RV Camping in Upper Peninsula, Michigan: Best Upper Peninsula RV Parks 2024

United States
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Michigan
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Upper Peninsula

98% (872 reviews)

Popular for RV camping

Available this weekend

Under $50

96%

(49)

AuTrain RV Sites By Pictured Rocks

4 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Au Train, MI

These RV sites are located in a wooded area on the West Side of AuTrain Lake! Each RV site has full electric hookup, sewer, water, wifi, picnic table, firepit and chairs! The RV sites are drive through making this a relaxing stay! Just 2.5 miles from Lake Superior and 15 miles from Munising and the start of the Pictured Rocks Shoreline! You will be able to kick back and relax! The adventures are all around in this centrally located area!

98%

(65)

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Ted’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Munising, MI

Learn more about this land: This is an old family farm site near the heart of all there is to see here in Munising. We love to share the history and hope you enjoy all there is to offer in the community. There are water adventures galore. Trails for hiking and trails for side by side adventures. Many fantastic restaurants, breweries and pubs. Gifts and memorabilia shops galore.

Heritage Hills

6 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!

Superior Times Resort & Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, MI

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

12 top RV sites in Upper Peninsula

100%

(322)

Heritage Hills

6 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Lake Superior Beach Perfection

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Linden, MI

What more do you need than a private camping site and your 125' of your own pristine Lake Superior beachfront access? Well, there is the need of a fire ring so we added that, too! Everything else you will to bring to enjoy the million dollar views. Oh, and on the opposite side of the camping site is quiet slough which is great for smooth water paddling and exploring. Down the gravel road about 1/3 miles are logging roads to hike, bike and explore. OHV trails are a couple miles away but check local maps for detailed information. Intentionally being minimalists beyond a fire ring and picnic table, there is a port-a-john (of humble means) to make your stay comfortable. You will need to bring your own firewood if you desire a campfire.

Ted’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Munising, MI

Learn more about this land: This is an old family farm site near the heart of all there is to see here in Munising. We love to share the history and hope you enjoy all there is to offer in the community. There are water adventures galore. Trails for hiking and trails for side by side adventures. Many fantastic restaurants, breweries and pubs. Gifts and memorabilia shops galore.

Superior Times Resort & Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, MI

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

AuTrain RV Sites By Pictured Rocks

4 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Au Train, MI

These RV sites are located in a wooded area on the West Side of AuTrain Lake! Each RV site has full electric hookup, sewer, water, wifi, picnic table, firepit and chairs! The RV sites are drive through making this a relaxing stay! Just 2.5 miles from Lake Superior and 15 miles from Munising and the start of the Pictured Rocks Shoreline! You will be able to kick back and relax! The adventures are all around in this centrally located area!

91%

(16)

Chocolay River

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marquette, MI

Our 75 camp sites are located conveniently near Lakes Superior off M28 right by Ojibwa Casino-Marquette, NMU Golf Course, and the ATV trail heads. Check out Things to Do for more information. 80 foot camp sites All pull through sites Full hookups at every site – electric, water, sewer Tent sites also available

Northern Oasis

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Negaunee, MI

Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigans Upper Peninsula. We are approx 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4.5 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! We are near rivers for fishing and kayaking ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a few more private wooded sites. There are at least two or three areas for campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks. We have a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. There is fire wood available on this site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! If you don't like what is available when you arrive please don't hesitate to contact us-we do have other options! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is an outhouse and a "port-a-john" on site.

98%

(69)

Blueberry fields campground

4 sites · RVs60 acres · Marquette, MI

Learn more about this land:Rustic grounds in the works to provide all the things one could want !! You can stay as long as you would like, we just ask you only have 2 tents per site ! We are 7 miles east of Marquette and 30 miles west from pictured rocks national lakeshore ! We are also within 1 mile of public accessible sandy shoreline of lake Supireor

100%

(3)

The Little Slice

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Zeba, MI

Just off the Skanee Road in Skanee, MI sits a clean, comfortable camper waiting for you. This camper, which can sleep up to 4, is a great way to enjoy some comforts while still "camping" in the woods. The property itself is small but does also offer a second tent site or place to set up your own camper. Very centrally located for access to a variety of the area's outdoor hot spots. "The Finns", a local restaurant bar has good dining and a friendly atmosphere and is located directly across the street from the site. There is also great year-round fishing & hunting opportunities in the area as well as extensive groomed trail systems and atv riding. There are plenty of small comforts available to you in this setting, but be sure to pack your own sleeping bags and pillows for this trip.

