Best Cabin Rentals in Upper Peninsula, Michigan 2024

United States
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Michigan
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Upper Peninsula

98% (604 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Upper Peninsula

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

99%

(364)

Bear Tree Homestead

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

Northwoods Haven

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Skandia, MI

We have an 80 acre wooded haven in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan only 12 miles outside of the beautiful city of Marquette. In addition to a peaceful cabin to stay in, walking trails to explore, and vast amounts of outdoor adventures to be had within a short drive there are other sites to view on the property if interested. We have the first US built apitherapy Hive House (best viewed in summer), an outdoor kitchen used for canning, cider making, and maple syrup, our own saw mill that provided the wood for many of the structures on the property, and a restored 1870's cabin among others. There is a short walk (perhaps an 1/8 of a mile) from where you park to reach the cabin site. Come enjoy our little piece of heaven.

Possum Creek Campground

5 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

ATTENTION: Please note the following before requesting booking: 1. County Road HD road conditions require 4-wheel drive. 2. Campers are required to sign a waiver on arrival protecting property owner of all liability related to risks associated with wilderness camping. 3. Please provide an estimated time of arrival on the morning of arrival and plan to arrive by 8:00 p.m. This is necessary in order to be available to assist campers with finding sites and other needs. Please also message if your plans have changed and you will not arrive as scheduled. Read more about the sites and property below: Site 1, The Falls Site, is limited to 2 campers who must hike approximately 1/4 mile to the site from parking. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is home to 8 charcoal kilns which employed a community prior to ownership. The mountain is approximately 1.8 billion years old. Learn more about this land: This property has 2 tent sites at the western base of Hogback Mountain. Site 1, The Falls Site, is located on a spring fed stream. The hike from parking to tent site is 1/4 mile on a well-marked hilly path. Campers can park at the main property on County Road HD or on the Garden Road, and will need to pack supplies to their site. Site 2, The Garden Site, is 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an outhouse. Campers are responsible for removal of all other waste. The 2-foot wide stream provides water for washing, but is not considered potable, and use of filters or boiling water is recommended. These isolated sites are beautiful and rustic and nestled in the midst of the Noquemanon Trail Network (cross country skiing and mountain biking) and North Country Trails and are approximately 2 miles from Lake Superior, Harlow Lake and Dead River. 4 kayaks/paddles/life vests and a 12 foot boat are available for camper use. First come, first serve. You transport.

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Ellens Cabin

1 site · Lodging40 acres · West Ishpeming, MI

Looking for a remote cabin for a romantic getaway or a relaxing time in the big Northwoods? Ellen’s cabin is off-grid (12volt DC, solar), has limited running water and unreliable cellphone service. It’s 1/2 a mile from a dirt road which is a portion of the North Country Trail, sitting in the rugged Michigamme Highlands, close to Silver Lake and Dead River Basins. The cabin is fully equipped and is 45 minutes from Ishpeming and an hour from Marquette. There is a wood stove and back-up propane for heat, a gas stove and small grill for cooking and a small fridge. There is a double bed, two single beds and a pull-out futon and all bedding is provided. There is also an open area upstairs for yoga or for children to play. There is a fire ring with wood provided, a deck with great views of the Mulligan escarpment and an outhouse. There are lots of opportunities to see birds and other wildlife and for this reason we do not allow dogs, hunting or motorized sports.

12 top cabins sites in Upper Peninsula

99%

(364)

Bear Tree Homestead

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

Ellens Cabin

1 site · Lodging40 acres · West Ishpeming, MI

Looking for a remote cabin for a romantic getaway or a relaxing time in the big Northwoods? Ellen’s cabin is off-grid (12volt DC, solar), has limited running water and unreliable cellphone service. It’s 1/2 a mile from a dirt road which is a portion of the North Country Trail, sitting in the rugged Michigamme Highlands, close to Silver Lake and Dead River Basins. The cabin is fully equipped and is 45 minutes from Ishpeming and an hour from Marquette. There is a wood stove and back-up propane for heat, a gas stove and small grill for cooking and a small fridge. There is a double bed, two single beds and a pull-out futon and all bedding is provided. There is also an open area upstairs for yoga or for children to play. There is a fire ring with wood provided, a deck with great views of the Mulligan escarpment and an outhouse. There are lots of opportunities to see birds and other wildlife and for this reason we do not allow dogs, hunting or motorized sports.

