Michigan is a great state for camping, and there are many parks that offer campsites. However, not all of them are created equal. In this blog post, we will take a look at 10 of the best Michigan State Parks for camping that you will enjoy with your family or friends. Let’s get to it!
#1 Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is one of the best camping destinations in Michigan. It offers everything from biking, exploring, and hiking to fishing or bird watching. The park has a total of 227 campsites that are located near Ludington Creek on Lake Michigan shoreline.
This State Park is located about three hours from Detroit. It’s a park that offers many great outdoor activities for the whole family, and all at an affordable price! You’ll find kids playing on playgrounds or swimming in one of two pools while you relax by your campsite with some fishing poles.
Bring your own equipment or rent it right there to fish off their pier which has plenty of parking nearby. If you’re lucky enough to catch something, just take it up to the visitor center where they will be happy to cook it for you as well!
Things To Do
If you’re looking for some water activity, there’s plenty to do! Kayak or canoe out into deeper waters where it’s calm enough for small kids to play from the beach in safety.
You’ll find rentals at a nearby concession stand which also has bike rental available. If you need something more extreme then this park might not be your best option as they offer only one hiking trail that isn’t too strenuous.
- Playgrounds/pools: Kids will love playing on various playgrounds around the park while adults can enjoy themselves by swimming in either pool (the deep end with the diving board being closed due to maintenance).
- Where is the beach?: Ludington Creek does not have a sandy shoreline like many other state parks. You’ll be able to enjoy yourself in the water, but there are no waves or anything comparable.
- Camping: There are RV spots and primitive sites available for all types of campers – it’s just up to you how much you want to rough it! While this park doesn’t offer any cabins they do provide hookups for RVs as well as nearby hotels that can easily accommodate larger groups if necessary.
Best Time To Visit
It’s best to visit between May through October if you’re looking for a good time outdoors!
#2 Sleepy Hollow State Park
Sleepy Hollow State Park is best for the outdoorsy type who loves camping, hiking and fishing. This park has some of the most pristine streams in Michigan with a variety of trout species.
It is located on M-96 just east of Ithaca near Lake Lansing and West Branch Reservoirs. It’s adjacent to Gun Lake State Park which offers many activities like biking, boating and golfing.
The campground features full hookups so you can stay as long as you want! Fishing in area lakes such as Fawn River gives those that love to fish plenty to do while they are here too! Sleepy Hollow has two ponds stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie and one pond for ice fishing during winter.
When To Visit
Best time to visit Sleepy Hollow is during the summer when it’s not too hot. Winter visits are great for ice fishing.
Fall is a blast if you enjoy colors on leaves! Springtime offers many different flowers blooming as well as fun times with family enjoying bird watching or picnicking along Fawn River Trails.
The best months would be April, May and October which have milder temperatures than other seasons in Michigan can bring.
State Park Campground
State Park Campground includes full hookups; camping allowed year-round fishing available at two ponds stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie Ice fishing permitted during the winter season.
Activities
There are many activities to choose from. You can go hiking, biking, fishing or just take a walk through the woods with your family and enjoy nature.
The park has trails for all skill levels which include easy hikes like Fawn River Trail Loop (0.65 miles) and those more challenging such as the Big Rock Hiking Trails (11.35 miles).
Conclusion
Camping at Sleepy Hollow State Park will give you a true outdoor experience that many people dream about while they are indoors all day long.
#3 Wilderness State Park
Wilderness State Park is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from it all. Whether you want to explore the trails, take a dip in Lake Michigan or just enjoy being surrounded by nature, Wilderness offers something for everyone.
Located in northern Michigan, this 1,765-acre park was once a logging and farming community but now provides visitors with an escape from urban life. The park has 2 miles of beaches on Lake Michigan and over 12 miles of hiking trails that offer views of both inland lakes and ocean shores.
Things To Do
What’s your idea of a perfect day? A hike in the woods, a picnic lunch, and time to explore. Wilderness State Park offers all three!
With over 2,500 acres of forested land with trails for hiking or running and boardwalks that take you right through wetlands teeming with wildlife.