100%

(5)

Bells Acres Recreational Area

7 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Bells Acres is a large property with abundant history! Originally homesteaded by a Finnish family in the 1800s, we are only the 4th family to own this property. Doc Bell operated his veterinarian practice from this farm starting in 1915, giving his name to the creek running through the property and the lake it feeds. A family from Finland purchased the property from the Bell family in the 1960s and lived on the homestead until 2020 when we purchased it. We hope to continue the tradition of generational homesteading, while sharing this piece of God’s country with you! Our property features a vast variety of terrain for our campers to explore. Our extensive road and trail network will take you to beautiful bluffs, ravines, wetlands, riverbanks, beaver ponds and much more! Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the chance to see deer, bear, moose, beavers, coyotes, waterfowl, upland birds, and more! You name it, it is here! Our dark skies allow for amazing views of the stars and northern lights! Guests can explore over 100 acres on and off trail. Part of the trail network is accessible by 2WD vehicles. Paddle upstream a short distance from our river access site to view a breathtaking waterfall on the Escanaba River. Enjoy total serenity as there is minimal “noise” around us. Just nature at its best! Guests are welcome to use the communal pavilion, gas grill, and fire pit near the lake. Kayaks are available for guest use at the river access site. Our authentic Finnish Sauna is available for private rental. We also have a variety of yard games and are continually adding to the amenities available to our guests. Some of our nearby attractions include Black River Falls, Wawanowin Golf Course, Greenwood Reservoir, Iron Ore Heritage Trail, Da Yoopers Tourist Trap, and all that the historic mining communities of Negaunee, Ishpeming and Republic have to offer. We are centrally located to some of the best tourist areas and attractions in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! 25 miles from Marquette 65 miles from Munising, the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore 85 Miles to Bond Falls 110 miles from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring) 125 miles from Lake of the Clouds 135 miles from Copper Harbor 150 miles from Tahquamenon Falls We hope that you will make Bells Acres your base camp for your next adventure! Unplug and unwind with us away from all the hustle and bustle! We are excited to be your host and share what we love about Marquette County and the surrounding areas!

100%

(13)

Sporley Lake Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Gwinn, MI

Experience Nature's Paradise at Sporley Lake Retreat Welcome to your secluded oasis on the shores of Sporley Lake, Michigan! Nestled within 5 acres of enchanting hilly hardwood forest, this retreat offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. With 280 feet of pristine lake frontage, you'll be treated to breathtaking views and direct access to the crystal-clear, spring-fed waters of the 77-acre Sporley Lake. The public access boat launch is less than a mile away for those who want to bring a boat and enjoy all that the lake has to offer. This campsite offers the following amenities: 20amp electrical service available (limited use, no AC use), non-potable water, a fire pit ring, and a picnic table. Please provide your own firewood. Dogs must be well-behaved and leashed. Owners/Residents are on property. Property Highlights: 🌲 Natural Beauty: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you explore the 5-acre property adorned with majestic hardwood trees. The hilly terrain adds a touch of adventure to your surroundings. 🏞️ Lakefront Bliss: Reconnect with the water and embark on endless aquatic adventures. Sporley Lake beckons boating enthusiasts, fishing aficionados, and those seeking refreshing swims on warm days. There is lake access, however, please note that there is a steep staircase down to the lake and is not handicap accessible. 🦅 Eagle's Eye View: Prepare to be amazed by the local wildlife. Witness the majestic flight of two bald eagles and a golden eagle that call this area home. Keep an eye out for the impressive eagle's nest visible from the water—a true marvel of nature. 🌅 Wildlife Haven: The wonders of nature extend beyond the water's edge. Watch in awe as a family of loons glides gracefully across the lake's surface, their haunting calls creating a soothing soundtrack to your stay. If luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of the occasional Great Blue Heron gracing the shoreline. 🚣‍♂️ Outdoor Adventures: Just a short 30-minute drive away lies the bustling town of Marquette, Michigan, and the magnificent Lake Superior. Explore a plethora of nearby attractions, including hiking trails that wind through lush forests, biking routes that offer stunning vistas, and climbing spots that challenge and reward. Surfing enthusiasts will find their haven in the Great Lakes' waves, and ORV trails promise exhilarating exploration. 🏖️ Beach Bliss: If you're a fan of white sand beaches, you're in for a treat. The nearby Lake Superior boasts picturesque shores where you can unwind, sunbathe, and let the gentle waves lull you into relaxation. 🍻 Local Delights: After a day of adventures, satisfy your taste buds at the local breweries, savoring handcrafted brews that capture the essence of the region. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and discover a world of natural wonders at Sporley Lake Retreat. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful lakeside getaway, this property offers it all. Book your stay now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your slice of Michigan's paradise awaits!

