Michigan is known for being the car capital of the world.
But it is also home to some of the most beautiful nature sites to see.
The best part?
You can go camping at some of these locations.
Here are 7 places I’d like to go tent camping in Michigan.
1. Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise (site)
Activities: paddling, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, hunting
Amenities: boat launch, concession, electric, showers, water
Price: From $17 per night
As it mentions in the name, Tahquamenon Falls is known for its beautiful displays of waterfalls along the Tahquamenon River.
The largest of which, the Upper Falls, is 200 feet wide and falls roughly 50 feet, and can be seen either by walking along the riverside or by rowboat.
While the Upper Falls is a large attraction that brings many, it’s the Lower Falls that allow you to see more wildlife and have access to swimming and fishing.
The State Park itself is located on 50,000 acres, most of which is undeveloped woodlands.
There is a sense of disconnect with the modern world here as you walk through the vast woodlands along the river.
A place to unpack and unwind from today’s technology and really enjoy the beauty that is our Earth.
Multiple campsites are available within the park to stay at, and they even allow you to conveniently split your stay between them.
Check out this awesome video that shows you exactly what you can find at Tahquamenon.
2. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ontonagon
Activities: paddling, disc golf, fishing, hiking, hunting, swimming
Amenities: boat launch, concession, water (some sites), electric (some sites), showers (some sites)
Price: $15 per night for backcountry or $17+ in one of the campgrounds
Porcupine Mountains is Michigan’s largest State Park at roughly 60,000 acres.
As you can imagine, there is quite a lot to see at Porcupine Mountains.
From roaring waterfalls and pristine lakes (including part of the Lake Superior shoreline), rivers, and streams to over 90 miles of hiking trails, this area does not disappoint.
Porcupine Mountains is also home to the Lake of the Clouds, a magnificent body of water located in the middle of dense forest (check out the reviews/pictures on Trip Advisor!).
In the winter months, you’ll have access to fresh powder at the Porcupine Mountains ski area.
Tent camping in the State Park is a wonderful experience, where you have the freedom to stay in the traditional campgrounds or at one of the many backcountry camping sites.
If you plan to camp backcountry, make sure to read the specifics of each campsite as some come equipped with bear poles and lockers and some do not.
3. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire (site)
Activities: hiking, swimming, biking, fishing, hunting, paddling, scuba diving
Amenities: electric hookups, water, showers, restaurants nearby
Price: Backcountry/Manitou islands: $10+ per night, Platte River: $31+ per night, D.H. Campground: $20+
Sleeping Bear Dunes is home to many different natural features, including (you guessed it) dunes.
As you traverse through the park you’ll also have the opportunity to hike through a vast forest to many overlooks, swim at one of the beaches located within the area, or climb the dunes for a great view of Lake Michigan.
You’ll also have access to the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail; roughly four miles of paved trails that takes you through the park.
There are a few different options for camping the park, each with a different style of camping.
First, there is the Platte River Campground, which is more modern with electric hookups and modern restrooms with showers.
You’ll also have the opportunity for backpacking and/or camping on the North and South Manitou islands.
While backcountry camping is available on the islands, you will still need your backcountry permit (note: open fires are prohibited on the islands).
Finally, the D.H. campground offers an in-between camping experience with only vault toilets and water spigots available.
At the D.H. campground, you’ll have easy access to the Dune Climb and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
4. Wilderness State Park, Carp Lake (site)
Activities: Fishing, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, swimming, geocaching
Amenities: Boat launch, electricity, water, showers
Price: Backcountry: $15 per night, Modern: $22+ per week
With roughly 10,000 acres to explore, Wilderness State Park offers some amazing views, mountain biking trails, fishing spots, and more.
26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline accompany park access where you can swim or paddle, fish, or enjoy the beautiful views.
It is easy to get lost in the dense forest, so for those who love going off the beaten path this may be the park for you (always be sure to have a map and compass handy!).
Tent camping sites are available, as well as full hookup sites and backcountry camping.
Check out this amazing video to see what Wilderness State Park is all about.
5. Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer (site)
Activities: hiking, metal detecting, swimming, wildlife viewing
Amenities: concession, water, electricity, showers
Price: $25+ per night
260 feet.
That’s how high Warren Dunes takes you above Lake Michigan.
And the views are spectacular.
Not only are hiking the dunes a ton of fun and offer great views, but the state park also has 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 6 miles of hiking trails.
For those into hang gliding, visitors love to glide down the side of the dunes!
While Warren Dunes is on the smaller side of our tent camping sites on the list, it certainly still packs a ton of natural beauty and fun for all!
6. Huron-Manistee National Forests, (site)
Activities: equestrian, biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, OHV trails, paddling, boating
Amenities: drinking water at most sites, see site for more details on specific camps
Price: see website for more details on each campground
With roughly 1 million acres and around 4 million yearly visits, Huron-Manistee National Forest isn’t one you’ll want to pass up!
And with it being so large, there are a ton of campgrounds within the forest itself.
You could camp in a different campground for a few weeks and still be in Huron-Manistee.
It’s important to note that some sites don’t have drinking water, and there are no electric hookups anywhere in the park.
Primitive camping is available at a few different sites, so if you’re looking for the ultimate tent camping experience, check those out!
As far as activities at a campground, it’s more a question of what can’t you do here.
Equestrian options are available or take your off-roading vehicles on some of the OHV trails.
Have a boat or want to paddle?
There are options for you here too!
From high energy activities to relaxing and fishing in one of the lakes, Huron-Manistee is a wonderful place to camp.
7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising (site)
Activities: biking, boating, hiking, fishing, paddling, swimming, guided boat tours
Amenities:
Price: $20 per night or $XXX per week
Pictured Rocks are a beautiful display of sandstone cliffs hanging over Lake Superior.
Within the park, you’ll also be able to see sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, and deep forest.
Want to see the park from the water?
Take one of the park’s guided boat tours to learn a bit about where you are staying.
All of sites in the 3 campgrounds accompanying the park are rustic and therefore do not have electric or water, so be prepared (toilets are available in the campgrounds)!
Backcountry camping is also a popular choice at Pictured Rocks, where you can experience some amazing hikes, views, and wildlife.
A reminder from the camp website: bring pants and long socks just in case. Stable flies are immune to bug spray and like to bite campers ankles!
Tent camping at Pictured Rocks can bring you some of the most beautiful views, and spending time in the camp is a sure way to have a ton of fun on your off-the-beaten-path adventure!
Conclusion
Campsites in Michigan provide some of the most beautiful views in the United States.
In comparison, while you can camp in Florida year round, waiting for the warmer Michigan weather is definitely worth it.
What is your favorite place to camp in Michigan?
Leave your answers in the comments below!