Looking for the perfect glamping experience near Grand Marais? Glamping near Grand Marais, MI is a great way to go camping with the tastes of home. These scenic and easy to access Michigan glamping locations are perfect for any adventurer.
Twelvemile Beach Campground is a beautiful campground along Lake Superior located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. Twelvemile Beach has water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and an interpretive amphitheater. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m).
There are three sets of stairs to the beach as well as a day-use picnic area and parking. The two-mile (3.2 km) long White Birch Trail begins and ends at the campground. The North Country Trail treks through the campground. The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch.
Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.
Kayak and Other Guided Tours and Pictured Rocks Boat Cruises within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities.
$25 - $35 / night
The Lower Falls Modern Campground features two campground loops, Hemlock and Portage. All sites have 30-amp service, and some 50-amp sites are available. A sanitation station is available seasonally, and recycling is available.
The Hemlock campground loop is located about a mile from the Lower Falls and is open year-round. The campground is generally more shaded than the Portage campground loop, with access to the park’s hiking trail system. The campground is the best place in the Lower Falls for cellphone service. In winter, portions are reservable for semi-modern camping.
The Portage campground loop is located near the river, about a quarter-mile from the Lower Falls. This campground loop features an ADA-accessible modern toilet and shower building and some accessible campsites. A few sites have river views, and the campground loop is generally sunnier and more open than the Hemlock campground Loop. There is North Country Trail access from the campground. In winter, the campground loop is open for hike-in camping.
$28 - $32 / night
Located in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the shores of Lake Superior lies the Munising Tourist Park Campground. This City owned campground was established in 1924 and has long since been a stopping point for campers visiting pictured rocks. With its unique location on Lake Superior it gives campers the ability to recreate on Lake Superior while experiencing breathtaking views. The campground is just 3 miles west of Munising where campers will find boat rides such as Pictured Rocks Cruises, Glass Bottom Boat Cruises’s and the Riptide Ride all located within 3 miles of the campground. Our location provides for day trips to Marquette, Grand Marais and Taquamenon Falls all within an hours drive without having to haul your camper!
$29 - $45 / night
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
$15 / night
$20 / night
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
$20 / night
17 sites for tent and small trailer use. Rustic campground includes vault toilets and potable water from well hand pump. Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.
$20 / night
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
Guide
Paddlers Village was a nice, small, clean campground right on Lake Superior. We stayed in a Yurt, and had a good experience. The campground offers nice showers, a sink to wash dishes, trash cans.. all the amenities. The yurts are just steps from lake superior, and they have a nice rock beach (we filtered the water there and it was awesome) and a pier going out into the water. We had great sunrises. Each yurt is equipped with bunk beds and a futon (sleeps 5), mini fridge, power... definitely glamping :) Just bring your own sleeping bag, etc.
You can also rent kayaks from there to go out into lake superior. We were not able to do that because it stormed, but they say you can get to Pictured Rocks - that would be VERY FAR.
One thing to note - there was a HUGE thunderstorm while we were there, and we stayed totally dry and secure in the yurt. It was an ideal night to be there with that happening.
The only negative of the place is really just the tight proximity to other campers. there is not a ton of room, so we could hear people talking outside into the night.
Guide
Abundant beauty in the UP. Hike a little or a lot. Ride on a boat or paddle a kayak. So many ways to enjoy the beauty. There are several short (less than a mile) walks to gorgeous waterfalls. If you are more ambitious and able hike the Chapel Falls Loop. Feeling lazy, sit on the beach at Grand Marais and walk the little town and grab ice cream. The NTC runs 42 miles through the National Lakeshore if you are up for a multi day backpack. Lodging in Munising and Grand Marais, primitive camping in between.
GuideGorgeous primitive sites in Pictured Rocks. No cell service for many miles. 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. Great location near all of the beauty of Pictured Rocks. Campground had pit toilets, water, and lots of bear safe trash cans. There is no shower so bring your camp soap and shower or wash up in the lake. We picked up wood near Grand Marais, but you can find it for sale coming in from Munising too. Summer south winds may bring the stable flies. We had real problems when hiking and they were annoying at our site as well. If you have a screened in pop up, bring it. Be sure to check out the natural wonders but also the adorable town of Grand Marais. We hope to be back in fall when the flies may leave us alone.
