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If there's one thing Michigan is known for, it's lakes. Between the five huge ones that ring the state to the host of smaller ones located throughout, there's a lake almost everywhere you look. For those who want to spend a little more time with our lakes, there are a wide variety of waterfront camping alternatives for you. So grab your tent and let's check out five of the most gorgeous waterfront camping spots in Michigan.
According to a “Good Morning America” poll, Sleeping Bear Dunes is the single most beautiful place in the United States. Glen Arbor's world-famous beach offers a commanding view of Lake Michigan, and with camping available, you can literally fall asleep in the most beautiful place around. If you're in need of something to do before you get sleepy, don't worry—attractions abound from lighthouses to wineries, and with plenty of dining options, you'll be able to get a good meal before you hit the sleeping bag.
If you're looking for camping that isn't on a Great Lake, then consider the next best thing at Young State Park. Close to Boyne City, and on Lake Charlevoix, Young State Park offers access to terrain from fields to cedar swamps for you to check out. But this isn't just a shot at primitive camping—there are 240 different campsites to consider, complete with electricity, and even two miniature cabins. While you're there, try out kayaking and canoeing, along with extensive hiking, metal detecting, and even cross-country skiing in season. Your individual definition of beauty will likely find something to match it here.
Out in Lakeport, along the shore of Lake Huron not far from the Canadian border, sits Lakeport State Park. Lakeport State Park has the unusual distinction of being split into two parts, with the village of Lakeport separating the two. There are 250 separate campsites to make use of, along with a camper cabin for those without tents or campers who still want to camp. Enjoy a variety of attractions in the immediate area like swimming, hiking, and even metal detecting.
Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground near Ahmeek has its share of distinctions to go along with it. Not only is it one of Michigan's oldest continuously-operating campgrounds—it's been up and running since 1944—but it's also one of the farthest north campsites in the state. That means you're saying hello to Lake Superior, Michigan's most massive lake. It may be a smaller site—just 11 tent-only sites, 23 combination RV and tent sites, and two cabins—but what it lacks in size it will make up for in beauty and grandeur. And yes, the sunsets are indeed as gorgeous as the name implies.
There's not much of Lake Erie that actually comes in contact with Michigan, but that little strip of ground is actually home to some of the most exciting real estate the state has to offer. William C. Sterling State Park, meanwhile—in Monroe—is one of the best campsites around for those who want to see Lake Erie firsthand. With 1,300 acres to see and 256 campsites immediately on the lakefront, there's plenty of room to go around. Fishermen, meanwhile, will find absolutely breathtaking catches around here thanks to fishing lagoons and the Lake Erie coast fishing.
