G
Gayle B.
Guide
GuidePerch Lake State Forest Campground
Very nice campground
Stayed two nights in my tent. It was quiet, even parked close to the boat ramp. Would definitely stay again.
Camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Several campgrounds surround Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for visitors wanting to stay close to this Lake Superior landmark. Twelvemile Beach Campground sits right on Lake Superior with good water views and quiet spots. Munising Tourist Park Campground puts you near the town of Munising, which helps when you need supplies during your Pictured Rocks visit. Bay Furnace Campground is another option close to Munising that many campers use as a starting point for park trips. Rachael D backcountry sites work for campers who prefer more basic, remote camping without neighbors. Summer brings the best weather to the area, though fall camping means fewer people and colorful trees. Winter camping exists for those prepared for Michigan cold, but snow often blocks access to certain campgrounds. Amenities vary between sites - most have the basics, while Munising Tourist Park has RV hookups. Check road conditions before driving out, as some camping areas need vehicles with higher clearance. Take all trash with you when you leave and follow minimal impact camping practices to keep Pictured Rocks looking good for everyone.
Campground Showdown near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
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Best Camping Sites Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (148)
1. Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
39 ReviewsGrand Marais, MI5 milesWebsite+1 (906) 387-3700$25 - $35 / night
"This rustic national lakeshore campground is tucked in the trees along the south shore of Lake Superior."
"Twelvemile 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"
2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
21 ReviewsGrand Marais, MI2 milesWebsite+1 (906) 387-3700"The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a camping experience that should not be missed."
"Campground Review The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is great for backpackers. We camped at Lowney Creek and parked at the Beaver Lake Basin Overlook. "
3. Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
20 ReviewsGrand Marais, MI8 milesWebsite+1 (906) 387-3700$25 / night
"Amazing location on Lake Superior in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Short hike to lighthouse"
"8 sites near the east end of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We were less than 100 yards from the lake. We walked the kayaks easily to the lake. Fantastic hikes throughout the park."
4. Kingston Lake State Forest
15 ReviewsPictured Rocks National Park, MI3 milesWebsite+1 (906) 341-2355$15 / night
"Our plan was to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Our diligence was rewarded, as we arrived around 11AM and had our pick of the litter. Every site has water access and is picturesque."
"All sites surround a medium-sized lake and have direct water access. All sites are first come first served, primitive, and have a picnic table and fire ring."
5. Woodland Park Campground
27 ReviewsGrand Marais, MI15 milesWebsite+1 (906) 494-2613$30 - $40 / night
"Had a campsite facing Lake Superior. Water, shore power, wi-fi, cable tv. Restrooms and showers were super clean. A well run operation. 10 minutes from Picture Rock Natl Lakeshore."
"Nice little town with views of Lake Superior and close to Pictured Rocks, however it’s a first come situation."
6. South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground
13 ReviewsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI7 milesWebsite+1 (906) 452-6227$15 / night
"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"
"From talking to the locals we met on the back roads, this campground and the others nearby are becoming more popular. We stayed at site 6 which is on the inside of the loop not lakeside."
7. Munising Tourist Park Campground
50 ReviewsMunising, MI21 milesWebsite+1 (906) 202-2694$29 - $45 / night
"City run campground on lake superior. Beautiful views, sandy shore. Most sites have water and electricity, some have sewer hookup. Some walk in sites on the shoreline. We camped on site 5."
"The beach is a HUGE draw for this site, running just off the main road and close to town we were shocked at how remote and untouched it felt."
8. JoeIda Campground
8 ReviewsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI3 milesWebsite+1 (906) 387-1221$20 / night
"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.)"
"If you’re into getting off the grid in the middle of the forest with nearby lakes this is a great spot. Small campground with private sites within pictures rocks lakeshore."
9. Bay Furnace Campground
34 ReviewsMunising, MI23 milesWebsite$26 / night
"Nice little campground on the western end of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, about five minutes outside of the cute town of Munising. If you plan on going to Grand Island, this is the place to be."
