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Winter camping

While some retreat indoors, many outdoor enthusiasts already know that a Michigan winter is a season of hidden magic. It’s a time for tucking into remote campsites, retreating to cozy cabins and creating stories best shared over a crackling campfire. Check out these options!

small cabin surrounded by snow

Winter camping and overnight lodging in state parks

There are three easy ways to find winter camping and overnight lodging opportunities in state parks!

  • Visit MiDNRReservations.com and plug in your dates for real-time availability. Keep in mind that campsites andovernight lodging can be reserved 6 months in advance.
  • Visit RecSearch for a curated list of winter-ready locations.
  • Check our camping and lodging rates & operating dates page to what’s open near you (use the plus key to view the reservation season).

For those that don't have a camper, there are opportunities to rent RVs too.

Please note that some locations may have limited restroom and shower access during the winter.
two campers posed in front of a tent in snowy conditions

Rustic winter camping in state forest campgrounds

There are two easy ways to find state forest campground open in the winter.

  • Check out the state forest campground matrix and find locations marked "open all year." You may want to check out roads that are plowed (depending on your vehicle).
  • Browse RecSearch for a list of winter-available state forest campgrounds.
Please note that the majority of state forest campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis.