Big Bay is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Big Bay camping trip.
"It’s a County Park in Big Bay on beautiful Lake Independence. They have full hook up sites to primitive sites."
"Laundry facility is outside the camp (private) but worth noting.
Close to Lake Superior, just off of the Circle Tour. Marquette is within 30 min."
$20 - $40 / night
"Stayed on our drive from Mackinac to see the pictured rocks lake shore. The campground is surrounded by 18 miles of trails. No camp store, but a convenience store is a quarter mile away."
"This campground is in Marquette, near Northern Michigan University. But once you're camped there, you won't feel like you're in one of the largest cities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. "
"Awesome spot right on the waters of Lake Superior. Absolutely gorgeous sunsets and sunrises."
"Easy to find, beautiful area, lots of room, porta potties, direct lake access. Only “complaint” would be no service, but given how amazing the site is it felt more like a blessing."
$20 - $34 / night
"We took a week long trip and toured Michigan. We spent 2 nights at Van Riper, the other campers were nice, the playset was large, and the beach was nice."
"We found this campground located along U.S. Hwy 41 about 40 minutes west of Marquette MI. The Park sits on the west shores of Lake Michigamme. "
$25 / night
"Great spot if you’re looking for something near to, but away from Marquette."
"Rustic sites only, this is the trail head to a network of snowshoeing, biking, and hiking trails. There are 19 sites, three of which line the field the other 16 are tucked in the woods."
$40 - $50 / night
"Rippling River is a really nice campground, very close to downtown Marquette and right in/on a huge mountain bike park."
"Nice new place, located next to bike trails, orv trails, and the ski hill. Good location."
$35 - $51 / night
"It is located off US-41 which is a major Upper Peninsula thoroughfare but set back about ½ miles so you don’t get road noise but it is still convenient. "
"This is our 2nd time staying & both were because of its convenience to ‘civilization’ not to get away from it."
$30 / night
"Things I love about this campground: sites with easy access to private lakeside swimming, clean restrooms with Wifi and laundry, the fort is an interesting piece of history to explore, and the conglomerate"
"Situated on the very tip of Copper Country in Copper Harbor, Michigan and the beginning of U.S. HWY 41 that makes its way all the way to Florida!"
"My family and I took a 3 week vacation to visit Michigan. We stayed at a few different campgrounds, and did lots of hiking."
"Beautiful lake, great swimming area, secure, full hook ups. Very helpful we came in late night- they left reservation info in the mail box for us."
ScoutThe only thing you hear out here are the waves. Extremely peaceful. September 8.
LegendOur site was so tiny that I had to put the picnic table on top of the fire pit just to put up our four person tent and park our compact car. There was no privacy and no shade. The area however, is fantastic. The camp store is well stocked. The showers are clean.
TravelerThe air is cool and crisp, the water is crashing against the rocky shoreline, there are tiny little mountains with tiny little trees, the sky is cloudy, and it's often a little drizzly this is a tiny little Pacific Northwest.
The road in looks intimidating, but isn't that bad.
The nearby town of Copper Harbor is very cute. Check out Jamsen's Bakery for some delicious donuts!
You can buy a state park pass at the nearby Fort Wilkins Historic State Park if you need one.
There are vault toilets but no other facilities.
Nearby attractions include...
No boat ramp, but you could get kayaks or canoes in the water easily enough.
TravelerStayed at sight 4 on a Friday night , no one else here. Nice and quiet , only person I saw was a forest ranger . Sights are all easily accessible and kept clean and in good condition . Bathroom and hand pump well on sight
TravelerGreat spot to camp at. I went on a weekend and there were lots of people and kids. Most of the people left Sunday afternoon and the weekday seems to not be as bad with people. There are porta potties.
ScoutCould be pretty nice when done. But $39 for grass site is a bit much. Consider showers. Even if pay to use....
ScoutWe stayed for a month, twice the owner tried to tell us we owed more money. My wife had to show him the emails they exchanged, proving him wrong. The campground has very hard water, to the point our shower is stained pretty bad even though we had multiple filters and a water softener . Our site was nice and a short walk to Lake Superior.
ScoutDefinitely a unique spot. The staff was really kind. They have some cool amenities like billiards and house crafted beer. The spots were spacious in the woods and had a good feel. Can’t beat the location either, given it’s right across from Lake Superior beach access.
GuideArrived Sunday afternoon. No one camping. 13 back in or tent campsites, shaded, level with picnic table & fire ring. Pit toilets and hand pump for water. Boat landing & small sand beach for swimming & fishing. Hiking trails are a plus.
Camping near Big Bay, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly spot, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Big Bay, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun family adventure, there’s something for you in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp at Perkins Park in Big Bay, MI?
While specific rates for Perkins Park aren't detailed in the reviews, camping fees in Michigan's Upper Peninsula county parks typically range from $15-30 per night depending on the type of site. For comparison, Big Lake State Forest Campground charges $15 per night for unelectrified sites. At Perkins Park, expect different price points for their various site options, with primitive sites being less expensive than full hookup sites. Contact the park directly or check their official website for current rates and reservation information.
What amenities are available at Perkins Park Campground in Big Bay?
Perkins Park & Campground offers a range of camping options from full hookup sites to primitive sites. The campground is situated on beautiful Lake Independence, providing water access. Campers can easily walk or bike to nearby conveniences including a convenience store, gas station, laundry facilities, and a restaurant. There's even a golf driving range behind the convenience store where you can hit a bucket of balls for $5. The park's location on Lake Independence makes it ideal for water activities and fishing.
Where is the Big Bay campground located in Michigan?
Perkins Park & Campground is located in Big Bay, Michigan on the shores of Lake Independence in the Upper Peninsula. Big Bay is approximately 30 miles northwest of Marquette, making it accessible while still providing a more secluded camping experience. The area is situated near Highway 41, which is a major Upper Peninsula thoroughfare, making it relatively easy to reach from surrounding communities.
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