Camping near Grand Marais, MI

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    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."

    Best Campgrounds near Grand Marais (145)

      1. Woodland Park Campground

      4.6(27)0mi from Grand MaraisRVs, Tents

      "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

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      2. Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

      4.8(39)11mi from Grand Marais37 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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

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      3. Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

      4.5(20)9mi from Grand Marais22 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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

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      4. Lake Superior State Forest Campground

      4.8(13)11mi from Grand MaraisTents

      "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

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      5. Kingston Lake State Forest

      4.6(15)13mi from Grand MaraisRVs, Tents

      "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

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      6. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

      4.8(21)17mi from Grand Marais72 sitesTents

      "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."

      7. Muskallonge Lake State Park Campground

      4.3(21)17mi from Grand Marais159 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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

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      8. Blind Sucker #2 State Forest Campground

      4.3(8)11mi from Grand MaraisRVs, Tents

      "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."

      9. JoeIda Campground

      5.0(8)13mi from Grand MaraisRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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

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      10. Blind Sucker #1 State Forest Campground

      4.2(5)11mi from Grand MaraisRVs, Tents

      "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. "

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    Recent Reviews near Grand Marais, MI

    769 Reviews of 145 Grand Marais Campgrounds

    • Meghan B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 23, 2026

      Muskallonge Lake State Park Campground

      Muskallonge Lake State Park Modern Campground

      After a week exploring the western half of the UP, we made our way back to Muskallonge Lake State Park Campground for a night to freshen up, plug in, and recharge before continuing with more activities in the area. As I mentioned in my previous review for this location, the campground has three loops. This time, we stayed in Loop 3--the more wooded loop, with plenty of trees and more privacy between the sites. We chose a “lakefront” site, which also cost $43 for the night (including the $8 online reservation fee). I was able to book it online just two days before our arrival. Loop 3 has its own restroom facility, which was convenient. And just like our site in the more open Loop 2, we had one bar of cell service. It was slow, but still usable, even with all the trees surrounding the site.

    • MThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 22, 2026

      North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground

      Quiet Lakefront Campground

      Nice well kept campground. Plenty of sites along the water. Seems a bit more unknown compared to other sites in the area as I was struggling to find somewhere with open spots until I came here. Also, despite being a small lake it was great for fishing, I caught plenty of northerns and my personal best smallmouth.

    • AThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 19, 2026

      Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land)

      Beautiful Site, got stuck BAD, “no camp” signs. Idk what that means.

      This spot is beautiful for someone with a 4x4. Unfortunately my rear wheel drive tundra did not make it very far. That said, I walked the remaining 100 feet to the site, right on Lake Superior. There are local walkers, I encountered about 5 - 8 teams walking the beaches.

    • Charlie Y.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 18, 2026

      Kewadin Casino Manistique

      Overnight RV stop

      Decent RV Site...lot adjacent to casino...economically priced..30/50 amp hook up. We stopped late in the evening needing a secure, safe site for a night....cross country RV travelers. Highly recommend...couldn't be easier or more convenient considering our routing and needs(mosquitos enjoyed our visit...so we didn't spend much time outside....but did venture in the casino for a visit)

    • GThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 17, 2026

      Perch Lake State Forest Campground

      Very nice campground

      Stayed two nights in my tent. It was quiet, even parked close to the boat ramp. Would definitely stay again.

    • Meghan B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 16, 2026

      Muskallonge Lake State Park Campground

      Muskallonge Lake State Park Modern Campground

      After reading this description on The Dyrt--“The park’s 159 sites span three distinct loops with noticeably different characters: Loop 1 runs open and exposed, while Loops 2 and 3 (sites 81–159) provide more tree cover and a woodsier atmosphere”--I booked Site 100 in Loop 2 expecting a little more tree cover. I can tell you that Loop 2 is pretty exposed as well! If you’re specifically looking for a more wooded, shady site, Loop 3 may be the better choice. Ah, well! We only booked one night since we’re passing through and mainly stopping here for the hot showers anyway. $43 for our stay (includes the $8 online reservation fee), which I booked online the evening before we were to arrive. The campground was about 80% full on a Tuesday in mid-September. 1 bar cell service--slow, but usable.

    • bThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 16, 2026

      Kewadin Casino, Christmas MI

      I wouldn’t come here for gambling or to park

      I saw on a different app that they had overnight parking with free electric hookup, no fee was mentioned. I called at 7:45pm and spoke with a guy in security and asked “Is it enough space to set up a tent there?” and he said “Yeah, you can put it on the pavement in a parking spot, we had a group of bikers here that did that not too long ago.” Verbatim. I asked if he happened to know if there were spaces available and he said yeah theres..1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 empty spaces right now. I said alright, great, thank you, have a good night. He said youre welcome, you too. I arrived at 8pm, set up my tent, which is a small 2 person tent, just me and my dog. I moved my jeep to a regular parking spot in the middle of the lot. Then i went inside to use the restroom and asked about buying some used playing cards, spent $20 in slots and came back out to sit in my jeep until about midnight when I went to my tent and got settled into bed. Then a guy comes out at 12:35am and says “Hey, we don’t allow tents here.” I explained that I had explicitly asked someone in security if it was ok to set up a tent and he said yes. The guy went back in and asked the manager about it, came back out with a second security employee and said we dont allow tents. I asked who was working security around 7:45 and they said theres 3 security employees and neither of them two took a phone call from someone asking about a tent. I asked ok then who is the 3rd person? They said we can’t give that information but you’re welcome to come in and talk to the manager. Did you pay for this spot? I said the guy I spoke with on the phone never told me I needed to pay but I can do that. He said well we don’t allow tents, this is RV only and they come in at all times of the night so if you want to come talk to the manager, you can. I said ok I’ll be packed up in ten minutes. So I went in at 12:50, they close at 1AM. As i walked in i heard the announcement saying the casino closes in 10 minutes, please print your tickets and make your way to the cashier to cash out. I asked the security guy “can you get your manager, please?”he said we close in 10 minutes but I’ll get her for you. I said “I know.” I simply wanted to tell her that she should make sure all her employees are on the same page and to avoid this problem in the future, she should inform the employee that gave me incorrect information of what the rules are. The security gaurd went over to the door where the managers office is, whispered back and forth for a few seconds, closes the door and says she busy, we’re locking the doors now, you need to leave. I said you just told me less than 10 minutes ago that i could speak with her. He said yeah that was when we were open, now we’re closed and you need to leave. I said you just told me you guys close in 10 minutes..? And what did that announcement just say? He hesitated because he knew it said they were closing in 10 minutes but he said its to let ppl know that they need to bring their tickets to the cashier. And i said so they have 10 minutes to do that… he said per the manager, we are locking the doors now and you need to leave. I said i just don’t understand why you said i could speak with her, you said you’re open for another 10 minutes but now 30 seconds later you’re closed? The manager then gets on the walkie talkie and asked if he’s good and he responded shes not leaving, can you get tribal on the phone? She gave a really enthusiastic “I’M ON IT!” And the guy tells me theyve got tribal on the way so i need to leave. His voice was shaky and he seemed like a ball of nerves. Im a single female in my late 20s. There was no reason for him to be so worked up. I never raised my voice, I didn’t cuss, I didnt even give the impression that I was upset. When he told me I couldn’t be there I politely explained that I specifically called and asked security about it and then when he came back outside i said ok ill be packed up in 10 minutes, I didn’t argue or give them any trouble about it. So i just kind of laughed and shook my head and left. The fact that they waited until 25 minutes until closing, well past midnight, to come tell me to leave, the fact that my tent had been there for 4 hours at that point, the fact that there were 5 other open spaces, the fact that I was told I could speak to the manager and then she was unwilling to do so, and the fact that I’m still in the parking lot because Im not about to find another place to camp at 1am and its now past 3am and not a single other RV has pulled in, all has left me with a very bad taste in my mouth. I just think they handled the situation very poorly, in my opinion. I understand that the spaces are meant for RVs, though the information on the other app did not mention that but I called ahead to confirm it was ok. They could have made an exception, made 20 more dollars than i already put in their machines, explain that it was a one time thing because of the miscommunication, or at the very least the manager could have spoken to me face to face. I’m also wondering, if RVs come in at all hours of the night as the secuirty gaurd says, how are they paying the 20$ to be there for the night if the casino is closed? I guess if you need a place for an RV that bad and all the campgrounds around are full like they are tonight, Its a last resort but I think you should give your money to anywhere else than to such an unprofessional business. If you’re in an RV, just go to any other parking lot to sleep. The management here is not good people.

    • Meghan B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 15, 2026

      Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground

      Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground

      Wow. Arrived around 1:30PM on a Sunday afternoon in mid-September and the campground was almost full. I think we were only able to grab a campsite--a riverfront site, too!--because we got here soon after the checkout time.

      There are two loops with nearly 40 sites total. "Two Heart 1" is near the suspension bridge that crosses the river and to the beach. This loop has 4-5 riverfront sites. "Two Heart 2" has sites with a little more space in-between, but during our stay seemed to have a lot more longterm (15 Day Max) setups with huge outfitter-style tent setups and dreadful generators. This loop has a few sites that may have lake access.

      This campground AND day use is very popular. Although I had a good time rockhounding here, I don't see myself coming back because there's a lot of people traffic here and the camping itself isn't quiet and peaceful--there's a constant hum of generators all day.

      No reservations, FCFS, vault toilets, garbage bins, $20/night during our stay. Shockingly, there's 1 bar of cell service out here--it's mostly unusable unless you have a booster.

      It's a bit of a drive to get here, so cross your fingers that you can grab a site after the 15-ish miles of washboarded road! To get here: M-123, north onto CR-500 / Northwestern Road toward Crisp Point for about 6 miles. Turn left onto CR-414 / Pike Lake Road for about 5 miles. Turn right onto CR-423 / Mouth of Two Hearted Road all the way to its dead end at the campground.

    • CThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 13, 2026

      Bay Furnace Campground

      Good experience

      Of the 50 available sites all looked private and all are dry sites. I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and had no problem finding an available site.

    Guide to Grand Marais

    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.

    What to do

    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.

    What campers like

    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.

    What you should know

    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.

    Tips for camping with families

    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.

    Tips from RVers

    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.