Michigan is a beloved state for camping, hiking, and exploring the wilderness due to its location in the Great Lakes region. Forested trails, breezy lake fishing, and scenic camping views attract local and foreign wilderness enthusiasts alike. If you’re new to camping, new to the area, or just want to try a new camping location in the Great Lakes State, you’ll want to know how to hit the trails like a true local for the best experience.
The Perfect Camping Spot Isn’t Always the Most Famous
Michigan offers a lot of biodiverse scenery for camping, and there are a ton of famous spots for a reason; they’re beautiful, accessible, and fun. Places like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Pictured Rocks offer gorgeous forests, rocky terrains, and cliffside lake camping, but they’re often crowded. If you’d like a quieter camping retreat, consider some alternatives like the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness or Waterloo State Recreation Area. You’ll still find other campers there, but they’re relatively quieter than the ultra-famous spots. The famous places are excellent, but there are rarer gems worth trying, too.
Know Your Sleeping Preferences
Camping doesn’t have to be about roughing it if you don’t want to. The most important “rule” of the camping experience is to have fun and enjoy the wilderness. You can do this in whatever way works best for you. If sleeping in a tent isn’t your ideal time, that doesn’t mean you have to avoid camping entirely.
RV
Renting or buying an RV is an excellent way to enjoy camping. RVs or motor homes often offer lodging, toilets, and privacy away from dangerous animals or pestering insects. Many campgrounds and hiking trails provide RV parking and setup zones, allowing upfront access to hiking trails, lakes, and all the wonderful perks of Michigan camping. RVs do cost a pretty penny, so you can either rent one or budget for a major expense, but you’ll get some top-tier experiences in exchange.
Cabin
On many Michigan campgrounds, you can rent or even buy cabins to sleep in while you’re there. You’ll be surrounded by four walls without the expense of an RV or the “roughing-it” experience of tent sleeping. If Michigan becomes a frequent favorite destination, you may even consider buying a first or second home near your favorite camping spot or wilderness retreat. Park model homes make excellent rustic cabins for that cozy but natural feeling.
Tent
Pitching a tent under the Michigan stars is the classic way to enjoy a camping retreat. Local camping enthusiasts often favor this option, as many parks, forests, or campgrounds offer plenty of tent space in a variety of locations. Famous forests like the Huron-Manistee National Forest allow dispersed and primitive tent camping in most areas unless signage states otherwise. If you’re looking for an adventure, tent camping or even hammock camping might be fun to try.
Pack for Michigan Weather
The weather is very unpredictable in Michigan, especially during seasonal changes. Mornings may start cold, transitioning to rain in the middle of the day, followed by a sunny-hot afternoon. It’s important to wear comfortable and layered clothing to prepare for any type of weather. Even in summer, you’ll want to wear layers in case it gets unseasonably cold or higher terrain brings more frigid temperatures. Have rain gear ready, or consider some faster-drying fabrics like Merino wool. Michigan is known for its rocky or lakeside camping scenes, so make sure you have extra pairs of socks, waterproof shoes, and comfortable hiking boots. Insect repellent is also a must, as mosquitoes and other wildlife here can be very bothersome. Other smart items to bring are refillable water bottles (filters are ideal), first aid kits, firestarting tools, and plenty of food.
Respect the Land
Michiganders are protective and proud of their homes, and it’s important that you respect the land just like they do. Avoid leaving trash or harmful materials around when you’re finished camping. Recycle or toss any litter you create on your trip. Respect wildlife and avoid destroying their habitats; feeding them can cause digestive problems or other issues, so it’s best to avoid it. Don’t kill or destroy plants unnecessarily. Make sure you know how to control and maintain campfires to avoid harmful forest fires. Pay attention to burn bans, especially when the weather gets particularly hot and dry.
Try Some Regional Eats
Michigan has some great local foods that you can take on your trip. It is well known for its excellent fruit harvests, especially cherries, blueberries, and apples. If they’re in season, try some fresh options—your best bet would be at local farmers’ markets or roadside stands. Meat pasties are a state favorite and offer a travel-friendly way to grab a bite by the campfire if cooking isn’t your strong suit. While Detroit-style pizza isn’t exactly as travel-friendly, you may want to indulge in this famous treat as well. Michigan local craft beers and hard ciders are also tasty, but be sure to drink responsibly if you decide to indulge. Camping and alcohol can be a bad combination without care.
Experience Local-Favorite Excursions
There are plenty of Michigan-beloved wilderness excursions you can try to make your camping experience more authentic. Kayaking through the state’s many rivers and lakes is a popular choice, especially at places like Big Bear Lake. There are hikes for a wide variety of skill levels; if you’re up for a challenge, try the Lake Superior Provincial Park Coastal Trail. Scenic bike rides through trails like the Kal-Haven offer dozens of miles of peace and nature. From lakes to cliffsides, there are a ton of views for all tastes and skill levels. Give them a try and walk on the wild side!
Don’t Be a Stranger
It’s traditional in Michigan to be a friendly neighbor. You don’t want to bother people, but it’s normal to strike up a pleasant conversation or indulge in a campfire s’more with new friends if offered. It’s okay to prefer privacy, but don’t be afraid of the locals—they’re friendly and trying to have a good time, too. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or trail recommendations!
Stay Safe
Like any wilderness retreat, camping can be unpredictable at times. Michigan has bears, wolves, and other dangerous animals that can wander near you and even attack you when threatened. Know how to safely stay away from these animals and scare them off when necessary. Keep your personal belongings on a tight leash, and be careful not to lose important items like your wallet. Waterproof bags can help protect electronics or wallets from water damage. Know what to do when you get lost or need help. Know your limits; if a trail is too intense, turn around. You can always practice your hiking and finish your trek another day.
Conclusion
Michigan is a beautiful state with plenty of biodiversity, excellent hiking, and scenic kayaking. It’s a camper’s dream! Whether you want to buy a home in the Michigan forests or travel through the state for a few days and hang up a hammock, there are plenty of options for all walks of life. Be sure to keep safety in mind, know the local favorite spots, and protect the land you’re on.
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