145 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
State parks and forests surrounding Grand Marais, Michigan feature a diverse range of camping experiences along Lake Superior's southern shore. Woodland Park Campground sits within town limits, offering electric hookups, showers, and beach access via stairs from a bluff overlooking the lake. More rustic options spread throughout the region include Twelvemile Beach Campground in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where campsites nestle among white birch forests with Lake Superior views. Several small state forest campgrounds like Blind Sucker #1 and #2, located about 13 miles east of Grand Marais, provide basic amenities with lake access. The Hurricane River Campground offers proximity to the Au Sable Lighthouse, while smaller private options like JoeIda Campground maintain just eight sites in a quiet forest setting.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds accessible only via gravel or dirt roads. As one camper noted, "The gravel road leading to Blind Sucker has some pretty bad washboard sections that will rattle your teeth." Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites outside town. Summer brings persistent black flies and mosquitoes, particularly away from lakeshores where breezes offer some relief. Many state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are open from April through October. Michigan Recreation Passports are required for state facilities, with non-residents paying additional fees. Temperatures can remain cool even in summer, with one visitor reporting, "It was very chilly when we were there in the first week of July, but we had the pleasure of seeing the northern lights!"
Lakeside sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, particularly those with direct Lake Superior access. The North Country Trail passes through several campgrounds, providing hiking opportunities directly from campsites. Wildlife sightings include black bears, particularly in less developed areas. Campers frequently mention the clean vault toilets at state forest campgrounds as a pleasant surprise. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore sites fill quickly during summer months, with visitors advising early morning arrivals to secure spots. Fall camping offers fewer insects and spectacular color displays. The town of Grand Marais provides basic supplies, including firewood, gas, and food, making it a convenient base for exploring the eastern section of Pictured Rocks. As one visitor summarized, "The camp sites, though in the forest, are steps away from Lake Superior. When leaving in the morning we stumbled upon a black bear sow and her two cubs in the middle of the road."
"We stayed at site 19 lake side. A large private site with many trees. A short walk behind our site lead to a gorgeous overlook of Lake Superior."
"There are several short (less than a mile) walks to gorgeous waterfalls. If you are more ambitious and able hike the Chapel Falls Loop."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Really nice park, views of Lake Superior, stairs down to Lake Superior beach, Electric hookups, cable TV hookups, sites big enough to park your RV & boat, firewood is available."
"We had a back in site, very close to the bathhouse which was nice and clean. Cleaned daily &closed for cleaning between 9-10am."
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"There are paths in between all the campsites to either the main road or up to the upper campground."
"Campground is fairly close to Grand Marais and the Au Sable Lighthouse. Nice trails around! "
from $25 / night
Check Availability"We stayed after hiking around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore."
"Right on Lake Superior and the North Country Trail! Also, it is just moments from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Grand Marais. Our pup loved running on the beach."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"I'm very thankful to the state of Michigan for having first-come first-serve options like Kingston Lake!"
"Very quiet and a close, easy drive to the Pictured Rocks hikes I wanted to do. Spots are large and spaced out. Campground is first come first served, $15 a night + Michigan recreation pass."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"It gets cold in pictured rocks and being away from the gusts of wind coming off the lake and being able to warm up via fire is ideal."
"This is another easy-hike site located in the park. The site is situated not along Lake Superior, but Little Beaver Lake--although the name can be misleading."
"You have access to Muskallonge Lake in the campground, and there is Lake Superior access not too far down the road, there is a trail from the campground."
"Inland lake on camp side ride your bike or walk across the street for lake sUperior rock hunting"
from $35 - $40 / night
Check Availability"We had initially wanted to stay at Lake Superior State Forest campground, but there were no sites available. This was just right up the road, within minutes and worked out wonderfully."
"We meant to camp at Lake Superior State Campground but it was packed every single day even MIDWEEK! We drove over to Blindsucker 1 but the sites where very close to others without much privacy."
"We had site #8 which was large, near the toilets and near the water pump. (As someone else mentioned, the vault toilets are like no others we’ve experienced. Amazingly clean and new.)"
"If you’re into getting off the grid in the middle of the forest with nearby lakes this is a great spot. Small campground with private sites within pictures rocks lakeshore."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Our rustic camp site was located right on the North Country Trail which was ideal for morning hiking and adventuring. Also, there is access to Blind Sucker flooding where you fish and kayak."
