Tent camping near Deerton, Michigan offers wilderness experiences in the Upper Peninsula's forested terrain, with sites situated around 700-900 feet in elevation. The region experiences short, mild summers with evening temperatures that can drop below 50°F even in July and August, making warm sleeping bags essential for overnight stays. Seasonal considerations greatly impact the camping experience in this Lake Superior shoreline area.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Forestville Campground serves as a trailhead for extensive mountain biking networks. "This is the trail head to a network of snowshoeing, biking, and hiking trails," notes a camper from Forestville. The campground connects to the Noquemanon Trail Network which attracts cyclists from across the region.
Beach exploration: North Beach on Grand Island provides spectacular shoreline access for day trips. "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!" reports a visitor at Shelter Ridge Campsite On Grand Island.
Winter recreation: The area transforms in winter with opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. "We camped here in a van in December and we're able to access the pit toilets. They were very clean. We had the whole place to ourselves," explains a winter visitor to Forestville Campground.
What campers like
Natural lake access: Many sites provide direct access to Lake Superior's clear waters. At Hemlock Campsite on Grand Island, "Crystal clear lake superior is accessible by stairs near this campsite. Beautiful rocks to explore. When we went, the stairs were damaged and not open, though we were able to use them anyway."
Secluded sites: Several backcountry locations offer significant privacy from other campers. "Gull Point is a nine mile hike from the ferry dock on Grand Island and six miles from the closest potable water. The campsite itself is incredibly secluded, far away from other sites," explains one reviewer of Gull Point Campsite on Grand Island.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife, including waterfowl. "Small beach, comfortable campsite with space for 2 or 3 tents. Bear storage bin and drinking water," notes a camper at Loon Call Campsite, which lives up to its name with potential loon sightings on the nearby water.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Black bears inhabit the region, particularly on Grand Island. "Bring your bear proof food containers and copious amounts of bug spray. There is a lot of standing water on the island so the squitoes are thick," advises a camper from Gamefence Campsite - Grand Island.
Site sizes vary: Some camping areas have limited space for larger groups. At Forestville Campground, "Sites are small for larger vehicles. Fire pits and picnic tables at all sites. MTB trails everywhere. Potable water until freeze," reports a visitor.
Insect preparation: Insects can be intense during summer months. "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!" shares a visitor from Channel Marker Campsite.
Water logistics: Plan for water sources or bring filtration. "It's about six miles from the closest potable water. The closest creek where you can get water to filter is about 1.5 miles away from the site," notes a Gull Point Campsite visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with easier access for children. "Murray Bay group site. Excellent location with your own small beach. Bring a bike for travel, see all the lakes, greenery and you must visit waterfall beach," recommends a repeat visitor to Grand Island National Recreation Area.
Weekend planning: Popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. "There are 19 sites, three of which line the field the other 16 are tucked in the woods... There's a massive bike race held every summer and this is where the cyclists stay, so it gets pretty packed pretty quickly," explains a Forestville visitor.
Nearby attractions: Consider proximity to town amenities when planning trips with children. "The campsite is off the beaten trail literally, this is at a definite high traffic area for the island as the ferry dock is nearby," notes a Channel Marker Campsite visitor about accessibility.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs have limited options in the Deerton area. At Forestville Campground, "No types of hookups for anything, and large RVs will not be able to access these sites! Only a one lane path with tight turns. The largest vehicle I saw during my few days here was a pickup truck with a bed-mounted camping unit."
Access considerations: Most backcountry sites on Grand Island are tent-only. "Very pleasant and new developed campground. We found this place out of sheer luck while looking for a campsite on the forest road. Great spot if you're looking for something near to, but away from Marquette," notes a Forestville visitor about its vehicle accessibility.
Alternative accommodations: Some campers use vans for winter camping options. "We camped here in a van in December and we're able to access the pit toilets," reports a Forestville visitor, showing year-round accessibility for smaller camper vehicles.