Possum Creek Campground

5 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

ATTENTION: Please note the following before requesting booking: 1. County Road HD road conditions require 4-wheel drive. 2. Campers are required to sign a waiver on arrival protecting property owner of all liability related to risks associated with wilderness camping. 3. Please provide an estimated time of arrival on the morning of arrival and plan to arrive by 8:00 p.m. This is necessary in order to be available to assist campers with finding sites and other needs. Please also message if your plans have changed and you will not arrive as scheduled. Read more about the sites and property below: Site 1, The Falls Site, is limited to 2 campers who must hike approximately 1/4 mile to the site from parking. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is home to 8 charcoal kilns which employed a community prior to ownership. The mountain is approximately 1.8 billion years old. Learn more about this land: This property has 2 tent sites at the western base of Hogback Mountain. Site 1, The Falls Site, is located on a spring fed stream. The hike from parking to tent site is 1/4 mile on a well-marked hilly path. Campers can park at the main property on County Road HD or on the Garden Road, and will need to pack supplies to their site. Site 2, The Garden Site, is 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an outhouse. Campers are responsible for removal of all other waste. The 2-foot wide stream provides water for washing, but is not considered potable, and use of filters or boiling water is recommended. These isolated sites are beautiful and rustic and nestled in the midst of the Noquemanon Trail Network (cross country skiing and mountain biking) and North Country Trails and are approximately 2 miles from Lake Superior, Harlow Lake and Dead River. 4 kayaks/paddles/life vests and a 12 foot boat are available for camper use. First come, first serve. You transport.

Hemlock Ridge Homestead

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Marquette, MI

Welcome to the Hemlock Ridge Homestead! This custom log home built in the early 2000's was a dream of mine since I was 8 years old. Our family lives here year round and absolutely love it. These sites are on a seasonal road so travel in and out can be impeded at times due to weather or external forces, such as tree falls, wash outs, etc. This is a self sufficient homestead in the making. Our garden has progressed greatly, and our fruit tree orchards are starting to produce. The free range chickens are fun and quirky, offering farm fresh eggs. We just opened our second site, the Prairieview Chalet 2024 summer. Both sites offer great amenities. The Acorn Retreat cabin includes a hot tub, gas weber grill and other amenities. The bouchee outhouse is shared by both sites and is cleaned regularly. The new Prairieview Chalet is an exceptional adventurers haven! It has all the things you want after a day(s) out in the wilderness, with amenities like a hot shower, fully stocked kitchen, linens and more. Our property reflects our love of the land and space. We are always making improvements, such as the timber framed chicken coop. We now have a ping pong table for our guests, and still offer farm fresh eggs. Our motto is to make every place better than we found it and hope our guests will do the same. This is a zen, quiet place to heal, reflect and refill your cup of life:)

Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Marquette, MI

The land around Bear Lake was divided into 10-acre parcels in the 1970s using an original logging trail. Logging artifacts have been found on the property. The Yellow Dog River is a legendary trout stream, and many artists have found that the river satisfies their need for the wild. We are 20 miles (app) north of Marquette, which is my home town. It is a destination for bikers, skiiers, and outdoor rec folk! There are so many things to see and do in Marquette, so make sure to plan enough time to check out the town! Also, just six miles to our north is historic Big Bay. A lumber town back in the day, it is full of history. Check out the Thunder Bay Inn, where parts of Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart and Lee Remick were filmed. Don't miss going to the Lumberjack to see where the actual murder took place, either! You will find good eats and perhaps even some live music at either establishment. You'll also find everything you need in the way of groceries, and gas at Cram's General Store, where there's also a laundromat. Burns landing has the historic Burns family home renovated in a park setting, and a public beach access to mighty Lake Superior. Yellow Dog falls is a short drive on Co. Road 510, and on the way be sure to climb Thomas Rock overlook. There are new bike trails if you're into that as well! Stay awhile. You'll be glad you did! We strive to offer peace and serenity to our guests, and love to share these woods with those needing tranquility and respite from a busy world. In this sensitive environmental area, we have only two sites to keep traffic down, enhance our visitors experience, and to protect the wildlife here. Unplug with us, eh!

Lonesome Loon

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · K I Sawyer, MI

Nestled on the tranquil shores of a picturesque spring-fed lake, our rustic yet charming lakefront lot offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, our property is designed to meet all your needs. Our spacious lakefront lot provides stunning panoramic views, direct access to the water, and a serene environment to relax and unwind. We have a cabin or RV/tent spot available. Check out both sites before booking.