"This campground has trails from most sites that lead directly to the lake where there is a nice breeze so it reduces the bugs in the spring & summer."
10. North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground
4 ReviewsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI7 milesWebsite+1 (906) 341-2355$20 / night
"Lots of spots near the water (all of which were full) but there’s still access to it by the boat launch. Only downside is how close the campsites are together. All in all it’s amazing here!!"
"Awesome little lake campground! Perfect for camping near Lake Superior while avoiding crowded sites and still camping near water."
Recent Camping Photos near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
296 Photos of 148 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Kingston Lake State Forest
JoeIda Campground
Little Beaver Lake Campground — Pictured Rocks National LakeshoreC
Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National LakeshoreC
North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground
Ross Lake State Forest Campground
South Gemini Lake State Forest Campgroundm
Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Chapel Beach Backcountry Campsites — Pictured Rocks National LakeshoreR
Au Sable East Backcountry Campsites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Rhody Trail Pull Off
Recent Reviews near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
705 Reviews of 148 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds
Meghan B.
LegendMuskallonge Lake State Park Campground
Muskallonge Lake State Park Modern Campground
After reading this description on The Dyrt--“The park’s 159 sites span three distinct loops with noticeably different characters: Loop 1 runs open and exposed, while Loops 2 and 3 (sites 81–159) provide more tree cover and a woodsier atmosphere”--I booked Site 100 in Loop 2 expecting a little more tree cover. I can tell you that Loop 2 is pretty exposed as well! If you’re specifically looking for a more wooded, shady site, Loop 3 may be the better choice. Ah, well! We only booked one night since we’re passing through and mainly stopping here for the hot showers anyway. $43 for our stay (includes the $8 online reservation fee), which I booked online the evening before we were to arrive. The campground was about 80% full on a Tuesday in mid-September. 1 bar cell service--slow, but usable.
- bbrittany G.
ScoutKewadin Casino, Christmas MI
I wouldn’t come here for gambling or to park
I saw on a different app that they had overnight parking with free electric hookup, no fee was mentioned. I called at 7:45pm and spoke with a guy in security and asked “Is it enough space to set up a tent there?” and he said “Yeah, you can put it on the pavement in a parking spot, we had a group of bikers here that did that not too long ago.” Verbatim. I asked if he happened to know if there were spaces available and he said yeah theres..1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 empty spaces right now. I said alright, great, thank you, have a good night. He said youre welcome, you too. I arrived at 8pm, set up my tent, which is a small 2 person tent, just me and my dog. I moved my jeep to a regular parking spot in the middle of the lot. Then i went inside to use the restroom and asked about buying some used playing cards, spent $20 in slots and came back out to sit in my jeep until about midnight when I went to my tent and got settled into bed. Then a guy comes out at 12:35am and says “Hey, we don’t allow tents here.” I explained that I had explicitly asked someone in security if it was ok to set up a tent and he said yes. The guy went back in and asked the manager about it, came back out with a second security employee and said we dont allow tents. I asked who was working security around 7:45 and they said theres 3 security employees and neither of them two took a phone call from someone asking about a tent. I asked ok then who is the 3rd person? They said we can’t give that information but you’re welcome to come in and talk to the manager. Did you pay for this spot? I said the guy I spoke with on the phone never told me I needed to pay but I can do that. He said well we don’t allow tents, this is RV only and they come in at all times of the night so if you want to come talk to the manager, you can. I said ok I’ll be packed up in ten minutes. So I went in at 12:50, they close at 1AM. As i walked in i heard the announcement saying the casino closes in 10 minutes, please print your tickets and make your way to the cashier to cash out. I asked the security guy “can you get your manager, please?”he said we close in 10 minutes but I’ll get her for you. I said “I know.” I simply wanted to tell her that she should make sure all her employees are on the same page and to avoid this problem in