Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is the perfect escape for families who love nature, adventure, and a little peace and quiet—okay, maybe not peace and quiet if your kids are coming along, but definitely quieter than your day-to-day busy life! The U.P. feels like a completely different world compared to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, especially the southern half of the state. With vast forests, endless outdoor spaces, and miles of shoreline along Lake Superior, it’s the ideal place to discover family fun in Michigan.

If U.P. Michigan camping is your style, there are plenty of amazing spots to pitch a tent or park an RV. Prefer a lodge or rental? You’ll find those too. No matter how you like to sleep at night, it’s worth the trip. Everything here has a calmer, more relaxed vibe that’s perfect for exploring at your own pace. From the breathtaking sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks to hidden waterfalls and scenic trails, the U.P. offers a unique kind of adventure you won’t find anywhere else!

Here’s a closer look at some of the top places to visit in Michigan’s U.P.

Exploring the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Michigan

Stretching 42 miles along Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a breathtaking destination for families. This beautiful area near Munising is home to dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and beautiful forests. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in the views, the Pictured Rocks offer an unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss! You really can’t go wrong with what you choose to do in this area, but here are our favorite picks:

Chapel Beach

Exploring the Mini Falls on Chapel Beach

One of the best hikes in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the trail to Chapel Beach. This 6-mile round trip from the Chapel Road trailhead takes you past the gorgeous 60-foot Chapel Falls and ends at a quiet sandy beach surrounded by towering cliffs and the incredible Chapel Rock. Families will love exploring, playing, and climbing around the mini waterfalls created where the flowing Chapel River meets Lake Superior—a perfect spot for kids and parents to enjoy together. We packed in food for a snack and soaked up the sun—there’s something different about the sun in the U.P., especially when you’re laying on a remote beach like this. It’s truly heavenly. We also hiked around a bit along the shoreline once we reached the beach and would love to explore this area more when we go again with older children. There aren’t any amenities, so come prepared with plenty of water and whatever you need for the day. The peaceful vibe and stunning scenery make the effort completely worth it. Take your time, soak it all in, and enjoy this unique opportunity.

2. Miners Beach and Miners Castle

If you’re looking for easy-to-reach but absolutely stunning views, Miners Beach and Miners Castle are must-see spots. Miners Beach stretches nearly a mile with gorgeous views of Bridalveil Falls and the towering cliffs of Miners Castle. My kids had a blast climbing along the cliffs by the bay—we could’ve spent days here if we’d had the time. They were obsessed with the rocks, watching how their colors changed as they dried and got wet again. It was so easy to fall in love with this place. With accessible parking and a boardwalk, Miners Beach is perfect for families. Nearby, Miners Castle, one of the Pictured Rocks’ most famous landmarks, offers incredible views of Grand Island and Lake Superior along trails that are wheelchair-friendly. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or just taking in the scenery, this spot captures everything that makes the U.P. so special.

3. Adventures on the Water

The best way to take in the Pictured Rocks is definitely from the water. Glass-bottom boat tours give you a close-up look at shipwrecks, sea caves, and the colorful sandstone cliffs that make this area so unique. If you’re up for a little more adventure, guided kayak tours let you paddle right through the caves and under incredible rock formations, offering a whole new perspective of the cliffs’ beauty. It’s something we couldn’t do this time because of our kids’ ages, but one day, we’re definitely coming back to experience it. Our kids couldn’t get enough of the shipwreck tour—they felt like real pirates! For us, it was the perfect mix of stunning shoreline views and fascinating history, making it a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

4. Grand Island

Just a quick ferry ride from Munising, Grand Island is a must-see. With its colorful cliffs, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect spot to explore. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or checking out the scenic overlooks, the island offers a peaceful escape that feels worlds away. There are hidden beaches, wildlife, and trails leading to amazing vistas.

U.P. Michigan Camping Near Pictured Rocks

If you’re looking for a comfortable, family-friendly campground, the Munising / Pictured Rocks KOA Journey is a great choice. The kids couldn’t get enough of the pool, and we loved the peaceful, tree-filled sites. It’s close to hiking trails, Lake Superior’s gorgeous shoreline, and all the must-see local spots, making it an ideal base for exploring. Whether you’re relaxing at the campground or heading out for adventures, it’s got everything you need for an easy, fun stay.

For a more rustic U.P. Michigan camping experience, check out Twelvemile Beach Campground inside Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Right along Lake Superior, this spot has some of the best views around and easy access to the North Country Trail. It’s more of a back-to-nature setup with vault toilets and well water, but it’s hard to beat the experience of falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to breathtaking lake views.