Traveler
There are 8 campsites, 1 cabin and a pair of vault toilets, so I’m reluctant to let anyone else know about Joeida Campground...just keep it quiet, ok? 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.) The sites are well-spaced and it was very quiet within the campground. The owners welcomed us and gave us a few tips on hikes and other things to do in the area. It’s a short drive to both Munising and to Grand Marais, and to many other activities within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Firewood is available at the campground and can be arranged for at the time of reservation. Otherwise, there are several racks of firewood available for purchase nearby.
TravelerTwelvemile Beach sits along a foredune of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, an intensely remote stretch of shoreline with Grand Marais to the east and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to the west.
As you pull in, you find the entrance road winds through a white birch forest. I've been to Twelvemile in the spring, summer and autumn and find the forest enchanting with every season. The road takes an abrupt left turn and runs parallel to the Lake, unseen until now. This begins the loop that is Twelvemile Beach Campground.
There are pros and cons to both lakeside sites ($16/night) and the wooded sites ($14/night) across the road. Bugs, wind, and the freshwater gales ol' Gitche Gumee likes to toss up should all be taken into account when choosing a site, but it's safe to say that a lakeside site is always preferred in my book. They run along the dune ridge with sweeping views of Lake Superior and the constant breeze helps keeps bugs at bay (usually).
Sites are generous in size and quite private, especially if you visit in spring and autumn. Access to the beach is plentiful and the North Country Trail actually cuts straight through the campground. Poison ivy has never been an issue for me here. Sites are first come, first served.
If you're visiting during the summer season, get there early and catch sites in the morning as people leave. It sounds extreme but it's well worth the effort (you'll thank me when you're swinging in your hammock as the poor souls who arrive in the afternoon drive through, again and again, hoping for an opening.) I can't recommend Twelvemile Beach enough. Getting there is a journey, but the destination will become one of your favorite places on earth.
Scout
Well set up campground with about 25 sites on a loop with maybe 30 sites for $22/night. Each site on the lake side of the loop has their own access to a path along the lake and a spot to easily tie off a boat. There are paths off the loop so that campers on the other side can access the lake path and the beach. There are also a handfull of walk in sites that I think are free, those have private lake access walks too! Toilets are clean and nicely spaced out, as is water. There is a boat launch before turning left into the camping area and to the right, a hiking trail. The ONE thing I have to say is that the mosquitos came in droves and were absolutely ravenous. We aren't sure if they fog at this place but if not, they most certainly should, at least around spring hatch time. These things were unphased by a number of citronella candles, obscene amounts of bug spray.. Cooking anything was awful.. and they drove all 4 of my brood to the brink of madness at some point or another. However, it is pretty centrally located to a number of things yo do and areas to visit! It's about 35 minutes from camp to Manistique and Kitch-Iti-Kipi. About 65 minutes to Grand Marais and some waterfalls. And about 25 minutes to Munising or Pictured Rocks and Miner's Beach, with a bunch of waterfalls along the way. Most waterfalls are easily accessed just off the road, but Sable Falls does have 168 stairs.
GuideA treat to fall asleep in one of the yurts to the sound of the waves lapping the shore. The tents are great, too. Prime sunrise spot on the beach with coffee — view of Grand Island. Clean, friendly, a fun experience. Lots of cool rock picking by the dock. Fun to stay in the beginning/end of season for a quieter stay, otherwise enjoy a neighborhood feeling campground :) highly recommend the kayaking tours that this company also gives along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Guide
Awesome base camp to explore the UP of Michigan. Clean facilities, level sites, well spaced out, and beautiful scenery
Traveler
We went in September and it was still mildly warm, bugs were gone the only thing I would recommend is water proof hiking boots which is a must hiking in Michigan anyway.
GuideA must if you live in Michigan. Portage camp is a walk from the lower falls. Brand new and clean bathrooms. Sewage dump is a mile at hemlock camp. Get water there before you go to your site.
