The Top 3 Best Places for Camping in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2025

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) is a camper’s paradise, offering rugged wilderness, pristine lakeshores, and breathtaking waterfalls. With its vast forests and minimal urban sprawl, the UP provides an ideal setting for unforgettable camping experiences. Based on extensive research into scenic beauty, amenities, activities, and camper feedback, the top three best camping destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for 2025 are Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park. These locations offer diverse landscapes and camping options, from modern sites to backcountry adventures, perfect for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Below, we explore each destination to help you plan your next camping trip and discover why these are the best camping spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!

Key Points

• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers vast forests, Lake Superior views, and extensive trails, ideal for hikers and backcountry campers.
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore features stunning sandstone cliffs and beaches, with drive-in and backcountry camping for varied experiences.
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, offering modern and rustic camping with ample outdoor activities.
• Reservations are recommended, especially in summer, due to high demand at these popular sites.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Located in the western Upper Peninsula, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, or “the Porkies,” spans over 60,000 acres of old-growth forests, waterfalls, and Lake Superior shoreline. It’s Michigan’s largest state park and a top choice for campers seeking rugged beauty and diverse activities. The park’s iconic Lake of the Clouds overlook and extensive trail system make it a must-visit.

• Why Visit: The park’s vast wilderness, scenic vistas, and variety of camping options cater to both modern and rustic campers. Its 90+ miles of trails, including the Escarpment Trail, offer stunning views of lakes and forests.
• Camping Options: Choose from modern campgrounds like Union Bay (electricity, showers, flush toilets), rustic cabins, yurts, or backcountry sites with bear poles and fire rings.
• Activities: Hiking, fishing, kayaking, wildlife viewing (bears, moose, eagles), and winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
• Cost: $20–$40 per night, depending on site type; backcountry camping is $20 per night for groups of 1–6.
• Reservations: Book up to 6 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com or call 1-800-44PARKS.
• More Info: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Stretching 42 miles along Lake Superior between Munising and Grand Marais, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is renowned for its colorful sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, and waterfalls. Its three drive-in campgrounds and backcountry sites offer options for both casual campers and adventurers seeking solitude.

• Why Visit: The park’s dramatic cliffs, accessible by kayak or boat tours, and extensive trail system make it a top destination for scenic camping. Twelvemile Beach and Hurricane River campgrounds are particularly popular for their lakeside settings.
• Camping Options: Drive-in campgrounds (Little Beaver Lake, Twelvemile Beach, Hurricane River) with vault toilets and potable water; 14 backcountry sites along the Lakeshore Trail for hikers and kayakers.
• Activities: Hiking (100+ miles of trails), kayaking, boat tours, fishing, swimming, and winter activities like ice climbing.
• Cost: $20–$25 per night for drive-in sites; backcountry permits required year-round.
• Reservations: Book drive-in sites at Recreation.gov; backcountry permits at Recreation.gov.
• More Info: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park, located in the eastern Upper Peninsula near Paradise, spans nearly 50,000 acres and is famous for its Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Its amber-hued waters and extensive trails make it a favorite for campers seeking natural beauty.

• Why Visit: The park’s iconic waterfalls, wildlife, and variety of camping options offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The Lower Falls, accessible by rowboat or footbridge, adds a unique experience.
• Camping Options: Modern campgrounds at Rivermouth and Lower Falls (electricity, showers, flush toilets); rustic sites at Hemlock and Portage with vault toilets and hand pumps.
• Activities: Hiking (35+ miles of trails), fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing (moose, bears, bald eagles), and snowmobiling in winter.
• Cost: $20–$40 per night, depending on site type.
• Reservations: Book up to 6 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com or call 1-800-44PARKS.
• More Info: Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Planning Your Trip

These destinations are highly popular, so book early—especially for summer months—through MiDNRReservations.com for state parks or Recreation.gov for Pictured Rocks. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and milder weather, while winter camping is available for adventurous souls. Always check for updates on trail conditions or closures due to weather, such as the 2023 ice storm affecting some UP trails.

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The Top 3 Best Places for Camping in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2025

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering campers a chance to immerse themselves in pristine forests, dramatic lakeshores, and majestic waterfalls. Known for its rugged beauty and sparse population, the UP provides a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts. After evaluating scenic appeal, amenities, activities, and camper feedback from sources like Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources, Tripadvisor, and Hipcamp, we’ve identified the top three camping destinations for 2025: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park. These locations offer diverse camping experiences, from modern sites with full amenities to backcountry adventures, catering to families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers. Below, we detail each destination, including key features, activities, costs, and booking information to help you plan an unforgettable camping trip in 2025.

1. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – Best for Wilderness and Scenic Vistas

Located in the western Upper Peninsula near Ontonagon, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, affectionately called “the Porkies,” is Michigan’s largest state park, covering over 60,000 acres. Renowned for its old-growth hardwood forests, roaring waterfalls, and Lake Superior shoreline, the park offers a variety of camping options and over 90 miles of trails, making it a top choice for campers seeking both adventure and tranquility and tops our list of best camping spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Key Features

• Camping Options: The park provides modern campgrounds like Union Bay (100 sites with electricity, showers, flush toilets), rustic cabins, yurts, and over 60 backcountry sites with bear poles and fire rings for a true wilderness experience.
• Scenic Highlights: The iconic Lake of the Clouds overlook offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding ridges. The Presque Isle River corridor features stunning waterfalls like Manabezho and Nawadaha Falls.
• Trails: Over 90 miles of hiking trails, including the 4.3-mile Escarpment Trail for panoramic vistas and the 17-mile Lake Superior Trail for coastal hiking.
• Unique Attractions: Summit Peak observation tower, an 18-hole disc golf course, and winter sports facilities at the Porcupine Mountains Winter Sport Complex.

Amenities

• Modern campgrounds with electricity, flush toilets, showers, and potable water.
• Rustic cabins and yurts with basic furnishings for comfort.
• Backcountry sites with minimal amenities (fire rings, bear poles).
• Visitor center with exhibits, trail updates, and Wi-Fi.

Activities

• Hiking and backpacking on trails ranging from easy to strenuous.
• Fishing in lakes and rivers for trout and bass.
• Canoeing and kayaking on inland lakes or Lake Superior.
• Wildlife viewing, including bears, moose, and bald eagles.
• Winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Cost and Reservations

• Cost: $20–$40 per night for modern and rustic sites; $20 per night for backcountry camping (groups of 1–6).
• Reservations: Book up to 6 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com or call 1-800-44PARKS. Backcountry permits are required and available at the visitor center or online.
• More Info: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Why It’s Great

Campers praise the Porkies for their vast, untamed wilderness and diverse camping options. The Lake of the Clouds overlook is a highlight, with its vibrant fall colors and accessibility via EnChroma-enabled viewers for colorblind visitors. The park’s backcountry sites, like BC 7 near Shining Cloud Falls, are favorites for their seclusion and proximity to waterfalls. Recent upgrades, funded by $6.125 million in ARPA investments, include improved restrooms and accessible features at the visitor center, enhancing the camping experience.

Best For

Hikers, backcountry campers, and families seeking a mix of modern amenities and rugged wilderness.

2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Best for Coastal Beauty and Adventure

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, stretching 42 miles along Lake Superior between Munising and Grand Marais, is a national treasure known for its multicolored sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, and cascading waterfalls. Its three drive-in campgrounds and 14 backcountry sites offer diverse camping experiences, from lakeside relaxation to challenging hikes makes this a solid #2 in our best camping spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Key Features

• Camping Options: Three drive-in campgrounds—Little Beaver Lake (8 sites), Twelvemile Beach (36 sites), and Hurricane River (21 sites)—with vault toilets and potable water. Fourteen backcountry sites along the Lakeshore Trail for hikers and kayakers.
• Scenic Highlights: Towering sandstone cliffs (up to 200 feet), Miners Falls, Chapel Falls, and beaches like Sand Point and Twelvemile Beach.
• Trails: Over 100 miles of trails, including the 42-mile North Country National Scenic Trail, offering views of cliffs, dunes, and forests.
• Water Activities: Kayaking and boat tours provide close-up views of the cliffs and rock formations.

Amenities

• Drive-in campgrounds with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables.
• Backcountry sites with minimal amenities (fire rings, bear-proof storage).
• Visitor centers in Munising and Grand Marais with maps and information.
• Nearby boat ramps in Munising and AuTrain for fishing and kayaking.

Activities

• Hiking on trails like Chapel Loop (10 miles) or Miners Falls Trail (1.2 miles).
• Kayaking and boat tours to explore cliffs and caves.
• Fishing in Lake Superior and inland lakes for trout and salmon.
• Swimming and beachcombing at Twelvemile Beach.
• Winter activities like ice climbing and snowshoeing.

