Lake Michigan At St. Ignace
4.44170 reviewsW 3853 US 2 Moran, MI 49760
Lake Michigan At St. Ignace
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are $26 per night for standard non-electric sites during the peak season (May 23 - September 14). Additional fees include reservation charges ($8 online, $9 phone), change fees ($10), and a late cancellation penalty (first night's fee forfeited). Walk-up availability outside peak season is also $26 per night.
About this campground
Where the endless blue waters of Lake Michigan meet pristine sand dunes and whispering forests, St. Ignace's Lake Michigan Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This rustic retreat offers campers the rare opportunity to fall asleep to the rhythmic lapping of Great Lakes waves and wake to spectacular sunrises over the water. While the nearby US-2 highway provides convenient access, its presence brings a steady hum of traffic that reminds visitors they're never too far from civilization. Despite this, the campground remains a beloved basecamp for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences, from casting lines into the vast lake to exploring hidden trails through the dunes.
Lake Michigan Campground at St. Ignace is a rustic camping site offering both first-come, first-served and reservable options. Sites are designed for tents and RVs, with a focus on simplicity and natural surroundings.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the storied boundaries of Hiawatha National Forest, a landscape that has sheltered and sustained life for millennia. This remarkable ecosystem stands as a living testament to the intricate balance between land and water, forest and shore. The very ground beneath your tent has witnessed the passage of indigenous peoples, early explorers, and generations of nature lovers drawn to this unique convergence of habitats. Today, the forest continues its ancient role as guardian of biodiversity, offering modern visitors a chance to connect with the same natural wonders that have captivated humans throughout history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this lakeside haven into a paradise of warm sunshine and refreshing lake breezes, though Mother Nature occasionally flexes her muscles with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the Great Lakes. The powerful winds that sculpted these ancient dunes still make their presence known, adding an element of adventure to your camping experience. As temperatures rise, the local mosquito population emerges to remind visitors to pack their insect repellent alongside their sunscreen. These minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the joy of swimming in crystal-clear waters and basking in the extended twilight of northern summer evenings.
ElevationRising gracefully from the shoreline, the campground perches atop weathered bluffs that offer commanding views of Lake Michigan's vast expanse. These elevated camping spots provide a natural amphitheater for watching storms approach across the water or catching the first golden rays of dawn. The undulating sand dunes create a dynamic landscape of peaks and valleys, each offering its own unique perspective and microclimate. While specific elevation measurements remain unrecorded, the vertical diversity of the terrain ensures that whether you prefer a lofty perch or a sheltered hollow, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds like a natural gallery along Lake Michigan's dramatic shoreline, where ancient sand dunes tell the story of thousands of years of wind and water. From your campsite atop the bluff, panoramic views stretch to the horizon, where sky and water merge in an ever-changing display of color and light. The landscape transitions seamlessly from dense woodland groves that provide welcome shade to open sandy areas perfect for beach activities. Sharp-eyed visitors might spot Spotted Sandpipers dancing along the water's edge, their distinctive bobbing walk a delightful addition to the shoreline's natural choreography. As evening falls, the interplay of forest shadows and golden beach creates a photographer's dream, while the constant presence of the lake provides a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Hiawatha National Forest along Lake Michigan's northern shore, this campground occupies one of the Great Lakes region's most fascinating geological stages. Here, ancient sand dunes frozen in time stand as monuments to the powerful forces that shaped this landscape over millennia. The windswept shores continue their eternal dance with the elements, constantly reshaping and renewing the beachfront. This dynamic environment supports an incredible diversity of plant life, from hardy dune grasses that anchor the shifting sands to towering trees that have found purchase in more stable soils. The result is a living laboratory where visitors can witness the ongoing geological processes that make the Great Lakes region one of North America's most unique natural treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available. Some visitors noted that stairs and steep paths to the beach could be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Sites SizeSites are varied in size to accommodate both small and large setups, with some sites large enough for 30ft RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe sites have good privacy, often separated by trees. Beachside sites offer additional seclusion.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers seeking quiet should opt for sites on the south side nearest Lake Michigan to minimize traffic noise. Sites closer to the highway are louder.
Best CampsitesSite #14 is noted for its excellent lake views; beachside sites such as #009 and #025 are highly praised for their privacy and direct beach access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2p.m.
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests per site are permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout consists of a single loop with sites on both the lakeside and roadside. Lakeside sites feature direct beach access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 23 and closes September 14 for reservable sites. First-come, first-served availability begins May 14 and ends May 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the non-peak season (May 14 - May 23).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations can be made for a fee of $10.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities, particularly focused on outdoor and water-based fun. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The beach is a highlight, providing opportunities for relaxation, bird watching, and experiencing the sunset.
Hiking
Two significant trails are accessible: the Sand Dunes Cross-Country Ski Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail. These trails offer varying terrains, from sand dunes to forested areas.Fishing
Fishing is available at Lake Michigan, but nearby Brevort Lake is preferred for its better fishing opportunities, including walleye, pike, and bass.Swimming
Swimming is popular at the beach, although the area can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended.Wildlife viewing
Shorebirds like the Spotted Sandpiper are commonly seen along the beach. The area is great for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.Beach activities
The beach offers sandy shores for sunbathing and beachcombing. Sunset views are a highlight.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not explicitly mentioned, but the Sand Dunes Cross-Country Ski Trail could serve as a winter recreation option.Water Sports
While specific water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned, swimming and fishing are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings with grills are provided at each site. Firewood is available for purchase from hosts.
- Quiet hours are not specifically mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe main hazards are steep dune climbs to reach the beach, and proximity to US-2 creates significant traffic noise.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in St. Ignace, located 18 miles away, which provides access to hospitals, police stations, and emergency response services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are limited. Reviewers noted a small recycling bin that could benefit from expansion.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is set directly along Lake Michigan and features private beach access from several campsites.
Common complaintsHighway noise from US-2 is frequently mentioned by campers as disruptive. Some complain about strict enforcement of rules by hosts.
HostCamp hosts vary seasonally, with mixed reviews ranging from friendly and helpful to overly strict and rude.
Campground Map
W 3853 US 2 Moran, MI 49760
Driving directionsFrom Mackinac Bridge, take Highway 2 approximately 18 miles west to the campground entrance.
The campground is easily accessible directly off US-2, a major highway, making it convenient for travelers but also subject to significant road noise. The road is paved, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak travel times.Nearby places
St. Ignace: 18 miles (approximately 20 minutes by car)
Brevort: 5 miles (approximately 10 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies can be found in Brevort, approximately 5 miles away, including a gas station with firewood and ice. St. Ignace has more comprehensive shopping options.
Camper Reviews
4.4
170 reviews
Lake Michigan At St. Ignace is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, proximity to Lake Michigan, and cleanliness. However, road noise from nearby US-2 is a frequent complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 170 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently highlight the clean facilities, beautiful sunsets, and private beach access from some sites. Hosts are often described as friendly and helpful.
Based on 170 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road noise from US-2 is a consistent concern. Some visitors also noted steep paths to the beach and the lack of showers as drawbacks.
Based on 170 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve beachside sites for better views and reduced road noise. Bring water shoes for the rocky beach areas and insect repellent for mosquitoes.
Based on 170 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time for visitors, with many enjoying the beach and hiking trails. Fall reviews mention fewer bugs and quieter conditions.
Based on 170 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The morning and evening views of the lake are awe-inspiring." - David Bayly. "The beach was beautiful and felt like our own private getaway." - Anne B. "Traffic noise was quite loud but the sunsets...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 is frequently lauded for its excellent views of the lake. Sites closer to the highway receive mixed reviews due to noise.
Based on 170 reviewsAccessibility Features
Stairs and steep paths to the beach were noted as accessibility challenges. Vault toilets were praised for their cleanliness.
Based on 170 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some issues were reported regarding dogs barking and limited access to the beach for pets.
Based on 170 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025