Guide
unable to find a site at Pictured Rocks we were directed to this state forest campground. it was our first stay at a SF campground in Michigan and since we have sought them out and stayed in many. gorgeous lake surrounded by dense forest. sites are secluded, some are on the lake. perfect place if you’re looking to get away from it all. we were there in September after labor day only one other site was occupied.
LegendSuper popular first come, first served campground. We checked out all the sites online (there are even pictures of each site!) and had planned which ones were favorites. Sites are all near the beach or amongst the dunes. Sites were large and some shaded but not super secluded, but the views and ambiance made it a favorite camping trip. The drawback, as in many Upper Michigan campgrounds and parks, were black (biting) flies :( So try to plan your trip before they are too bad!
TravelerAs a lifelong Michigander it’s always been on my bucket list to travel up to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and visit Tahquamenon Falls. This campsite was taken care of, had great facilities, electricity, quiet by 10pm and was a 6 mile hike to the Upper Falls from camp.
Only reason why I’m giving it a 4 instead of 5 was because the toilets were backing up semi-frequently.
Traveler
This is one of my favorite campsites in Michigan. We happen to stumble upon it after endlessly searching for a spot at Pictured Rocks. There is a beautiful sand bottomed lake for swimming on many sites are right on the lake. The lake also connects to several other small lakes in the area. You can kayak or canoe to each lake during the day. The sites are large and from what I remember they have vault toilets. No showers. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table and some firendly chipmunks.
GuideSet up your tent on the sands of Lake Superior and take in the view. That makes this the most amazing campground in Michigan. Period. The views are magnificent. We were able to cook dinner over the fire while watching some of the finest sunsets in Pictured Rocks. The vault toilets are surprisingly clean and there is drinking water available. There are also bear proof bins available for hikers who might not have a vehicle.
The downside is the secret about this place has gotten out and the 36 sites pretty much stay filled all year round. It's a first come, first serve campground.
Guide
We stayed here on the very last night they were open this season. The staff was very friendly and they actually had campsites that were more private then almost all the Michigan state parks we have stayed at. It was a bit pricey for camping $40 for a pop up truck camper with only electric and water.
They have hot showers that were clean and looked taken care of. They have a playground, playroom and a pool. None of this was open during our visit but I imagine in the summer it is all going strong and the kids have a blast. My one complaint was it is pretty close to the road and during a heavy tourist season it could probably be pretty loud.
LegendJust a short drive from Mackinac lies a beautiful campground to sink into the quietness of a river setting. I stayed in the rustic portion with campsites right along the river. River access is available for small boats along with a fishing deck. Vault toilets and water merge with large campsites to create a quiet ambiance. Showers and a modern toilet are available in the modern portion of the campground which is a short walk through a playground and separating trees.
My site meant waking up to fog drifting down the river, birds chirping and quiet forest behind me. Walking my dog through the forest was nice as the fallen pine needles created a soft path. My site had plenty of room for the tent as well as tress to hang my hammock on. My dog couldn't wait to jump into the hammock and relax in the cool Michigan air. The campground hosts came through and we had a nice chat (which added to the homey feeling).
This campground is not by the Tahquamenon Falls area so I would make sure to get the correct location. It sits south of Paradise, MI. It was a 20 or so mile drive to get to the falls area with beautiful hiking trails. The remote location of the campground adds to the perfect Northwoods feel. The North Country Trail goes past the campground on the other side of the river. You can hike all the way to the falls area if you are up to it.
RangerTwelve Mile Beach was the perfect campsite to set-up our launching point for all of our adventures in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There were not a lot of spots and they are on a first come first serve basis so get there early! Especially if you want a spot right on the beach. We were along the second row of sites that were set back a little from the beach but still very close. The sites right along the beach can get very windy at night on Lake Superior and can cause some damage to tents. Bathrooms and water are easily accessible and you can expect great sunsets on clear nights. The campsite is pretty remote and the only noise you should hear are fellow campers, although ours while we were there were very considerate and we didn't really hear anything except the birds. Pictured Rocks isn't a well know area, but it should be the options for outdoor activities is large during the summer months and it is a beautiful place to visit.
