Ontonagon Township Park Campground sits on the southern shore of Lake Superior where the average summer temperature reaches 75°F with evening lows around 55°F. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October, with peak visitation during July and August when the black flies are less prevalent. Campgrounds in the area range from rustic sites within the Porcupine Mountains to full-service RV parks with varying amenities and seasonal availability.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 5-20 minutes from campgrounds. Multiple waterfalls near Alpine Campground & RV Park offer accessible hiking opportunities. "There are waterfalls nearby that are off the beaten path. Can't beat it if you're looking to explore and have an adventure," notes one visitor who appreciated the campground's proximity to natural attractions.
Disc golf: 18-hole course at the park. The Porcupine Mountains State Park offers additional recreational activities beyond hiking. "The park has a ski lift we rode to check out the views from the top of the mountain, as well as an 18 hole disc course," reports a camper who enjoyed the diverse activities available.
Rocky beach exploration: Accessible from campgrounds. The shoreline provides opportunities for rock collecting. "The campground was close to all of the hiking in the area as well as some good beach for rock hounds," explains a camper who found multiple activities to enjoy while staying at the park.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sites accommodate various setups. The River Road RV Park offers ample space for RVs. "This is a very nicely maintained privately owned campground. Really great spaces for long Class A and C Motorhomes. Nice fishing on the Ontonagon River and big marina close-by," reports a camper who found the sites accommodating for larger rigs.
Lake views: Premium lakefront sites available. Many campers value the waterfront location at Twin Lakes State Park Campground. "Had a nice spot right on the lake. Site 39. Fall colors were stunning!" shares one visitor who appreciated the scenic setting during autumn.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and showers. Campers frequently mention facility cleanliness as a highlight. "Spacious and level sites, all mowed grass. Very clean bathrooms with hot showers. Absolutely sweetest older lady running the place," notes a visitor who valued both the site conditions and the management.
What you should know
No reservation system at some parks: First-come availability only. Despite having numerous sites, Ontonagon Township Park and Campground operates on a first-come basis. "We found this campground on a walk around the town of Ontonagon, but didn't get a chance to camp here as it was already closed for the season," reports a visitor who discovered the campground doesn't take advance reservations.
Black flies can be problematic: Seasonal pest issues. Summer visitors often contend with biting insects. "While we were camping the flies were unbearable. Bug spray was no match for the flies, so we were forced to spend most of our time in the screen room," warns a camper about the conditions they faced.
Varying campground layouts: Site privacy differs significantly. Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Very run down bathroom and shower facilities. When we were here the site next to us housed some rather undesirable folks. No noise policy here either. Lots of mosquitos," cautions a camper about their experience at one of the parks.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Kid-friendly amenities at multiple parks. Families appreciate the recreational options at RV parks near Ontonagon. "This is a very nicely maintained privately owned campground. Great play area for kids," notes a visitor to River Road RV Park who found the facility accommodating for families.
Beach access: Swimming opportunities during summer months. The Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park offers water recreation options. "There are plenty of opportunities to go swimming either in the lake or the numerous creeks you come across," shares a camper who enjoyed the natural water features during their visit.
Wildlife viewing: Frequent small animal sightings. Children can observe local wildlife from a safe distance. "No major issues with bugs, no bear sightings but we saw paw prints, lots of birds, squirrels, chipmunks, etc," reports a visitor who encountered wildlife during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Arrive early for premium spots. RVers recommend timing your arrival at the City of Houghton RV Park for better site options. "The park is divided into two tiers and we were lucky enough to be in the lower one that was directly on the water. The upper tier has a view of the water too and the same patios but you are overlooking other RVs," explains a camper who secured a preferred waterfront location.
Water access limitations: Prepare accordingly. Some campgrounds have limited water facilities. "There is water on site, but it is the hand pump style, so it would help to have a large open container to capture the water," advises a camper who visited Presque Isle campground.
Alternative parking strategies: Consider orientation for views. RVers suggest requesting non-standard parking arrangements. "All the sites are designed to be back-in but we asked if we could pull in forward so the view of the river was out our front window and our door opened right onto the patio," shares an RVer who successfully negotiated a better site setup.
