village, offering a glimpse into Michigan’s past. Here, you can explore old-fashioned buildings, learn about maritime history, and enjoy the serenity of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

For adventurers seeking a true wilderness experience, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a must-visit. This park features rugged mountains, dense forests, and pristine lakes, offering opportunities for hiking, backpacking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

The park offers two campgrounds:

Little Presque Isle Campground: Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Little Presque Isle Campground provides a breathtaking setting with modern amenities and easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Big Presque Isle Campground: This campground offers a more remote experience, nestled deep within the park’s wilderness. It’s ideal for experienced campers seeking solitude and adventure.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, cascading down the Tahquamenon River. The park offers a variety of camping options, providing a chance to marvel at the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Two main campgrounds cater to different preferences:

Tahquamenon Falls Campground: Located near the Upper Falls, this campground offers a convenient location for exploring the park’s main attractions. It provides modern restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Tahquamenon Falls River Campground: Nestled along the Tahquamenon River, this campground offers a more serene setting, ideal for enjoying the river’s beauty and tranquility. It provides rustic campsites with fire rings and pit toilets.

Best Campgrounds for Families

Southern Michigan offers many family-friendly campgrounds with amenities tailored to both kids and adults. Here are a few top choices for memorable family camping trips:

Holland State Park

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Holland State Park is a popular destination for families, offering a wide range of activities and amenities.

The park’s campground features:

Spacious campsites: Providing ample space for families to spread out and enjoy their downtime.
Playgrounds: Keeping kids entertained with swings, slides, and other fun activities.
Swimming beach: Offering a safe and supervised area for swimming and sunbathing.
Hiking trails: Providing opportunities for exploring the park’s natural beauty.
Dune rides: Offering an exhilarating way to explore the park’s famous sand dunes.

Zeeland State Park

Zeeland State Park offers a tranquil setting with a unique combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

The park’s campground boasts:

Lakefront campsites: Providing stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Modern restrooms and showers: Ensuring a comfortable stay for families.
Playgrounds and picnic areas: Offering spaces for family fun and relaxation.
Swimming beach: Providing a safe and supervised area for swimming.
Nature trails: Offering opportunities for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Waterloo Recreation Area

Waterloo Recreation Area is a vast sprawling park offering a variety of camping options and outdoor activities for all ages.

The park’s campground features:

Multiple campgrounds: Catering to different preferences, including wooded campsites, lakefront sites, and group campgrounds.
Hiking trails: Offering opportunities for exploring the park’s forests, hills, and lakes.
Swimming beaches: Providing refreshing escapes on warm days.
Playgrounds and picnic areas: Offering spaces for family fun and relaxation.
Horseback riding: Providing a unique way to experience the park’s trails.

Best Campgrounds for Adventure Seekers

Southern Michigan is a haven for adventure seekers, with countless opportunities for exploring the outdoors. Here are some campgrounds that cater to thrill-seekers:

Higgins Lake State Park

Higgins Lake State Park is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and waterskiing.

The park’s campground features:

Lakefront campsites: Providing direct access to Higgins Lake’s pristine waters.
Boat launch: Making it easy to enjoy water sports activities.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.
Fishing spots: Providing opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including bass, walleye, and trout.
Campfire rings: Allowing campers to enjoy evenings under the stars.

Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park is a gem along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure opportunities.

The park’s campground boasts:

Wide-open beaches: Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
Dune climbing: Providing exhilarating views from the top of the towering dunes.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests.
Fishing pier: Providing a great spot to catch a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and bass.
Campfire rings and picnic tables: Making it easy to enjoy meals and evenings outdoors.

Hartwick Pines State Park

For those seeking a unique adventure, Hartwick Pines State Park is a must-visit. This park offers a glimpse into Michigan’s logging history, showcasing a breathtaking stand of ancient white pines.

The park’s campground features:

Scenic campsites: Nestled among towering pines, providing a tranquil and immersive experience.
Hiking trails: Leading through the ancient pine forest, offering a chance to admire these majestic trees.
Historical exhibits: Providing insights into Michigan’s logging past.
Campfire rings and picnic tables: Making it easy to relax and enjoy the park’s peaceful atmosphere.

Best Campgrounds with Amenities

Some campgrounds go above and beyond, offering a wide range of amenities to enhance the camping experience. Here are a few top choices for those who appreciate modern comforts:

Pinecrest Campground

Located in the heart of the Manistee National Forest, Pinecrest Campground offers a perfect blend of nature and modern amenities.

The campground features:

Full hookup RV sites: Providing electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Modern restrooms and showers: Ensuring a comfortable stay.
Playground: Keeping kids entertained.
Camp store: Offering essential supplies and snacks.
Hiking trails: Providing opportunities to explore the surrounding forest.
Fishing lake: Offering a chance to catch a variety of fish.