the future, she should inform the employee that gave me incorrect information of what the rules are. The security gaurd went over to the door where the managers office is, whispered back and forth for a few seconds, closes the door and says she busy, we’re locking the doors now, you need to leave. I said you just told me less than 10 minutes ago that i could speak with her. He said yeah that was when we were open, now we’re closed and you need to leave. I said you just told me you guys close in 10 minutes..? And what did that announcement just say? He hesitated because he knew it said they were closing in 10 minutes but he said its to let ppl know that they need to bring their tickets to the cashier. And i said so they have 10 minutes to do that… he said per the manager, we are locking the doors now and you need to leave. I said i just don’t understand why you said i could speak with her, you said you’re open for another 10 minutes but now 30 seconds later you’re closed? The manager then gets on the walkie talkie and asked if he’s good and he responded shes not leaving, can you get tribal on the phone? She gave a really enthusiastic “I’M ON IT!” And the guy tells me theyve got tribal on the way so i need to leave. His voice was shaky and he seemed like a ball of nerves. Im a single female in my late 20s. There was no reason for him to be so worked up. I never raised my voice, I didn’t cuss, I didnt even give the impression that I was upset. When he told me I couldn’t be there I politely explained that I specifically called and asked security about it and then when he came back outside i said ok ill be packed up in 10 minutes, I didn’t argue or give them any trouble about it. So i just kind of laughed and shook my head and left. The fact that they waited until 25 minutes until closing, well past midnight, to come tell me to leave, the fact that my tent had been there for 4 hours at that point, the fact that there were 5 other open spaces, the fact that I was told I could speak to the manager and then she was unwilling to do so, and the fact that I’m still in the parking lot because Im not about to find another place to camp at 1am and its now past 3am and not a single other RV has pulled in, all has left me with a very bad taste in my mouth. I just think they handled the situation very poorly, in my opinion. I understand that the spaces are meant for RVs, though the information on the other app did not mention that but I called ahead to confirm it was ok. They could have made an exception, made 20 more dollars than i already put in their machines, explain that it was a one time thing because of the miscommunication, or at the very least the manager could have spoken to me face to face. I’m also wondering, if RVs come in at all hours of the night as the secuirty gaurd says, how are they paying the 20$ to be there for the night if the casino is closed? I guess if you need a place for an RV that bad and all the campgrounds around are full like they are tonight, Its a last resort but I think you should give your money to anywhere else than to such an unprofessional business. If you’re in an RV, just go to any other parking lot to sleep. The management here is not good people.
- MMarc V.
TravelerGitche Gumee RV Park & Campground
Don’t do it
Turned us away after calling ahead and telling us to come, said he didn’t need the money and I politely said ok even though I was miffed about being told to come. He started taking photos of our vehicles even though we told him calmly we were leaving and had no visible aggression towards him. Turned into a weird altercation.
- Meghan B.Legend
Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground
Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground
Wow. Arrived around 1:30PM on a Sunday afternoon in mid-September and the campground was almost full. I think we were only able to grab a campsite--a riverfront site, too!--because we got here soon after the checkout time.
There are two loops with nearly 40 sites total. "Two Heart 1" is near the suspension bridge that crosses the river and to the beach. This loop has 4-5 riverfront sites. "Two Heart 2" has sites with a little more space in-between, but during our stay seemed to have a lot more longterm (15 Day Max) setups with huge outfitter-style tent setups and dreadful generators. This loop has a few sites that may have lake access.
This campground AND day use is very popular. Although I had a good time rockhounding here, I don't see myself coming back because there's a lot of people traffic here and the camping itself isn't quiet and peaceful--there's a constant hum of generators all day.
No reservations, FCFS, vault toilets, garbage bins, $20/night during our stay. Shockingly, there's 1 bar of cell service out here--it's mostly unusable unless you have a booster.
