Discover pristine shorelines, world-class fishing, and unforgettable family memories across the Upper Midwest’s most stunning lakeside destinations.
Are you an RV camper, family traveler, or outdoor enthusiast searching for your next unforgettable adventure? Great Lakes camping is your ticket to some of North America’s most spectacular natural beauty, endless recreation, and unique experiences. This guide is designed specifically for RV campers, families, and anyone who loves the outdoors, focusing on the best camping opportunities in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois, while also providing tips and highlights for the broader Great Lakes region.
The Great Lakes region includes the states surrounding Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, and is home to two national parks: Isle Royale National Park and Voyageurs National Park. With over 10,000 miles of freshwater coastline, this area offers a diverse range of camping experiences, from lakeside RV resorts to secluded tent sites. Whether you’re seeking world-class fishing, scenic hiking, kayaking, swimming, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, great lakes camping in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois delivers it all. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the top RV resorts, must-see attractions, and insider tips for planning your perfect Great Lakes getaway.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Region | Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois |
Best Season | Late May through September |
Water Temperature Peak | August (70-75°F average) |
Total Great Lakes Shoreline | 10,000+ miles across all five lakes |
Popular Activities | Fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing |
Average Campsite Cost | $45-$75 per night for full hookups |
The Great Lakes region is one of America’s most underrated RV camping destinations, offering everything from pristine wilderness to resort-style amenities at a fraction of the cost of coastal vacations. It is home to some of the best places for camping, with a wide variety of camping spots ranging from lakeside RV resorts to secluded tent sites. Camping in the Great Lakes region requires preparation for sudden storms and rapid temperature drops, so visitors should pack versatile clothing to accommodate changing weather.
The Great Lakes region includes the states and provinces surrounding Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. In the U.S., this encompasses Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. The region is also home to two national parks: Isle Royale National Park (in Lake Superior) and Voyageurs National Park (in northern Minnesota). With countless state parks and beaches along its coastlines, the Great Lakes region is a haven for outdoor recreation and natural beauty.
The five Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—create a freshwater coastline stretching over 10,000 miles. Wisconsin alone boasts more than 500 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, while Minnesota’s legendary “Land of 10,000 Lakes” actually contains over 11,800 lakes of 10 acres or more.
This abundance of water means RV campers never find themselves far from a stunning lakeside view, a peaceful fishing spot, or a refreshing swimming beach. Campers are often treated to beautiful views along the lakeshores and from many campsites, making every stay a scenic experience.
Great Lakes camping offers year-round opportunities, but late spring through early fall is considered the best time to visit the Great Lakes region for camping, as the weather is most pleasant during this period. Late summer—particularly August and September—provides the ideal combination of warm water temperatures, accessible trails, and reduced crowds compared to peak July travel.
Summer brings swimming, boating, and fishing in their prime. Fall transforms the region into a spectacular canvas of red, orange, and gold foliage. Even shoulder seasons reward visitors with peaceful solitude and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Great Lakes region is renowned for its variety of top camping spots and the wealth of activities available to visitors. Here are some of the most celebrated destinations and what you can do there:
Popular Activities Across the Region:
With so many options, every trip to the Great Lakes region can be tailored to your interests and adventure level.
Wisconsin’s diverse landscape combines Great Lakes shoreline with thousands of inland lakes, creating an RV camping paradise for every type of traveler. Wisconsin’s Great Lakes camping locations include both well-known and hidden gems, with Green Bay serving as a key city in the region and offering convenient access to Lake Michigan and other scenic spots.
Often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County offers 300 miles of shoreline, charming small towns, and world-renowned cherry orchards. Door County welcomes over 2 million visitors annually, yet maintains its peaceful, small-town atmosphere that makes it perfect for RV camping families. Head out to Door County’s scenic parks and shoreline for unforgettable camping experiences.
The peninsula’s five state parks provide excellent day-trip destinations, while the region’s artisan shops, fish boils, and lighthouses offer authentic Wisconsin experiences.