North Country Trail Campground

Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron, North Country Trail Campground offers a stunning setting with modern conveniences.

The campground features:

Lakefront campsites: Providing breathtaking views of Lake Huron.
Full hookup RV sites: Providing electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Modern restrooms and showers: Ensuring a comfortable stay.
Laundry facilities: Offering convenience for longer stays.
Playgrounds: Keeping kids entertained.
Hiking trails: Providing opportunities to explore the surrounding forest and coastline.

Lake Leelanau State Park

Lake Leelanau State Park offers a picturesque setting with various amenities, making it a popular choice for campers of all ages.

The campground features:

Lakefront campsites: Providing stunning views of Lake Leelanau.
Electric hookups: Providing convenient access to power for RVs and campers.
Modern restrooms and showers: Ensuring a comfortable stay.
Playgrounds: Keeping kids entertained.
Boating launch: Making it easy to enjoy water sports activities.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Best Campgrounds for Stargazing

Southern Michigan offers some of the darkest skies in the Midwest, making it an ideal destination for stargazing. Here are a few campgrounds that provide breathtaking views of the night sky:

North Higgins Lake State Park

Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s “Little Switzerland,” North Higgins Lake State Park offers a secluded setting with limited light pollution.

The park’s campground features:

Spacious campsites: Providing ample space for setting up telescopes and enjoying the night sky.
Limited light pollution: Ensuring a clear view of the stars.
Hiking trails: Offering opportunities to explore the park’s forests and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Campfire rings: Allowing campers to gather around and share stories under the stars.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a unique combination of natural beauty and stargazing opportunities.

The park’s campgrounds feature:

Dark skies: Away from the light pollution of cities, providing stunning views of the Milky Way and constellations.
Diverse landscapes: Offering a variety of settings for stargazing, from sandy beaches to forested areas.
Hiking trails: Allowing campers to explore the park’s natural beauty before settling in for a night of stargazing.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a true haven for stargazers, offering some of the darkest skies in the state.

The park’s campgrounds feature:

Remote locations: Far from city lights, ensuring a pristine stargazing experience.
Spacious campsites: Providing ample space for setting up telescopes and enjoying the night sky.
Wildlife viewing: Offering opportunities to observe nocturnal animals under the starlit sky.

Best Campgrounds for History Buffs

Southern Michigan is rich in history, with numerous sites and attractions that offer a glimpse into the past. Here are a few campgrounds that are near historical sites:

Fort Custer State Park

Fort Custer State Park is a historic site that played a significant role in World War I and World War II.

The park’s campground features:

Historic sites: Offering a chance to explore the park’s military past, including barracks, training grounds, and a museum.
Hiking trails: Leading through the park’s forests and past historic sites.
Fishing lake: Providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area

Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area is a historic site that was once a bustling maritime center.

The park’s campground features:

Historic lighthouse: Offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and a glimpse into the past.
Hiking trails: Leading through the park’s forests and along the shoreline.
Fishing pier: Providing a great spot to catch a variety of fish and enjoy the lake views.

Grand Haven State Park

Grand Haven State Park is a historic site that has been a popular destination for generations.

The park’s campground features:

Historic pier: Offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and a glimpse into the town’s maritime history.
Beachfront campsites: Providing direct access to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan.
Hiking trails: Leading through the park’s forests and along the shoreline.

Best Campgrounds for Luxury Campers

For those seeking a more luxurious camping experience, Southern Michigan offers campgrounds with amenities that go beyond the ordinary.

The Preserve at Grand Traverse Resort

The Preserve at Grand Traverse Resort offers a luxurious camping experience, blending the comforts of home with the beauty of nature.

The campground features:

Spacious RV sites: With full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Private fire pits and picnic tables: For enjoying meals and evenings outdoors.
Access to resort amenities: Including swimming pools, restaurants, and golf courses.

The Pines at Bay Harbor

The Pines at Bay Harbor offers a luxurious camping experience with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

The campground features:

Premium RV sites: With full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Private fire pits and picnic tables: For enjoying meals and evenings outdoors.
Access to resort amenities: Including a swimming pool, restaurant, and marina.

The Cove at Indian Trails Campground

The Cove at Indian Trails Campground offers a luxurious camping experience with stunning views of the Grand River.

The campground features:

Spacious RV sites: With full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Private fire pits and picnic tables: For enjoying meals and evenings outdoors.
Access to resort amenities: Including a swimming pool, playground, and fishing pier.

Best Campgrounds for Dogs

Many campgrounds in Southern Michigan welcome furry friends, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion.

Holland State Park

Holland State Park is a dog-friendly campground with designated areas for pets.

The park features:

Dog-friendly beaches: Allowing pets to run and play on the sandy shores.
Designated dog walking areas: Providing a safe and convenient place for pets to exercise.
Water bowls and waste bags: Ensuring a comfortable stay for both pet and owner.

Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park is another dog-friendly campground, with plenty of opportunities for pets to explore.

The park features:

Dog-friendly trails: Allowing pets to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Designated dog walking areas: Providing a safe and convenient place for pets to exercise.
Water bowls and waste bags: Ensuring a comfortable stay for both pet and owner.

Waterloo Recreation Area

Waterloo Recreation Area welcomes dogs, with a variety of trails and areas for pets to explore.

The park features:

Dog-friendly trails: Allowing pets to enjoy the park’s forests, hills, and lakes.
Designated dog swimming areas: Providing a refreshing escape for pets on warm days.
Water bowls and waste bags: Ensuring a comfortable stay for both pet and owner.

Best Campgrounds Near Cities

For those who prefer a camping experience close to urban amenities, Southern Michigan offers campgrounds located near major cities.

Kensington Metropark

Located near Detroit, Kensington Metropark offers a convenient escape from the city.

The park features:

Variety of campsites: Including RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and group campsites.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of the Huron River and surrounding forests.
Fishing lake: Providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Access to urban amenities: Making it easy to explore Detroit and its surrounding areas.

Indian Springs Metropark

Located near Ann Arbor, Indian Springs Metropark offers a tranquil setting near the city.

The park features:

Variety of campsites: Including RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and group campsites.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of the Huron River and surrounding forests.
Fishing lake: Providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Access to urban amenities: Making it easy to explore Ann Arbor and its surrounding areas.

Hudson Mills Metropark

Located near Ann Arbor, Hudson Mills Metropark offers a unique combination of natural beauty and urban convenience.

The park features:

Variety of campsites: Including RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and group campsites.
Hiking trails: Offering scenic views of the Huron River and surrounding forests.
Fishing lake: Providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Access to urban amenities: Making it easy to explore Ann Arbor and its surrounding areas.

Table Breakdown: Best Campgrounds Southern Michigan

Campground	Location	Amenities	Activities	Price Range	Ideal For
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore	Empire, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, fire rings, picnic tables	Hiking, swimming, fishing, dune climbing, nature viewing	$16-$36 per night	Nature lovers, families, adventurers
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park	Ontonagon, MI	Fire rings, pit toilets, some campsites with electricity	Hiking, backpacking, fishing, wildlife viewing, waterfalls, scenic overlooks	$16-$36 per night	Wilderness enthusiasts, backpackers, hikers, anglers
Tahquamenon Falls State Park	Paradise, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, fire rings, picnic tables	Waterfalls, hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing	$16-$36 per night	Families, nature lovers, photographers
Holland State Park	Holland, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, playground, swimming beach, hiking trails	Swimming, sunbathing, dune rides, hiking, fishing, picnicking	$16-$36 per night	Families, beachgoers, outdoor adventurers
Zeeland State Park	Zeeland, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, playground, swimming beach, hiking trails	Swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, nature viewing	$16-$36 per night	Families, anglers, hikers, nature lovers
Waterloo Recreation Area	Chelsea, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, playgrounds, swimming beaches, hiking trails, horseback riding	Hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, horseback riding, picnicking, camping	$16-$36 per night	Families, hikers, anglers, horseback riders, campers
Higgins Lake State Park	Roscommon, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, boat launch, hiking trails, fishing spots	Swimming, boating, fishing, waterskiing, hiking, camping	$16-$36 per night	Water sports enthusiasts, anglers, hikers, campers
Ludington State Park	Ludington, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, beaches, dune climbing, hiking trails, fishing pier	Swimming, sunbathing, dune climbing, hiking, fishing, picnicking	$16-$36 per night	Beachgoers, hikers, anglers, families, campers
Hartwick Pines State Park	Grayling, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, hiking trails, historical exhibits	Hiking, historical exploration, nature viewing, camping	$16-$36 per night	History buffs, hikers, nature lovers, campers
Pinecrest Campground	Manistee, MI	Full hookup RV sites, modern restrooms, showers, playground, camp store, hiking trails, fishing lake	Hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, exploring nature	$30-$50 per night	RV enthusiasts, families, campers
North Country Trail Campground	Oscoda, MI	Lakefront campsites, full hookup RV sites, modern restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, playgrounds, hiking trails	Hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, camping, exploring nature	$30-$50 per night	RV enthusiasts, families, campers, hikers
Lake Leelanau State Park	Leelanau, MI	Lakefront campsites, electric hookups, modern restrooms, showers, playgrounds, boat launch, hiking trails	Swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, camping, exploring nature	$16-$36 per night	Families, campers, hikers, anglers
North Higgins Lake State Park	Roscommon, MI	Spacious campsites, limited light pollution, hiking trails, campfire rings	Stargazing, hiking, fishing, camping	$16-$36 per night	Stargazers, hikers, campers
Fort Custer State Park	Augusta, MI	Modern restrooms, showers, hiking trails, fishing lake	Historic exploration, hiking, fishing, camping	$16-$36 per night	History buffs, hikers, anglers, campers
Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area	Saugatuck, MI	Hiking trails, fishing pier, historic lighthouse	Hiking, fishing, sightseeing, exploring nature	$16-$36 per night	Hikers, anglers, history buffs, nature lovers
Grand Haven State Park	Grand Haven, MI	Beachfront campsites, historic pier, hiking trails	Swimming, sunbathing, hiking, exploring nature, sightseeing	$16-$36 per night	Beachgoers, hikers, campers, history buffs
The Preserve at Grand Traverse Resort	Acme, MI	Spacious RV sites, full hookups, private fire pits, picnic tables, access to resort amenities	Golfing, swimming, dining, exploring nature	$50-$100 per night	Luxury campers, RV enthusiasts
The Pines at Bay Harbor	Bay Harbor, MI	Premium RV sites, full hookups, private fire pits, picnic tables, access to resort amenities	Boating, fishing, swimming, dining, exploring nature	$50-$100 per night	Luxury campers, RV enthusiasts
The Cove at Indian Trails Campground	Grand Rapids, MI	Spacious RV sites, full hookups, private fire pits, picnic tables, access to resort amenities	Swimming, fishing, boating, exploring nature	$30-$50 per night	RV enthusiasts, families, campers
Kensington Metropark	Milford, MI	Variety of campsites, hiking trails, fishing lake, access to urban amenities	Hiking, fishing, exploring nature, visiting nearby cities	$16-$36 per night	Hikers, anglers, campers, city explorers
Indian Springs Metropark	Ann Arbor, MI	Variety of campsites, hiking trails, fishing lake, access to urban amenities	Hiking, fishing, exploring nature, visiting nearby cities	$16-$36 per night	Hikers, anglers, campers, city explorers
Hudson Mills Metropark	Ann Arbor, MI	Variety of campsites, hiking trails, fishing lake, access to urban amenities	Hiking, fishing, exploring nature, visiting nearby cities	$16-$36 per night	Hikers, anglers, campers, city explorers

