If there’s one thing we could do without when off on a camping trip, it’s the crowds. So many people all flocking to the same place at once, playing loud music, setting up their tents way too close to yours, and taking away from the natural beauty that you were looking for.

That’s why you need to find someplace more rustic, where you’re less likely to come across big crowds of fellow campers. Last year, we brought you some of the best campsites in Michigan. This time around, we’ve got five more spots – this time in more secluded sections of Michigan – that are sure to be favorites.

1. Au Train Lake
Au Train Lake, Au Train Township, MI 49806, USA
Jay Kleeman/Flickr
Tucked away in the Hiawatha National Forest, you'll find nearly 40 campsites surrounding the Au Train Lake. Plenty of swimming, boating, and even bird watching opportunities abound.
2. Little Presque Isle
Little Presque Isle, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
Chad Johnson/Flickr
For rustic camping in a cabin as opposed to tent camping, Little Presque Isle is the place to be. Choose from six cabins and have access to some 18 miles of hiking trails, beaches along Lake Superior, and stunning natural beauty.

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3. Pinckney State Recreation Area
Pinckney Recreation Area, 8555 Silver Hill Rd, Pinckney, MI 48169, USA
Scott Elliott Smithson/Flickr
Whether you pick Crooked Lake or Blind Lake to camp nearby, you'll find plenty of campsites, some 40 miles of trails, and lots of fishing at Pinckney State Recreation Area.
4. Porcupine Mountains
Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA
Jim Sorbie/Flickr
The ultimate in secluded camping, the Porcupine Mountains have some 60,000 acres of wild land to hike, mountain bike, swim, and camp. It doesn't get much more awe-inspiring than this!
5. Sleeper State Park
Sleeper State Park, 6573 State Park Rd, Caseville, MI 48725, USA
R Katt/Flickr
Situated at the Thumb, Sleeper State Park provides just enough modern amenities (restrooms with hot water, electrical hookups), but without the crowds. Plus, killer views of Saginaw Bay.

Now that’s what we call camping. Is rustic camping in Michigan not the best? We know there’s so much ground to cover, but boy, do we love it! Tell us, where are your favorite rustic camping spots? Let us know, and maybe you’ll see your favorites featured someday!

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Best Rustic Camping in Michigan

Tori Jane | April 11, 2023
  1. Where can I find the best rustic camping in Michigan?

Michigan is a great state to live in or visit for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It’s not just beautiful – it's also home to some of the best camping in the Midwest! Some of our favorite rustic campgrounds in Michigan are ones like:  

  • Anderson Lake – This beautiful place is as affordable as it is rustic and charming, and we love it!  
  • Leverentz Lake – This is an old-school experience right on a lake. What more could we ask for?  
  • Literally anywhere with yurts – Yurts are becoming synonymous with glamping, and they’re about as delightfully rustic as it gets.  

Learn more about six of our favorite yurt campgrounds in Michigan.   

  1. What are some of the best campgrounds in Michigan?

Of course, the list of awesome campgrounds in Michigan is nowhere near limited to the above-mentioned places – there are hundreds more! Some notable campgrounds in Michigan include:  

  • Platte River Campground – Located in close proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes, this amazing campground is everything you could ever hope for.  
  • D.H. Day Campground – Also located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, this amazing campground includes a beach!  
  • Hurricane River Campground – Another lakeside gem, this small campground is one of the few where you can camp right on the beach.  

Learn more about each of these awesome campgrounds in Michigan.  

  1. Where are some of the best places to go camping in Michigan?

Prefer roughing it more than a traditional or private campground? No worries! We’re major fans of all things camping in Michigan and have way more than just a few favorite spots. Other places to go camping in Michigan are places such as:  

  • Barnes Park Campground – If you’re a fan of lakeside views and gorgeous cabins, Barnes Park is for you.  
  • Dumont Lake Family Campground – It's tough to understate the awesomeness of this one! This family-friendly campground is so much fun, you’ll never want to leave.  

Learn more about these two places to go camping in Michigan – plus a few more for luck.   

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