Michigan Campgrounds Guide – Where to Pitch Your Tent or Motorhome

If you’re planning a road trip through the Great Lakes state, you’ll want a list of reliable campgrounds that fit a motorhome, RV, or a simple tent. Michigan offers more than 1,200 public sites, from forest clearings to lakeside resorts. The good news? Most of them have electric hookups, water, and dump stations, so you can keep moving without hunting for the next service point.

Top Picks for Every Type of Camper

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Located on Lake Michigan’s east shore, this spot gives you stunning dunes, beach access, and clean restroom facilities. The Dunes Campground has a few pull‑through sites perfect for motorhomes under 30 feet.

2. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – Up in the Upper Peninsula, the Redridge Campground offers shaded sites, fire rings, and a short walk to Lake of the Clouds. It’s great for families who love hiking and want a quiet night.

3. Holland State Park – If you prefer a lively atmosphere, this park near Lake Michigan’s coast has a large campground with full hookups, a playground, and a beach that stays warm in summer.

4. Tahquamenon Falls State Park – Famous for its orange‑tinted water, the park’s Upper and Lower campgrounds both accommodate RVs. Expect busy weekends, so arrive early or book online.

5. Ludington State Park – With over 300 sites, you’ll find pull‑through spots, electric only sites, and primitive sites for tents. The park sits on a peninsula, giving you sunrise views over Lake Michigan.

Practical Tips to Keep Your Trip Smooth

**Book Early:** Michigan’s popular parks fill up fast, especially in July and August. Use the state park reservation system (reserve.michigan.gov) and aim to book at least two weeks ahead.

**Know Your Vehicle Size:** Some pull‑through sites only accept rigs up to 32 feet. Measure your motorhome and double‑check the site specs before you reserve.

**Mind the Rules:** Most Michigan campgrounds require a quiet hours policy after 10 p.m. and limit firewood to park‑provided logs. Check local signage to avoid fines.

**Plan for Dump Stations:** While most full‑hookup sites have on‑site dumping, some primitive sites do not. Keep a portable waste tank handy if you plan to stay off‑grid for a few nights.

**Pack for Weather:** Michigan weather can swing from sunny to rainy in a few hours. Bring a rainfly for your tent and a waterproof cover for your motorhome’s vent.

**Explore Beyond the Campground:** Each park offers nearby trails, fishing spots, and local attractions. For example, a short drive from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore lands you at a scenic boat tour of the cliffs.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time dealing with unexpected hassles. Michigan’s campgrounds are ready for every traveler, whether you’re rolling in a 30‑foot motorhome or setting up a simple two‑person tent.

Ready to start planning? Pick a region—Upper Peninsula, Northern Lower Peninsula, or the western lakeshore—and lock in your campsite now. Happy camping in Michigan!