The RVing life, whether you camp a few weekends a summer or make it your full-time lifestyle, is built on the idea that you can wander and explore freely, on your schedule. This opens a lot of possibilities when it comes to visiting new and exciting places. RVers have plenty of choices at which to camp that fall on the more, let’s say, formal side: private campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts. MARVAC’s members are ideal choices for those if you’re RVing in Michigan.

But what about in between stops, or if you can’t find a campground for the night? Or, you simply want to stretch your resources or try something new? RVing also gives you the freedom to park and camp in places other than campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts.

 

Public & Government Lands

Dispersed camping is camping for free on public lands and outside a designated campground, where bathrooms, picnic tables, and other amenities are located. There are no hook-ups, so it’s up to you to use your RV’s resources responsibly. No reservation is required, and you usually don’t need a permit either (but check).

In Michigan, dispersed camping opportunities exist in national forests and state forests. Camping is allowed almost anywhere on these public lands, such as a forest road or pull-off. However, it’s important to adhere to any posted signs and rules. Common DNR rules include camping more than a mile from a state forest campground, the area cannot be posted as “no camping,” and you should display a dispersed camping registration card at your site. Popular choices in Michigan include:

The most important thing is to do your research so that you can get your RV safely in and out. Visit the websites, speak with local rangers via telephone or email and ask for advice as to the best places to camp, ask on forums, or ask the locals. Forest roads can be sandy, narrow, or have tight turns, so it’s important that you keep the size and capability of your RV in mind.

 

Retail Parking

Retail locations offer another parking spot for RVers for a quick overnight at no charge. However, permission varies by location because of local ordinances. Always ask management first, and never plan on staying longer than one night. Some retail locations may even have designated spaces in which to park. RVers have found refuge at:

  • Walmart
  • Cabela’s / Bass Pro Shops
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Planet Fitness (if you have a membership, you can use the locker room for a shower)

Plan to park away from the primary areas of traffic, and don’t put out any chairs, grills, awnings, or anything that makes it look like you’re setting up camp. Keep your RV and any tow vehicles or toads locked up for security as well as keep all your gear secure.

Roadside Rest Areas

Michigan has 61 rest areas and 14 welcome centers across the state. Most rest areas are located in the Lower Peninsula, and welcome centers are typically found along state lines. MDOT allows vehicles to park for 24-48 hours. RVers can park only in marked areas and not on grass. No disruptive behavior is allowed. Make sure to remove trash and ensure that any pets are kept on a leash. As with the retail locations, don’t look like you’re setting up camp. For safety considerations, plan at least a night in advance, arrive before dark, and trust your instincts. If you’re considering this, check out the MDOT page for additional information.

Rest Area sign

 

Private Property Memberships

Neighbors helping neighbors. That’s the crux of private property memberships, where individual homesteads open their properties to traveling RVers. This can be a unique experience as well as quieter, as there usually aren’t a lot of sites at each location.

  • Harvest Hosts: In Michigan, there are approximately 250 locations from which to choose. Your annual subscription level (there are three) makes different types of locations available. Host types include farms, attractions, wineries, breweries, golf courses, and distilleries. Use the Harvest Hosts website to plug in information about your RV or lifestyle (such as you are traveling with pets) to find a good match, and then make your request at least a day in advance. Some hosts have electric or water hookup, or both. There are no camping fees. You get a camping spot; the host gets a little business. It’s a win-win.
  • Boondockers Welcome: Operating under the Harvest Host umbrella, Boondockers Welcome also features free overnight stays with no camping fees on dozens of private properties around the state. Get full access to host information by joining and logging in. This membership is rolled into some levels of Harvest Host membership.
  • Elks Lodge: There are seven RV facilities in Michigan according to the website – Muskegon, Charlevoix, Farmington, Flint, Ishpeming, Rochester-North Oakland, Sault St. Marie

Michigan is one of the best states in the Midwest to find a place to camp for the night. With its vast assortment of industries, agriculture, history, and natural wonders, you can easily explore the Great Lakes State while remaining comfortable and at home in your RV.