Hiking Campgrounds in Michigan
Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Michigan. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.
Hiking Campgrounds in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Multiple pathways branch out from this hike-in campground, including the 18-mile Jordan Valley loop and connections to the North Country Trail, offering everything from short afternoon rambles to multi-day adventures.
Multiple waterfalls cascade through dramatic river gorges just steps from your tent, connected by an extensive boardwalk and trail system that winds between the thundering Presque Isle River and Lake Superior's windswept cliffs.
Hiawatha National Forest
Trailheads lead directly into 30+ miles of unsurfaced paths weaving through old-growth forests and past dramatic sandstone cliffs jutting above Lake Superior. Day hikers can explore the island's most remote corners, returning to camp with stories of hidden waterfalls and untouched wilderness vistas.
About Hiking Campgrounds in Michigan
Hiking camping Michigan offers an extraordinary diversity of trail experiences, from the dramatic waterfalls and old-growth forests of the Upper Peninsula's Porcupine Mountains to the pristine river valleys and rolling terrain of the northern Lower Peninsula. Michigan's unique geography as a two-peninsula state surrounded by Great Lakes creates distinct hiking ecosystems, with over 1,300 miles of trails winding through state and national forests, wilderness areas, and along spectacular shorelines.
Best Time
The prime hiking camping season in Michigan runs from late May through October, with peak conditions varying by region and elevation. Late September through early October offers spectacular fall colors, cooler temperatures ideal for strenuous hiking, and significantly reduced crowds and insect activity, making it many experienced hikers' preferred season.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Campground Locations
Showing top 20 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Michigan
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular hiking campgrounds like Pinney Bridge, Porcupine Mountains sites, and Grand Island locations well in advance, especially for fall color season when sites book out months ahead.
- 2Download offline maps before arrival as cell service is unreliable in most hiking areas; the Avenza Maps app works well with Michigan DNR trail maps.
- 3Bring a water filter or purification tablets as many state forest campgrounds have only hand pumps, and treat all natural water sources.
- 4Pack layered clothing regardless of season—Michigan weather can shift dramatically, particularly in the Upper Peninsula where Lake Superior influences conditions.
Hiking Campgrounds in Michigan FAQ
Popular Michigan Campgrounds Book Fast
The best hiking campgrounds in Michigan book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground
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