Camping spots near Eben Junction, Michigan dot the landscape at elevations between 600-800 feet, creating varied terrain for campers to explore. The area sits within a transition zone between northern hardwood forests and boreal forest ecosystems, providing diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Most campgrounds report cell service ranging from nonexistent to spotty, with only higher elevation sites getting reliable connections.
What to do
Kayak Au Train River: The river provides calm water suitable for beginners and families, with access points near Au Train Lake Campground. "We kayaked Au Train River and stood in the Au Train falls. The bird watch site at camp was amazing as well. Don't skip out on Pictured Rocks either," advises Chelsea & Wes J.
Visit historical sites: The Bay Furnace ruins offer a glimpse into the area's iron-smelting past. "The history of the campground with the bay furnace within the limits. Where they used to smelt iron in a 150 year old furnace is fascinating," notes Corey O. from Bay Furnace Campground.
Wildlife observation: Forest Lake offers excellent bird-watching opportunities with minimal light pollution. "Enjoyed listening to the loons, sandhill cranes and osprey! Clean campground with access to the reservoir," reports Keenan from Forest Lake State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Au Train Lake offers warmer swimming than Lake Superior. "The water is beautiful and warmer than Lake Superior. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms," notes Raquel M. at Au Train Lake Campground.
Quiet, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the peace and privacy at certain campgrounds. "There was a little trail right to the waters edge at our site, nice and sandy (dont need water shoes) We spent most of our time there soaking up the sun in our tubes. Very quiet secluded site," shares Chelsea M. about Hovey Lake Campsites.
Dark night skies: The area offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "Great Dark Sky View!" points out Jen W. about Forest Lake State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes and black flies can be intense, particularly in May and June. "May/June quiet with only the sounds of eagles, bull frogs, mosquitoes, and black flies. Bring your bug spray and nets," warns Raquel M.
Rustic facilities predominate: Most state forest and national forest sites have basic amenities only. "No showers at this park but we had our own with us. Our campsite was very clean when we arrived to setup camp and the hosts make sure each site looks fabulous before new individuals arrive," mentions Chelsea & Wes J.
Generator noise concerns: At some campgrounds, inconsiderate generator use affects the camping experience. "Super beautiful campground. Spent 10 days here to visit all the waterfalls, Pictured Rocks, Twelve Mile beach etc. Only down site people who are running their generators all day and night. Everyone was disturbed," reports Birgit H. from Au Train Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some private campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "We only stayed here one night but the kids had a lot of fun, they have a lot of outdoor toys. There were kids everywhere," notes Melissa M. about Superior Times.
Educational opportunities: The area provides natural learning experiences for children. "There was a great trail near our campsite that had signs and info about the birds in the area (great for young ones especially)," shares Jade G. about Au Train Lake Campground.
Site selection for families: Consider site location carefully when booking. "The sites were decent sized and the campground was quiet. Rustic style toilets and a nice beach for swimming," advises Kate K.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional setup time. "Directions were a little sketchy but worth the extra effort. There's a total of 7 campsites and when I arrived 2 were already taken. I chose mine and settled in for the night. Warning, all the sites were very unlevel!" cautions Frank M. about Hovey Lake Campsites.
Electrical hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. "Not a whole lot of full hook up sites available. Several out in the open right at the highway... back in the woods there is electric only. Peaceful campground but no cell service or starlink under the tree canopy," notes Nick & Allyssa S. about Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA.
Site spacing varies significantly: RV parks have different approaches to site layout. "Open, level gravel sites and some concrete pads scattered throughout this pretty new campground. A few baby trees in the open meadow are trying to get started, but other than those there is no shade," reports Jennifer B. from Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground.
