Campfire Shores Celebrates Grand Opening in Manistique
- STC
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
MANISTIQUE, MI – June 2026 – A new chapter in outdoor recreation and tourism has
officially begun in Schoolcraft County as Campfire Shores celebrated its grand opening
on June 12, 2026, with an afternoon of community festivities, live music, food, and tours
of the property. The celebration marked the official opening of the newly redeveloped
campground and outdoor destination, including its newly completed glamping domes,
located at 6596 W. US-2 in Manistique.
Campfire Shores officially opened in 2025 and offers a mix of tent camping, glamping
domes, RV sites, hiking trails, direct access to ATV/snowmobile trails, modern
amenities, and gathering spaces designed to connect visitors with the natural beauty of
Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The property includes upgraded camping
accommodations, a newly constructed bathhouse, and access to scenic trails
throughout the surrounding landscape. The stunning new glamping domes provide
visitors with a truly unique lodging experience, combining the comforts of upscale
accommodations with the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors. Future plans for the
development include event spaces, and continued renovation of the former hotel
property on the site.
The project represents a significant redevelopment effort for a highly visible property
along the US-2 corridor. Owner Jill Hoffmann from Indianapolis, Indiana, had purchased
property in the Manistique area with plans to move to the UP. She frequently drove past
the former motel property, and each time she passed by, she found herself saying,
"Someone needs to bring that place back to life." Eventually, she realized that someone
could be her. What began as a vision to restore a neglected property has grown into
Campfire Shores, a unique year-round destination that serves both visitors and local
residents while supporting tourism-related economic activity in the region.
In April 2026, the project achieved another major milestone when Schoolcraft County
approved the first Brownfield Plan in the county's history for the Campfire Shores
development. The approval created tax incentive opportunities that will help support the
next phase of redevelopment, including renovation work planned for the former hotel
building on the property. The Brownfield approval is considered a significant step
forward for economic development efforts in Schoolcraft County and demonstrates the
community's commitment to encouraging investment in redevelopment projects.
"As an environmentalist at heart, I’ve always dreamed of creating opportunities for
people to connect with nature in ways that inspire both stewardship and community.
Campfire Shores is our effort to bring that vision to life in a part of the Upper Peninsula
known for its incredible natural beauty and welcoming, creative spirit. We’re excited to create a gathering place where visitors and residents can connect with the outdoors,
with one another, and with the unique character of the Manistique area. I’m especially
looking forward to the programming and events we have planned and the role they can
play in adding to the community’s charm and vibrancy," said Jill Hoffmann, owner of
Campfire Shores.
"Campfire Shores is an exciting addition to our tourism and recreation offerings in
Schoolcraft County," said Victoria George, Executive Director of Schoolcraft Tourism &
Commerce. "This project has taken a property that had been sitting vacant and
transformed it into a destination that will attract visitors, create new economic activity,
and provide another unique outdoor experience for people exploring the Upper
Peninsula. The new glamping domes are absolutely gorgeous and offer a one-of-a-kind
lodging experience that combines luxury and nature in a way that is rarely found in our
region. We are especially excited to see the first Brownfield Plan approved in
Schoolcraft County help support this redevelopment effort and open the door for future
investment opportunities in our community."
Campfire Shores joins the growing list of businesses and tourism attractions investing in
Schoolcraft County's future. The development is expected to enhance the area's appeal
to campers, outdoor enthusiasts, ATV riders, snowmobilers, and travelers seeking
access to the region's lakes, forests, trails, and recreational opportunities.
The grand opening event welcomed community members and visitors to explore the
property and learn more about the vision for the ongoing redevelopment. The event also
gave attendees an opportunity to tour the newly opened glamping domes and
experience firsthand the unique accommodations now available for reservation.
For more information about Campfire Shores, visit www.campfireshores.com or follow
Campfire Shores on Facebook:
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