Campers visiting the Calumet region have access to rustic and developed options throughout Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Located at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level, this copper mining region experiences some of the heaviest snowfall in the Midwest, with accumulations often exceeding 200 inches annually. Winter arrives as early as October and lingers through late April, significantly affecting camping seasons and accessibility.
What to do
Explore copper mining history: Visit mining sites and museums near McLain State Park Campground. "Located in the heart of the Keweenaw with nice sites that have a great view of the lake if you get one of the sites near the shore. Big park area, beach with both sandy and rocky places, a ice shop, and not far from Houghton/Hancock," notes Dalton B.
Fishing opportunities: The Keweenaw Peninsula offers multiple fishing spots. "Great for bicycling, hiking, lazy days at the beach. Lake superior water is cold! Has jetty near beach with lighthouse. Great for fishing. Canal to Houghton/Hancock empties into lake next to beach," reports Wendy L. from McLain State Park.
Winter recreation: Some areas maintain year-round access for winter sports. "There is very nice beach and a dog friendly beach. All sites had a very nice fire pit though there was no grate," according to Thomas S., highlighting amenities at McLain State Park that remain accessible in certain seasons.
Historical fort exploration: The restored 1844 military outpost at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park offers educational experiences. "Enjoyed visiting the historic fort - they've done a great job of making history understandable," shares Cheryl K.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Camping directly on Lake Superior is highly valued. At Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground, "There are tent sites all along the beach front to watch the sunset and pick rocks. Most sites are fairly level," reports Stephen L.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers matter to campers. "The bathrooms are a bit outdated, but were super clean and in good working order. There is very little cell service in the area, but the bathroom has wifi if you need to check in with anyone," notes a camper about Fort Wilkins.
Local charm: Small town accessibility enhances the camping experience. "The nearby village is very small but has almost everything you'll need. The facilities were clean and in good repair. All of the campsites well maintained," notes a camper at Lake Linden Village Campground.
Spacious tent sites: Campers appreciate room to spread out. "The tent sites have lots of trees that makes it seem like you are roughin' it. It is nice to have access to real bathrooms though," says Melanie R. about Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground.
What you should know
Winter comes early: Be prepared for rapid weather changes. "We stayed for about a week and a half and used Starlink as our everyday internet source (60+ mbps download, no interruptions). AT&T cell signal was decent," reports Nikki P. at Lake Linden Village Campground, where technology access becomes important during inclement weather.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across the peninsula. "There is very little cell service in the area, but the bathroom has wifi if you need to check in with anyone," notes Yetiman at Fort Wilkins.
Road conditions: Some areas have challenging access roads. At Lake Perrault, "The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that. There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents," advises Chuck M.
Reservation needs: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We called with just a couple weeks notice but scored a site because someone cancelled," explains Nancy W. about securing a spot at Houghton RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Look for campgrounds with play areas. At City of Houghton RV Park, "Beautiful and clean! Right on the water with a little hut. Awesome playground as well. There is a hike across the water that has incredible waterfalls," mentions Ber M.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into your camping trip. "We toured the Quincy Mine and really enjoyed that," shares Nancy W. about exploring near Houghton RV Park, where historical mining operations offer guided tours.
Beach activities: Sandy shores provide entertainment for children. "There was a very nice beach and a dog friendly beach," notes Thomas S. about McLain State Park, highlighting the separate swimming areas that accommodate families with pets.
Winter preparations: If camping during shoulder seasons, pack for cold weather. "Winter comes early to the UP," notes a camper, emphasizing the need for proper cold-weather gear even in early fall.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully for the best views. "All sites are designed to be back-in but we asked if we could pull in forward so the view of the river was out our front window and our door opened right onto the patio," shares Nancy W. from Houghton RV Park.
Campground amenities: Verify hook-up availability before arrival. "Good value with electric, water and dump station. Nice place for boating!" reports a camper at Lake Linden Village Campground, noting the basic but functional services.
Site spacing: Consider proximity to neighbors when selecting locations. "The sites are close but the view and proximity to outdoor walking make this a campground we will return to visit," notes Carol W. about Houghton RV Park, highlighting the trade-off between space and location.
Seasonal considerations: Check campground closing dates. Many facilities shut down by mid-October, but some offer extended services. "The campground was were well kept and clean," shares Thomas S. about McLain State Park, one of the few locations with services extending later in the season.
