Rustic campgrounds surround Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, with sites available from April through October in most locations. Winter camping options remain limited to just a few facilities that stay open year-round. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with Lake Superior creating cooling effects in summer and lake-effect snow in winter that affects camping conditions.
What to do
Lighthouse exploration: 1.5 miles from Hurricane River Campground leads to Au Sable Light House. "A short walk to Au Sable Lighthouse stopping to see old ship wreck remains" notes Mark B. The trail follows Lake Superior's shoreline.
Dune discovery: Near Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground, kids can explore natural sand dunes. "The kids stumbled upon a sand dune just off the main stretch of campsites," reports Melissa H., adding that while not an official attraction, "a little playing in the dirt can't hurt."
Lake Superior swimming: Despite cool temperatures, the lake offers refreshing summer swimming opportunities. At Bay Furnace Campground, "water was 'crisp' lol, another way to say cold, but refreshing. Sand and rocks and driftwood," shares Shelly S. The small beach area provides a perfect cooling spot during hot summer days.
What campers like
Historical features: Bay Furnace Campground contains interesting historical ruins. "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 also notes the "views are incredible overlooking lake superior."
Easy beach access: At Woodland Park Campground, Lake Superior is just steps away. "We could literally hear lake superior all night, it was so peaceful and relaxing," writes Alexxus S., who appreciated being "able to just walk down to the beach and have a fire."
Unique amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected features. At Gitche Gumee RV Park & Campground, campers enjoy "billiards and house crafted beer," according to Brandon D., who found the campground had "a good feel" with "spacious" wooded spots.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds require advance planning. Little Beaver Lake Campground operates on a reservation system with only 8 total sites. "Two of the eight campsites have accessible fire rings, which are extremely difficult to use," notes Christy S., who also mentions there's "no cell phone reception."
Seasonal differences: Summer brings higher occupancy and insects. "There were a lot of bugs while we were there, so it was hard to stay outdoors for a long period of time during certain times of the day," explains Sam C. about his July stay at Pictured Rocks RV Park.
Water quality issues: Some RV sites have mineral-heavy water supply. "The campground has very hard water, to the point our shower is stained pretty bad even though we had multiple filters and a water softener," reports Noah P. from his month-long stay at Gitche Gumee RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pay shower preparation: Some campgrounds have coin-operated showers. At Woodland Park Campground, "you need quarters" for the "clean hot showers," advises Brenda S. A family of four should bring at least $5 in quarters for a typical day's showers.
Playground access: Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground offers family-friendly amenities that children enjoy. The campground has "the cleanest camp showers I've ever used," according to Amanda L., making it ideal for families with young children.
Beach safety awareness: Lake Superior's conditions can change quickly. "We took our chairs and a light snack to the beach to enjoy the sunset," shares Lee D. about Hurricane River Campground, where the rocky beach requires proper footwear for children.
Tips from RVers
Parking surface variations: At Pictured Rocks RV Park, "most sites are concrete pads. Site 4 is gravel and very up hill," warns Lauren M., who adds that "we were able to make our Solitude work off autolevel."
Optimal site selection: For RVers at Kewadin Casino Christmas MI, Victoria K. notes that "sites have electric but no water" and there's "some road noise but that's to be expected." RVers receive unexpected benefits as "you get a free $5 casino credit per night per person staying."
Dump station availability: For rv sites near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with no sewer hookups, Bay Furnace Campground offers a solution. "Dump and potable water free to campers, otherwise it's $5," reports Jonathan S., making it a convenient option for RVs without full hookups.