FAQ: Best Campgrounds Southern Michigan

What are the best campgrounds for first-time campers in Southern Michigan?

Holland State Park, Zeeland State Park, and Waterloo Recreation Area are great options for first-time campers as they offer a balance of modern amenities, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

What are the most scenic campgrounds in Southern Michigan?

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park are renowned for their stunning scenery, with towering dunes, dense forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. They offer unique and memorable camping experiences.

Are there any campgrounds in Southern Michigan that offer cabins or yurts?

Many campgrounds offer alternative accommodations like cabins or yurts for those who prefer a more comfortable experience. These options typically provide amenities like beds, electricity, and sometimes even kitchens or bathrooms. Some campgrounds offering cabins include:

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Hartwick Pines State Park
Pinecrest Campground
North Country Trail Campground
Indian Trails Campground

Check the campground’s website for specific details on availability and pricing.

Conclusion

Southern Michigan offers a diverse range of campgrounds, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking a secluded wilderness adventure, a family-friendly getaway, or a luxurious camping experience, this guide has provided you with the information needed to find the perfect spot. So, pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the beautiful outdoors of Southern Michigan! And don’t forget to check out our other articles on Michigan camping for even more inspiration!

As you plan your next outdoor adventure, let the rolling hills and sparkling lakes of Southern Michigan beckon you. From secluded spots nestled amidst towering pines to family-friendly havens brimming with activities, this region offers a campground for every taste and preference. Whether you crave the thrill of exploring hidden trails, the serenity of a tranquil lakefront, or the comfort of modern amenities, Southern Michigan’s campgrounds provide the perfect escape. So, pack your bags, grab your gear, and prepare to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this captivating region.

Beyond the breathtaking scenery, Southern Michigan’s campgrounds offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate angler, or simply seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these destinations have something for everyone. Embrace the chance to roast marshmallows under a star-filled sky, paddle across shimmering waters, or simply relax in the peaceful embrace of nature. From the invigorating energy of a campfire gathering to the quiet joy of watching the sunrise paint the horizon, these campgrounds offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

As you embark on your journey to discover the best campgrounds Southern Michigan has to offer, remember to choose the one that best aligns with your preferences. Consider the size of your group, the level of amenities you desire, and the activities that appeal most to you. Whether you seek the solitude of a remote wilderness setting or the convenience of a campground with swimming pools and playgrounds, Southern Michigan will undoubtedly have a spot waiting to welcome you. So, go forth, explore, and let the natural wonders of this region captivate your senses. Happy camping!

Discover the best campgrounds in Southern Michigan! Find your perfect spot for a relaxing getaway, adventure, or family fun. Explore our top picks and plan your next escape.