"This is one of many small rustic campgrounds in the state forest along Lake Superior east of Grand Marais. "
GuideSuch a great location at the mouth of Two Hearted River from Superior. The swaying bridge over the river to Superior is right in the campground and everything is rustic and secluded. Campsites are fairly spacious with fire rings and picnic tables. As everyone has mentioned the drive in is a dirt road that’s pretty washboarded so bring tools to tighten things down if you have a trailer or rooftop tent etc.
TravelerThis park is just far enough out of town to make you feel you are in nature. The owners is so sweet and helped us with a lot of local info. Otter the Dog was being lazy Better showers than at home with tankless water heater so always hot water. Big sink so you can wash your dishes. All different kind of hookups spot. We took a rustic #5 , small spots but a cozy spot. I would so go back
ScoutThe campsites are pretty tight and close together so if you go, don’t go on a holiday. The comfort station is clean and there are handicapped options. The sites are mostly heavily forested so Starlink connectivity was spotty.
TravelerWas a long dirt road but when we got here there was only one other camper. So peaceful and the whole lake to ourselves. and enjoyed the light breeze Would come back
TravelerWe loved staying here. The views of Lake Superior were incredible, and the beach was great for rock hounds and beach goers —we really enjoyed spending time there. It was also nice to have clean bathrooms, laundry rooms, and a good dishwashing station. The walk to town was awesome, and the big open area behind our site leading to the bathhouse was perfect for the kids to play. We’d happily come back again.
GuideThis has been a perfect stay. Nikki at the front was amazing and you could immediately tell this was going to be awesome. Spacious campsite, firewood available, incredible views and rentable canoes. I wish we were staying longer! Mosquitoes a little thicker than directly on the lake but WAY better than the lower falls. One of our favorite places we’ve been!
ScoutWe made a quick stop on our way back to Wisconsin, part along the back of the lot, there were several RVs and a large truck close to us. We felt very relaxed and safe. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we were not able to stop into the casino, but I am planning a trip up next month and going to go in and give them some love, grab a snack, a drink and do a little gambling 😊
GuideHad a campsite facing Lake Superior. Water, shore power, wi-fi, cable tv. Restrooms and showers were super clean. A well run operation. 10 minutes from Picture Rock Natl Lakeshore. Walking distance to town. Coffee shop, restaurants and gas and liquor all close by. Fishing all over the place.
Great value. Great people.
RangerOnly 2 sites, and they need to be reserved, according to the ass who told me. Both occupied by people with pets, which I don't mind but is supposedly not allowed. 2 stars for the view.
Dispersed camping opportunities near Grand Marais, Michigan extend beyond established campgrounds to include remote backcountry sites throughout the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and surrounding state forests. The region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level, with Lake Superior shorelines and inland waterways creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. Night temperatures frequently drop into the 40s even during summer months, requiring campers to pack appropriate layering options.
Hike to Au Sable Lighthouse: From Hurricane River Campground, take the 1.5-mile trail along the shoreline to this historic landmark. "A short walk to Au Sable Lighthouse (1.5 miles). We took our chairs and a light snack to the beach to enjoy the sunset," writes Lee D. about Hurricane River Campground.
Backcountry camping exploration: Pictured Rocks offers designated backcountry sites requiring permits. "We did 5 days and a 60 mile trek along the trail and the views were unbelievable. Fresh water you can filter along the trail but plan ahead. Designated camping so plan your hike out in advance," notes Heidi S. about Pictured Rocks Backcountry.
Off-roading adventures: For ORV enthusiasts, Muskallonge Lake State Park provides direct trail access. "If you have an ORV/ATV, Muskallonge Lake State Park is one of the few state parks where you can ride your ORV straight from the state park to the many nearby designated ORV trails," explains Ari A.
Lake fishing: Inland lakes offer productive fishing without Lake Superior's unpredictable conditions. "Lots of small fish but the scenery is amazing," notes Joey F. about Blind Sucker #1.
Secluded forest sites: JoeIda Campground offers extremely private sites in dense woodland. "This is the campground seasoned boondocks would build for their family and friends. Perfect. Huge campsite\ns that are spread far apart. Small and beautiful," says Jim W. about JoeIda.
Lakefront camping access: Kingston Lake State Forest provides water views from nearly every site. "Every site has waterfront view. It's a rustic campground with pump water (very high mineral content) and vault toilets. It also has a picnic area and boat launch," shares Amy K. about Kingston Lake.
Wildlife encounters: Lake Superior State Forest Campground offers frequent wildlife sightings. "When leaving in the morning we stumbled upon a black bear sow and her two cubs in the middle of the road. Pure Michigan goodness! One of my favorite camping experiences in all of Michigan," reports Madison D.
