When most people picture camping in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, they think of crowded campgrounds packed with RVs. But what if you could camp on a quiet stretch of Lake Superior where the loudest sound is the waves rolling onto the shore?

That’s exactly what I set out to find.

I booked three waterfront Hipcamp locations along Lake Superior to see if they really lived up to their glowing online reviews. Over the course of several days, I explored each campsite, paddled a kayak, hiked to beautiful waterfalls, wandered miles of shoreline, and discovered why Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has become my favorite place to camp.

If you’re wondering whether Hipcamp is worth using—or you’re searching for unique places to camp in the U.P.—here are my honest Hipcamp reviews based on my personal experiences.

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What Is Hipcamp?

If you’ve never heard of Hipcamp before, it’s a place to reserve camping spots on private property.

Instead of staying in a traditional campground, private landowners allow campers to stay on their property. Every listing is different. Some offer hookups, while others are completely off-grid. One thing I especially appreciate is being able to read reviews and see photos from people who have actually stayed there before booking.

Best of all, Hipcamp is free to browse. You only pay when you reserve a campsite.

✅ Sign Up for Hipcamp (It’s FREE!): https://geni.us/y4TZFjr
✅ Hipcamp for Property Owners Info: https://geni.us/YzhK

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Hipcamp Review #1: Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

The first campsite immediately impressed me with its privacy.

Although neighboring properties were nearby, the mature trees created a peaceful setting where it felt like I had my own little corner of Lake Superior.

The best surprise?

My camper was only steps from the shoreline.

The sandy, crystal-clear water was perfect for relaxing, and I even rented a kayak from the host for just $5. Paddling around Huron Bay became one of the highlights of my stay.

Don’t Miss Silver River Falls

Only about four miles away is Silver River Falls.

This isn’t really a hike—it’s more of a short stroll—but don’t let that fool you. The waterfalls are absolutely beautiful and make an easy stop while you’re camping in the area.

I also discovered a local bar and restaurant just down the road where I picked up a pizza to go. Enjoying that pizza back at my campsite overlooking Lake Superior was the perfect ending to the day.

Pros

• Incredible privacy
• Waterfront campsite
• Easy kayak rentals
• Close to waterfalls
• Loop driveway (no backing required)

Things to Know

You will hear occasional traffic from the nearby county road, and while the shoreline isn’t as wide open as some other Lake Superior locations, the added privacy more than makes up for it.

➡️ View this Hipcamp here: https://geni.us/dI1IeOB

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Hipcamp Review #2: Lake Superior Beach Perfection

This campsite couldn’t have been more different.

Instead of feeling tucked into the woods, this location opens up to an enormous sandy beach with panoramic views of Lake Superior.

It honestly felt like I had a front-row seat to the lake.

I spent hours walking barefoot along the shoreline, listening to the waves, and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

This is exactly why I love HipCamp. It doesn’t feel like camping in a campground—it feels like discovering a hidden place that most people never find.

Hungarian Falls Is Worth Every Step

While staying here, I visited Hungarian Falls.

The trail is definitely steeper and more rugged than Silver River Falls, but getting up close to these waterfalls was one of the highlights of my entire Upper Peninsula trip.

If you’re physically able, I highly recommend making the hike.

Pros

• Amazing panoramic views
• Huge sandy beach
• Incredible sunrise and sunset opportunities
• Peaceful atmosphere

Things to Know

The campsite sits near a lightly traveled road, and because the campsite is sandy, you’ll probably track sand into your camper. Personally, I loved the authentic beach feel.

If possible, approach the campsite from the south—it makes backing into the site much easier.

➡️ View this Hipcamp here: https://geni.us/8XZkTbi

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Hipcamp Review #3: Lake Superior Camping

This was actually my second visit to this Hipcamp.

After spending one night here previously, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I knew I had to come back.

The shoreline immediately reminded me why.

Crystal-clear water, fascinating driftwood, peaceful surroundings, and just enough privacy made this one feel like the perfect combination of my first two campsites.

I probably spent more time simply wandering the shoreline than sitting around my campsite.

Sometimes slowing down really is the best part of camping.

Explore the Porcupine Mountains

If you’re camping here, make time to visit the waterfalls inside Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that no two waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula are alike. Each one has its own personality, and exploring them has become one of my favorite parts of every camping trip.

Pros

• Excellent balance of privacy and views
• Beautiful wooded campsite
• Easy walk to Lake Superior
• Quiet atmosphere

Things to Know

You’ll hear a little road noise from time to time, and you’ll need to back into the campsite. Most campers probably won’t have any trouble, but I always appreciate knowing little details like that before making a reservation.

➡️ View this Hipcamp here: https://geni.us/Zjxwrw8

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Which Hipcamp Was My Favorite?

Each campsite excels at something different.

Choose Private Wooded Camping on the Lake if you want:

• Maximum privacy
• Easy lake access
• Kayaking

Choose Lake Superior Beach Perfection if you want:

• Massive Lake Superior views
• A huge sandy beach
• Incredible sunrises and sunsets

Choose Lake Superior Camping if you want:

• The best balance of privacy and scenery
• A peaceful wooded campsite
• A relaxing base for exploring the Upper Peninsula

Final Thoughts

After visiting all three locations, one thing became crystal clear.

Hipcamp has completely changed the way I look for campsites.

Instead of crowded campgrounds, I’ve been able to discover peaceful waterfront locations that feel like hidden gems. Add in the waterfalls, crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior, and unforgettable scenery, and it’s easy to understand why Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has become my favorite place to camp.

If you’re planning your own U.P. adventure, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of these three incredible HipCamp locations.

Check Out Hipcamp

✅ Sign Up for Hipcamp (It’s FREE!): https://geni.us/y4TZFjr
✅ Hipcamp for Property Owners Info: https://geni.us/YzhK

🎥 Watch more Epic U.P. Michigan Camping Adventures: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMwD3tcbfnyGJwbgCnV4YGB6dZTbR0Q30&si=JdTzDw0FhcZ03Ckf