Cost and Reservations

• Cost: $20–$25 per night for drive-in sites; backcountry permits required (fees vary).
• Reservations: Book drive-in sites up to 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov; backcountry permits at Recreation.gov.
• More Info: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Why It’s Great

Pictured Rocks is celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery, with cliffs that glow in vibrant hues at sunset. Campers love Twelvemile Beach for its sandy shoreline and proximity to waterfalls, while backcountry sites offer solitude along the Lakeshore Trail. The park’s accessibility to boat tours and kayaking makes it unique, allowing campers to experience the cliffs from the water. Reviewers note that sites often sell out, so early booking is essential, especially for summer.

Best For

Adventure seekers, kayakers, and campers wanting coastal views and hiking opportunities.

3. Tahquamenon Falls State Park – Best for Waterfall Wonders and Wildlife

Located near Paradise in the eastern Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park spans nearly 50,000 acres and is home to the Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, and the scenic Lower Falls. Its amber-hued waters and extensive trails make it a top camping destination. There is plenty of debate as to whether this is #3 or #1 when it comes to the best camping spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Key Features

• Camping Options: Modern campgrounds at Rivermouth (72 sites) and Lower Falls (188 sites) with electricity, showers, flush toilets, and potable water; rustic sites at Hemlock and Portage with vault toilets and hand pumps.
• Waterfalls: Upper Falls (50 feet high, 200 feet wide) and Lower Falls (five smaller cascades around an island).
• Trails: Over 35 miles of trails, including a 4-mile trail connecting Upper and Lower Falls and part of the North Country Trail.
• Wildlife: Home to black bears, moose, bald eagles, and over 125 bird species.

Amenities

• Modern campgrounds with electricity, showers, flush toilets, and potable water.
• Rustic campgrounds with vault toilets and hand pumps.
• Visitor center with exhibits and a gift shop.

Why It’s Great

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a camper favorite for its awe-inspiring waterfalls and abundant wildlife. The Upper Falls, often called “Root Beer Falls” for its amber hue, is a must-see, while the Lower Falls offers unique access via rowboat or the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge. Campers praise the spacious sites, clean facilities, and opportunities to spot moose or bald eagles. The park’s brewery and pub at Camp 33 near the Upper Falls add a unique touch, offering craft beers and pub food. Booking early is crucial, as sites fill quickly in summer.

Best For

Families, nature lovers, and campers seeking waterfall views and wildlife encounters.

Why Choose Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for Camping in 2025?

The Upper Peninsula’s unspoiled landscapes, from Lake Superior’s shores to ancient forests, make it a premier camping destination. Porcupine Mountains, Pictured Rocks, and Tahquamenon Falls offer diverse experiences—mountain vistas, coastal cliffs, and majestic waterfalls—catering to modern campers, backcountry adventurers, and families. These sites provide well-maintained facilities, extensive trails, and activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing for the best camping spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With reservation systems like MiDNRReservations.com and Recreation.gov, planning is straightforward, though early booking (6–9 months in advance) is recommended for peak seasons. Recent upgrades, such as those funded by ARPA in Porcupine Mountains, ensure improved amenities for 2025.

How to Choose the Best Camping Spot in the Upper Peninsula

When selecting a campground, consider:

• Scenery: Choose Porcupine Mountains for forests and lakes, Pictured Rocks for coastal cliffs, or Tahquamenon Falls for waterfalls.
• Camping Style: Opt for modern sites with amenities (all three locations) or backcountry sites (Porcupine Mountains, Pictured Rocks) for a rugged experience.
• Activities: Prioritize hiking and backcountry camping in Porcupine Mountains, kayaking and boat tours in Pictured Rocks, or waterfall exploration and wildlife viewing in Tahquamenon Falls.
• Reservations: Book early via MiDNRReservations.com for state parks or Recreation.gov for Pictured Rocks, especially for summer and fall.
• Season: Summer is peak season, but spring and fall offer fewer crowds and vibrant scenery; winter camping is available for hardy adventurers.

Final Thoughts

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park are the top three camping destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for 2025, each offering unique natural beauty and activities. Whether you’re hiking through ancient forests, kayaking along colorful cliffs, or marveling at massive waterfalls, these locations promise unforgettable experiences. Book your campsite now through MiDNRReservations.com or Recreation.gov and immerse yourself in the UP’s wild splendor!

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location	Camping Options	Key Attractions	Cost per Night	Reservation Site
Porcupine Mountains	Western UP, Ontonagon	Modern, rustic cabins, yurts, backcountry	Lake of the Clouds, waterfalls, trails	$20–$40	MiDNRReservations.com
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore	Munising–Grand Marais	Drive-in, backcountry	Sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls	$20–$25	Recreation.gov
Tahquamenon Falls State Park	Paradise, Eastern UP	Modern, rustic	Upper and Lower Falls, wildlife, trails	$20–$40	MiDNRReservations.com

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