Best Camping in and near Clear Lake State Park MI

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Discover Clear Lake State Park MI: A Haven for Nature Lovers.

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Stay at a public campground in Clear Lake State Park MI

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Clear Lake Campground

178 sites · RVs, Tents In Clear Lake State Park MI

Top-rated campgrounds near Clear Lake State Park MI

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Hidden Meadow

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Alanson, MI

Get ready for a peaceful camping experience in this one-of-a-kind setting! For all styles of camping units as well as rustic tent camping. We live in farming country, with only a few houses on our road. We know most of our neighbors as friends or relatives. Our camping area only has four sites so it’s cozy and private. We have about 5 acres land for use around the campsite and lots of wooded trails nearby. We are about 2 miles from Burt Lake, and about 10 miles from other waterways, rivers and streams, and Lake Michigan. we are also 4 miles from biking and ORV trails.

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RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

1 site · RV, Tent23 acres · Grayling, MI

Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful. The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level. Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through. You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use. There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.

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Private Rustic Prairie

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Cheboygan, MI

Rustic campsite on the edge of a quiet hayfield. Far from houses, perfect for kite flying, stargazing, or just getting away from it all. • 3 miles from Rippling Rapids golf course • 3 miles from The Dirty Duck bar • 5 miles from Number 22 ORV trailhead • 8 miles from Black Mountain ORV scramble area • 9 miles from Black Lake State Park boat launch and beach. • 32 miles from the Huron Sunrise Trail Unwind after a day of enjoying the lake and trails on this peaceful plot of land. More information at: https://someplacein.space/hipcamp/

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Grateful Acres

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Harbor Springs, MI

Hello and Welcome to Grateful Acres!! *Update* Wifi has been installed at Greatful Acres and is included with each booking. I have two sites available that will accommodate both travel trailers, as well as tents. Both have 30amp RV and 120v outlets, as well as lights for late arrival setup. In the welcome Hut, you will find dry firewood for purchase, as well as a refrigerator and freezer for use by our guests. Each site has its own labeled shelf to keep your perishables fresh. Also available are organic farm fresh eggs, cold soda, and bottled water, as well as bags of ice in the freezer. At Grateful Acres we aim to make your stay with us, as enjoyable as possible. The two sites sit on 3 beautiful, quiet acres in Northern Michigan. Site #1 is flat, open, and spacious, while site #2 is a bit more enclosed and private tucked into the trees. Both sites come furnished with a picnic table, a fire ring with attached grill for cooking and 2 adirondack chairs. The Star gazing at night is absolutley Amazing!! The property is centrally located between Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Alanson. Nearby are many lakes, rivers, state forests, mountain biking trails, golf courses and ski resorts. Come on up. Stay at Grateful Acres and enjoy all that Beautiful Northern Michigan has to offer.

Starlight Campground and RV Park

120 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mancelona, MI

Starlight Campground is a family friendly campground in northern Michigan nestled amidst mature pine trees, with cozy campsites, full facilities, a beautiful hiking trail, both vintage and contemporary trailer rentals, impeccably clean facilities, incredible sunsets, and star-filled night skies. It is those dark skies that have inspired our name, carried over into our Starry Nights Weekend during the annual Perseids meteor shower in August, just one of a season full of themed weekends filled with carefully planned activities. Here at Starlight Campground we strive to provide our guests with a level of hospitality and service that will exceed their expectations. We are home of the “Welcome Wood”, where you will find three pieces of firewood already in your campfire ring as our way of saying “Thank you” for being our guest. We will even deliver wood, ice, and store items directly to your site. Think of it as room service in the great outdoors!

