Michigan’s camping season is here and, with it, comes the annual competition to get into the most popular state park and recreation area campgrounds in the state.
In some cases, campers’ options are already limited because Michigan’s camping reservation system allows bookings to be made six months in advance — and popular spots go quickly, especially on weekends.
While weekend camping options may be more limited, campers will likely find a larger selection for weekdays. Cancellations are also common, so not all hope is lost.
More: Michigan state park, recreation area campgrounds: Guide to reservations, costs, more
If you’re looking to reserve a campsite, these campgrounds may be some of the the toughest to get into since they had the most nights camped in fiscal year 2024, which ran from Oct. 1, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2024.
Here’s a look at the most popular Michigan state park campgrounds during the last fiscal year.
5. Wilderness State Park
Aerial photos of Wilderness State Park
Located on the Lake Michigan shoreline in Carp Lake, Wilderness State Park had 35,370 nights camped during the last fiscal year.
Wilderness State Park has more than 450 campsites.
Its location on Lake Michigan near Mackinaw City makes it a popular spot.
4. Traverse City State Park
Camping at Traverse City State Park
With more than 400 campsites, Traverse City State Park in Traverse City had 38,595 nights camped last fiscal year.
The campground is located 2 miles from downtown Traverse City.
Camping opportunities will be limited here this season because the park will close July 7 through the 2026 camping season due to a project that will bring new camping amenities, enhance the day-use areas and improve vehicle and pedestrian access.
3. South Higgins Lake State Park
South Higgins Lake State Park entrance
South Higgins Lake in Roscommon had 39,173 nights camped last fiscal year.
The park is located on 1 mile of shoreline along Higgins Lake. It’s one of the largest state park campgrounds in Michigan and has about 400 campsites.
2. Holland State Park
Holland State Park in summer 2023.
Holland State Park in Holland has two campgrounds that had a total of 40,248 nights camped last fiscal year. It has about 300 campsites.
The state park is known for its sugar sand beaches, sunsets and views of the “Big Red” lighthouse.
1. Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park in summer 2022
Ludington State Park on the coast of Lake Michigan in Ludington has more than 300 campsites between its three campgrounds. It was the state’s most popular campground last fiscal year with 45,470 nights camped.
You won’t get a chance to camp here in 2025 until at least July 1. Most of the state park has been closed for roadwork and parking lot constructions. The closure will probably impact where the park lands on the list of popular campgrounds for the 2025 fiscal year.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: The 5 most popular Michigan state park campgrounds