While famous for waterparks, the Wisconsin Dells area also provides access to stunning natural formations along the Wisconsin River. The sandstone cliffs and peaceful backwaters create a surprisingly serene escape just minutes from family entertainment.
For a perfect Wisconsin camping experience, consider Coconut Cove RV Resort, offering modern amenities in a welcoming lakeside setting. Families particularly appreciate the combination of natural beauty and convenience that Wisconsin RV resorts provide.
Just south of the Dells, the Baraboo area features Devil’s Lake State Park—Wisconsin’s most popular state park, attracting over 3 million visitors annually. The 500-foot quartzite bluffs surrounding Devil’s Lake create one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Upper Midwest.
Baraboo RV Resort positions you perfectly for exploring this geological wonder while enjoying full-service RV amenities.
Central Wisconsin offers a quieter alternative to the state’s more famous destinations. Pearl Lake RV Campground provides peaceful lakeside camping ideal for families seeking genuine relaxation away from crowded tourist areas.
Next, let’s explore what Minnesota has to offer for Great Lakes campers.
Minnesota contains more shoreline than California, Florida, and Hawaii combined, making it one of the most water-rich destinations in North America for RV camping enthusiasts.
Northern Minnesota provides access to the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one million acres of pristine lakes and forests. While the Boundary Waters itself doesn’t permit RVs, nearby campgrounds offer the perfect base for day paddling trips.
The Brainerd Lakes area and surrounding regions offer hundreds of fishing lakes, charming resort towns, and excellent RV camping infrastructure. This region proves particularly popular with anglers pursuing walleye, northern pike, and bass.
Canary Beach Resort exemplifies Minnesota’s family-friendly lake camping tradition, combining waterfront relaxation with modern RV amenities.
Minnesota’s RV parks near the Minneapolis-St. Paul area allow travelers to combine urban attractions—world-class museums, professional sports, renowned dining—with lakeside camping convenience.
Ready to discover Illinois’s Great Lakes camping opportunities? Read on for the best spots along Lake Michigan’s southern shore.
While often overlooked, Illinois offers surprising Great Lakes camping opportunities along its 63 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
The Chicago metropolitan area provides urban camping options that position RV travelers for exploring one of America’s greatest cities while still enjoying lakefront recreation at beaches and parks.
Illinois’s interior features numerous recreational lakes perfect for fishing and family camping. Fish Lake Beach Resort offers a peaceful retreat with excellent water access for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Continue reading to learn about the amenities that make Great Lakes RV resorts comfortable and convenient for every traveler.
Traveling through the Great Lakes region, you’ll find RV parks and resorts that offer a wide spectrum of amenities designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Whether you’re seeking the luxury of full hookups, reliable Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry, or you prefer the simplicity of a rustic campground, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you along the shores of Lake Michigan and beyond.
Many RV resorts in the Great Lakes region go above and beyond, featuring swimming pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers for those who want to stay active even while on the road. Convenience stores and camp stores stocked with essentials, as well as on-site restaurants, make it easy to settle in and enjoy your vacation without constant trips into town. Resorts located near iconic destinations like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula often provide direct access to hiking and biking trails, as well as kayak and paddleboard rentals for exploring the crystal-clear waters.
Whether you’re unwinding after a day of adventure or gearing up for a morning on the lake, these amenities ensure you have everything you need for a memorable stay. With so many options available, from family-friendly resorts to peaceful lakeside retreats, the Great Lakes region is truly a haven for RV travelers seeking both comfort and connection to nature.
Next, let’s take a closer look at Michigan’s hidden gems along Lake Huron and beyond.
While Lake Michigan and Lake Superior often steal the spotlight, Lake Huron quietly offers some of the best camping experiences in the Great Lakes region. Stretching along Michigan’s eastern shoreline, Lake Huron is home to pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Campers can choose from a variety of state parks and campgrounds, such as Thompson’s Harbor State Park and Harrisville State Park, each offering a mix of rustic tent sites and full-hookup RV sites. These parks provide essential amenities like picnic tables, grills, and clean restrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay whether you’re in a tent or an RV. The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing right at your doorstep.
