Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and camping is a popular way to enjoy them. Whether you’re looking for a place to pitch your tent or want to park your RV, Michigan state parks have something for everyone.
Before we jump into nine of the best Michigan state parks camping destinations, here are a few things you should know.
How much does it cost to camp at Michigan state parks?
Camping is a great way to get outside and enjoy Michigan’s state parks. You can enjoy the vast hiking trails along the Lake Michigan shoreline or the gorgeous views of Lake Superior. Many camping options are available, from primitive sites to full-service RV hookups. When you’re camping in michigan state parks, you’ve got some great options.
The cost of camping varies depending on the type of site and the amenities offered. However, some general guidelines can help you budget for your trip.
Primitive sites usually cost between $10 and $20 per night, while full-service RV sites can cost upwards of $50 per night.
Some state parks also offer discounts for senior citizens or disabled veterans. So if you fall into one of these categories, be sure to take advantage of the plentiful Michigan state parks with a modest discount.
No matter how much it costs to camp at various Michigan state parks such as Hoffmaster State Park or Port Crescent State Park, it’s always worth it to enjoy a night under the stars.
How do I make camping reservations in Michigan?
Making a reservation is easy – visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website and choose your desired park and dates. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience in the middle of nowhere or a well-equipped campsite with showers and electrical hookups, Michigan has something for everyone.
Once you make a reservation you simply just check in when you arrive at the front office of whichever Michigan state park you’re staying the night at.
Silver Lake State Park
Silver Lake State Park is located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, just a short drive from the shores of Lake Michigan. And if you’ve never been, the Lake Michigan shoreline is mesmerizing!
The park is a popular destination for backcountry camping, hiking trails, and fishing and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In the winter months, cross country skiing and snowmobiling are popular activities. It is an absolutely stunning park with plenty of outdoor activities, so you’ll never be bored!
Camping at Silver Lake State Park is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and experience all the park offers. Numerous campsites are available, each with its picnic table and fire pit.
The park also has several hiking trails, which wind through the woods and offer beautiful views of the lake. The recreation areas are just one of the many highlights of this fantastic state park.
Fishing is another popular activity at Silver Lake State Park, and anglers can cast their lines from the shore or one of the many boats available for rent.
Whatever your interests, Silver Lake State Park is sure to provide a memorable camping experience. It is without a doubt, one of many Michiganders’ favorite state parks.
Warren Dunes State Park
In southwestern Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park is one of the most popular destination state parks for camping, hiking, and swimming.
The park spans over 1,500 acres of dune-covered landscape, with three miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan.
Campers can choose from over 200 sites, including both sites with electrical hookups and primitive sites. There are also several rental cabins available.
Hiking is a popular activity in the park, with over 15 miles of trails winding through the dunes and along the lake shore. In addition, the park offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and canoeing.
With its scenic views and diverse activities, Warren Dunes State Park is a perfect getaway for nature lovers of all ages. It’s clearly one of our favorite Michigan camping destinations on the list.
Hiawatha National Forest
While it’s not a state park, we feel it still deserves an honorable mention. Hiawatha National Forest is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This northwest Michigan forest consists of two units, the East and the West. The East Unit is located along the shores of Lake Superior, while the West Unit is inland.
Both units offer a variety of camping experiences, from primitive sites to developed campgrounds such as an RV park.
Hiawatha National Forest is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and canoeing. There are also many opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially in the East Unit, where moose and bears are often seen along the nature trails.
Camping at Hiawatha National Forest is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Holland State Park
Holland State Park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, just outside the city of Holland. It’s an absolutely beautiful park!
The park features two miles of sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Several hiking trails wind through the dunes, providing stunning views of the lake.
Camping is also available at Holland State Park, with both RV and primitive tent camping sites. RV campers can enjoy all the amenities of home, including electrical hookups and a dump station. Tent campers can choose to rough it in the woods or set up their tents on one of the many designated campsites.
No matter how you choose to camp, Holland State Park is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Muskegon State Park
Muskegon State Park is located in Muskegon, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Michigan.
The park offers a variety of camping experiences, from primitive sites to full-service RV hookups. Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.
The park has a playground, a picnic area, and a beach. For those who want to explore the area, several trails wind through the woods and offer lake views.
Muskegon State Park is an ideal destination whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway at one of the best state parks in Michigan for camping.
Grand Haven State Park
Grand Haven State Park is located along the shores of Lake Michigan, just a few miles from the city of Grand Rapids.
The park offers a variety of family friendly activities for visitors, including camping, hiking, swimming, and picnicking. They even have a swimming beach for those that want to take a dip in one of the great lakes. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and a limited number of RV sites are available.
The park is open year round, making it an excellent destination for winter camping.
Fishing is also popular at Grand Haven State Park, and the lake is home to various species, including trout, salmon, and perch. In addition to the many recreational opportunities available at the park, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, Grand Haven State Park is sure to offer something for everyone.
Bay City State Park
Bay City State Park is located on the shores of Saginaw Bay, about an hour’s drive from Detroit.
The park offers a wide range of camping opportunities, from primitive sites for tent camping to full-service RV sites. There are also several cabins available for rent.
The park is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating, and there are miles of hiking and biking trails to explore.
Bay City State Park is a beautiful location and the perfect place to visit whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a longer vacay.
Tawas Point State Park
Tawas Point State Park is located on the shores of Lake Huron in northeastern Michigan.
The park offers a variety of camping options, including rustic cabins, RV sites, and primitive campsites.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in the summer and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Tawas Point is also home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatching throughout their vast network of nature trails.
Tawas Point State Park is a beautiful alternative for couples, families, and groups of friends seeking a relaxing or exciting getaway.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is the largest state park in Michigan and covers over 60,000 acres. That’s quite a bit!
Camping is one of the most popular activities at the park, and there are more than 200 campsites to choose from. There are also several group campsites available. The camps are spread throughout the park, so you can choose one close to the trails you want to hike or the lakes you want to fish. There are also a few rustic mini cabins available for rent.
The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a fantastic location to get out of town and enjoy nature.
Bald Mountain Recreation Area
Bald Mountain Recreation Area is located in southeastern Michigan and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is comprised of a variety of lakes, streams, trails, and wetlands that offer something for everyone. From fishing to hiking to bird watching, Bald Mountain provides a unique opportunity to enjoy nature at its finest.
The Lower Trout Lake, provides an excellent spot for swimming and watersports. The terrain around it has plenty of forests and meadows which makes it perfect for family picnics or camping. Keep in mind, it’s also the most rugged terrain of any of the county parks in Michigan.
There are also several hiking trails that traverse the area with routes spanning from easy to moderate difficulty levels. The abundance of wildlife around Bald Mountain helps make it one of Michigan’s premier nature spots.
Osprey nest near the lakeshores while mink sneak through the forests looking for prey. In the summertime, various songbirds flutter through the trees while deer roam around in search of food. All throughout the year visitors can witness a variety of birds, animals and plants that call this place home.
Whether you are looking to explore nature or just spend some quality time outdoors, Bald Mountain Park should be at the top of your list when visiting southeastern Michigan.
When you’re ready to start camping at the magnificent Michigan state parks…
Camping can be a fun and affordable way to get out into nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Michigan is home to some of the best state parks in the country, many of which offer camping facilities.
We’ve highlighted some amazing places. Although most were on the shoreline of the various Great Lakes, there are some great inland options such as Sleepy Hollow State Park and Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot in the woods, equestrian trails, historic sites, or just looking to take in the natural beauty of a site near Lake Michigan, they’ve got you covered. So don’t hesitate, start planning your next trip to any one of these Michigan state parks!