Star Hosts in Upper Peninsula

97%

(128)

Northern Oasis

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Negaunee, MI

Our property is located between Marquette and Negaunee, in Michigans Upper Peninsula. We are approx 8 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Superior and 53 miles from Pictured Rocks National Park. We are about 4.5 miles off of US 41 nestled in a quiet forest like setting. We built our home here in 2019 and are continually making improvements to the land. We tap our trees for maple syrup in the spring-you will drive by our "sugar shack" and raise chickens in our very nice coop -no roosters to awaken you! Come and enjoy some peace and quiet at our Northern Oasis! We are near rivers for fishing and kayaking ( kayaks and canoe for rent on this site-see extras! ) We are on the route of the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike epic and not far from the North Country Trail. We have options of open sites and a few more private wooded sites. There are at least two or three areas for campers and several choices for tents and/or hammocks. We have a communal/central fire pit, picnic table area as well as a larger fire pit with picnic table closer to house. There is fire wood available on this site -see "extras" or for purchase when you get here! If you don't like what is available when you arrive please don't hesitate to contact us-we do have other options! There are yard games, extra chairs and a small table in the red shed. This can also be used as a storm shelter if needed! There is an outhouse and a "port-a-john" on site.

Bells Acres Recreational Area

7 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Bells Acres is a large property with abundant history! Originally homesteaded by a Finnish family in the 1800s, we are only the 4th family to own this property. Doc Bell operated his veterinarian practice from this farm starting in 1915, giving his name to the creek running through the property and the lake it feeds. A family from Finland purchased the property from the Bell family in the 1960s and lived on the homestead until 2020 when we purchased it. We hope to continue the tradition of generational homesteading, while sharing this piece of God’s country with you! Our property features a vast variety of terrain for our campers to explore. Our extensive road and trail network will take you to beautiful bluffs, ravines, wetlands, riverbanks, beaver ponds and much more! Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the chance to see deer, bear, moose, beavers, coyotes, waterfowl, upland birds, and more! You name it, it is here! Our dark skies allow for amazing views of the stars and northern lights! Guests can explore over 100 acres on and off trail. Part of the trail network is accessible by 2WD vehicles. Paddle upstream a short distance from our river access site to view a breathtaking waterfall on the Escanaba River. Enjoy total serenity as there is minimal “noise” around us. Just nature at its best! Guests are welcome to use the communal pavilion, gas grill, and fire pit near the lake. Kayaks are available for guest use at the river access site. Our authentic Finnish Sauna is available for private rental. We also have a variety of yard games and are continually adding to the amenities available to our guests. Some of our nearby attractions include Black River Falls, Wawanowin Golf Course, Greenwood Reservoir, Iron Ore Heritage Trail, Da Yoopers Tourist Trap, and all that the historic mining communities of Negaunee, Ishpeming and Republic have to offer. We are centrally located to some of the best tourist areas and attractions in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! 25 miles from Marquette 65 miles from Munising, the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore 85 Miles to Bond Falls 110 miles from Kitch-iti-kipi (Big Spring) 125 miles from Lake of the Clouds 135 miles from Copper Harbor 150 miles from Tahquamenon Falls We hope that you will make Bells Acres your base camp for your next adventure! Unplug and unwind with us away from all the hustle and bustle! We are excited to be your host and share what we love about Marquette County and the surrounding areas!

