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Top Spots to Set Up Camp by the Shores of Lake Michigan for a Beachy Retreat

Experience the Midwest like never before with our freshly opened Chicago headquarters! Discover exceptional Lake Michigan Beach camping sites for an unforgettable journey!

Top-Notch Sites for Pitching a Tent by Lake Michigan's Shorelines for Camping Bliss
Top-Notch Sites for Pitching a Tent by Lake Michigan's Shorelines for Camping Bliss

Roam Lake Michigan's Shores with Escape Campervan Chicago

Top Spots to Set Up Camp by the Shores of Lake Michigan for a Beachy Retreat

Explore the Midwest's captivating landscapes with ease as the new Escape Campervan Chicago location opens up endless travel opportunities! We're excited to guide you and camp along the Third Coast, the Great Lakes region, just a stone's throw away from Chicago.

Although Lake Michigan's 3,288-mile shoreline boasts numerous beach campgrounds, here are a few gems we've handpicked to help you craft the perfect road trip itinerary.

Camper's Guide to Lake Michigan's Beach Paradises

Let's dive in and discover our favorite campgrounds that blend beachfront bliss with adventurous activities for an unforgettable experience.

Holland State Park - Holland, MI (2 hours and 40 minutes)

This picturesque park flaunts two sections. The initial part is landlocked, necessitating a leisurely bike ride or hike for access to the beach. The other area, right by the shore, is hidden behind tall dunes, offering a quick stroll to the sandy beachfront. The entire park is sprinkled with family-friendly amenities, such as ice cream parlors and hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.

Grand Haven State Park - Grand Haven, MI (3 hours and 10 minutes)

Camping couldn't get any better than right in the heart of a picturesque town, just steps away from the beach! Grand Haven State Park offers an array of beachfront campsites as well as those within easy walking distance of the shore. The area's vibrant downtown is filled with delightful eateries offering oceanfront dining options.

Muskegon State Park - Muskegon, MI (3 hours and 25 minutes)

This hidden treasure is worthy of a true beach camping aficionado. While slightly removed from town, it offers stunning waterfront spots for camping. You can also take a leisurely bike ride to reach the dunes-kissed beaches. The park's facilities are rustic in nature but still offer lovely bathrooms, campfire pits, and electric hookups.

Ludington State Park - Ludington, MI (4 hours and 10 minutes)

This delightful location sports a powdery beach, perfect for soaking up sun rays or wind-whipped fun. Don't miss visiting the iconic "House of Flavors" ice cream shop, famous for its mind-boggling array of flavors and a local must-visit. The park is only a short jaunt from town, offering numerous family-friendly amenities, like picnic spots and kayak launch areas.

Fisherman's Island - Charlevoix, MI (6 hours)

This serene island boasts picturesque campsites, many of which are walk-in tentsites, providing direct access to pristine beaches. Despite being rustic, it offers stunning vistas of the shoreline and Mackinac Bridge.

Mackinaw Creek Campground - Mackinaw City, MI (6 hours 30 minutes)

Savor the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan from this idyllic campground. Conveniently located near Mackinaw Island, it features multiple beach access points and amenities like hookups and bathrooms. Book a day to explore Mackinaw Island and immerse yourself in the magic of its pristine shores and tranquil waters.

Straights Campground - St. Ignace, MI (6 hours 44 minutes)

Prepare to be captivated by this lakeside campground's stunning vistas of the Mackinac Bridge. The campsites are a mix of beachfront and parkside, ensuring you'll be able to have a direct view of the majestic shoreline, depending on your preference. Modern facilities, including hot showers and clean bathrooms, are available.

Expedite Your Lake Michigan Beach Camping Adventure

Rent an Escape Campervan and embark on the adventure of a lifetime! With these insider tips, you'll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories along the Great Lakes and revelling in the beauty of Lake Michigan's coastline. Happy camping!

Resourceful Extras:For more exhilarating destinations and camping tips, we invite you to delve into the enchanting world of these Lake Michigan beach paradises.

Seaventures Await: Lake Michigan Beach Campingventures

Illinois Beach State Park (Illinois)

  • Just an hour's drive from Chicago, this park offers a tranquil lakefront and sandy beaches, bordered by mature trees.
  • It features paved trails, spots for picnicking, and windsports, making it ideal for a quick getaway or overnight stay.

Platte River Campground (Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan)

  • Located 10 miles south of Empire, MI, along Lake Michigan Road (M-22), this campground is nestled within the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
  • Amenities include potable water, a sanitation dump station, hot showers, restrooms with camp sinks, and multiple camping loops, perfect for exploring the nearby dunes and beaches.

South Haven Area Campgrounds (Michigan)

  • Plenty of campgrounds dot South Haven's shoreline, offering easy beach access and proximity to the vibrant downtown.-campsites cater to a variety of preferences, from RV spots to tent sites, making it a great destination for a mix of beach exploration and local experiences in South Haven.

Manitou Beach Campgrounds (Manitou Island, Michigan)

  • Discover the pristine waters and towering dunes of Manitou Island's campgrounds, tucked away on the shores of Michigan.
  • Campsites come equipped with washroom facilities and campfire rings, allowing you to experience the raw beauty of Lake Michigan.
  1. Embark on a road trip and explore the national parks along Lake Michigan's shores with Escape Campervan Chicago for a unique outdoor-living experience.
  2. Holland State Park in Holland, MI, offers an ideal mixture of beachfront bliss, family-friendly amenities, and adventurous activities, just a 2 hours and 40 minutes drive from Chicago.
  3. With numerous beachfront campsites and oceanfront dining options, Grand Haven State Park in Grand Haven, MI, offers a picturesque travel destination that's just 3 hours and 10 minutes away from Chicago.
  4. For a true beach camping experience, Muskegon State Park in Muskegon, MI, offers stunning waterfront spots for camping, about 3 hours and 25 minutes from Chicago.
  5. Fisherman's Island in Charlevoix, MI, offers serene island campsites with direct access to pristine beaches, making it a desirable 6-hour destination for outdoor-living enthusiasts on their lifestyle-driven travel journey.

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