RangerWe stayed at one of the twelve mile backcountry spots and it might be one of my favorite back country spots in Pictured Rocks. The hike in is fairly easy and flat the entire way. We also happened to be the only ones camping at this site and it was great to get away from the more busy sites further down the lakeshore. The beach is just steps away from the site which is slightly above the beach (maybe 50 ft) situated within beautiful clusters of birch trees. The climb to the beach and back is not terribly difficult, we were able to make dinner by the water and run back and forth from our camp to grab misc. cooking items without the climb taking a huge toll on our energy levels. It's also the perfect spot for star gazing and relaxing on an empty beach. I have stayed in the back country at Pictured Rocks 5 times, staying at a different site each night and this place stands out. We also passed by the drive up campsites and they seemed like some of cooler drive up spaces we've come across with each site tucked into the trees and nicely secluded.
LegendSpectacular location just steps from Lake Superior. Camp sites are clean, have nice fire pits and lantern poles, and are nicely spaced apart. Each site had a large level dirt tent platform. You need to be there early to get a site as this campground fills up quickly. Sites on the beach side are $2 more a night, but well worth it if you can score one. There is nothing better than listening to the sounds of the lake as you fall asleep. The North Country Trail goes right past camp so there may be more foot traffic than you expect, but everyone is really friendly so it's not a problem.
ScoutMy son stayed here and loved it! Plenty of things to do with Amazing views He and buddys love the outdoors
GuideNot many sites for such an amazing location, but we got lucky and found a empty site the last day of our trip to the pictures rocks! Amazing view and even better beach. Only downfall is it got pretty windy at some points
ScoutHave stayed near the beech, and the sites fill up fast. The back country sites are really nice, and peacful. Hiking trails are maintained, campsites, well maintained. Highly recommend a boat ride,or a kayak trip, if you are experienced, out onto Lake Superior, to view the pictured rocks. Stunning area, locals are very friendly.
RangerNot sure if you can walk along all 12 miles, but you can go for the classic long walk on the beach here and even connect to the North Country Trail. Unfortunately you can’t reserve in advance so get there early afternoon so you can get a site along the dunes or beach or with shade (or by bathrooms, whatever your priorities are). No water, bring treatment or containers. I think the lakeside sites are few dollars more. We were lucky enough to be there during a meteor shower in spring when almost no one else was around. Not the best site if you’ve got bad knees or an accessibility need, as is true for pretty much any sandy MI campground.
TravelerWe camped at 12mile towards the end of October. Sites are first come which can be an issue peak season. The campsite was great other then that the outhouses were screwed shut by late fall, which made #2's interesting. The sites are well spaced so you don't feel cramped. Great tree cover with a great view.
LegendThis rustic national lakeshore campground is tucked in the trees along the south shore of Lake Superior. Next to the campground, there is literally a 12-mile long beach of beautiful white sand along the crystal clear waters of this great lake.
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with water spigots scattered throughout the campground. There is no electricity available and only pit toilets (which are clean, but rather stinky). Sites are smallish, a bit close together, and can accommodate tents and only small RV’s. RV’s over 25 feet will only fit in a few of the sites near the entrance to the campground.
We visited this campground in third week of September and hit the fall color spot on! The surrounding area provides great opportunities for water sports of all kinds, cycling, hiking, and dune climbing. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Visitor’s Center is about 35 miles west of this campground in the town of Munising where you will find grocery stores, gasoline, a laundromat, and restaurants.
RangerGorgeous campground for those who enjoy rustic camping (no utilities). This place is extremely popular and reservations are not taken, so arrive early. It took us two tries before we landed a site here (Hurricane River is a good backup spot). The North County Trail passes right through this campsite; the only downside is, no dogs allowed on the trail (we were issued a warning).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Grand Marais, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Grand Marais, MI is Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with a 4.8-star rating from 37 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Grand Marais, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 glamping camping locations near Grand Marais, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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