Great Lakes Yurt Camp

For Michiganders yearning for an outdoor escape that blends the immersive experience of camping with a touch more comfort and unique charm, Great Lakes Yurt Camp in Paradise, Michigan, offers an exceptional option. This isn't your average campground; it's a dedicated yurt camp providing a distinctive glamping experience in the heart of the Upper Peninsula. Nestled along the serene Shelldrake River, it promises a peaceful and private retreat, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural beauty that defines Michigan's wild north. If you're looking for a memorable adventure that's a step up from traditional tent camping but still keeps you close to nature, Great Lakes Yurt Camp is an ideal choice for your next getaway.

Great Lakes Yurt Camp embraces a rustic yet comfortable approach to outdoor lodging. Imagine stepping into a spacious, circular yurt, complete with premium camp mattresses for a restful night's sleep, even without the conveniences of electricity or running water directly within your shelter. The ambiance is one of tranquility, with the gentle sounds of the river and the forest surrounding you. This unique setup is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families, or couples who want to experience the wilderness intimately but prefer a solid structure over a tent. It's a place where peace and quiet truly reign, allowing for deep relaxation and a genuine reconnection with Michigan’s incredible natural environment. The camp is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable base from which to explore the myriad attractions of the Paradise area and beyond.

Location and Accessibility

Great Lakes Yurt Camp is situated in Paradise, MI 49768, USA. This location is deep within Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a region famous for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant outdoor opportunities. Paradise itself is a small, charming town that serves as a gateway to some of the U.P.'s most iconic natural attractions.

The camp's exact setting is noted as being down a "4.7-mile sandy two-track," emphasizing its secluded nature. This means that accessibility requires preparedness; a 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to reach the yurts, ensuring guests can navigate the rural access road with ease. While this might sound like an extra step, it contributes significantly to the peaceful and secluded atmosphere that guests cherish. It filters out casual visitors, leaving the camp a tranquil haven for those genuinely seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

Despite its secluded feel, Great Lakes Yurt Camp is strategically located to provide convenient access to several popular Upper Peninsula attractions. Tahquamenon Falls, one of Michigan's largest and most famous waterfalls, is approximately 35 minutes away. Whitefish Point, home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and a stunning Lake Superior shoreline, is about 30 minutes distant. The town of Paradise itself, offering basic amenities and local charm, is just 20 minutes away. This combination of remote tranquility and proximity to key sights makes Great Lakes Yurt Camp an excellent base for exploring the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Services Offered

Great Lakes Yurt Camp focuses on providing a comfortable yet rustic "off-the-grid" glamping experience. While some modern conveniences are intentionally absent to enhance the natural immersion, essential services are provided to ensure a pleasant stay.

• Yurt Accommodation:

  The camp features multiple yurts (e.g., "Bearadise Yurt," "Brook Trout Yurt," "Kingfisher Yurt"), each approximately 16 feet in diameter. They are equipped with premium camp mattresses on beds (typically a bunk bed with two twins and a double-size bed), capable of sleeping 4 people, with accommodation for more upon request.

• Rustic Comfort:

  While there is "No power, No shower" within the individual yurts as noted in reviews, they offer a comfortable shelter from the elements, with a sturdy structure and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

• Private Outhouses:

  Each yurt generally has its own private outhouse located just down a short driveway or path, offering convenient and private restroom facilities.

• Shared Screened Pavilion:

  There is a shared screened-in pavilion, providing a communal space to gather, escape bugs, and enjoy meals or relaxation.

• Charcoal Grill and Fire Pits:

  A charcoal grill is available at the shared pavilion (guests should bring their own charcoal), and each yurt has its own individual fire pit, with plenty of downfall nearby for collecting firewood.

• Pet-Friendly Accommodation:

  A significant highlight, Great Lakes Yurt Camp is proudly pet-friendly, allowing Michigan residents to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.

• Self-Cleaning Expectation:

  There is no cleaning fee, as guests are expected to clean up their yurt before departing. A broom and dustpan are provided for this purpose.

• No Potable Water On-Site at Yurt:

  Guests will need to bring their own water for drinking and washing, as there are no direct water hookups or potable water sources at the yurts themselves.

