Camper Living In Michigan: Year-Round Options

If you're looking to live in your camper in Michigan, you're in luck! It is legal to live in a camper in Michigan, but there are some rules and regulations to follow. Here's what you need to know:

First, check with the local authorities in your township. Some townships allow campers, but not all, and you don't want to be caught on the wrong side of local ordinances. It's also a good idea to get any permissions in writing, just in case.

Next, make sure you follow any zoning regulations and building codes that are in place. This includes things like parking restrictions, occupancy limits, and access to utilities. Your camper should also have windows that can be opened, heating and cooling, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and protection against rodents and insects.

If you're planning to live in your camper on your own property, there are a few additional things to keep in mind. In Michigan, it's allowed as long as it's for emergency shelter purposes and doesn't become a permanent residence. You'll also need to make sure your property is properly cleared and levelled for your camper.

Finally, if you're looking for a more permanent solution, consider an RV park. There are several in Michigan that are open year-round, and you can find them through websites like Michigan RV & Campgrounds.

So, if you do your research, follow the rules, and choose the right location, you can definitely enjoy living in your camper in Michigan!

Is it legal to live in a camper in Michigan?

It is legal to live in a camper in Michigan, but only in certain townships and with some conditions attached. Firstly, it is important to note that Michigan state law forbids the use of "travel trailers" and "camping trailers" as permanent residences. However, they can be used on your property for short periods as emergency shelters. This means that if you are camping out on land that you own, you will be fine for a few months, but after that, you may need to get permission from the local authorities.

Some townships in Michigan allow campers, but not all, so it is always best to check with the local authorities before settling down. You should also make sure you follow any zoning regulations in place. If you are living in a camper on your own land, you will need to comply with zoning and local housing laws. This includes safety and building codes, such as having windows that can be opened, access to clean water, electricity, and protection against rodents and insects. You will also need to comply with occupancy limits, and make sure your camper has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

If you are living in a camper in an RV park, this will always be legal, but your camper will need to be registered.

If you are looking to live in a camper in Michigan year-round, you will need to find an RV park that is open all year. There are several options, including Waldenwoods Resort, which has 320 campsites, and Petoskey State Park, which offers year-round activities including camping, biking, and hiking.

Can I live in a camper on my own land in Michigan?

Michigan's state law concerning mobile homes states that "travel trailers" and "camping trailers" are not to be used as permanent residences. However, you can live in a camper on your property for short periods, such as a few months, as emergency shelters. After this period, it may be up to local authorities, and you could be required to hook up a sewer and water system.

State law also allows local townships and governments to implement their own ordinances regarding housing. Therefore, it is essential to check with your local community before living in a camper on your land for extended periods. Some townships strictly forbid living in a camper on your own land, while others may have more relaxed regulations.

If you plan to live in a camper on your own land in Michigan, you should also be aware of the following:

• Zoning and local housing laws: These laws vary depending on the state and can be challenging to comply with for camper owners. For example, you cannot park your camper near a property line.
• Safety and building codes: Your camper must meet specific requirements, such as having windows that can be opened, access to utilities, and protection against pests.
• Permitting and zoning requirements: You need to check if your property is zoned for campers and if you need any permits for installing the necessary utilities.
• Clearing out the property: You may need to clear and level your land to accommodate your camper properly.
• Access to septic tanks or city sewage: All campers produce waste, and you must have a plan for safely disposing of it to avoid polluting the environment.
• Electricity: Running electricity to your camper can be challenging and expensive, and some areas may not allow generators or hardwiring electricity.

In summary, while it is possible to live in a camper on your own land in Michigan, it depends on the specific location and the local laws and regulations. You should always check with your local authorities before making any decisions.

Can I live in a camper in Michigan in the winter?

Yes, it is possible to live in a camper in Michigan during winter. However, it is important to note that Michigan's state law on mobile homes considers "travel trailers" and "camping trailers" as unsuitable for permanent residence. Still, you can live in them on your property for short periods, such as during emergencies. The duration of what is considered a "short period" may be determined by local authorities, and it is advisable to consult them to avoid any issues.

