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

By Metro Times Staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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