9 Glorious Campgrounds In Michigan Where No Reservation Is Required

When it comes to camping in the Great Lakes State, sometimes the urge to head outdoors strikes us when we 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 nine campgrounds where you can go camping without reservations near you in Michigan.

Platte River Campground, 5685 Lake Michigan Rd, Honor, MI 49640, USA

Maxwell Van Duren / Google Reviews

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.

D. H. Day Campground, 8010 W Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA

longyoung / Flickr

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!

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Two Hearted River State Forest Campground, Newberry, MI 49868, USA

Nick Bianco / Flickr

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!

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Catchin' Crickets Campground & Vacation Rental, N6874 H-15 49884, County Hwy, Munising, MI 49862, USA

Catchin’ Crickets Campground and Vacation Rental / Facebook

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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Twelvemile Beach Campground, Grand Marais, MI 49839, USA

Kate Sumbler / Flickr

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!

Hurricane River Campground, Au Sable Point Trail, Seney, MI 49883, USA

C Hanchey / Flickr

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?

Woodland Park, E21666 Brazel St, Grand Marais, MI 49839, USA

Burt Township

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.

East Tawas City Parks & Rec, 407 W Bay St, East Tawas, MI 48730, USA

George Thomas / Flickr

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 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.

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Veterans Memorial State Forest Campground, Beulah, MI 49617, USA

Steve Sonderegger / Google Reviews

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 to go dispersed camping in Michigan!

Camping without reservations gives us the freedom to go on a spontaneous weekend getaway. Did we leave any of your favorite no-reservation camping spots in Michigan off our list? We’re always eager to hear your thoughts and suggestions, so leave them in the comment section! Be sure to check out our ultimate hiking packing list for the gear you need (and really want) for your next trip.

Camping in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is pretty amazing. Check out this beautiful spot in Michigan in this video: