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The 5 Best Campgrounds Near Mackinaw City, MI 

by Libby ThompsonNov 16, 2022
The 5 Best Campgrounds Near Mackinaw City, MI 

Campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI, provide unparalleled access to the splendor of the Great Lakes and the historical depth of northern Michigan. Overflowing with nature preserves, incredible overlooks, unbeatable sunsets, and serene sites, Mackinaw City campgrounds beckon families, friend groups, and couples alike. There’s no shortage of things to learn and do on a Mackinaw City camping trip between the idyllic scenery of Mackinac Island and the fascinating glimpses into the history of the area.

Whether your version of fun involves casting a line off of a boat or hiking through thick forests, you’ll find all you need to get your heart thumping at these picturesque and comfortable campgrounds near Mackinaw City, Michigan.

1. Lakeshore RV Campground

RV campground near mackinaw city, mi, by the water

Nearby Attractions: Wood Observation Tower, St. Ignace, Bridge View Park, Hiawatha National Forest, St. Helena Island Nature Preserve

Nearby Airports: Mackinac County Airport, Brevort Airport, Chippewa County International Airport

Unique Amenities: Private beach, snack stand, pavilion

Lakeshore RV Campground is among the best campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI, when it comes to waterfront amenities and serene sites. Featuring a private beach and spectacular views of Lake Michigan, this Mackinaw City campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts who love water sports, relaxing on the beach, or exploring charming towns. Venture out to explore St. Ignace, or visit nearby islands like Mackinac Island and St. Helena Island. Whether you prefer tent camping or pulling up in your RV, you’ve found one of the best Mackinaw City campgrounds for your next adventure.

2. Tiki RV Park & Campground

campground near mackinaw city, MI with RVs by trees and water

Nearby Attractions: Wawatam Lighthouse, Museum of Ojibwa Culture, St. Ignace, Bridge View Park, Mackinac Island, Fort Michilimackinac, Mill Creek, Kewadin Casino

Nearby Airports: Mackinac County Airport, Brevort Airport, Chippewa County International Airport

Unique Amenities: Free shuttles, laundry facilities

For campers looking for a jumping-off point to explore Mackinac Island and the surrounding attractions, Tiki RV Park & Campground will be tough to beat! Conveniently located near the ferry station, various nearby historic sites, and small-town attractions, this campground is an ideal home base for explorers. From the art museum and the local military history, to the hiking trails and the beach, there’s something for every taste and interest on Mackinac Island. Jump on the free shuttle to Kewadin Casino, or bike around the small town to check out local breweries and breathtaking lake views. Your search for simple and clean Mackinaw City campgrounds is over! 

3. Indian River RV Resort

Mackinaw City campground with cabins surrounded by fall trees

Nearby Attractions: Mullett Lake, Burt Lake, Chaboiganing Nature Preserve, Hildner-Bearce/Waubun Nature Preserve, Burt Lake State Park, Mackinac Island

Nearby Airports: Campbell-Pratt Airport, Pellston Regional Airport, Harbor Springs Airport

Unique Amenities: Pool, sand volleyball, hay rides

Those looking for campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI, with plenty of shade need look no further than Indian River RV Resort. In addition to RV sites, this beautiful wooded campground features cozy cabins and tent spots as well. Stay cool beneath the mature trees in the summer months, or visit in the fall to see the stunning foliage changing colors. 

Kids love this Mackinaw City campground thanks to the heated swimming pool, the hay rides on the “Happy Camper Express,” and the vast array of games and sports available to play. A quick drive takes campers to the beaches and water sport opportunities of Mullett Lake and Burt Lake, while the surrounding nature preserves beckon hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Petoskey

Mackinaw City campground with pool and ping pong table

Nearby Attractions: Petoskey State Park, Sunset Park, Spring Lake Park, Petoskey Winter Sports Park, Gabriel Farms & Winery

Nearby Airports: Harbor Springs Airport, Pellston Regional Airport

Unique Amenities: Pool and hot tub, store, horseshoes

Just minutes from Petoskey State Park and its incredible lake beaches, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Petoskey is one of the best campgrounds near Mackinaw County, MI, for outdoor lovers. Stay at the campground to explore 30 beautiful acres of natural scenery, or venture out to nearby attractions and parks to relax at the beach, hike the nature trails, or search for the famed Petoskey Stones. Packed with archeological significance, this area draws natural history enthusiasts as well as families and groups of friends. Choose between cabins, tent sites, or spacious, full-hookup RV sites to create your ideal camping experience. 

5. Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor

Mackinaw City campground with pretty lodge with deer statue in front

Nearby Attractions: Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bayfront Park, Sunset Park, Bear River Valley Recreation Area

Nearby Airports: Harbor Springs Airport, Charlevoix Municipal Airport

Unique Amenities: Putting green, arcade, pool

Just minutes from Bay Harbor and the beauty of Lake Michigan’s Lower Peninsula lies one of the most serene and beautiful campgrounds near Mackinaw County, MI. Sites are designed with campers’ every need in mind, and their Premium Coach sites received a 2022 Campspot Award in the Top Camping Sites category! 

Golfers, couples, families, and groups of friends will all find plenty of entertaining activities at this Mackinaw City campground, with options to play games in the clubhouse, golf on the putting green, bask by the pool, and more. Head off the campgrounds to enjoy the surrounding area, known as the Crown Jewel of Michigan, and get to know all of the wineries, cultural offerings, and outdoor adventures it has to offer.

Discover deep relaxation, thrilling adventure, and every version of fun in between when you stay at campgrounds near Mackinaw City, Michigan. From serene days poolside to waterfront exploration at Lake Michigan, any time spent in Michigan’s great outdoors brings visitors closer to nature. Find kid-friendly activities, heart-thumping recreation, and boundless beauty at campgrounds near Mackinaw City, MI.

Libby Thompson is a freelance writer living in Denver, Colorado. Having grown up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, hiking and camping have been cornerstones of her life since childhood. Rain, snow, or shine, you can usually find her outdoors on a paddle board, a hiking trail, or a pair of skis. Libby can be reached via email at libby@libbywrites.com.

Image credits in order of appearance: Lakeshore RV Campground, Tiki RV Park & Campground, Indian River RV Resort, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Petoskey, Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor