Here's how to find the 20 best beach camping spots in Michigan

By Metro Times editorial staff on Thu, Aug 10, 2017 at 7:14 pm

Looking to go on a beach vacation but not wanting to spend your life savings doing so? Look no further than these 19 low-key beachfront camping spots. Whether you have a tent, RV or you want to sleep under the stars, all of these beautiful locations are located on prime beachfront property.

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Ossineke State Forest Campground
Ossineke, MI
This rustic campground is a hidden gem spread out along the shore of Lake Huron. Set up camp among the trees, go for a hike on the mile-long trail in the park and then take the boardwalk out to the beach to end your day watching the sunset over the lake.
Photo via IG user @pamfossett

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Warren Dunes State Park
Sawyer, MI
What more can you ask for than three miles of shoreline and sand dunes? Well this campground is located right at the foot of it all. The six miles of trails take you through serene natural areas to the beach and if you climb to the top of the dunes and you are rewarded with panoramic views of the lake.
Photo via IG user @garaleehundley

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Tee Pee Campground
Mackinaw City, MI
This privately owned campground overlooks the Mackinaw Bridge, Straits of Mackinaw and much more. Not to mention, you are only a boat ride away from Mackinaw Island and minutes away from Mackinaw City. This campground is central to many attractions, but still offers beachfront views of one of the treasures of Michigan.
Photo via IG user @dingbatjanet

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Silver Lake State Park Campground
Mears, MI
Silver Lake State Park is known for its expansive sand dunes and off roading vehicles. If you’re not the adventurous type or are just looking to relax, this waterfront campground is for you. It still gives you easy access to all of the action, but also gives you a spot next to the beach to get away at the end of the day.
Photo via Facebook user Shelly Milliron Redwood

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Muskegon State Park Channel Campground
Muskegon, MI
This campground is divided into two loops with the first one backing up to the channel and the second loop on the shore of Muskegon Lake, but both have access to all the amenities. With a beach for swimming, miles of trails, dunes to climb and breakwalls to go for an evening walk along, this older campground has something for everyone.
Photo via IG user @alyssamcelheny

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Grand Haven State Park
Grand Haven, MI
Okay, so this camping spot may be more like “glamping” with its modern setup and amenities, but it’s camping nonetheless. This campground’s cement pads are meant for RV’s. Sorry but no tents. If you do have an RV, the beach is in your backyard at this campground. You can almost feel the sand on your toes as you step out of the door. Plus, this campground is close to all of Grand Haven’s amenities, from downtown shopping and eating to the lighthouse and pier.
Photo via Facebook user Debra Jordan Brown

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Harrisville State Park
Harrisville, MI
The campground in this park is nestled in between the tall pines on the shore of Lake Huron. You will definitely be camping right on the beach if you’re lucky enough to snag a beachfront site. Either way, all sites in the campground are steps away from the beach and in close proximity to Harrisville and all of its amenities.
Photo via IG user @marksaven

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Mears State Park
Pentwater, MI
Grab a spot at the foot of the sand dunes and then take a hiking trail to the top at this Michigan camping spot. The secluded park is right next to the sandy beach and beautiful Lake Michigan, but also minutes away from downtown Pentwater with its shops, boardwalk, pier and lighthouse.
Photo via Facebook user Jim Reminga

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D.H. Day Campground
Glen Arbor,MI
This smaller campground is located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. If you are looking for a rustic, peaceful getaway, this is the place to go. It is even close to the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Dune Climb and beautiful Lake Michigan.
Photo via IG user @liiindseyh

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Fisherman’s Island State Park
Charlevoix, MI
Another smaller campground on the west side of Michigan that is nothing short of amazing. It is set in the middle of the dunes and has abundance of hiking trails. This campground may not be right be steps away from the beach, but short walk you take to get there is worth it.
Photo via Facebook user Rachael Cooper

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12 Mile Beach Campground
Grand Marias, MI
It is a bit of a drive to get to this campground, but the views are worth it. Located on the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, it is nothing short of breathtaking. Set up your tent in between the tall trees of northern Michigan and steps away from the beach.
Photo via IG user @katlynmagee

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Otsego Lake campground
Otsego, MI
62 acres of land with a lakeside luxury. You’re bound to have a great time with everything this campground has to offer. The camp even rents out kayaks, paddle boards, and pontoon boats if water sports are your thing. Bring your fave tent or camper, or rent their cabins for the weekend if you’re feeling like a more upscale experience.
Photo via Instagram User @merky415

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Weko Beach Campground
Bridgman, MI
Located along the shores of lake Michigan, this campsite has a lot to offer! The developed and undeveloped campgrounds both include access to clean bathrooms, outdoor grills, hot showers, concession stands and playgrounds.
Photo via Instagram user @nightmaretherustyrobot

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Buttersville campground
Lundington, MI
A beautiful campsite that overlooks Lake Michigan, this relaxing venue is the ultimate place for camping. Offering playgrounds, pavilions and picnic facilities, it’s the perfect family getaway. Just imagine playing board games in the tent, swimming in the lake and lunch on the beach.
Photo via Instagram user @ohemilyjane

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Orchard Beach State Park
Manistee, MI
This beach lies along Lake Michigan’s shore and has 166 different campsites. The beach stairwell leads to the campgrounds and various hiking trails around the park. Amenities include modern restrooms, electrical services, playgrounds, and picnic shelter. Not to mention, this campsite has designated places for metal detecting, you never know what you may find.
Photo via Instagram user @dejongc

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Taylor Beach Campground
Howell, MI
The perfect place for your next family camping trip, this campground literally has it ALL! From vollyball courts and putt putt golf to arcade games and kayak rentals, this camp has something for everyone. Also the camp is in close proximity to an outlet mall and plenty of golf courses.
Photo via Instagram user @makiahmanders

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Holland state park
Holland, MI
Holland State Park offers two large campgrounds complete with Insta-worthy views of sunsets and sailboats. The park’s specifically known for its swimming beaches on Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. We recommend bring your bikes and take full advantage of the 25-mile long bike trails throughout the park.
Photo via Instagram user @bpugh1231

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Ludington State Park
Ludington, MI
This park encompasses three campgrounds that together hold a total of 355 campsites. The park is sandwiched between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, and offers several hiking trails, biking trails, boat rentals, and weekly nature programs.
Photo via Facebook user @michael o’kelly

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Bay City Recreational Area
Bay City, MI
Home to one of the largest remaining coastal Wetlands on the Great Lakes. The area has over 2,000 acres of wetland woods and meadows. Three campgrounds in total accomodate all of your outdoor needs. The area offers birdwatching, kids playground, hunting and cross country skiing.
Photo via Instagram user @redwoods22

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Petoskey state park
Petoskey, MI
The state park has over 180 campsites that are located between Harbor Springs and Petoskey. You can wander the park at your leisure or take advantage of the hiking trails, ski trails or searching for Petoskey stones along the beach, which seems like a pretty popular activity.
Photo via Instagram user @anneliesesammut

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