The Wetmore area offers camping access to both Hiawatha National Forest and the shores of Lake Superior. With an average summer temperature of 75°F and winter lows frequently below 10°F, the region has a distinct camping season from May through October. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 600-800 feet above sea level, providing good drainage during summer thunderstorms common to the area.
What to do
Hiking Bruno's Run: Pete's Lake Campground connects to this 9-mile trail traversing woods and small ponds. "Running through the campground is the Bruno's Run Trail – a 9-mile trail traversing the woods and around small ponds. This was a great trail except for some pesky bugs that started annoying us as we heated up," notes Nancy W. from Pete's Lake Campground.
Kayaking Au Train River: Pack water shoes and prepare for varying water levels when exploring this waterway. "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," shares Chelsea & Wes J. from Au Train Lake Campground.
Lake swimming: Island Lake provides a warmer swimming alternative to Lake Superior. "The lake is beautiful and warmer than Lake Superior. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms," advises Raquel M. from Island Lake Campground, who spent the entire season as a host.
What campers like
Lake access: At Island Lake, campsites include private trails to the water. "The sites 9-11 are distanced from the others and that's where I stayed. Upsides: no one else was there during our weekend stay, great view of the lake, and just a minute away walking distance from boat access to the lake," reports Alexis R.
Site privacy: Many campgrounds in the Wetmore area feature well-spaced sites. "This campground is all about what site you can get. I reserved a full hookup/waterfront site and it was amazing. All we had to do was step out our door to be looking at the water," says Deb M. from Munising Tourist Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Vault toilets at dog friendly campgrounds near Wetmore receive regular maintenance. "The vault toilets were very clean and well maintained. 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," notes Chelsea & Wes J. about their stay.
What you should know
Bug preparation: The Wetmore region has significant mosquito and black fly seasons. "May/June quiet with only the sounds of eagles, bull frogs, mosquitoes, and black flies. Bring your bug spray and nets," warns Raquel M., who spent an entire season hosting at Au Train Lake.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. "No service, no water/showers, bring your own toilet paper of course, and lots of bug spray, 15 minute drive to Munising!" advises Alexis R. about Island Lake's remote conditions.
Water availability varies: Check if your campground has potable water before arriving. "We thought there would be water available but there is none. Vault toilet near 9-11 doesn't have a roof so it was wet after some rain," shares Alexis R. about Island Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: Consider campgrounds with designated swimming areas for kids. "There is a beach and boat launch near. We went there to chase the northern lights but missed it by a night. We kayaked Au Train River and stood in the Au Train falls," reports Chelsea & Wes J. about their family stay.
Educational opportunities: Otter Lake Campground & Lodge offers a variety of activities for children. "There are a variety of activities available within the campground to keep kids and adults busy. This includes paddle boat, kayak, and canoe rentals, a basketball court, a small playground, a volleyball court, and swimming," explains Amie L.
Wildlife viewing: Pet-friendly sites often attract local wildlife for kids to observe. "Lots of chipmunks in camp that were super cute. Sites aren't too close to one another so you feel separate but together," says Chelsea & Wes J., highlighting the natural entertainment available for families with children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: At Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground, location within the park matters significantly. "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," advises Jennifer B.
Generator policies: RV campers should check generator rules, as some campgrounds restrict usage. "Watch out for jerky neighbors with noisy generators. Ugh. You can buy $80,000 worth of camper but get a generator from a discount store? Fortunately, it's quiet time at 10:00pm," notes Kevin about one campground experience.
Off-season advantages: For RVers seeking pet-friendly campsites with more space, consider visiting during September. "We are winging our way around, getting to know Michigan for future trips so no reservations. This was one of the sites we explored (among many) and found it to be charming," shares Kevin about exploring less crowded dog-friendly camping options near Wetmore in the shoulder season.
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