The park is also home to several lakes where fishing is popular as well as beaches for swimming during summer months. You can even rent a canoe or kayak from one of our four campgrounds if water sports are more your thing!
Camping
When it comes to camping at Wilderness State Park, you have both RV and tent camping options as well as camping cottages!
Best Time To Visit
Wilderness State Park is a nature lover’s paradise, open year-round. With over 10 miles of hiking trails and 30 campsites, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Not only that, but the park offers many amenities such as bathrooms with running water, vault toilets for day use and campers alike; interpretive programs on topics like birds and bats; boat launches on both sides of the park (both have fees); canoe rentals from Memorial Day through Labor Day; an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts in summer months. Wilderness State Park has something for anyone looking to spend time outdoors!
Conclusion
Wilderness State Park is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. With beaches, lakes, forests, trails for hiking or running as well as camping options you can’t go wrong – especially if you want a true getaway from it all!
#4 Leelanau State Park
One of the most popular state parks in Northern Michigan, Leelanau State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Nestled in the heart of Western Leelanau County, this park features over nine miles of hiking trails and scenic views that are sure to delight visitors from near and far. From fishing lakes to swimming beaches, there’s plenty to do on your next visit!
Leelanau State Park is one of Northern Michigan’s most popular state parks. This park has over nine miles worth of hiking trails with beautiful scenery all around you. Fishing lakes, swimming beaches, and more make it a great place for anyone looking for some time outdoors!
Things To Do
This park has over 500 acres of forested land to explore and offers spectacular views. It’s a great place for hiking, biking, kayaking or just enjoying nature by taking in the breathtaking scenery. Some good things to do at this park are going on the bike ride that loops around the entire state park.
It takes about 45 minutes but you’ll see so much beauty during your trek! Another popular activity is kayaking on Lake Michigan which is only a few miles from where the state park sits. You can rent one or go solo and paddle out into some of the most beautiful water I’ve ever seen! The possibilities are endless.
Camping
When it comes to camping at this park, there are 77 campsites that can accommodate both tents and RVs. They also offer yurts for those who want to stay in a little bit more comfort.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Leelanau State Park is during the fall and winter so you can enjoy a scenic walk through the woods. The leaves are changing colors, making for some beautiful views. You’ll also have the opportunity to take in all of nature’s beauty when visiting this park.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a little piece of nature to escape into, Leelanau State Park is the place for you! Enjoy some time in this scenic state park and be sure to check out all it has on offer. From biking around the trails, kayaking along Lake Michigan, or taking in one of many breathtaking views- there is something for everybody.
Don’t forget to pack your tent and prepare for a night under the stars in one of many campsites! Leelanau State Park has some camping area options which suit every type of camper.
For those who prefer more amenities, you can stay at The Beachside Inn or rent a cabin for your family to enjoy. For those looking for a more rustic camping experience, there are campsites available with or without running water on the property!
#5 Straits State Park
There’s a gorgeous state park just outside of Detroit called Straits State Park that offers all sorts of fun outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking to biking on trails through forests and along creeks, there really is something here for everyone. Plus, if you’re looking for more energy-burning adventures while out in nature – no worries!
Activities at the park
Straits State Park is a place of wonder and beauty. The Straits are the only break in the Lake Michigan shoreline for miles, so it’s a perfect spot to take in the view of this vast body of water.
There are many activities here as well that will make your visit all that more memorable. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, or boat tours. If you’re looking for something quieter with fewer people around then go bird-watching at the nature center!
There’s a gorgeous state park just outside of Detroit called Straits State Park that offers all sorts of fun outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking to biking on trails through forests and along creeks, there really is something here for everyone. Plus, if you’re looking for more energy-burning adventures while out in nature – no worries!
Camping
Camping at Straits State Park is a wonderful experience. There are various campsites available, and the cost ranges from $14 to $20 per night for an electric site up to a secluded water view site that costs just over $60! All sites come equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, tent pads or RV hookups, and access to bathrooms.