Star-gazing opportunities: Remote locations provide exceptional dark sky viewing. "On clear nights, Star Gazing is Fantastic. I have never seen so many stars at one time as I did along Lake Superior," writes Michael C.
Road conditions: Many campsites require travel on rough gravel roads. "At least 11 miles of corrugated dirt road to get to the campground from either way. Very slow going with a camper," explains Brook W. about Lake Superior State Forest.
First-come basis: Many sites don't accept reservations. "This campground is extremely popular and reservations are not taken, so arrive early. It took us two tries before we landed a site here," advises Amy K.
Black fly season: Early summer brings intense insect activity. "Mosquitoes weren't horrible but thankfully a cool June means no black flies yet," notes Christopher L.
Limited cell service: Most remote campgrounds lack connectivity. "Verizon doesn't get data but at least one bar to send SMS messages," reports Christopher L. about Lake Superior State Forest.
Best playground access: Woodland Park Campground offers multiple play areas near town amenities. "There 2 playgrounds for the kids, small town is within walking distance.. and the breath taking sunsets!! Always a great time!" shares Sandy G. about Woodland Park.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs enhance children's experiences at some campgrounds. "We love exploring the beach and hiking down the trails right from the campground. We enjoy the ranger programs that are offered, and the camp hosts are so friendly!!" notes Mandi B. about Twelvemile Beach.
Swimming considerations: Muskallonge Lake offers warmer swimming than Lake Superior. "A designated swimming beach is available near the campground, as well as a small day-use area with a few picnic tables, grills, and some old playground equipment," explains Ari A.
Bring quarters for showers: Pay facilities require change. "The sites are good sizes, right on Lake superior, which gave us amazing views! Bring quarters if you want a shower! And lots of quarters if you don't shower quickly lol," advises Mindi M.
Limited hookup options: Most rustic sites offer no utilities. "No electric, or sewer. The pit toilets are clean and lack any smell," explains Dave T. about Blind Sucker #2.
Site selection for larger rigs: Twelvemile Beach has specific areas for RVs. "Sites: there is not a bad site here. Amazing. I like the following sites because they are long the Lakeshore. Some of them aren't as private as other sites, but looking at the lake from the campsite would be just fabulous: 1, 3 4 5 7, 9, 12, 14, 15, 30, 19," suggests Roger W. about Twelvemile Beach.
Generator regulations: Some campgrounds designate specific generator-free zones. "Generators: Allowed, but there is a generator free zone," mentions Roger W.
RV size limitations: Most rustic sites accommodate only smaller units. "Rig size: Max I saw was about 28'," notes Roger W.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Woodland Park campground in Grand Marais, Michigan?
Woodland Park Campground offers several convenient amenities for a comfortable stay. The campground provides electrical hookups and cable TV connections, with sites spacious enough to accommodate both RVs and boats. Clean bathhouses are maintained daily (closed for cleaning between 9-10am). Campers enjoy easy access to Lake Superior via stairs leading down to the beach. Firewood is available for purchase on-site. One of Woodland Park's biggest advantages is its in-town location, providing easy access to stores and gas stations. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations, so arriving early is recommended. Sites offer beautiful views of Lake Superior, making it an excellent choice for first-time RV campers.
Where are the best campgrounds near Grand Marais, MI?
Grand Marais offers excellent camping options for all preferences. Lake Superior State Forest Campground sits right on Lake Superior and provides direct access to the North Country Trail, just moments from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. For rustic camping with water activities, Blind Sucker #1 State Forest Campground offers sites along the North Country Trail with access to Blind Sucker flooding for fishing and kayaking. Other noteworthy options include Hurricane River Campground in Pictured Rocks, Ross Lake State Forest Campground for a more secluded experience, and Woodland Park Campground in town with Lake Superior views. Most campgrounds in the area are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended, especially during summer weekends.
How do I get to Twelvemile Beach Campground from Grand Marais, MI?
To reach Twelvemile Beach Campground from Grand Marais, head west on Highway 58 (H-58) toward Munising. The campground is located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, approximately 15 miles west of Grand Marais. Follow H-58 until you see signs for Twelvemile Beach Campground. The drive takes about 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the lakeshore. This gorgeous primitive campground features lakeside sites with no cell service for many miles, making it ideal for those seeking to disconnect. Along the way, you can stop at the Grand Sable Visitors Center for additional information. The campground's proximity to Hurricane River Campground and Au Sable Lighthouse makes it an excellent base for exploring the eastern section of Pictured Rocks.
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