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More and more Americans are spending time outside—a blessing and a curse. Popular trails across the West have reached peak limits and famed US national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite, among others, openly struggle to accommodate the miles-long lines of cars. But getting outside doesn't have to mean traveling long distances to the most well-known recreation destinations or risking life and limb to sleep under the stars—there's ease to access adventure to be had in often-overlooked states, like Michigan. If a break from the city and daily hustle and bustle appeals to you, but roughing it does not, try a centuries-old style of overnight outdoor recreation: glamping.
Short for "glamorous camping," glamping is the perfect way to experience the outdoors without sacrificing the comfort of the indoors. Think canvas tents, yurts, treehouses, Airstream trailers, maybe even a tiny house, all of which provide the ideal place for recharging, whether you're looking for a quiet getaway to the woods or a cabin rental for exploring Michigan's lakes, state parks, and recreation areas.
For newer outdoorists, glamping is a more accessible way to experience time among nature. It doesn't require a ton of gear to go glamping, for one, and the usual provided amenities, like a cozy bed, camp kitchen, fire pit, hammock, and even an occasional sauna, promise a reliable and relaxing stay. Some places include running water and electricity for a more comfortable vacation, while others are more rustic and akin to traditional camping.
Though known for its never-ending supply of fresh-water experiences, Michigan also has extensive trail networks, and even a few waterfalls, like Tahquamenon Falls, not to mention white sand beaches for summer vacationers (Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula are favorites) and ski areas, like Mt. Bohemia and Boyne Mountain, for those who prefer the colder months. But when in doubt, there's always chilling around Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.
For those looking for four season outdoor access while luxury camping in Michigan, the following are our top ten picks for the best glamping spots in the Great Lakes State.
10 Best Michigan Glamping Locales to Visit This Season
The Fields of Michigan — South Haven, MI
Vibe: Luxe Farmhouse
The 400-square-foot luxury tents at this popular glamping getaway provide all the comfort of traditional travel: electricity, a king bed, hot running water, and even a real full bathroom. Start your day with complimentary breakfast, spend a few hours biking the historic Kal Haven Trail, and end with a rain-style shower and some stargazing on the tent's porch or a massage on the on-site spa.
Rate: $379/night
A-Frame Tent — Boyne Falls, MI
Vibe: A-Frame Oasis
This A-Frame tent, situated on the rolling hills of Lost Woods Farm & Forest, sleeps two with room for an extra cot. As a bonus, the tent is only minutes from Boyne Mountain, a four-season resort known for its skiing opportunities and trail network for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. In the summer, the resort rents bikes and fishing gear, and keeps one of its oldest lifts running for hikers and visitors looking for a scenic outing on the mountain.
Rate: $175/night
Ferned Creek Bell Tent — Bitely, MI
Vibe: Classic and Cozy
Located in the national forest, this glamping getaway is located about an hour outside Grand Rapids. Inside the spacious bell tent, there's a queen-sized bed, coffee-making station, seating area, and cozy linens, while outside, there's an outdoor kitchen, picnic table, luxe bathhouse. If the bell tent is booked, have no fear, there's other glamping sites on the property too.
Rate: $127/night
The Outpost Tent — Sawyer, MI
Vibe: Laid Back
This tent, within walking distance from downtown Sawyer, gives visitors a classic camping experience. The markets in town can provide everything you need for your stay, whether you choose to spend your days at Lake Michigan, cooking up farm-fresh eggs on the grill, or just relaxing by the fire pit with some s'mores. There's also an outdoor shower for the more adventurous-minded, and a covered outdoor sink for prepping meals. Don't forget to check out the trails behind the tent, and be sure to pack a can of bug spray.
Rate: $115/night
Getaway Barber Creek — Grand Junction, MI
Vibe: Contemporary cabin
Getaway specializes in getting city-dwellers offline and outdoors with micro cabin campgrounds popping up across the country. 2 hours outside Chicago near beach town South Haven in southwest Michigan, their Grand Junction, MI location features 41 micro cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, private bathrooms, air conditioning and heat, and one or two beds.
(Use discount code FIELDMAG for $25 off any booking)
Rate: $219/night
Grace's Glade — Cadillac, MI
Vibe: A Comfort Classic
Grace's Glade offers travelers a cozy spot to unwind without having to skimp on comfort. The tent comes complete with a stove and refrigerator for those who prefer to leave propane out of their food preparation, and visitors can enjoy a hot shower after a day spent exploring the nearby national forest lands on foot or bike. For winter guests, the glade provides the ideal home base to explore Caberfae Peaks, a popular ski resort in Northern Michigan.
Rate: $110/night
The Copper Cabin — Keweenaw County, MI
Vibe: Adventure Ready
Ranked by the Detroit Free Press as one of the best places to enjoy the outdoors, the Copper Cabin offers visitors the perfect Michigan experience, even in winter. After snowshoeing into the cabin, visitors will want to check out nearby Mt. Bohemia, arguably home to Michigan's best skiing, or explore the 37 miles of single-track biking trails at Copper Harbor (with some trails available for winter use). Elsewhere nearby, there's kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and even SCUBA opportunities. For those looking to trek out to Isle Royale National Park, the cabin provides a good spot for breaking up the long drive up to Michigan's most northern attraction. Oh, and it can accommodate up to eight people. Ski trip, anyone?
Rate: $125/night (for four guests)
Northern Barn Canvas Tent — Houghton County, MI
Vibe: Rustic Charm
Looking for something a bit more rustic? This spacious canvas tent comes with amenities like a wood stove, locally roasted coffee, and a hot sauna surrounded by the forest, but you'll want to leave your devices at home—there's no electricity, limited cell service, and no WiFi. Explore the nearby Twin Lakes State Park during the day, or just bring a couple good books and enjoy Michigan's peaceful woods.
Rate: $94/night
Pine Forest Tent — Bliss, MI
Vibe: In the Woods
Located only a few miles from Lake Michigan and Wilderness State Park, this glamping experience offers a quiet stay on a Christmas tree farm. Mackinaw City, known for its lighthouses and historical reenactment events, and the home to the world's ninth dark sky park, is conveniently located for a day trip and a memory-foam queen bed promises a relaxing night's sleep for two out in nature.
Rate: $100/night
Regenerative Farm Glamping Tent — Elmira, MI
Vibe: Midwest Classic
If you've ever wanted to learn about a working, regenerative farm, this glamping tent is the site for you. The farm is home to cattle, chickens, turkeys, and pigs, and you'll have help getting up early from the occasional rooster crow. A covered porch area and fire pit with provided wood offer a relaxing night of camp cooking and quiet time. Off the farm, the nearby Deadman's Hill Overlook offers hiking trails and a view of fall foliage, and Torch Lake, a popular summer destination for Michiganders, is only a short drive away.
Rate: $127/night
Published 06-12-2023