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Sunset Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Cheboygan, MI

We are OPEN for 2025. We are so grateful and fortunate that we DID NOT receive any property damage from the recent ice storms which caused massive power outages, extensive property damage, and state of emergency for most of lower northern Michigan. Proud to receive the 2024 Hipcamp Star Host Award! A SINGLE PRIVATE rustic campsite on beautiful 10 acre lightly wooded field. Surrounded by apple trees. Site including entry is all grass. Roughly 80'x60' Fire ring, picnic table, outhouse, and trash receptacle provided. Campsite faces west providing beautiful sunsets. Roughly a mile of hiking trails on property. Access to hundreds of miles of ORV, hiking, and skiing trails nearby. Multiple restaurants, bars, and golf courses within 2-5 miles. AMAZING Northern Lights and dark sky viewing area with gazing platform provided in center of campsite property. Firewood for sale $4-$5/bundle available within 1-2 miles. Access and boat launches to Twin Lakes, Black River, Black Lake, Long Lake, and Cheboygan River within 1-5 miles. Convenience stores within 2-5 miles. Black Mountain ORV and hiking areas within 2-5 miles. 20 minute drive from downtown Cheboygan. Come enjoy some time away from the normal campground hustle and noise at this lovely and affordable private single campsite!

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400 acres of private forest-Tent-RV

4 sites · RVs, Tents406 acres · Mancelona, MI

Over 400 acres of private land of upland forest, lake frontage, and cedar swamp with many secluded campsites separated apart for tents and RV's to choose from. Outdoor enthusiasts of all types will enjoy their stay at this secluded and large acreage forest Up North! At nightfall, you will enjoy a starry night sky free from city lights. This is perfect for folks who want to camp but do not wish to be crammed in next to other campers. We offer over 400 acres and 4 sites at a time for campers but we have many more areas that you can camp at to choose from. You will have a lot of room to breathe the fresh forest air. You’ll have excellent opportunities for wildlife photos. This is a wilderness area and you will have cell phone reception mainly on the higher ground areas of the property. We have campsite maps soon online. Please contact us for hunting opportunities for deer season. If you need a break from the quiet and relaxation, you can drive over to Kalkaska (12 miles), Mancelona (8 miles), or Traverse City (30 miles) for dinner and shopping. We have been working on many large and small projects all over our property. We have recently majorly upgraded our road and trail system. Please drive on it gently, respectful of the work we have put into it and of other campers with pets and children. Another project is the rustic boardwalk down to Manistee Lake. This walkway is accessible via Cunningham Rd (the far western border of the property). Bring along some boots that can get a bit dirty, if it rains then it will be muddy, and bring your bug spray. The boardwalk building materials are constructed entirely of onsite native cedar hand-sawn timber – built by your host, Bryce. This leads you to the Manistee Lake frontage. Coming soon: a dock for boating and enjoying the water. We now have 4 outhouses dispersed throughout the property for your convenience. Please understand we are not able to maintain these outhouses and campers must be respectful and clean up after themselves. Bring toilet paper in case there is none in the outhouses. Please respect our Leave-No-Trace policy and remove all trash from your campsite and area. Your leashed pets are allowed but you must be respectful of other campers with pets as well. Do not let your pets run loose and to other campsites. All children and pets must be attended at all times for safety reasons. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, fox, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave children or pets unattended! The northernmost opening has honey bees maintained by an electric fence. Please keep pets and children away from this area. You are welcome to look at it but do not touch the fence or bother the bees, they are busy making honey for all of Michigan. There is direct access to 100s of miles of snowmobiling trails spanning from Leetsville to Kalkaska (MCCCT Access). You’ll have access out the eastern gate but please remember to shut the gate going in and out. Otherwise outside ATV traffic will come in off of state land. All motorized vehicles must stay on the trail system, do not spin tires or tear up the bare ground. The trail system has recently been updated at owner's expense and maintained for your convenience but it is easily rutted. Please be respectful of our trails. You must drive under 10 mph on the property due to safety and insurance regulations. There are areas along the trails that have deep holes close by the trails. Watch your step or driving around these areas. Safe, sober and responsible behavior and driving is imperative on the trails. No alcohol or drug use. Do not put nails or metal in the trees. Do not use firearms without express written permission from the owners and when other campers are around. Hunting season is set for hunting rental on this site. No additional campsites will be offered during this time. Please contact us (owners) for available hunting dates and rates. This property can accommodate up to 8 hunters. After 1 1/2 years of completely remodeling our cabin, we now can offer you a lovely stay in a snug, warm 2 bedroom 700 sq foot cabin, comfortably sleeps 6, 1 queen bed in one bedroom, 1 queen and 1 full sized bed in the other bedroom. The cabin is a 2-night minimum stay. It comes with all the amenities, wifi, hot shower, linens, bedding, towels wood stove, electric heat, a completely stocked full kitchen and much, much more. This is our personal family cabin so please treat it gently. Please contact us for scheduling the cabin. Traveling with more than 6? Reach out to us about the additional accommodations available on-site, including 120V RV hookups (addt'l fee). The cabin has internet and internet cell phone connection at the cabin. We are in the wilderness, so the internet is functional but not excellent. There is only cell phone reception on the higher elevations of the property. Please contact me with your specific questions and needs. We have nearby amenities- LAKES- Manistee Lake (southern most boundary of the property), Twin Lakes (3.1 miles), Pickerel Lake (4.1 miles), Starvation Lake (5.5 miles) BEACHES: Pencil Lake Beach (23.3 miles), Grand Traverse Bay (31.9 miles), Peninsula Beach (35.9 miles), Clinch Park Beach (36.1 miles), Torch Lake (36.1 miles), Lake Michigan (41.4 miles) BLUE RIBBON TROUT STREAMS: Manistee River (11.7 miles), AuSable River (16.7 miles) SKI DAYS: Mt Mancelona (9.1 miles), Shanty Creek Resort (16.6 miles), Hanson Hills (22.9 miles), Boyne Mountain Resort (30.0 miles), Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area (31.3 miles) WINE + BREW: Short's Brewing Company (19.7 miles), Rolling Oak Brewing Co (23.2 miles), Paddle Hard Brewing (23.5 miles), Torch Lake Cellars (23.7 miles), WaterFire Vineyards (30.6 miles), Snowbelt Brewing (32.6 miles) CASINOS: Turtle Creek Casino (24.6 miles), Odawa Casino (44.0 miles), Leelanau Sands Casino (55.7 miles) SEASONAL: National Trout Festival - Kalkaska (Apr), National Cherry Festival- Traverse City (May), Bow Hunting Season (Oct 1—Dec 1), Hunting Season (Nov 15—Dec 1) AIRPORT: Cherry Capital Airport (34.2 miles)

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pineleaf.

4 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Mancelona, MI

PLEASE DO NOT!! USE PARTRIDGE LANE THE ROAD IS A SAND TRAP YOU WILL GET STUCK!! MUST USE SECONDARY DRIVEWAY!! WHICH IS TO THE EAST OF PARTRIDGE LANE IN THE DIP THERE'S A SIGN THERE!! Pineleaf is a private setting in the forest with rolling hills and trails on the property. There's an abundance of wildlife consisting of, but not limited to bears, bobcats, porcupines and deer. It's a true nature lover's dream! For the rockhounds, there are Petoskey Stones, Emeralds, Opals and many other gems to enjoy finding among the trails and beaches. Our trails lead right off the property among the lakes and streams. All side x sides, ATVS, dirt bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, or fishing boats Welcome! We are located close to Torch Lake, Elk Lake, Otsego Lake, and many more! Come enjoy Lake Michigan beaches, lighthouses, parks, restaurants, casinos, and local shopping. Nearby cities include Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord, and Boyne City. Pineleaf has a total of 4 campsites! 3 are primitive and 1 rustic cabin with more cabins to come in the near future. The primitive sites sleep up to 15 people and 8 tents. The cabin sleeps up to 5 guests and is handicap accessible! and can also put tents near the cabin. The camp is cannabis friendly for 21+ with id and complimentary with the exception if you dont want to smoke/cunsume cannabis its optional. No alcohol allowed at the camp but you may go up town or down to The Hideaway Bar & Grill for a bite and a drink!