100%

(16)

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.

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Lake Superior Beach Perfection

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Linden, MI

What more do you need than a private camping site and your 125' of your own pristine Lake Superior beachfront access? Well, there is the need of a fire ring so we added that, too! Everything else you will to bring to enjoy the million dollar views. Oh, and on the opposite side of the camping site is quiet slough which is great for smooth water paddling and exploring. Down the gravel road about 1/3 miles are logging roads to hike, bike and explore. OHV trails are a couple miles away but check local maps for detailed information. Intentionally being minimalists beyond a fire ring and picnic table, there is a port-a-john (of humble means) to make your stay comfortable. You will need to bring your own firewood if you desire a campfire.

Dog-friendly getaways

94%

(397)

Superior Times Resort & Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Au Train, MI

Hello, and welcome to Superior Times Resort and Campground! We would like to take a moment and introduce ourselves. Our names are Tom and Heather Holmstrom. We were married in 2016 and have four children as part of our blended family. We are both originally from the Upper Peninsula. Superior Times Resort and Campground was the result of us wanting to do something “outside of the box” that would allow us to raise our family and show them there is more out there than the traditional path. We also wanted showcase our love and respect for the beauty of the Upper Peninsula; the area that many refer to as “God’s Country.” In December of 2016, we mistakenly pulled into the driveway of this property. At that time, it was known as Coleman’s Paradise Resort. There was a For Sale sign marking the property. We both knew at that point our fate was sealed to become this property’s new owners. We learned that this property had been a family vacation destination for nearly 100 years. We could only imagine the special memories that had been made here over the years! We wanted to become a part of that deep history. Through the many years of the resort’s history, the owners had changed and the cabins were showing true signs of their age. We knew there was A LOT of work that simply had to be done. On a wing and prayer, we somehow made this great resort ours. In April of 2017, we opened what we named Superior Times Resort and Campground. We pulled up or sleeves and went to work! Thank you for choosing us and allowing us to be part of the memories that you create here. We know that you work hard for your own money, as we do. Knowing that you chose our resort to support, means a lot to our Superior Times and Resort family team. We truly appreciate your loyalty and give special thanks to our returning customers. There is nothing more rewarding to us than a return visit! It means to us that we have exceeded your expectations. Thank you for considering us for your next vacation! Tom and Heather Holmstrom

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Heritage Hills

6 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Ishpeming, MI

Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!

Lake Superior Beach Perfection

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Linden, MI

What more do you need than a private camping site and your 125' of your own pristine Lake Superior beachfront access? Well, there is the need of a fire ring so we added that, too! Everything else you will to bring to enjoy the million dollar views. Oh, and on the opposite side of the camping site is quiet slough which is great for smooth water paddling and exploring. Down the gravel road about 1/3 miles are logging roads to hike, bike and explore. OHV trails are a couple miles away but check local maps for detailed information. Intentionally being minimalists beyond a fire ring and picnic table, there is a port-a-john (of humble means) to make your stay comfortable. You will need to bring your own firewood if you desire a campfire.

Ted’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Munising, MI

Learn more about this land: This is an old family farm site near the heart of all there is to see here in Munising. We love to share the history and hope you enjoy all there is to offer in the community. There are water adventures galore. Trails for hiking and trails for side by side adventures. Many fantastic restaurants, breweries and pubs. Gifts and memorabilia shops galore.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hiawatha National Forest

Chatham, Michigan

Craig Lake State Park

Michigamme, Michigan

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

RV camping 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.