Munising sits at the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the south shore of Lake Superior, where the average summer high reaches 75°F and winter temperatures dip below 15°F. Weather patterns off Lake Superior create dramatic seasonal changes, with summer humidity averaging 70-80% and winds that can exceed 20 mph along the lakeshore. Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Munising accommodate campers seeking access to both inland lakes and Superior's shoreline.
What to do
Kayak Au Train River: Launch from Au Train Lake Campground for a gentle paddle. "We kayaked Au Train River and stood in the Au Train falls. The bird watch site at camp was amazing as well," shares Chelsea & Wes J., who visited multiple times.
Explore historic sites: Visit the old iron-smelting facility at Bay Furnace Campground. "We love 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," explains Corey O., who appreciated the historical elements.
Paddle to remote islands: Take the ferry from Munising to Grand Island for camping and hiking. "I love sites that you need to kayak or canoe to get to and this is one of those sites. This island has massive (for the midwest) cliffs cut by the water," notes James D., who kayaked to the island campsites.
Attend ranger programs: Learn about local wildlife through educational events at Twelvemile Beach. "We enjoy the ranger programs that are offered, and the camp hosts are so friendly!" says Mandi B., highlighting the interpretive opportunities available during summer months.
What campers like
Lake access from multiple sites: Twelvemile Beach Campground offers direct beach access from campsites. "We were here in late May, almost zero bugs(it was too cold). Big spacious sites, we tented in site 4 although in the generator loop area we couldn't hear them over the waves of superior," reports Cameron H.
Affordable camping with amenities: Many campers appreciate the value at Otter Lake Campground & Lodge. "This campground is lovely! All sites have electric. The bathhouse has hot showers and is very clean. The lake is clean. The owners are very nice and helpful," shares Heather.
Rustic sites with privacy: Tent campers find seclusion at several campgrounds. "The tent sites are all walkin, with a tent parking area and then various distances to hike in along a path to the different tent camp sites. The campsites themselves are gorgeous, with tall trees and right on the shore, and privacy in between," explains Janet R. about Munising Tourist Park.
Dedicated pet areas: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Munising provide specific facilities for pets. "There is a dog run, facilities including showers/bathrooms/laundry, along with a general store!" notes Carrie C. about the Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA.
What you should know
Busy season limitations: Reservations fill quickly from July through early September. "We hit this campground at the end of our trip and we found it to be very relaxing," says Geoffrey B., who visited Bay Furnace in the shoulder season.
Insect activity varies by season: Biting insects peak from mid-June through July. "The bugs (mosquitoes and flies) are horrendous! Even with strong deet spray. Good idea to invest in the bug net gear the ferry service recommends!" warns Christina M. about Grand Island.
Water temperature considerations: Lake Superior waters stay cold even in summer. "Swimming beach provided and a smaller day use area is also available," mentions Roger W., though even in summer, water temperatures rarely exceed 65°F.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. "No cell service, but there is plenty to do to stay busy!" explains Nikki & Mike about their stay at Otter Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational equipment rentals: Superior Times offers boat and water equipment for kids. "Kids fished, rode Sea Doos - rented them for $60/hour, played basketball, and had a great time," shares Tressa B. about the family-friendly amenities.
Educational bird watching: Designated nature trails provide wildlife viewing 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)," recommends Jade G. about Au Train Lake's educational features.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play structures and activity areas. "We only stayed here one night but the kids had a lot of fun, they have a lot of outdoor toys," notes Melissa M., who appreciated the family amenities.
Cabin options for convenience: For families not wanting to tent camp, cabins provide comfort. "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," explains Jennifer B. about Pictured Rocks RV Park's accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only sites in wooded areas: Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground offers varied hookups. "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," advises Nick & Allyssa S., noting the trade-off between services and shade.
Casino overnight options: Budget-conscious RVers can use casino parking. "Sites have electric but no water. Some road noise but that's to be expected. Gas station right next door. Casino closed at 1am. It is actually $20 a night, not $15," details Victoria K. about the Kewadin Casino option.
Dump station access: Plan water usage around dump station availability. "Dump and potable water free to campers, otherwise it's $5," notes Jonathan S. about Bay Furnace's facilities.
Site surface variations: Campground surfaces affect setup comfort. "The site was what looked like a mixture of gravel and recycled asphalt and was mostly level. A little rough on bare feet but an outdoor rug help out a ton," explains Sam C. about site conditions at Pictured Rocks RV Park.
