Grand Island National Recreation Area offers primitive tent camping opportunities throughout Hiawatha National Forest. Situated in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, campsites require a ferry ride from Munising and typically demand a hike ranging from half a mile to several miles depending on the chosen site. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer averages 75°F with frequent rainfall creating muddy conditions on trails.
What to do
Beach exploration: Access Lake Superior's shoreline at Shelter Ridge Campsite, where the North Beach area provides swimming opportunities during warmer months. "It was nice to have a day to relax on the beach which is right in front of the site. Best part, it was nice enough for us to take a dip in Lake Superior!" notes camper Austin.
Blueberry picking: Seasonal berry harvesting adds a foraging element to summer camping trips. At Duck Lake Campsites, one visitor mentioned "a lot of blueberries around when in season" making for an enjoyable additional activity while staying at this lakeside site.
Biking: The island features extensive trail networks suitable for mountain biking between campsites. "There is biking, swimming, and hiking as the main attractions/activities," notes Sara S. about Little Dune I Campsite, mentioning the well-maintained trail system connecting camping areas.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Loon sightings and other wildlife observation opportunities attract nature enthusiasts. At Loon Call Campsite, campers appreciate the "small beach, comfortable campsite with space for 2 or 3 tents" while enjoying bird watching opportunities that give the site its name.
Stargazing: Clear night skies provide excellent viewing conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. Duck Lake Campsites offers what one visitor described as "beautiful sunset opportunities and on a clear night you can see plenty of stars," making it ideal for night sky observation.
Beach access: Many sites feature direct access to Lake Superior beaches. "This beach is pretty rocky, but pretty nonetheless, and offers a refreshing Lake Superior fill up!" notes a camper about Hemlock Campsite, highlighting the distinctive rocky shoreline characteristic of this region.
What you should know
Drinking water access: Limited potable water sources require planning. At Hemlock Campsite, "Potable well water is available along the hike in to the site, about .5 miles from the Hemlock campsite. We didn't expect this, and could have left our water filtration set up at home."
Bear preparation: Food storage infrastructure exists but varies by site. Loon Call Campsite provides a "bear storage bin" according to one review, while Duck Lake features a "bear box and pole to keep food safe."
Firewood availability: Some sites provide wood on-site, eliminating the need to carry it. At Hemlock Campsite, "Free firewood is provided right near the entrance to the campsite. We had no idea about this, and it was a great surprise."
Access limitations: Dispersed camping options near Chatham face restrictions. Lake Superior Beachfront camping has recent reviews noting "signs posted just about everywhere 'no camping or overnight parking'" and "several signs saying 'No Camping' and 'Day Use Only,'" indicating enforcement changes in previously available areas.
Tips for camping with families
Ferry planning: The Grand Island ferry schedule runs seasonally with limited daily crossings. "Grand Island is a ferry boat or sea kayak paddle away from the main land near the town of Munising, Mi," notes a reviewer at Gamefence Campsite, emphasizing the need to coordinate transportation timing.
Bug protection: Insect density varies seasonally but requires preparation. One camper at Channel Marker noted "the bugs (mosquitoes and flies) are horrendous! Even with strong deet spray. Good idea to invest in the bug net gear the ferry service recommends!"
Site selection: Choose sites with appropriate hiking distances for children. Murray Bay group site at Grand Island National Recreation Area offers advantages for families as it includes "your own small beach" and is accessible without extensive hiking.
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: The best tent camping near Chatham, Michigan lacks RV facilities, requiring vehicle-based campers to seek options elsewhere. "No electricity, no plumbing.. just nature," states a review for Grand Island National Recreation Area, confirming the primitive tent-only camping environment.
Day use options: RVers can park at mainland locations and access island camping via ferry. "You can access the campground by North Light Creek beach. It's about 10 miles from William's Landing," notes a kayaker visiting Shelter Ridge, providing guidance on day trip access points from mainland parking areas.