Northwoods Haven

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Skandia, MI

We have an 80 acre wooded haven in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan only 12 miles outside of the beautiful city of Marquette. In addition to a peaceful cabin to stay in, walking trails to explore, and vast amounts of outdoor adventures to be had within a short drive there are other sites to view on the property if interested. We have the first US built apitherapy Hive House (best viewed in summer), an outdoor kitchen used for canning, cider making, and maple syrup, our own saw mill that provided the wood for many of the structures on the property, and a restored 1870's cabin among others. There is a short walk (perhaps an 1/8 of a mile) from where you park to reach the cabin site. Come enjoy our little piece of heaven.

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Birch Top ~ Rustic Cabin

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Marquette, MI

Rustic cabin sitting on a hill top surrounded by beautiful birch trees! 40 acre parcel to explore located in Harvey, just 10 miles outside of Marquette. The cabin is within several miles of: Lake Superior beaches, world class mountain biking, miles of hiking trails, and all that the City of Marquette has to offer! Cabin has 1 full size bed, 1 twin size bed, along with a pull out bed. Please bring your own bedding, pillows, and/or sleeping bag. Feel free to pop a tent next to the cabin as well! There is no running water or electricity provided, so please be sure to bring your own cooking stove and light sources. We will provide a 5 gallon jug of water, and there is an artesian well located outside of the nearest convenience store, Kassel's Korner (Corner of US41-and County Rd 480). Other amenities include: portable toilet, charcoal grill, outdoor fireplace, indoor wood stove.

Old Cedar Lodge

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Au Train, MI

Lovely cottage on Autrain Lake near all of the sites to see in the area. Currently offered as B&B in our main cabin but homeowner will be in separate quarters. You will be in a private cabin. There are three bedroom areas upstairs with a full modern bath. One room Full bed, One room Queen bed, and the third is an open area with a privacy curtain and sitting area as well as a King bed. The living area has light seating area with a twin pull out loveseat, and two recliners. We have kayaks available for use. A small dock. There is some erosion on the bank we are currently working on but no beach, its in the process. Pets are allowed but please do not allow off leash or out of small fenced in area. All pet owners must clean up after your pets outside and if you leave for the day you are responsible for them. I recommend kennel trained as they act completely different and strange place. Ours are the same. Owner is around but can not watch pets as we work full time. I can check for a local teen to provide day care if requested. Breakfast foods will be supplied but there will no cooking provided. If you have special requests for breakfast foods please forward that information one week prior to arrival. We hope you have a great vacation!!!

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Little Brocky Lake Cabin & Sauna

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Nestled on the edge of a serene trout pond, our rustic cabin offers the perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the pristine waters of a spring-fed lake, ideal for swimming and fishing, right at your doorstep. Start your day with a peaceful morning swim in the crystal-clear waters or cast a line for some of the best trout fishing around. As the sun sets, light up a crackling fire in the fire pit and share stories under the starlit sky, or take a soothing break in our cedar sauna, letting the gentle warmth melt away any stress.

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The Log Cabin Retreat

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Shingleton, MI

The Log Cabin Retreat is centrally located just outside the 45 miles of Pictured Rocks National Shoreline, a short drive from Miners Castle, The Log Slide, multiple water falls, and countless atv trails. Learn more about this land:Come experience “up north” in all of its rugged glory. Nestled among trails in the Hiawatha region of Munising, MI (next to Haywire Trail #8), The Log Cabin Retreat is also situated in very close proximity to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This is the PERFECT location with quick access to everything the area has to offer. Enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing and ice fishing in the winter; hiking, ATVing, mountain biking, swimming, beaching, fishing and kayaking/canoeing in the summer. There is plenty to do in the area and the Log Cabin Crew is ALWAYS happy to help you out! The Log Cabin Retreat is surrounded by 20 acres of private, wooded property. Luxuriate in solitude or enjoy Munising – your choice! The conveniences of town are just a short (10 minute) drive away. The famous Bear Trap Inn (restaurant and bar) is just 1/4 of a mile down the road: Our guests have always loved this place. Kewadin Casino in Christmas, MI is about a 20 minutes’ drive. The cabin is quaint enough for one family, yet accommodating enough to comfortably host larger parties of up to 16. There are four bedrooms and two bathrooms on the basement and main floor levels, plus a loft. Park your snowmobile trailers and trucks in the large driveway – there's tons of space to pull in and pull out (no need to back up). Stoke up the fire and relax. Imbibe at the bar. Take in forest and wildlife views from the comfort of the deck. Cook up a feast on the gas grill. Roast marshmallows and enjoy each other's company around the fire. The cabin is yours to enjoy during your stay. There’s plenty of room here to do what you like. Make memories; do things your way. The kitchen is fully stocked. The living room is plush. The basement is fully furnished; laid-back. All bedding, bath towels and toiletries are included. Most of our guests are repeat guests… Come and find out why!!

