Woodstar Beach Campground, Manistique, MI

For many Michiganders, the allure of the Upper Peninsula is undeniable, offering a pristine natural landscape that invites escape and adventure. Camping in the U.P. holds a special place in the hearts of families and outdoor enthusiasts, providing an opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. While some seek out remote, rustic sites, many families look for campgrounds that offer a blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes for an effortless and enjoyable vacation.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan in Manistique, Woodstar Beach Campground emerges as a delightful discovery for those seeking a memorable camping experience. Despite any initial skepticism, as one reviewer candidly admitted, this campground consistently impresses visitors with its clean facilities, friendly owners, and direct access to a beautiful sandy beach. It's a place where kids can spend their days splashing in the water, and parents can relax, knowing that essential comforts are well within reach. This family-run feel and attention to guest satisfaction are often the hallmarks of a truly great campground.

Woodstar Beach Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a destination designed for relaxation and recreation. Its unique location on Lake Michigan provides unparalleled beach access, a feature highly sought after by campers. With a range of site options, from full hookups to more rustic spots, it caters to diverse camping styles while maintaining a consistently high standard of cleanliness and hospitality. For Michigan residents planning their next U.P. adventure, Woodstar Beach Campground offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and genuine warmth that makes it a true standout.

Woodstar Beach Campground is ideally situated at 1786S Harbor Rd, Manistique, MI 49854, USA. This prime location places it directly on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering campers direct access to one of the Great Lakes and its expansive sandy beaches.

The campground's accessibility is a significant advantage for travelers. Manistique, a charming and historic city in Schoolcraft County, is just a short drive away, providing convenient access to a variety of essential services including grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and local attractions. U.S. Highway 2, a major east-west route traversing Michigan's Upper Peninsula, runs very close to the campground, ensuring easy arrival from various directions. This makes Woodstar Beach Campground a practical stop for those exploring the U.P. or a perfect destination for a longer stay.

Beyond its immediate lakeside setting, the campground's location in Manistique offers easy access to a wealth of regional attractions. Campers can explore the scenic Manistique Boardwalk, visit the iconic Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse, or venture inland to discover natural wonders like Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) at Palms Book State Park, just a short drive away. The surrounding Hiawatha National Forest provides endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The combination of direct beach access on Lake Michigan and proximity to both city amenities and major U.P. attractions makes Woodstar Beach Campground an exceptionally well-located and convenient choice for Michigan campers.

Woodstar Beach Campground is committed to providing a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience, offering a mix of essential amenities and recreational conveniences. Here’s a detailed look at the services available:

Campsites: The campground offers a variety of sites to suit different camping preferences. This includes full hookup sites (water, electric, and sewer) for RVs and trailers, as well as more rustic sites for tent camping, including specific "rustic camping areas" as mentioned in reviews.
Electric Hookups: Many sites come with electric hookups (presumably 20, 30, and/or 50 amp, common in developed campgrounds), providing power for RVs and electronic devices. One review specifically mentions 20-amp power supply at sites, indicating at least this level of service.
Clean Bath House: A significant highlight, reviews confirm the bath house is "nice and clean." This typically includes flush toilets and showers, which are highly valued amenities.
Potable Water: While not explicitly detailed per site, access to water is implied by the presence of a bath house and is essential for developed campgrounds. It's safe to assume multiple access points for fresh water.
Laundry Facilities: The campground provides laundry services, a crucial convenience for campers on longer trips or those who enjoy keeping their clothes fresh.
Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase directly at the campground, making it easy for campers to enjoy a campfire without having to bring their own or source it elsewhere.
Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children, providing a safe and engaging space for them to play and expend energy.
Kayak Rentals: Campers can rent kayaks directly from the campground, offering a convenient way to explore the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan without needing to transport their own equipment.
Friendly Owners/Hosts: Reviews consistently praise the "super nice" owners and hosts, highlighting their welcoming demeanor and helpfulness, which greatly enhances the overall camping experience.
Garden Rake Access: A small but thoughtful detail mentioned in a review – the availability of a garden rake nearby to borrow, allowing campers to tidy their site. This speaks to the care taken in maintaining the grounds.

Woodstar Beach Campground stands out for several key features and highlights that make it a top choice for campers in Michigan's Upper Peninsula:

Direct Lake Michigan Beach Access: The most prominent highlight is the campground's location right on a sandy beach of Lake Michigan. This allows for direct access to swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vastness of the Great Lake. While one review mentions some "stuff that washes up by the beach" depending on wind/wave direction, it quickly clarifies that "Once you get past it (2-3 feet) the water is clean and clear."
Family-Oriented Environment: With a playground, abundant water activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, the campground is clearly designed with families in mind, providing ample opportunities for kids to play and explore.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: Consistently praised for its "nice and clean" bathhouse and well-maintained grounds (even with rakes available for campers), indicating a strong commitment to cleanliness and site upkeep.
Friendly and Accommodating Ownership: The "super nice" and "very good people" who own and operate the campground contribute significantly to the positive experience, making campers feel welcome and valued.
Variety of Site Types: Offering both full hookup sites for RVs and more rustic areas for tent camping (like "site 31, in the rustic camping area"), the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences.
Convenient On-Site Rentals: The availability of kayak rentals adds a significant convenience, allowing campers to get out on the water easily without the hassle of transporting their own kayaks.
Easy Access to Amenities: The seamless access to the beach, bathrooms, and playground from various sites, even in the rustic area, is a strong positive, as noted by a camper.
Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly stated in the reviews, most family campgrounds in Michigan are pet-friendly with specific rules regarding leashes and cleanup, which would be an expected feature given the general focus on family and outdoor activities.

As a private campground, Woodstar Beach Campground likely offers various pricing structures and potentially seasonal promotions, though specific details are not provided in the given information. Typically, private campgrounds may feature:

Seasonal Rates: Prices often vary depending on the time of year, with higher rates during peak summer months and holidays, and potentially lower rates during the spring and fall shoulder seasons.
Weekly/Monthly Discounts: Reduced rates for extended stays are a common incentive to encourage longer visits.
Holiday Weekend Packages: These often come with higher rates and minimum stay requirements but might include special events or activities, appealing to families seeking a full holiday experience.
Loyalty Programs: Some private campgrounds offer discounts for returning customers or through loyalty cards.
Military/Senior Discounts: While not confirmed, some private businesses extend discounts to specific groups.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on site availability, specific rates for different hookup types (full hookup, water & electric, rustic), and any current promotions or special offers, it is highly recommended to contact Woodstar Beach Campground directly. Their friendly owners would be the best source for this information.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, or any specific questions about Woodstar Beach Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 1786S Harbor Rd, Manistique, MI 49854, USA

Phone: (906) 450-5828

Mobile Phone: +1 906-450-5828 (This is likely the same main contact number for the campground.)

It is often recommended to call private campgrounds directly for the most current information and to make reservations, especially during peak season.

For Michigan locals, Woodstar Beach Campground is an absolutely fantastic choice for a memorable and hassle-free camping vacation. Its prime location directly on a sandy Lake Michigan beach is an unparalleled draw, offering endless opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the vast beauty of one of the Great Lakes right from your campsite. The consistent praise for "super nice" owners and "nice and clean" facilities, including bathhouses and laundry, ensures a comfortable and welcoming environment that sets it apart.

What truly makes Woodstar Beach ideal for families is its commitment to providing an engaging experience. With a playground and readily available kayak rentals, along with the potential for organized activities as seen with the Halloween weekend, there's always something to keep everyone entertained. This blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities (from full hookups to rustic options), and genuine hospitality creates a stress-free environment where families can truly connect and create cherished memories. For Michiganders seeking a friendly, clean, and activity-rich campground on the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, Woodstar Beach Campground is undoubtedly a top-tier destination that you'll want to return to again and again.