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Michigan is, at heart, a traveling kind of state that enjoys having Fido along for the ride as we explore the lakes, parks and trails that cross the Mighty Mitten. Dogs are great companions for overnight outings and tend to be great campers if you want to sleep under the stars.
In general, pets are welcomed at Michigan’s state parks and also at its campgrounds. Private campgrounds will have their own rules and regulations, so you’ll want to check those out in advance of your trip. Dogs typically have to be on a leash of some sort and most campgrounds, state or private, require dogs to be supervised and attended at all times for their own safety as well as the safety of the other people staying on site.
For example, you can have a dog at the state’s Craig Lake State Park, which has a Teddy Lake lakefront yurt as well as a small cabin. Van Riper State Park allows dogs at its rustic Peshekee cabin. And Sleepy Hollow State Park has modern as well as rustic cabins that are dog friendly for your family to enjoy with Man’s Best Friend.
If you want to bring your dog to a pet-friendly campground, there are some important things to note. You’ll likely have to pay a small upcharge for having a pet on site at some campgrounds, so you will want to check on that in advance. Some locations may require the pet to show its shot records and vaccination schedule. Others may want to make sure your furry best friend has had its flea-and-tick medications on time, so that’s important to know and show.
Here are five Michigan campgrounds that are dog friendly as well as fun places to camp when you want to get away from it all.
Countryside Campground
This family-owned campground in Harrison is great for parents, kids and dogs as well. The campground has easy access to Clare County’s many recreational facilities, so everyone can have a great time during the day and be tired at bedtime. The owners note that they welcome “quiet and well-mannered pets” and there are only two pets allowed per site. There is a dog park as well in the back of the campground for the pets to enjoy.
Indian Creek Camp and Conference Center
Just an hour or so away from Ann Arbor, this Tecumseh-area campground is a pet’s dream. There’s even a zip line and climbing wall on site to make this a magical trip for everyone, including Rover. The family-friendly spot offers sites for recreational vehicles, trailers or tents. Per the private campground’s owners, dogs must be vaccinated for rabies, dogs cannot bark excessively and all dogs must be supervised at the campsite.
Port Huron KOA
Port Huron is a great lakefront area for outdoor activities, and this campground is in high demand for good reason. There are lots of amenities at this dog-friendly site, including a pool, mini golf and snack bar. Dogs must be kept on a leash and cannot bark excessively at any KOA campground if you want to enjoy your stay and make sure everyone else is enjoying their time there as well.
River Park Campground
Grayling’s River Park is a water lover’s dream with its location on the east branch of the AuSable River. The campground is surrounded by acres of state and federal land, which is excellent for hiking, biking, fishing and, of course, long dog walks. There also is a playground, swimming pool and a recreation center on site.
Holly KOA
If you want to stay near Metro Detroit but still want that “Up North” feeling, then this Holly-area campground near Auburn Hills will fit the bill. It is only an hour out of the main cities but you’ll feel like you’re on an adventurous vacation. Along with being pet friendly, this campground also has a pool, mini golf and a pavilion for picnics and family gatherings.
