Glamping is a concept that puts two seemingly disparate topics together: camping and glamour. The main idea is to provide an upscale experience that includes elevated tents on decks made of wood, finely appointed yurts and cabins, and every once in a while, treehouses. In some cases, you’ll be able to cook in a full kitchen or soak your weary bones in a hot tub. A few glamping campgrounds also include game rooms.
Michigan’s landscape includes urban centers like Detroit and Traverse City, charming historic locations like Mackinac Island, and miles of beaches along both Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. The water activities on both sides of the state include swimming, fishing, and boating. The highlight of the boating season is the Port Huron to Mackinac Island race, which covers about 400 miles across Lake Huron. Glamping opportunities abound, including one such location where you need to leave your RV behind and take a ferry.
Top Glamping Sites in Michigan
Washington Harbor Camper Cabins
Washington Harbor Camper Cabins is a quiet resort on the south shore of Isle Royale in the middle of Lake Superior. The archipelago comprises Isle Royale National Park. The cabins provide bunk beds and a futon, tables and chairs, a private deck, and an outdoor grill. Some of the cabins have indoor plumbing as well. This resort provides a unique experience when it comes to glamping. To get to the island, catch the ferry at Houghton. This resort is open from April until September every year. Don’t forget to bring your fishing rod!
Dancing Fire Glamping & RV Resort
Speaking of unique, at the Dancing Fire Glamping & RV Resort you can enjoy glamping on hardwood floors inside a bus. There are cabins available, too, and even a vintage Airstream. The accommodations are upscale, indeed, and give you all the comforts of home if not more. This glamping location is just a five-minute drive from Port Huron. Aside from the posh accommodations, the amenities at this glamping spot include a large community building, playground, and a picnic pavilion. Swim in the heated pool, and take an evening constitutional along the resort’s walking trails.
The Fields of Michigan
The Fields of Michigan provides not only top-flight glamping tents but also fun activities and even a spa in which to pamper yourself. Located just 40 miles east of Kalamazoo a few miles from the shore of Lake Michigan, this resort gives you upscale radiance mixed with rustic peace. There are even “primitive” tents, which still have comfortable beds with bedding and housekeeping service even if they don’t have running water or electricity. The cabins and cottages have bathrooms and king-size beds.
Sandy Pines
Located just 28 miles south of Grand Rapids, Sandy Pines is the perfect answer to where to glamp in Michigan. This site is famous for acres of woodlands and a pristine lake, which bring you a new world of relaxation. If you want an exciting and action-packed holiday, you will love the arcade room, water park, ropes course, fitness trails, and other sporting facilities. However, if you prefer a slower pace and time to unwind, you don’t have to miss out, either, as there is an ice-cream shop, swimming pool, garden center, and nature trails.
Paddler’s Village
You can have a wonderfully memorable glamping Michigan experience if you plan to spend a night at Paddler’s Village. If you don’t have your RV, you can choose a safari tent, cabin, or yurt, all of which sit on the shore of Lake Superior just a few miles from the village of Munising. Enjoy kayaking along the Pictured Rocks or cruise around the Grand Island on the M/V Uncle Ducky Catamaran in Christmas, Michigan. There is also a beach next to the site that’s open to everyone, and you can experience the joy of a day on the water.
Where to Glamp in Michigan
The two best areas for glamping in Michigan are in the Upper Peninsula and along the shores of either Lake Huron or Lake Michigan. The most significant part of the peninsula is covered with dense forests and inland lakes. The shores of the Great Lakes are historic as well as fun, and you can explore lighthouses, museums, and shipwreck locations as well as swim, fish, and boat. You will find great campgrounds in many counties in this state. Wherever you camp, you will find family-friendly attractions nearby.
What to Bring When Glamping in Michigan
• Clothing appropriate for the season you’re visiting
• Plastic flatware and plates
• Cellphone signal booster
• Stargazing equipment, such as a telescope and camera
• Prepaid credit cards and/or traveler’s checks
• Food and water for your RV kitchen and/or any kitchens at the glamping locations you visit
• Hiking boots that are broken in
• Swimming attire and towels
• Safety items for mountain biking
• Life jackets and other water safety gear for boating
• Bedding for beds of different sizes
• A list of everyone’s medications, preferably laminated, and the medications themselves
In Michigan, you’ll experience all four seasons, and each has much to recommend it for an RV vacation. By renting an RV, you can travel from glamping location to glamping location in both comfort and style. During your trip, you’ll also get a feel for life on the road and decide if it’s “your thing” or not. RVshare is a great wingman for your flight along the open road. Be sure to discover more camping options in Michigan.