It's a bit of a drive to get here, so cross your fingers that you can grab a site after the 15-ish miles of washboarded road! To get here: M-123, north onto CR-500 / Northwestern Road toward Crisp Point for about 6 miles. Turn left onto CR-414 / Pike Lake Road for about 5 miles. Turn right onto CR-423 / Mouth of Two Hearted Road all the way to its dead end at the campground.
- CChristopher S.Traveler
Bay Furnace Campground
Good experience
Of the 50 available sites all looked private and all are dry sites. I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and had no problem finding an available site.
Colleen P.TravelerHerman Lake Dispersed
Isolated and beautiful
Super easy to get to. 1.7 miles of a well maintained gravel road and the last .5 is more dirt but still well maintained.
Hannah S.
RangerEllie's Lazy Days Resort & Campground
Quiet get away off the main road
A yurt style tent, cabin, and camping spots within walking of Indian Lake access. Off the main road so quiet is a plus and not far from amenities in towns near by!
- jjay T.Scout
Munising Tourist Park Campground
Rooftop tent 9.1.26
Very convenient to pictured rocks excursions. 2 miles. $45 water, electric, showers. Toilets (good).close sites, open to the lake, clean. Would recommend this spot again
Guide to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stretches along 42 miles of Lake Superior shoreline in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The region receives approximately 140 inches of snow annually and features sandstone cliffs rising up to 200 feet above the lake. Camping options near Pictured Rocks range from rustic tent sites to developed RV campgrounds, with vault toilets being the standard bathroom facility at most National Lakeshore campgrounds.
What to do
Hike to Au Sable Lighthouse: Located near Hurricane River Campground, this historic lighthouse is accessible via a 1.5-mile trail. "A short hike to lighthouse, shipwrecks and amazing sunsets. I'm guessing in peak Season you would want to get there early to mid morning for a site and I could imagine it being quite difficult on a weekend," notes Leah M.
Explore Little Beaver Lake: Little Beaver Lake Campground provides quick access to Miners Castle, a popular Pictured Rocks formation. "This is the campground to stay at for the easiest access to Miners Castle which is one of the more popular places to check out in the Pictured Rocks area," shares Sara S.
Kayak Pictured Rocks: The colorful sandstone cliffs are best viewed from the water. "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. Amazing views and a clean pit toilet right across the way," reports Cameron H. from Twelvemile Beach Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: JoeIda Campground offers well-spaced camping spots. "This is the campground seasoned boondocks would build for their family and friends. Perfect. Huge campsite\ns that are spread far apart. Small and beautiful," writes Jim W. The campground features just eight sites in a forested setting.
Clean facilities despite rustic setting: Many campers praise the upkeep of basic amenities. "The pit toilets are immaculate. The picnic tables are extra large and new. The fire rings have gravel around and again, new. This is quality in a rustic setting," notes another review from Jim W. about JoeIda Campground.
Lake access for recreation: Kingston Lake State Forest offers sites with direct water views. "Have stayed here now 2 years in a row and loved it both times. We've been lucky enough to stay at a site with great water access both years and the way the geography works out, it seems like the majority of these sites are either on the water or right across from it," explains Jay J.
What you should know
First-come, first-served options: Several campgrounds don't take reservations, requiring early arrival. "We traveled over 8 hours on the hope of grabbing a spot here early on a Friday. Our plan was to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Our diligence was rewarded, as we arrived around 11AM and had our pick of the litter," shares Christopher S. about Kingston Lake.
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection at most campgrounds. "No cell service. Would definitely stay here again!" notes Lauren about JoeIda Campground. This is common throughout the Pictured Rocks region.
Water quality varies: Hurricane River Campground has reliable water sources, but other campgrounds may not. "Drinking water is super clean and fresh and the privys are cleaned each morning and are kept immaculate and smelling nice," writes Corey O. However, at Kingston Lake, one camper noted: "The water from the pump at entrance to the campground was quite cloudy and brown. Though locals insisted it was fine to drink we opted to purchase water."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Look for campgrounds with easy water access. "Located on the shore of Lake Superior, yet a short walk to town for food, ice, groceries etc. No sewer hook ups but they have good WiFi and cable tv. Clean hot showers, but you do need quarters," says Brenda S. about Woodland Park Campground.