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Chain of Lakes Camp Six Mile Lake

4 sites · RVs1 acre · East Jordan, MI

We are closed seasonally from October 15th until May 1st. WE DO NOT OFFER FIREWOOD ANY LONGER! PLEASE DO NOT TAKE MY OLD MAN'S FIREWOOD. Four full hook-up sites. Max RV length is 38' depending on what site you book! Sites #1 and #2 can accommodate a 32' RV and Sites #3 and #4 can accommodate a 38' RV. If your RV is over 38' we cannot accommodate you. You must back into the driveway from the road (there are no pull through sites). Our driveway is 15' - 20' wide for ease of backing up. 20/30/50 amp electrical, sewer, water, internet WIFI (100mbs), fire pit (please do not move fire pits), and a picnic table are included for each site. Trash bin is at the road. The sites are level, consist of crushed concrete gravel covered by 6a stone, and are 12' wide. One family per site unless you are booking as a group. Check-In is 1:00 p.m. and Check-Out is 11:00 a.m. At this time, we DO NOT accommodate stand alone tent camping as we have no restroom facilities. Pets are welcome but we ask that you clean up after them, be mindful of other guests, and be respectful of our neighbor's property. IF YOUR PET IS ON THE NEIGHBOR’S PROPERTY YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE and no refund will be provided. You are in a land carved by glaciers, seriously! A place away from the rest of the world, but within a short drive to the best Northwest Michigan has to offer. We are on a quiet road away from the hustle and bustle. Peaceful, quiet, one acre property surrounded by deep wooded forests. If you are looking to get away, this is it! A private, full hook-up, RV campground with all the amenities including high speed internet. This is glamping at its BEST! You will not find a more charming place so close to the lakes of Northwest Michigan's lower peninsula and all within driving distance to the coolest cities. In full disclosure, we are not a commercial resort campground or a state park: this is our family property. We are excited in the joy and happy moments this land brings to our family and others. If you want a place with a hundred sites and tons of people around you this is not going to be a place you want to stay. Bring your boats, canoes, kayaks, bathing suits, and fishing poles! Less than a 3 minute walk to Echo Township Park (Six Mile Lake) with beach, playground and boat launch (yes, you can literally walk there). 25 minutes to Torch Lake Township Day Park (Torch Lake), Antrim Creek Nature Area (Lake Michigan), Norwood Township Park (Lake Michigan), Elm Pointe Recreation area (Lake Charlevoix's South Arm), or Notewares Landing Beach (Lake Bellaire). This is by far the coolest place east of the Mississippi to hit rivers, streams, and lakes. Hiking at its best! Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead (Bellaire); Avalanche Preserve (Boyne City); Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve (East Jordan); and Northpoint Nature Preserve (Charlevoix). Go shopping or out to eat! 15 minutes to East Jordan (breakfast at Southarm Cafe is a must / dinner at Las Maracas for tacos), Bellaire (Short's Brewery), Central Lake (visit Bachmann's Five and Dime) or Ellsworth (Front Porch Cafe Breakfast). 25 minutes to Charlevoix (don't forget to visit Castle Farms on the way). 30 minutes to Boyne City (Indo China Gardens has great Asian cuisine). 35 minutes to Elk Rapids (Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen). 45 minutes to Petoskey. 1 hour to Traverse City. Hour and a half to Mackinaw City. Wine and beer are good! Hit up Cellar 1914; the Cellars at Royal Farms; Bier's Inwood Brewery; 1918 Cellars; Chateau Lake Charlevoix; Waterfire Vineyards Torch Lake; Torch Lake Cellars; Vista Ridge Vineyards; and Short's Brewery! Things for kids to do! Ravenhill Discovery Center in East Jordan! Hungry Ducks Farm to pet some animals and go trout fishing. Visit Castle Farms!