Beyond the campgrounds, visitors can explore charming lakeside towns and villages, where local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions add to the appeal. With its uncrowded beaches, accessible hiking trails, and welcoming communities, Lake Huron is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the quieter side of Michigan camping.
Ready for a true wilderness adventure? Let’s head to Isle Royale National Park.
For those craving true wilderness, Isle Royale National Park offers an unparalleled adventure in the heart of Lake Superior. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote island park is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and kayakers seeking solitude and unspoiled natural beauty.
Isle Royale’s rugged coastline, dense forests, and network of scenic hiking trails invite visitors to explore at their own pace. Wildlife abounds here—keep an eye out for moose, wolves, and even the occasional black bear as you traverse the island’s paths. The park’s campgrounds, including the popular Rock Harbor Campground, provide basic amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Kayaking along the island’s shoreline offers a unique perspective on Lake Superior’s vastness, while the park’s interior trails reveal hidden lakes and quiet coves. Whether you’re planning a multi-day backpacking trip or a day of exploration, Isle Royale National Park promises a camping experience unlike any other in the Great Lakes region.
Next, discover the historic charm and outdoor fun of Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island.
At the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island serve as the perfect gateway to the Straits of Mackinac. Mackinaw City is a vibrant town brimming with history, offering visitors a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, all within easy reach of the iconic Mackinac Bridge.
Just a short ferry ride away, Mackinac Island transports you to a world where cars are replaced by bicycles and horse-drawn carriages. The island’s scenic coastline, historic sites, and lush state parkland make it a favorite for those who love to explore on foot or by bike. The State Park Campground on the island provides a range of amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the island’s natural beauty.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from kayaking along the shoreline to hiking the island’s many trails. Don’t miss the chance to visit Fort Michilimackinac or take a boat tour beneath the Mackinac Bridge. Whether you’re camping in Mackinaw City or on the island itself, this region offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and breathtaking views that capture the spirit of northern Michigan.
Let’s continue south to explore the hidden corners and diverse landscapes of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.
Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Along the shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering sand dunes and crystal-clear waters create a playground for hiking, swimming, and exploring.
This national lakeshore is a must-visit for families and outdoor lovers, offering miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and some of the best freshwater beaches in the country. Climb the dunes, paddle the lakes, or simply relax on the sand.
Venture inland to discover rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns, each offering its own unique attractions and local flavor. Traverse City stands out as a vibrant hub, known for its cultural events, farm-to-table dining, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The region is dotted with state parks like Ludington State Park and Holland State Park, each providing a variety of camping options and modern amenities to suit every traveler.
Whether you’re pitching a tent beneath the stars, parking your RV at a lakeside site, or simply enjoying a scenic drive along the coast, the Lower Peninsula invites you to explore its hidden corners. From the dunes of Sleeping Bear to the bustling streets of Traverse City, this region offers some of the best camping, hiking, and sightseeing in the Great Lakes region—making it a must-visit for your next road trip.
Now, let’s dive into the best activities for Great Lakes RV campers.
The Great Lakes support one of the world’s premier freshwater fisheries, with anglers regularly landing salmon, lake trout, steelhead, walleye, and smallmouth bass exceeding trophy sizes.
Wisconsin’s inland lakes add outstanding musky fishing—the state’s official fish and one of freshwater fishing’s greatest challenges. Lake Michigan’s salmon and trout runs attract anglers from across North America, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
Great Lakes beaches rival ocean destinations for swimming and water sports. The region’s freshwater means no salt, no sharks, and family-friendly conditions at most beaches.
Kayaking and paddleboarding have exploded in popularity across the region. Many RV resorts now offer watercraft rentals or launch facilities for guests bringing their own equipment. Sea kayak tours are especially popular in areas like the Apostle Islands, where you can explore remote beaches and sea caves that are only accessible by water. Always wear a life jacket for water sports and watch for changing currents.
The Upper Midwest contains thousands of miles of hiking trails, from accessible lakeside paths to challenging bluff climbs offering panoramic Great Lakes views.
Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail, stretching over 1,200 miles across the state, represents one of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States. Minnesota’s Superior Hiking Trail offers 310 miles along Lake Superior’s North Shore.
The Great Lakes region supports diverse wildlife populations. Bald eagles have made remarkable comebacks throughout the area, now commonly spotted along waterways. White-tailed deer, black bears (in northern areas), and countless bird species provide excellent viewing opportunities.
Ready to plan your trip? Here’s how to make the most of your Great Lakes camping adventure.
August through mid-September represents the ideal window for Great Lakes camping, offering warm water temperatures, stable weather, accessible remote roads, and thinner crowds than peak summer months.
Early summer (late May-June) brings wildflowers and bird migrations but cooler water temperatures. July offers peak warmth but also peak crowds at popular destinations.
Popular Great Lakes campgrounds book quickly, especially for summer weekends.
Essential items for Great Lakes camping include:
The Upper Midwest’s natural attractions extend beyond the Great Lakes themselves. The Great Lakes region is home to many great places for camping, with top camping spots including Pukaskwa National Park, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. These camping spots offer a range of experiences, from scenic beach camping to forested backpacking sites, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Sleeping Bear Dunes, in particular, is a great place for families and anyone seeking memorable outdoor recreation in the area.
Located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks features multicolored sandstone cliffs rising 200 feet above Lake Superior. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, established in 1966, became America’s first National Lakeshore and remains one of the most photographed natural attractions in the Midwest.
Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is known for its stunning sea caves, historic lighthouses, and pristine beaches. Visitors can camp on one of the 19 islands in Lake Superior, making it a unique great lakes camping destination. The area offers activities such as scuba diving around shipwrecks and the chance to sea kayak by the famous sandstone sea caves, providing access to remote wilderness campsites and breathtaking natural scenery.
Minnesota’s Highway 61 along Lake Superior’s North Shore consistently ranks among America’s most beautiful drives, particularly during fall color season.
August offers the optimal Great Lakes camping experience, with water temperatures reaching their warmest (typically 70-75°F in shallower areas), stable summer weather, and fewer crowds than July. September provides excellent conditions with added benefits of fall color emergence and reduced campground congestion.
For summer weekend stays at popular destinations, book 3-6 months ahead. Holiday weekends like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day may require reservations 6-12 months in advance. Midweek stays and shoulder season visits offer more flexibility, often allowing bookings just weeks ahead.
Most Great Lakes beaches provide safe swimming conditions, though visitors should always check local conditions. Unlike ocean beaches, Great Lakes waters contain no sharks or jellyfish. However, strong currents can develop, particularly on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Always swim near lifeguards when possible and heed posted warnings.
Each state requires its own fishing license, and Great Lakes waters follow specific regulations based on which state’s waters you’re fishing. Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois all offer non-resident licenses available online or at local retailers. Some waters are managed jointly between states, requiring anglers to verify specific regulations.
While some RV parks operate year-round, most Great Lakes campgrounds operate seasonally from approximately May through October. Winter camping options exist but are limited. Roads to remote campgrounds may become inaccessible during winter months and mud seasons.
The Great Lakes region offers RV campers an extraordinary combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and genuine Midwestern hospitality. From Wisconsin’s charming lakeside communities to Minnesota’s legendary fishing waters to Illinois’s surprising natural treasures, this region rewards explorers with experiences that create lasting family memories.
RJourney operates exceptional RV resorts throughout the Great Lakes region, each providing the perfect base for your lakeside adventures. Whether you’re seeking waterfront relaxation, family-friendly amenities, or convenient access to outdoor recreation, our properties deliver the quality and service that make RV travel truly enjoyable.
Ready to plan your Great Lakes getaway? Explore our Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois properties:
Book your stay today and discover why the Great Lakes region has captivated RV travelers for generations—or explore the best RV camping in Oregon for your next adventure. Your perfect lakeside adventure awaits!
For more RV travel inspiration and campground recommendations, explore our complete collection of RJourney destinations across the United States.