If you plan to live in a camper in Michigan during winter, there are several things you should consider to ensure your safety and comfort:

• Find a suitable location: Look for RV parks that are open year-round or consider camping near wind blocks to reduce snow impact on your camper.
• Insulation: Properly insulate your camper to retain heat. This includes covering roof vents, insulating under the mattress, using a heated mattress pad, and ensuring that slide-outs are sealed.
• Water management: Use a heated water hose to prevent freezing. Avoid filling water tanks to the brim, as the water can expand when frozen, causing damage. Use RV antifreeze as a precaution.
• Power and heat: Your furnace will be working overtime during winter. Ensure a steady supply of propane and consider using an electric space heater to reduce furnace usage.
• Snow management: Keep snow off your camper's roof to prevent water leaks and other issues. Use a long-handled bristle brush to remove piled snow, and avoid using hot water to melt ice, as it can damage the roof.
• Sewer system: Use a sewer hose ladder to keep the hose at a permanent slope and prevent standing water, which can freeze.
• Personal comfort: Bring extra blankets, quilts, and warm clothing. Pack hand warmers, shovels, chains, and rock salt for emergencies.

Additionally, always ensure your camper complies with local zoning and housing laws, safety and building codes, and has access to essential utilities like clean water, sewers, and electricity.

Where can I camp in Michigan in winter?

Michigan is known for its harsh winters and bitter cold, but for those willing to brave the cold, it can be one of the most beautiful winter camping destinations in the world. There are several campgrounds in Michigan that are open all year round. Here is a list of places where you can camp in Michigan during the winter:

Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer

Warren Dunes State Park is a popular summer destination due to its dunes and stunning shoreline. However, it is equally beautiful in the winter, offering impressive dunes, excellent shoreline, great hiking, and cross-country skiing. This park spans 1,952 acres of land and provides access to a frozen Lake Michigan, a must-see during the winter.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise

The cedar-stained Tahquamenon Falls, tucked in the Upper Peninsula, are a sight to behold in the winter. The park spans 13 miles of largely undeveloped terrain and offers 35 miles of hiking trails. The Upper Falls, featuring a breathtaking 50-foot drop of up to 50,000 gallons per second, is a highlight.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ontonagon

The Porcupine Mountains offer incredible hiking and downhill skiing on some of the most unique mountains in America. With over 200 inches of snow per year, this area is perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The park is Michigan's largest, spanning 60,000 acres, and offers a variety of year-round accommodations with more than 250 campsites across 11 campgrounds.

Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, Sidnaw

The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness is a designated area within the Ottawa National Forest. Sturgeon Falls, a 25-foot waterfall, is a stunning sight. The area offers seven reserved campsites at Sturgeon River Campground, as well as primitive wilderness camping year-round. Campers can stay at one campsite for up to 16 consecutive days.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising

Pictured Rocks is a well-known and frequently visited site in Michigan. It offers incredible hiking that is open all year round, and unique experiences in the winter with extremely long icicles and ice "pancakes" in the water. Campers can enjoy scenic views of beautiful beaches, cliffs, and dunes, as well as kayaking, boating, and other water activities on Lake Superior.

Muskegon State Park, Muskegon

Muskegon State Park offers a gorgeous view of Lake Michigan with two miles of uninhabited shoreline. The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park is the park's biggest winter attraction, featuring cross-country skiing, ice skating, sledding, and other fun winter activities. The park has two campgrounds, Channel and Lake Michigan, offering a total of 245 campsites.

Is it legal to live in a camper in my parents' backyard?

It is illegal to live in an RV in your parents' backyard in Michigan because the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development does not classify them as permanent dwellings. The federal government states that RVs should only be used for recreational, travel, or camping purposes.

However, it is legal to live in a camper in Michigan if you follow any zoning regulations that are in place. Some townships allow campers, but not all. You can live in a camper on your own property in Michigan as long as it is for emergency shelter purposes and does not become a permanent residence.

If you want to live in your camper in Michigan, your best option is to find an RV park that is open all year round. Websites like Michigan RV & Campgrounds can help you locate campgrounds that are open throughout the year.

There are also some things to keep in mind if you want to live in an RV on your own property. Firstly, you need to make sure your RV complies with all county and city codes. This includes having windows that can be opened, heating, cooling, access to clean water and sewers, electricity, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and protection against rodents or insects. Secondly, you need to comply with zoning and local housing laws, which may include parking restrictions and occupancy limits. Lastly, you need to have access to septic tanks or city sewage, as living in an RV without proper waste disposal can be dangerous and harmful to the environment.

Frequently asked questions