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Starlight Cabin on Lake Huron

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Cheboygan, MI

Escape to a serene retreat on the shores of Lake Huron with our charming tiny home, designed for those seeking a unique and sustainable getaway. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this off-grid haven offers a one-of-a-kind experience where simplicity meets nature. The Space Our tiny home is a cozy and inviting space, perfect for couples or solo adventurers. Inside, you’ll find all the essentials thoughtfully arranged to make your stay comfortable and memorable. - **Sleeping Area**: A snug sleeping loft with a comfortable bed, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. **Living Space**: A compact yet functional living area, ideal for relaxing, reading, or enjoying quiet evenings. **Kitchenette**: Equipped with basic amenities to prepare simple meals, including a propane stove, a small fridge, and essential cookware. - **Bathroom**: Features an eco-friendly compost toilet, designed to minimize your environmental impact. Eco-Friendly Living Embrace a sustainable lifestyle during your stay. Our tiny home operates with limited power and water, encouraging mindful consumption and a deeper connection with nature. Outdoor Experience Step outside and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lake Huron. Enjoy direct access to the lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings. As night falls, gather around the fire pit for stargazing and storytelling under the vast, clear skies. Ideal For - **Nature Lovers**: Perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching. **Eco-Conscious Travelers**: Ideal for guests looking to minimize their carbon footprint and embrace a simpler, more sustainable way of living. **Digital Detox Seekers**: A great escape for those wishing to unplug and reconnect with themselves and nature. Nearby Attractions Explore the beauty of Lake Huron with nearby trails, parks, and quaint local towns. Discover hidden gems and local eateries, or simply revel in the peace and quiet of this secluded retreat. Less than 20 minutes to Mackinac, and less than an hour to Petoskey. Guest Access Guests have full access to the tiny home and the private beach. Enjoy the privacy and tranquility of this off-grid retreat, knowing that you are treading lightly on the earth. Book Your Stay Experience the magic of off-grid living at our tiny home on Lake Huron. Book your stay today and embark on a unique adventure that celebrates simplicity, sustainability, and the great outdoors.

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In The Woods With No One Around.

8 sites · Tents40 acres · Alpena, MI

Nestled among several old pine trees, our property boasts abundant wildlife, including deer and the occasional bear sighting. You'll also discover a pond stocked with catfish and a charming little stream featuring a covered bridge. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of Michigan State land, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to ORV and snowmobile trails. Experience the rustic charm of camping while enjoying modern conveniences, such as the ability to order from a variety of places via DoorDash. Plus, you're just 15 minutes away from the lake and a scenic 40-minute drive to Lower Michigan's largest waterfall.

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Jewett Creek Farm

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Hillman, MI

Quiet, close to lots of funLearn more about this land:- Full bathroom - RV hookup - Park like area off a asphalt road - 3 miles from the world famous Fletchers Flood Waters and near many other inland lakes. - 20 minutes from Lake Huron. - no one lives on site neighbors across road - ORV trails within five miles. - Five miles from the Thunder Bay River. - Near a Golf Course with elk viewing. - Campfire wood provided. - Pet friendly! - Seasonal

The best camping near Clear Lake State Park MI guide

Overview

About

In the heart of the Atlanta State Forest lies Clear Lake State Park, a quiet and secluded destination for your next overnight outing. Covering a full two-thirds of the lake’s shoreline, this 290-acre park offers horseshoe pits, playgrounds, and picnic areas, plus hiking trails stretching up to 70 miles long. An autumn trip rewards visitors with a veritable rainbow of fall foliage, while summer offers tons of fun on the lake—the park even rents out canoes, kayaks, and rowboats!

When to go

The best time to visit Clear Lake State Park MI is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the park is full of life. However, autumn also offers a spectacular display of fall foliage. Winters can be harsh, and some facilities may be closed, so it's less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry.
Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before your visit.
Remember to pack insect repellent and sun protection.
Be aware of local wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
Facilities may vary by season, so verify availability in advance.

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2 ratings · 1 review

September 2017

We visited here during a weekday and only saw the camp hosts for our stay. It had a very homey feel but was quite spacious. Small vaulted toilets but with well built sheds and it's clear that the folks running the place put extra care into it. Some open campsites and some in the trees all along the lake.