There are many options when it comes to planning a rustic Michigan getaway. Whether you are looking to sleep outdoors under the stars, or in a primitive log cabin, Michigan offers a range of accommodations in all areas of the state. According to the Pure Michigan web site, there are over 1,000 private and public campgrounds in the state, many of which are rustic. There is also a plethora of rental cabins that provide simple shelter and warmth for those who want a winter camping experience.
Ludington State Park Campground is the best Michigan site to camp at, according to the TouringMichigan web site votes. Positioned inside Ludington State Park along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the campground's sites are busiest between May and October. Campers can set up their tents at one of over 350 sites while they fish, hunt, picnic, bicycle and view nature in the great outdoors. Two specific areas of the state park--the Cedars and the Jack Pine hike-in sites--are designated as "completely" rustic, meaning there is no electricity or showers and only rustic toilet systems. Ludington State Park also offers 18 miles worth of hiking trails, as well as canoe, bicycling and cross-country skiing trails, as noted by the Department of Natural Resources. Fees change per campsite and season.
Ludington State Park
8800 W. M-116
Ludington, MI 49431
231-843-2423
http://www.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=468&type=SPRK
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a primitive area without many buildings, power lines or even roads. A rustic 13-mile stretch of over 50,000 acres, this Michigan state park is located on the northern tip of Michigan's upper peninsula -- far from the more popularized campgrounds in the "mitten state." Legendary due to its Tahquamenon River and Upper Falls, according to Exploring the North, Inc., the Upper Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls east of the Mississippi at 200 feet wide and nearly 50 feet tall. Campers visit the area to bask in the falls' serenity, as well as to camp under the stars within its surrounding forests. There is ample area between camp sites, so your tent and campsite will remain quiet and undisturbed. The grounds are complete with 25 miles of hiking trails and free programs and guided hikes during the week. Wild moose and other wildlife are also known to frequent the area. Tahquamenon Falls offers four campsite areas, one area of which is completely rustic -- the Tahquamenon Falls River Unit. These campgrounds are secluded, and they do have a fire pit as well as quiet fishing areas. Showers are available at a nearby site for a fee.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
41382 West M-123
Paradise, MI 49768
906-492-3415
For a truly rustic cabin experience, Thompson's Harbor State Park--on the northeast side of the state along Lake Huron-offers seven and a half miles of shoreline woods, complete with six miles of trails. The park has two cabins for rent: Cedar Haven and the Stone Path Cabin. Both cabins are primitive shacks that offer little more than a roof over your head, providing a truly rustic experience. According to the DNR, both cabins sleep up to six people, making it ideal for a group or family outing. Like most state park camping facilities, weeknight rates are often cheaper than weekend rates.
Thompson's Harbor State Park
Rogers City, MI 49779
231-627-9011
www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=500&type=SPRK