Best Time to Visit Straits State Park in Michigan
The best time to visit Straits State Park in Michigan is from the end of May through July. The park offers 120 campsites with electrical hook-ups, picnic tables, and fire pits for cooking that are perfect for family camping trips. If you’re looking to camp without electricity, there are 13 tent sites available that have a water faucet and fire ring.
#6 Warren Dunes State Park
The Warren Dunes State Park is located at the southernmost point of Michigan, just west of Lake Michigan. The park has a beach with a pier and boat launch for fishing or canoeing.
A visitor’s center provides information on local attractions like the Potawatomi Trail-North Country National Scenic Trail, which passes through the park.
Hikers can also explore the sand dunes that serve as a barrier to Lake Michigan, which is 20 miles away from the beach.
The Warren Dune State Park has two campgrounds: North and South Campground for tent camping with sites on beautiful wooded hillsides or close to the water; and Tent City RV Campground is set in a field of tall grass.
There are also rustic cabins and bunkhouses for rent, as well as other amenities like showers, laundry facilities, boat docks, and gas pumps.
Things To Do at Warren Dunes State Park
The Warren Dunes State Park is a beautiful park at the southern tip of Lake Michigan. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, and camping! There are so many things to do here. Here are some activities you can try:
- Bike Trail – 12 miles from one end of Warren Dunes State Park to another is best explored by bike in this scenic park. You’ll see deer and farm animals along your way to a great workout.
- Kite Flying – This public beach area offers plenty of space for kites (kite flying not allowed at other locations within the state park). Be sure to watch as they fly high into the sky against blue skies or red sunsets.
- Fishing – Warren Dunes has a boat launch, a pier, and two day-use docks. You can also fish from the shoreline or at one of many fishing access points throughout the park. Check out our interactive map for more information on locations to fish in this scenic state park.
- Campfire Program: Enjoy a campfire with s’mores, learn some old-fashioned camping songs and roast your marshmallow to perfection! We will provide all of the supplies including an expert camper who can help you build that perfect fire.
- Hiking Trails: Explore inland forests or head to the beach for a picnic.
Camping
Warren Dunes State Park is a perfect spot for campers. Campgrounds are open year-round and include modern facilities, electricity, water hookups, showers, laundry services, and more. In the summer months, reservations fill up quickly so make sure to plan ahead!
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Warren Dunes State Park is in the fall and winter for a variety of reasons. In this post, we will cover why these are the ideal seasons as well as what you can expect during each season. The first reason that Fall and Winter make great times to visit is that they have fewer people than other tourist-heavy seasons such as the summer months.
#7 Fisherman’s Island State Park
Fisherman’s Island State Park is a place of serenity and beauty. It has been called “Michigan’s most beautiful state park” by the Detroit Free Press. The island sits in Lake Huron, just 10 miles north of Port Austin on the mainland.
With its towering sand dunes, crystal clear water, and breathtaking sunsets, it is no wonder Fisherman’s Island State Park was named Michigan’s most beautiful state park!
Things To Do At Fisherman’s Island State Park
It has beautiful scenery, water activities, and plenty of animals to see. Fisherman’s Island State Park offers many different types of camping options for everyone from RV campers to tents. There are plenty of things to do including:
- Fishing: Fisherman Island is a great place for fishing! You can catch many varieties of fish including northern pike, smallmouth bass, and walleye. Fishing in the designated areas only, please!
- Picnicking: There are plenty of tables available by the water to enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner with family & friends
- Camping: There are 100 campsites available on the island. They’re located in remote wooded sites or close to Lake Huron for easy access to water activities
- Hiking: There are over 15 miles of hiking trails throughout Fisherman’s Island State Park that can be done at your own pace and explore different scenic views from dunes, beaches, inland forests, and more
- Swimming: The beach at Fisherman’s Island is a great place to swim. It has sandy shallow areas for the kids and deeper water with rocks that are perfect for jumping into! There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, but be aware of rip currents so you don’t get pulled out too far from shore.
Best Time To Visit
The Best time to go depends upon desired activity. If you would like more of an outdoor experience with hiking opportunities then September through April might be best.
Those who prefer fishing or swimming in warmer weather than June through August may work better for your schedule and interests.
