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.