Both campgrounds offer a unique way to enjoy the beauty of Pictured Rocks, whether you’re after family-friendly amenities or a quieter, more natural escape. Either way, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your time in this incredible part of Michigan! Check out our ultimate camping packing list to maximize your U.P. Michigan Camping experience!

Camping in Upper Peninsula, Michigan and Other Adventures

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Michigan’s largest state park, the Porcupine Mountains—fondly called "the Porkies"—is a sprawling 60,000-acre wilderness that feels like a true escape. Union Bay Campground is a great spot for families, with easy access to Lake Superior’s sandy shores and peaceful forest trails. Whether you’re hiking to stunning waterfalls or soaking in the incredible views at Lake of the Clouds, this park is a must-visit for anyone who loves being surrounded by nature.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Premier Upper Michigan Waterfalls

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is one of those places that sticks with you. Known for its amber-colored waterfalls and endless outdoor fun, it’s a must-visit in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The park’s 50,000+ acres are packed with opportunities to explore, unwind, and connect with nature.

The Lower Falls is a favorite for families, with smaller cascades flowing around an island. It’s super accessible, thanks to boardwalks and viewing areas that make it easy for everyone to enjoy—strollers and all! If you’re up for a little extra adventure, you can rent a rowboat to get closer to the falls or have a picnic nearby to soak in the scenery.

Then there’s the Upper Falls—the showstopper. At nearly 50 feet high and over 200 feet wide, it’s one of the biggest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The water’s golden-brown color (thanks to tannins from nearby cedar swamps) gives it a unique look you won’t find anywhere else. Multiple viewing spots and trails let you see it from all kinds of angles, whether you’re snapping photos or just standing there in awe, feeling the mist.

With camping, fishing, miles of trails, and even an on-site brewery—yes, there’s a brewery!—Tahquamenon Falls State Park has a little something for everyone.

Camping Near Mackinac Island: Gateway to Adventure and History

You can’t camp on Mackinac Island itself, but the surrounding area has some great options if you want to mix the island’s charm with the natural beauty of Michigan’s outdoors. Straits State Park and Wilderness State Park are two standout spots that make perfect bases for exploring the area and soaking up everything this incredible region has to offer.

Straits State Park

Straits State Park in St. Ignace is a favorite for its amazing views of the Mackinac Bridge and super convenient location. The park has everything you need—restrooms, showers, and even a playground—making it a great spot for families. Plus, it’s close to downtown St. Ignace, so hopping on a ferry to Mackinac Island is a breeze. Spend the day exploring Fort Mackinac, taking a horse-drawn carriage ride, or checking out the island’s cute shops and restaurants. When you’re ready to relax, head back to your campsite and take in the incredible bridge views, especially when it lights up at night—it’s the perfect way to end the day.

Wilderness State Park

If you’re after a more rustic vibe, Wilderness State Park, just west of Mackinaw City, is a fantastic choice. Although not in the Upper Peninsula, it is a great choice for those looking for an escape from civilization. With over 10,000 acres of forest and shoreline along Lake Michigan, the park offers a mix of modern and backcountry camping, so you can choose the experience you want. There are 26 miles of trails, making it a paradise for hikers and wildlife lovers. The beaches are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. And if you’re lucky enough to have a clear night, the dark skies here are amazing for stargazing—it’s one of the best parts of camping in this spot. This has always been one of our favorite places to camp—not just in Michigan, but in the whole country. There’s just something special about it!

Wrap-Up: Why the U.P. Should Be Your Next Family Adventure

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is the kind of place that stays with you. Although not as easy to get to for a weekend getaway, it is worth the drive! From the breathtaking cliffs of Pictured Rocks to the stunning waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls, it’s packed with endless opportunities for family fun in Michigan. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, exploring hidden beaches, or relaxing by the campfire, the U.P. offers a perfect mix of adventure and downtime.

If U.P. Michigan camping is your thing, you’ll find everything from rustic backcountry spots to family-friendly campgrounds with all the comforts. Add in the peaceful forests, rushing rivers, and star-filled skies, and you’ve got the ultimate backdrop for making unforgettable memories.

The U.P. isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. It’s where you can reconnect with nature, your family, and a slower pace of life. Pack your gear, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure that’s 100% worth the trip. Make sure you check out our best Michigan lake towns to visit in the lower peninsula on your drive up!

Your Guide to U.P. Michigan Camping and Exploration