Camp Rock

1 site · Lodging140 acres · Rock, MI

Welcome to Camp Rock, your gateway to a bygone era of rustic charm and timeless adventure in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula! Nestled on a sprawling one-hundred and forty-acre tree farm, our classic deer camp offers a unique retreat where you can unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. Step inside our cedar log cabin, lovingly built in 1952, and feel the essence of a bygone era wash over you. While the cabin is remote and private, offering a true escape from the modern world, it's conveniently located just thirty minutes from some of the U.P.'s most coveted destinations. Disconnect from the digital realm as you immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of cabin life. Enjoy the warmth of the wood stove or propane heat in the living/dining/kitchen area, where you'll find all the essentials for comfortable living, including a full refrigerator, electric stove, running hot water, and ample space to prepare meals and dine with loved ones. Embrace the nostalgia of days gone by with four free-to-air television stations and a collection of classic movies, perfect for cozy evenings by the crackling fire. Retreat to the bunk room, where you'll find comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to four guests, complete with fresh linens and the option of additional cots. For added privacy, our spacious lockable shower room provides a tranquil oasis with modern amenities such as a twin bed, television, and DVD player, ensuring your comfort during your stay. Step outside to discover our named trails, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, or gather around the fire pit to share stories and marvel at the starry night sky. As morning breaks, venture to our unique insulated outhouse with a viewing window, adorned with amusing signs and stickers, for a truly memorable experience. Whether you seek outdoor adventure or peaceful solitude, Camp Rock promises an unforgettable U.P. escape for all who visit.

Star Hosts in Upper Peninsula

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Lonesome Loon

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · K I Sawyer, MI

Nestled on the tranquil shores of a picturesque spring-fed lake, our rustic yet charming lakefront lot offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, our property is designed to meet all your needs. Our spacious lakefront lot provides stunning panoramic views, direct access to the water, and a serene environment to relax and unwind. We have a cabin or RV/tent spot available. Check out both sites before booking.

Possum Creek Campground

5 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

ATTENTION: Please note the following before requesting booking: 1. County Road HD road conditions require 4-wheel drive. 2. Campers are required to sign a waiver on arrival protecting property owner of all liability related to risks associated with wilderness camping. 3. Please provide an estimated time of arrival on the morning of arrival and plan to arrive by 8:00 p.m. This is necessary in order to be available to assist campers with finding sites and other needs. Please also message if your plans have changed and you will not arrive as scheduled. Read more about the sites and property below: Site 1, The Falls Site, is limited to 2 campers who must hike approximately 1/4 mile to the site from parking. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is home to 8 charcoal kilns which employed a community prior to ownership. The mountain is approximately 1.8 billion years old. Learn more about this land: This property has 2 tent sites at the western base of Hogback Mountain. Site 1, The Falls Site, is located on a spring fed stream. The hike from parking to tent site is 1/4 mile on a well-marked hilly path. Campers can park at the main property on County Road HD or on the Garden Road, and will need to pack supplies to their site. Site 2, The Garden Site, is 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an outhouse. Campers are responsible for removal of all other waste. The 2-foot wide stream provides water for washing, but is not considered potable, and use of filters or boiling water is recommended. These isolated sites are beautiful and rustic and nestled in the midst of the Noquemanon Trail Network (cross country skiing and mountain biking) and North Country Trails and are approximately 2 miles from Lake Superior, Harlow Lake and Dead River. 4 kayaks/paddles/life vests and a 12 foot boat are available for camper use. First come, first serve. You transport.

Hemlock Ridge Homestead

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Marquette, MI

Welcome to the Hemlock Ridge Homestead! This custom log home built in the early 2000's was a dream of mine since I was 8 years old. Our family lives here year round and absolutely love it. These sites are on a seasonal road so travel in and out can be impeded at times due to weather or external forces, such as tree falls, wash outs, etc. This is a self sufficient homestead in the making. Our garden has progressed greatly, and our fruit tree orchards are starting to produce. The free range chickens are fun and quirky, offering farm fresh eggs. We just opened our second site, the Prairieview Chalet 2024 summer. Both sites offer great amenities. The Acorn Retreat cabin includes a hot tub, gas weber grill and other amenities. The bouchee outhouse is shared by both sites and is cleaned regularly. The new Prairieview Chalet is an exceptional adventurers haven! It has all the things you want after a day(s) out in the wilderness, with amenities like a hot shower, fully stocked kitchen, linens and more. Our property reflects our love of the land and space. We are always making improvements, such as the timber framed chicken coop. We now have a ping pong table for our guests, and still offer farm fresh eggs. Our motto is to make every place better than we found it and hope our guests will do the same. This is a zen, quiet place to heal, reflect and refill your cup of life:)

Bear Tree Homestead

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Trowbridge Park, MI

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Marquette, MI

The land around Bear Lake was divided into 10-acre parcels in the 1970s using an original logging trail. Logging artifacts have been found on the property. The Yellow Dog River is a legendary trout stream, and many artists have found that the river satisfies their need for the wild. We are 20 miles (app) north of Marquette, which is my home town. It is a destination for bikers, skiiers, and outdoor rec folk! There are so many things to see and do in Marquette, so make sure to plan enough time to check out the town! Also, just six miles to our north is historic Big Bay. A lumber town back in the day, it is full of history. Check out the Thunder Bay Inn, where parts of Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart and Lee Remick were filmed. Don't miss going to the Lumberjack to see where the actual murder took place, either! You will find good eats and perhaps even some live music at either establishment. You'll also find everything you need in the way of groceries, and gas at Cram's General Store, where there's also a laundromat. Burns landing has the historic Burns family home renovated in a park setting, and a public beach access to mighty Lake Superior. Yellow Dog falls is a short drive on Co. Road 510, and on the way be sure to climb Thomas Rock overlook. There are new bike trails if you're into that as well! Stay awhile. You'll be glad you did! We strive to offer peace and serenity to our guests, and love to share these woods with those needing tranquility and respite from a busy world. In this sensitive environmental area, we have only two sites to keep traffic down, enhance our visitors experience, and to protect the wildlife here. Unplug with us, eh!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Cabins in Upper Peninsula guide

Overview

In Michigan, the Upper Peninsula (UP) is highly valued for outdoor fun. The geographical position is ideal, with Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and Lake Michigan providing endless miles of shoreline with dense forests between them. Extending west to Wisconsin and north to both the water and the Canadian border, the region puts campers in close proximity to great backroads, abundant campgrounds, charming towns like Marquette, and enough recreational opportunities to keep you busy for a lifetime. If you're planning an Upper Peninsula camping trip, expect a combination of water and woods with unique topography, stunning lighthouses, and the distinct feeling of going back in time.

Where to go

Paddle Remote Shorelines

UP paddling options are limitless with three great lakes bordering the peninsula. Turquoise waters will have you feeling like you’re on a Caribbean island, but the cold, freshwater will say otherwise. Kayak and canoe launch sites are plentiful—navigate cliff sides with waterfalls and paddle alongside waterfowl and loons watching from the shore. Some shore areas are private, but simply pull up a map to see state parks, recreation areas, and public sites for paddling launches and landings.

Hit the Beach

White, sandy beaches are the highlight of summer for most campers on the Upper Peninsula. Many extend for miles with great public access, but you can also head north to the shores of Lake Superior, where the 12-mile Great Sand Bay Beach sits off the beaten path with trails, sandy shorelines, and gorgeous waters. If you want plenty of space and nice, soft sand, Sand Point Beach is also worth considering.

Explore Hiking Trails

While the abundance of water is a major draw, the interior peninsula areas are also ripe with opportunity. Hit the Porcupine Mountains for a slew of trails, many of which are connected and prime for creative route planning to loop back to your vehicle or pass through to different areas. The Escarpment Trail is perfect for a half-day hike, while the Eben Ice Caves are a quick two miles in to leave you time to check out the caves.

Visit the Keweenaw Peninsula

The northernmost section of the UP holds some of its greatest treasures. The Keweenaw Peninsula’s aforementioned Great Gray Sand Beach is a fun place to visit, Brockway Mountain is a great hike, and the Keweenaw Water Trail offers a 100-mile loop of the entire peninsula (technically an island). Visit Copper Harbor to drive around and take in the natural beauty of area state parks and lighthouses.

When to go

Summer and fall are the prime visiting seasons on the Upper Peninsula. Fishing, boating, and beachcombing are all excellent during these seasons, when crowds are larger but there is plenty of space. Even during high season, it’s likely possible to find RV campsites, tent camping, and room to roam on the waterfront. Although the water is a bit chilly for swimming, fall is especially nice as the colors change and the busy summer tourism season winds down. Meanwhile, winters are long and quiet on the Upper Peninsula. Experienced cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowsport enthusiasts may love the empty off-season, when waters are ice cold, beaches are closed, and trails may be difficult to access.