When it comes to camping in the Great Lakes State, sometimes the urge to head outdoors strikes when you least expect it. Perhaps you’ve had a last-minute change of plans or a cancellation — there’s no telling when you’ll be ready to go camping in Michigan, grab your tent and head into the great outdoors. Luckily for you, Michigan is home to plenty of campgrounds that don’t require reservations in advance, so you can plan the perfect last-minute getaway. Check out these 9 campgrounds in Michigan where no reservation is required.

1. Platte River Campground (Address: 5685 Lake Michigan Road, Beulah, MI 49617)
Yelp/Tammi U.
If you love Sleeping Bear Dunes (and, really — who doesn’t?), this campground might just be the perfect spot for you. This stunning year-round camping site offers a variety of campsites to select from, including more rustic areas in the woods and less-forested RV spots. There are even hot showers for use by campers, and it’s all within a mile of the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline.
2. D.H. Day Campground (Address: 8010 W Harbor Highway, Glen Arbor, MI 49636)
Flickr/longyoung
This gorgeous spot is also tucked away near Sleeping Bear Dunes, but it offers a charm all its own. Campers will sleep just a short distance from the National Lakeshore’s most breathtaking overlooks and find opportunities for everything from kayaking to hiking. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stay at D.H. Day Campground is like a journey to paradise — and you don’t even have to make a reservation!
3. Mouth Of Two-Hearted River Campground (35 miles NE of Newberry)
Flickr/Nick Bianco
With 39 charming sites to choose from and an ideal location near the Two-Hearted River and beautiful Lake Superior, it’s tough to imagine a better camping locale than this. You’ll have to venture down a dirt road or two to reach the campground, but the experience that awaits is well worth it. Visitors rave about the picturesque riverfront, nearby beach, and gorgeous views of the night sky — as evidenced by the photo above!
4. Catchin' Crickets Campground (Address: N6874 H-15 49884, County Highway, Munising, MI 49862)
Facebook/Catchin’ Crickets Campground and Vacation Rental
Located just ten minutes east of beautiful Munising, this campground is perfect for families seeking a fun camping excursion. Catchin’ Crickets is just secluded enough to provide a peaceful getaway and just close enough to the beauty of Pictured Rocks to provide plenty of excitement for guests of all ages. Reservations are possible, but not required.

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5. Twelvemile Beach Campground (Address: Alger Co. Road H-58, Grand Marais, MI 49839)
Flickr/Kate Sumbler
Select a spot at this stunning site on a first-come, first-served basis and get ready for Michigan camping at its very best. You’ll have the opportunity to camp directly along the waterfront and catch marvelous views of the Lake Superior shoreline. Just be prepared for a truly rustic experience when you choose to camp at this gorgeous site: there certainly won't be any cell phone reception!
6. Hurricane River Campground (Address: Au Sable Point Trail, Seney, MI 49883)
Flickr/cmh2315fl
With 21 beautiful lakefront campsites to choose from, we can’t guarantee that you’ll ever be ready to leave Hurricane River. While the campground itself is a peaceful oasis near Grand Marais, it also offers opportunities for exciting adventures. Take a short hike from the campground to check out remnants of shipwrecks and the nearby Au Sable Light Station. What’s not to love?
7. Woodland Park (Address: Grand Marais, MI 49839)
Facebook/Woodland Park
While you’re in the Grand Marais area, why not spend a night at Woodland Park? Generations of campers have enjoyed the scenery and atmosphere at this awesome campground, which offers front-row access to the town of Grand Marais and its many natural wonders. If you’re not a fan of ultra-rustic camping, this might be the spot for you, as Woodland Park even offers wi-fi for visitors.
8. East Tawas City Park Campground (Address: 407 W Bay Street, East Tawas, MI 48730)
Flickr/George Thomas
This popular camping spot along the shores of Tawas Bay offers 178 beautiful campsites for use by families seeking a fun outdoor adventure. There’s so much to do here: from playgrounds to walking paths to a fishing dock, you could spend hours exploring at East Tawas City Park and never see it all. There’s even a public beach so you can cool off on those hot summer afternoons.
9. Veterans Memorial State Forest Campground (Address: Beulah, MI 49617)
Google Maps
With 24 sites to choose from and ample opportunities to observe the wildlife of Benzie County, this campground is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. It’s not far from Sleeping Bear Dunes or the Platte River, and you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for everything from unique Michigan birds to white-tailed deer. Talk about a natural wonderland — no reservations required!

Okay, Michigan campers. Did we leave any of your favorite no reservation campgrounds in MIchigan off our list? We’re always eager to hear your thoughts and suggestions, so leave them in the comment section below!

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More to Explore

Campgrounds in Michigan

Andrea Limke | June 06, 2019

What are some of the best campgrounds in Michigan?

Michigan is an outdoor lover's paradise and thus home to some of the best campgrounds in the country. You can hide away in the middle of nowhere in a tent, or "glamp" it up at one of the campgrounds in Michigan that offers all of the amenities. Some of the favorite spots for camping in Michigan are right along the water. Orchard Beach State Park is a beautiful place to camp right on the beach, and is perfect for families. Weko Beach Campground is another destination that is great for camping and accessing the water. You can read about more of these beachfront camping spots here.

Are you allowed to camp in state parks?

Not only can you camp within the state parks of Michigan, but they are some of the best places to do so in the state. Whether you want a spring, summer, or fall camping destination, there are several state park camping options. Yankee Springs State Park has a campground that stays open through November, if you'd like to avoid the crowds. Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers year-round camping in Michigan, and you cannot beat the surrounding scenery. Holland State Park on the coast of Lake Michigan is another place that's perfect for an escape.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

When making your list of things to take with you on a camping trip in Michigan, consider what type of camping you're going to do. If you're staying in a tent, of course your list will be much longer and should include all the essentials, as well as things like a variety of clothing options for changes in weather, bug spray, trash bags, matches, etc. If you're staying in an RV or cabin, you may not need some of the same items, but always think through what you may need in case of an emergency.

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