Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

4.36

341 reviews

W 3853 US 2 Moran, MI 49760

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Michigan Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Michigan

Quick Facts

633 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

633 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees are $26 per night for standard non-electric sites during the peak season (May 23 - September 14). Additional fees include reservation charges...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-203-9872

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 341 reviews

174 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanbeachfriendlysites

Some mention

noise

"Overall, the campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, proximity to Lake Michigan, and cleanliness. However, road noise from nearby US-2 is a frequent complaint."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

W 3853 US 2 Moran, MI 49760

Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

W 3853 US 2 Moran, MI 49760

Driving directionsFrom Mackinac Bridge, take Highway 2 approximately 18 miles west to the campground entrance.

The campground is easily accessible directly off US-2, a major highway, making it convenient for travelers but also subject to significant road noise. The road is paved, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak travel times.

Nearby places

St. Ignace: 18 miles (approximately 20 minutes by car)

Brevort: 5 miles (approximately 10 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Nearest supplies can be found in Brevort, approximately 5 miles away, including a gas station with firewood and ice. St. Ignace has more comprehensive shopping options.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

Summer transforms this lakeside haven into a paradise of warm sunshine and refreshing lake breezes, though Mother Nature occasionally flexes her muscles with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the Great Lakes. The powerful winds that sculpted these ancient dunes still make their presence known, adding an element of adventure to your camping experience. As temperatures rise, the local mosquito population emerges to remind visitors to pack their insect repellent alongside their sunscreen. These minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the joy of swimming in crystal-clear waters and basking in the extended twilight of northern summer evenings.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in MI

Peak season: beach and trails popular; many positive summer reviews and activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall noted for fewer bugs, quieter conditions and good hiking/leaf viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Partial spring opening; quieter but some reviewers note highway noise or cool conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May–Sept reservable season; winter not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23 - September 14.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season starts May 23 and closes September 14 for reservable sites. First-come, first-served availability begins May 14 and ends May 21.

About Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

Where the endless blue waters of Lake Michigan meet pristine sand dunes and whispering forests, St. Ignace's Lake Michigan Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This rustic retreat offers campers the rare opportunity to fall asleep to the rhythmic lapping of Great Lakes waves and wake to spectacular sunrises over the water. While the nearby US-2 highway provides convenient access, its presence brings a steady hum of traffic that reminds visitors they're never too far from civilization. Despite this, the campground remains a beloved basecamp for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences, from casting lines into the vast lake to exploring hidden trails through the dunes.

Lake Michigan Campground at St. Ignace is a rustic camping site offering both first-come, first-served and reservable options. Sites are designed for tents and RVs, with a focus on simplicity and natural surroundings.

Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the storied boundaries of Hiawatha National Forest, a landscape that has sheltered and sustained life for millennia. This remarkable ecosystem stands as a living testament to the intricate balance between land and water, forest and shore. The very ground beneath your tent has witnessed the passage of indigenous peoples, early explorers, and generations of nature lovers drawn to this unique convergence of habitats. Today, the forest continues its ancient role as guardian of biodiversity, offering modern visitors a chance to connect with the same natural wonders that have captivated humans throughout history.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this lakeside haven into a paradise of warm sunshine and refreshing lake breezes, though Mother Nature occasionally flexes her muscles with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the Great Lakes. The powerful winds that sculpted these ancient dunes still make their presence known, adding an element of adventure to your camping experience. As temperatures rise, the local mosquito population emerges to remind visitors to pack their insect repellent alongside their sunscreen. These minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the joy of swimming in crystal-clear waters and basking in the extended twilight of northern summer evenings.

ElevationRising gracefully from the shoreline, the campground perches atop weathered bluffs that offer commanding views of Lake Michigan's vast expanse. These elevated camping spots provide a natural amphitheater for watching storms approach across the water or catching the first golden rays of dawn. The undulating sand dunes create a dynamic landscape of peaks and valleys, each offering its own unique perspective and microclimate. While specific elevation measurements remain unrecorded, the vertical diversity of the terrain ensures that whether you prefer a lofty perch or a sheltered hollow, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds like a natural gallery along Lake Michigan's dramatic shoreline, where ancient sand dunes tell the story of thousands of years of wind and water. From your campsite atop the bluff, panoramic views stretch to the horizon, where sky and water merge in an ever-changing display of color and light. The landscape transitions seamlessly from dense woodland groves that provide welcome shade to open sandy areas perfect for beach activities. Sharp-eyed visitors might spot Spotted Sandpipers dancing along the water's edge, their distinctive bobbing walk a delightful addition to the shoreline's natural choreography. As evening falls, the interplay of forest shadows and golden beach creates a photographer's dream, while the constant presence of the lake provides a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.

Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Hiawatha National Forest along Lake Michigan's northern shore, this campground occupies one of the Great Lakes region's most fascinating geological stages. Here, ancient sand dunes frozen in time stand as monuments to the powerful forces that shaped this landscape over millennia. The windswept shores continue their eternal dance with the elements, constantly reshaping and renewing the beachfront. This dynamic environment supports an incredible diversity of plant life, from hardy dune grasses that anchor the shifting sands to towering trees that have found purchase in more stable soils. The result is a living laboratory where visitors can witness the ongoing geological processes that make the Great Lakes region one of North America's most unique natural treasures.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2p.m.

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 8 guests per site are permitted.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground layout consists of a single loop with sites on both the lakeside and roadside. Lakeside sites feature direct beach access.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the non-peak season (May 14 - May 23).

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations can be made for a fee of $10.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available. Some visitors noted that stairs and steep paths to the beach could be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Site SizeSites are varied in size to accommodate both small and large setups, with some sites large enough for 30ft RVs or trailers.

PrivacyThe sites have good privacy, often separated by trees. Beachside sites offer additional seclusion.

Total Campsites30 campsites

Recommended SitesCampers seeking quiet should opt for sites on the south side nearest Lake Michigan to minimize traffic noise. Sites closer to the highway are louder.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a range of recreational activities, particularly focused on outdoor and water-based fun. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The beach is a highlight, providing opportunities for relaxation, bird watching, and experiencing the sunset.

HikingTwo significant trails are accessible: the Sand Dunes Cross-Country Ski Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail. These trails offer varying terrains, from sand dunes to forested areas.

FishingFishing is available at Lake Michigan, but nearby Brevort Lake is preferred for its better fishing opportunities, including walleye, pike, and bass.

SwimmingSwimming is popular at the beach, although the area can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended.

Wildlife viewingShorebirds like the Spotted Sandpiper are commonly seen along the beach. The area is great for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.

Beach activitiesThe beach offers sandy shores for sunbathing and beachcombing. Sunset views are a highlight.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe main hazards are steep dune climbs to reach the beach, and proximity to US-2 creates significant traffic noise.

Fire PolicyCampfire rings with grills are provided at each site. Firewood is available for purchase from hosts.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not specifically mentioned.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in St. Ignace, located 18 miles away, which provides access to hospitals, police stations, and emergency response services.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are limited. Reviewers noted a small recycling bin that could benefit from expansion.

Water FeaturesThe campground is set directly along Lake Michigan and features private beach access from several campsites.

Camp HostCamp hosts vary seasonally, with mixed reviews ranging from friendly and helpful to overly strict and rude.

Weather at Lake Michigan At St. Ignace

Reviews

4.4

341 reviews

Recommended

Lake Michigan At St. Ignace is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, the campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, proximity to Lake Michigan, and cleanliness. However, road noise from nearby US-2 is a frequent complaint.

Review Summaries

Based on 341 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently highlight the clean facilities, beautiful sunsets, and private beach access from some sites. Hosts are often described as friendly and helpful.

Based on 341 reviews

Common Concerns

Road noise from US-2 is a consistent concern. Some visitors also noted steep paths to the beach and the lack of showers as drawbacks.

Based on 341 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve beachside sites for better views and reduced road noise. Bring water shoes for the rocky beach areas and insect repellent for mosquitoes.

Based on 341 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular time for visitors, with many enjoying the beach and hiking trails. Fall reviews mention fewer bugs and quieter conditions.

Based on 341 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The morning and evening views of the lake are awe-inspiring." - David Bayly. "The beach was beautiful and felt like our own private getaway." - Anne B. "Traffic noise was quite loud but the sunsets...

Based on 341 reviews