#8 Tahquamenon Falls State Park
The Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan is a beautiful and scenic state park with both waterfalls and acres of forest. It’s located on the banks of the Tahquamenon River, which is part of Lake Superior, and it offers many opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more!
The park was established in 1875 after local lumberjack John Fitch discovered this natural wonder.
Activities to Do At The Park
Here are some activities you can do at Tahquamenon to make your trip memorable!
- Explore the natural beauty of Tahquamenon Falls and walk around the park’s 14 miles of trails.
- Enjoy the waterfalls during every season, including winter when they have an ice rink on top of them.
- Camp out at one of their campsites or rent a cabin near the falls for an unforgettable experience with family and friends.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit this park is in the spring because of all the beautiful flowers that bloom, which is perfect for taking pictures! The summer months can get pretty hot, so it’s best to go early or late in the day when there will be less people.
Fall is also a great time to go since you will see many leaves changing colors and falling off the trees. Wintertime could be a good time as well if you love snow; just make sure you come prepared with some warm clothes because it gets very cold here!
#9 Hoffmaster State Park
The Hoffmaster State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Michigan. There are so many great places to explore, from wooded areas and wetlands to sandy beaches on Lake Huron. The park has over 2,000 acres, with hiking trails that take you through forests and along lakeshores. This park is perfect for nature lovers who want to enjoy the scenery without crowds or traffic noise!
Activities Offered
The park offers many activities for visitors to enjoy including biking, hiking, bird watching, picnicking with friends & family or just relaxing in nature. For the more adventurous hiker, there are plenty of trails to explore!
The two most popular hikes at Hoffmaster State Park are the Cedar Pond Trail which provides hikers with an up-close view of Cedar Lake (the second largest lake in Michigan) and the trail leading up to Picnic Bluff overlooking Lake Erie.
If you’re looking for something different from your typical hiking trail the Lake Erie Bluff Trail has something for you. It starts as a boardwalk and then transitions to gravel through wetlands, sand dunes, and on top of an old railroad bed that’s been converted into a hiking path!
Camping at Hoffmaster
Hoffmaster has many different types of camping. You can camp in a tent, RV or you can rent one of their cabins! There are also cottages on the water that offer more privacy and access to Lake Huron with kayaks for your use as well.
The park also has plenty of opportunities for fishing from shore or boat access points with fish species including brown trout, whitefish, steelhead & rainbow smelt. If you’re more interested in just exploring than fishing check out some of their other options like biking along scenic trails or taking one-of-a-kind photos (depending on when you visit).
What is the Best Time to visit Hoffmaster State Park?
The best time to visit Hoffmaster State Park is in the spring when you can see migratory birds. The park is closed after Labor Day and will be open on weekends only from October through December 31 for hunting season.
#10 Fort Wilkins State Park
Fort Wilkins State Park is a state park in Michigan. It features some of the most spectacular views of Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains as well as being home to one of the last remaining active charcoal kilns on the Keweenaw Peninsula. The park’s primary attraction is Fort Wilkins Historic Site, which was built in 1857 during America’s westward expansion and played an important role for both sides during the Civil War.
Activities You Can Do at Wilkins State Park
Fort Wilkins State Park is the perfect place for an epic adventure in Michigan. Here are some of the best activities at this state park that are worth your time:
- Go on a hike in any direction because there are so many trails to choose from
- Hike up the observation tower for panoramic views
- Explore one of two caves that can be found on site
- Have fun with your family or friends by playing games like horseshoes
- Spend quality time with your loved ones by going kayaking
- Find peace and solitude deep within nature
- Be awed by spectacular sunsets
- Camp out under the stars and enjoy a campfire
Camping at Wilkins State Park
Wilkins offers both backcountry camping and front country camping. Both options allow you to camp with your family or friends by renting a campsite, tent cabin, or RV site!
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Fort Wilkins State Park is during the fall season. This park offers beautiful views of the Lake Superior shoreline, and it’s a great place for birdwatching or exploring the forest trails. The colors in autumn are simply breathtaking! There are also many different events offered at this park throughout the year, so you’ll never run out of things to do.