Consider weather fluctuations: The Upper Peninsula experiences rapid temperature changes. "I went in late November so water and restrooms were closed off by then. I was the only camper there but it was lovely. You can hear the lake waves and you're steps from the trail to the lighthouse," reports Jessica about Hurricane River Campground.
Look for educational programs: Ranger activities enhance family camping experiences. "The night I was there a ranger came out and did a program on owls right from the beach," shares Annie C. about Bay Furnace Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Munising Tourist Park Campground is one of few with full hookups. "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. However, if you're not lucky enough to get one on the waterfront, then there's just crowded, open sites that will possibly be sharing water and electricity with others," advises Deb M.
Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds limit RV length. "Joleda: In the Pictured Rocks NP buffer zone... For the narrow 1 mile, one lane entry road with few turnouts, I suspect this is tent only or van camping. Check their website... Keep it under 25' I'd say," recommends Roger W.
Consider dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this service. "For those with RVs there was a dump station as well. No electric or water hook ups available," notes Lisa R. about Bay Furnace Campground. "Dump and potable water free to campers, otherwise it's $5," adds Jonathan S.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campsites at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
What are the best campsites at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is widely considered among the best options within the park. Located on Lake Superior's shoreline, it offers stunning views with sites less than 100 yards from the water, making it ideal for kayakers. The campground features just 8 sites near the east end of the lakeshore, providing an intimate camping experience with fantastic hiking access. A short trail leads to a lighthouse, adding to its appeal. For a more secluded option, Little Beaver Lake Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a quieter experience with drive-in access and basic amenities including water and toilets. Both campgrounds provide an authentic Pictured Rocks experience with direct access to the park's natural wonders.
Are there private campgrounds near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Are there private campgrounds near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Munising Tourist Park Campground is a city-run private campground on Lake Superior offering beautiful views and a sandy shoreline. Most sites have water and electricity, with some featuring sewer hookups. The lakefront sites provide great views and serve as an excellent base camp for exploring the area. Wandering Wheels Campground is another private option featuring big trees, pull-through sites, and friendly staff. It's conveniently located close to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and is ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, and beach enthusiasts. Other private options include the Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA, which offers amenities like showers, laundry facilities, a general store, and a dog run, as well as Superior Times, which provides convenient access to the national lakeshore.
Can I camp with an RV at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Can I camp with an RV at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
RV camping options near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are primarily found at private campgrounds in the surrounding area. Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA is extremely close to the national lakeshore and offers facilities specifically designed for RVs, including a general store, shower/bathroom facilities, and laundry. The campground provides decent lot sizes, though it can get crowded during peak season. Another option is Au Train Lake Campground, a small, remote campground in Hiawatha National Forest that's close to Munising and Pictured Rocks. While more primitive, it offers spacious, shady campsites. Most campgrounds within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore itself have limited RV capabilities and are more suitable for tent camping or smaller recreational vehicles.
Where should I stay when visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Where should I stay when visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
The area surrounding Pictured Rocks offers diverse camping options to suit different preferences. Lake Superior State Forest Campground provides direct access to Lake Superior and the North Country Trail, just moments from Pictured Rocks and Grand Marais. It's an excellent choice even during holiday weekends when you might find available spots. For inland water activities, Pete's Lake Campground offers large, secluded, and inexpensive sites perfect for kayaking and mountain biking enthusiasts. This rustic campground has no water or electric hookups but is conveniently located near Munising and Pictured Rocks. Both options serve as excellent base camps for exploring the national lakeshore while offering distinctive experiences – lakefront views at Lake Superior State Forest and peaceful woodland settings at Pete's Lake.
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