Ontonagon, Michigan sits at the edge of Lake Superior, where campers can access more than 60,000 acres of wilderness in the Porcupine Mountains. Winter temperatures drop below freezing from November through March, while summer highs average 75-80°F with cooler lakeside conditions. Recreational vehicle sites and tent camping areas throughout the region feature varying levels of amenities, from rustic outposts to full-service facilities with electric hookups.
What to do
Waterfall exploring: Several trails lead to impressive waterfalls near Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping. One camper shared: "This park is absolutely gorgeous and has so much to it. We stayed at a campsite on the Escarpment trail and it was absolutely gorgeous. It was right on a ridge, had a bear pole, a fire ring, and an ample amount of space." The park contains numerous waterfalls accessible via day hikes from established campgrounds.
Rock hunting: Agate Beach offers prime opportunities for rock collectors. A visitor at Agate Beach Park Campground noted: "Great beach. Excellent rock hunting. Thimble berries can be found." Lake Superior shores near Ontonagon contain various minerals including the fluorescent Yooperlite rocks visible under UV light.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access groomed trails throughout the region. The Union River Outpost has nearby ski routes as mentioned by one camper: "There is a bridge and really nice trail along the river with waterfalls right at the end of the campground. In the right conditions you could probably fish off of the cross country ski trail which we walked too."
What campers like
Secluded options: For those seeking quieter alternatives to the main campgrounds, Union River Outpost offers minimal amenities but maximum privacy. A visitor reported: "This is a perfect, secluded spot. Very wooded and quiet camp area - only 3 sites total in this loop! Note that there is no cell service here or really nearby."
Fall color viewing: The region becomes especially popular during autumn. A visitor to Lake Gogebic State Park mentioned: "I did a 3 day/2 night hike during peak color, starting at the Lake Superior Trailhead. Campsite BC-8 was a big upgrade - very large site, a little patch of open sky over the fire pit, easy access to the river for water."
Accessible day trips: Courtney Lake Campground serves as a good base for regional exploration. One visitor shared: "The sites are large, clean, and quiet. I didn't camp in the equine section, but would love to bring a horse. The trail is well groomed and 5 to 6 ft wide."
What you should know
Limited or no reservations: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Ontonagon operate on a first-come basis. A camper at Ontonagon Township Park Campground warned: "They do not take reservations, so it's a gamble to just show up. You really have to be there, in person by 7AM to wait in line to get a site."
Varied bathroom facilities: Campground restrooms range from modern to rustic. A visitor observed: "Rustic campsites on lake Gogebic with showers and bathrooms," while another noted that Agate Beach Park had a toilet described as "horrific." Pack supplies accordingly.
Wildlife considerations: Black bears inhabit the forests around Ontonagon. One camper reported: "I've seen black bear here on numerous occasions." All pet-friendly campgrounds require proper food storage and waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Multiple family-friendly recreation options exist at Twin Lakes State Park Campground. A visitor noted: "Quite little park, a waterfall about 5 minutes away. Right on a lake. We were site 44 it rained a lot. But it didn't flood the site."
Site selection for privacy: When camping with children or pets, site location matters. One camper at Union River Big Bear Campground shared: "Our family of six greatly enjoyed tent camping at Big Bear! Our site was very close to the playground and we could see our kids playing there from our site. The bathrooms were extremely clean."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations occur even in summer. A camper recommended: "If you are looking for a little more shade or tree cover, book a perimeter site." Morning temperatures can drop into the 50s even during July and August.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven terrain. One visitor noted: "Site was not that level. If you were tent camping, you would likely be sleeping on a slope of some kind."
Generator sections: At Presque Isle campground, generators are restricted to designated areas. A camper reported: "There are a couple of camping options in the Porcupine Mountains. Presque Isle is a primitive campground on the western side of the park. There are 50 sites, with generator and non-generator sites clearly separated."
Water access planning: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Ontonagon have limited water hookups. One RVer shared their solution: "More amenities can be found at the main campground in the state park. We filled up with water there." Carrying extra containers is recommended.
