Michigan State Parks – Where to Camp and How to Do It Right
If you love the open road and want to park your motorhome in a beautiful spot, Michigan’s state parks are a gold mine. From the shoreline of Lake Michigan to the forested hills of the Upper Peninsula, there’s a park for every kind of traveler. Below you’ll find the best parks to check out, what to expect on a typical campsite, and practical tips to keep your motorhome safe and comfortable.
Top Michigan State Parks to Visit
Sleeping Bear Dunes – Famous for its towering sand dunes and crystal‑clear water, this park offers several powered sites that can handle larger rigs. Arrive early in the summer; the most popular spots fill up by noon.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Though technically a national park, the nearby state‑run campgrounds let you stay close to the iconic cliffs. Look for the Grand Lake site; it has a dump station and easy road access.
Holland State Park – Perfect for families, it has flat terrain, full hookups, and a beach just steps away. The park’s app shows real‑time site availability, so you can book on the go.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – If you crave remote forest vibes, the Upper Peninsula’s Porcupine offers primitive sites with no electric, but the views are worth the trade‑off. Bring a portable power station and be ready for cooler nights.
Interlochen State Park – Located near the famous music camp, this park boasts a large lake, paddle‑board rentals, and large pull‑through sites that fit most motorhomes without a hassle.
Motorhome Tips for Michigan Camping
1. Check road grades before you drive in. Some Upper Peninsula parks have steep, unpaved access roads that can be tricky for larger rigs.
2. Bring the right plug. Most Michigan parks use the standard 30‑amp (TT‑30) hookup, but a few premium sites offer 50‑amp (TT‑50). Pack an adapter so you’re ready for either.
3. Watch the weather. Summer can be humid, while fall brings sudden storms. A portable solar panel helps keep batteries topped up if the grid goes down.
4. Reserve early. The state park reservation system opens three months ahead. Use the “quick‑book” option for sites with power and water if you’re on a tight schedule.
5. Stay clean. Use the dump stations, recycle, and follow the Leave‑No‑Trace rules. Michigan parks are beautiful because visitors respect them.
By following these pointers, you’ll spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time worrying about logistics. Whether you’re cruising along the Great Lakes shoreline or exploring hidden forest trails, Michigan’s state parks give you the freedom to travel on your terms.
Ready to hit the road? Grab your map, pack your gear, and start planning the motorhome adventure you’ve been dreaming about. Michigan’s parks are waiting, and the best spots are just a reservation away.