Features / Highlights

Great Lakes Yurt Camp boasts several unique features and highlights that set it apart as a premier glamping destination in the Upper Peninsula.

• Tranquil Riverside Setting:

  The yurts are nestled along the beautiful Shelldrake River, offering peaceful waterfront views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. This provides a truly tranquil backdrop for your stay.

• Authentic Yurt Experience:

  These aren't just tents; they are well-crafted yurts with a sturdy, circular structure, providing a unique and comfortable blend of camping and cabin living.

• Unplugged and Peaceful Environment:

  The "no power, no shower" aspect within the yurts contributes to a genuine off-the-grid feel, encouraging guests to fully disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. This is ideal for those seeking true peace and quiet.

• Pet-Friendly Policy:

  The welcoming stance towards pets is a major highlight for many Michigan families, allowing them to enjoy their outdoor adventures with their beloved companions.

• Access to River Loop Trail:

  Guests can enjoy a scenic "river loop trail" directly from the camp, perfect for short walks and enjoying the natural surroundings.

• Refreshing River Dips:

  The sandy Shelldrake River is described as "very refreshing to take a dip in on a hot summer day," offering a natural cooling-off spot.

• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching:

  Reviews mention sightings of Belted Kingfishers and Sandhill Cranes, indicating excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Close Proximity to U.P. Attractions:

  The camp's location makes it a fantastic base for exploring iconic Michigan attractions like Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Whitefish Point, and the broader Paradise area.

• Private Fire Pits and Shared Pavilion:

  The combination of individual fire pits for cozy evenings and a shared screened pavilion for bug-free relaxation adds to the comfort and enjoyment of the stay.

• Comfortable Beds:

  Despite the rustic nature, the emphasis on "premium camp mattresses" ensures a more comfortable night's sleep than traditional camping, enhancing the "glamping" aspect.

Contact Information

For inquiries, availability, or booking information for Great Lakes Yurt Camp, it is best to check their listing on rental platforms or any direct contact details they might provide.

Address: Paradise, MI 49768, USA

While direct phone numbers for the camp itself are not universally published as a direct contact line for booking (it often operates via online rental platforms), the owners of Great Lakes Yurt Co. (who craft the yurts) have provided a phone number which may lead to general inquiries: Phone: (269) 808-3664. However, for booking specific yurts, online platforms like Airbnb or HiChee are typically used, where direct messaging with the host is available. Reviews often mention good communication from the host.

It is always advisable to use the booking platform's messaging system for specific yurt reservations and to clarify details such as bedding requirements (guests typically bring their own), charcoal for grills, and any specific access instructions, especially regarding the 4-wheel drive recommendation for the sandy two-track road.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Michigan residents, Great Lakes Yurt Camp offers a uniquely appealing blend of adventure and comfort, making it an excellent choice for a local getaway. It caters specifically to those who love the idea of camping but desire a step up from pitching a tent, or who simply want a distinctive and memorable experience right in their own state.

Firstly, its location in Paradise, Michigan, places it in one of the most beloved and naturally rich areas of the Upper Peninsula. Michiganders can easily access this region for a weekend trip or a longer vacation, allowing for frequent and convenient escapes into nature without extensive travel. The "unplugged" nature of the yurts, without immediate electricity or showers within the units, offers a genuine opportunity to detox from digital life and reconnect with the natural rhythms of the Michigan wilderness, a much-needed respite for many.

Secondly, the pet-friendly policy is a huge advantage for many local families. Being able to bring beloved dogs along enhances the outdoor experience significantly, making it a truly inclusive family adventure. The peaceful setting on the Shelldrake River, combined with access to nearby iconic attractions like Tahquamenon Falls and Whitefish Point, provides a perfect balance of serene relaxation and exciting exploration. It’s a chance to witness Michigan's breathtaking natural wonders while enjoying a unique lodging experience.

Finally, Great Lakes Yurt Camp allows Michiganders to experience a form of "glamping" that is both comfortable and environmentally conscious. It's a way to support local tourism and explore the hidden gems within their home state, creating lasting memories in a tranquil and beautiful setting. For the Michigan local looking for a peaceful, pet-friendly, and distinctively unique outdoor retreat, Great Lakes Yurt Camp is a true paradise waiting to be discovered.