Beach Camping in Michigan

Beach Camping in Michigan

Discover the best beach camping across Michigan. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.

12+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: May - September
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Top Picks

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

Brimley · Hiawatha National Forest

Campsites nestle beneath towering pines just steps from Lake Superior's sandy shores, where endless blue waters meet Whitefish Bay's dramatic coastline.

4.7(350 reviews)
Verified
2
Lake Superior State Forest Campground

Lake Superior State Forest Campground

Grand Marais (≈12 miles)

Step from your campsite through low dunes onto your own stretch of Lake Superior's wild shoreline, where cobblestones, driftwood, and sandy patches create an ever-changing beach just footsteps away.

4.5(146 reviews)
Verified
3
Portage Bay State Forest Campground

Portage Bay State Forest Campground

Garden (approximately 10 miles north)

Campsites perch directly on Portage Bay's shoreline, where you can roll out of your tent and dive straight into Lake Michigan's crystalline waters. The sheltered bay creates calm swimming conditions and launch-ready access for kayakers exploring the dramatic northern Michigan coastline.

4.7(66 reviews)
Verified

About Beach Camping in Michigan

Beach camping Michigan offers an unparalleled Great Lakes experience, with over 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline providing some of the finest sandy beaches in North America. From the dramatic cliffs and cobblestone shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula to the towering dunes and pristine beaches of Lake Michigan's western coast, Michigan's beach campgrounds deliver everything from remote wilderness experiences to family-friendly destinations with modern amenities.

Best Time

Peak beach camping season runs from late June through early September, when water temperatures reach their warmest and weather is most reliable for swimming and water activities. July and August offer the best combination of warm air temperatures (75-85°F), comfortable water conditions, and long daylight hours for beach enjoyment, though these months also bring the largest crowds and require reservations made 6 months in advance for popular locations like Hoffmaster and Sleeping Bear Dunes area campgrounds.

Scenery Highlights

  • Oceanfront and lakeside sites
  • Sandy beaches and swimming
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views
  • Water sports and fishing

Explore Beach Camping in Michigan

Browse 12 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

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Popular Activities

Swimming and beach loungingBeachcombing and rock-hounding for agates and Petoskey stonesKayaking and paddleboarding along the shorelineSunset and sunrise photographyHiking coastal trails and dune climbsFishing from shore and piers

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve waterfront sites well in advance—premium beach-access sites at popular campgrounds like Hoffmaster and Bay View book within hours of becoming available six months out.
  • 2Bring layers even in summer, as Great Lakes weather can shift rapidly with temperature drops of 20-30 degrees when wind direction changes, particularly along Lake Superior where cold water keeps coastal temperatures cooler.
  • 3Pack a quality windbreak or screen shelter, as lakeside sites often experience persistent breezes that make cooking and relaxing more comfortable with protection.
  • 4Water shoes prove invaluable at rocky Lake Superior beaches for comfortable wading and rock-hounding.
12 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Beach Camping in Michigan

Beach Camping in Michigan FAQ

We've ranked 12+ beach campgrounds in Michigan based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.

Beach camping in Michigan is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.

For beach camping in Michigan, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.

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Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)
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