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Camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

648 Reviews

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.

Map showing campgrounds near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MichiganExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (144)

    1. Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

    38 Reviews
    Grand Marais, MI
    5 miles
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Grand Marais, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Grand Marais, MI
    8 miles
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Pictured Rocks National Park, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +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. South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground

    13 Reviews
    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +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."

    6. Munising Tourist Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Munising, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +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."

    7. Woodland Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Grand Marais, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 494-2613

    $30 - $40 / night

    "Nice little town with views of Lake Superior and close to Pictured Rocks, however it’s a first come situation."

    "Right on the water, just a few steps down and easy to do and im disabled. Real close to the falls. Def will visit again"

    8. JoeIda Campground

    8 Reviews
    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +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

    32 Reviews
    Munising, MI
    23 miles
    Website

    $24 / 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. Little Beaver Lake Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

    4 Reviews
    Munising, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 387-3700

    $25 / night

    "It's a pretty far drive from Munising, but fairly close to Miner's Castle. Lots of trails near by. And there is a boat launch at the campsite."

    "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. "

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Recent Camping Photos near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

295 Photos of 144 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

648 Reviews of 144 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Manistique Lakeshore Campground

    Clean, well-kept campground

    The campground itself is very nice, with concrete pads and very clean. I'm only giving it lower stars for two reasons. First the "lake view" sites don't actually have a view of the lake unless you count being able to see between a few branches. Second, the beach is way too polluted to use. There must be a paper mill or some other wood processing plant near by because the beach and the water filled with ground up wood shavings piled in every direction. We brought our kayaks but there was no way you could go in the water. However, if you just ignore the lake, it is a very nice campground.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    East Branch of Fox River State Forest Campground

    Spacious

    Found on way to another campsite. Large sites with plenty of flat ground for tenting. Think there were 19 primitive sites in total. There’s a water pump but no electrical. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit. Does technically require a Michigan recreation passport ($40 out of state annual, $11 out of state daily, or $12 in state annual) and a $20 campsite fee but did not appear to be enforced late in the season when I was there.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping

    Easy to find

    Was slightly passed the pin marker on the same unlaced road - only about 1/4-1/2 off the highway. Sites are fairly spacious but don’t have any of the hookups or amenities mentioned on the site profile - some do have rudimentary fire pits though. There are 3 sites in total. Ground is flat enough to comfortably tent camp. Camp in early September, bugs were minimal. At times the night was eerily silent, at other times I heard dirt bikes and tractor trailers in the distance, also heard a pack of coyotes at one point and pretty sure I heard some sort of padfooted animal walk by my site once or twice.

  • Raquel M.
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Au Train Lake Campground

    AuTrain Lake Campground

    Spent the 2025 camping season here as the campground host and it is fantastic. May/June quiet with only the sounds of eagles, bull frogs, mosquitoes, and black flies. Bring your bug spray and nets, fish from the small (donation) boat launch and enjoy a picnic/swimming at the day use area. July/Aug the bugs went away and summer was here and gone that fast. The water is beautiful and warmer than Lake Superior. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms. Peaceful campground.

  • alicianlv The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Camp Seven Lake Campground

    Camp 7 Campground

    Relatively nice campground, was there over Labor Day weekend but used campsite as base and spent time in day trips to Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore & Sault St Marie. Camp ground was pretty full. The lake is accessible with a small beach and swimming section that many campers used. Sites are plenty big. Water shared between sites, fire ring, table & lamp post at each site. Good place to disconnect from devices because Internet & cell connectivity was nonexistent with Star Link & TMobile. We still enjoyed our 3 day stay.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA

    Great location central to Munising & Pictured Rocks

    Excellent location! Not a whole lot of full hook up sites available. Several out in the open right at the highway… back in the woods there is electric only. Peaceful campground but no cell service or starlink under the tree canopy. Fine for a night or two but plan accordingly if you need cell service.

  • J
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Widewaters Campground

    Nice Campground Even Better Hosts

    Mike and Mary were great.  They gave us good advice on what to do and went out of their way to help us.  It was a pleasure meeting them.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Hovey Lake Campsites

    Limited Solar & Starlink

    These are 4 beautiful sites, nestled in a forested area near a lake. Water and vault toilets available. BUT if you are like us and have solar and connectivity needs, this is not the stop for you. Since we had work that had to be done, we sadly moved on.

  • Arash F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Catchin' Crickets Campground

    One night stay

    Clean, sites are level . I was charged $45 for a site with electricity. A site without is $35 or at least this is what I was asked to pay. Host is friendly . Trees need some time to grow larger to provide any shade if anybody looking for a campsite with shade. Reasonable good space in between sites.

Guide to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan, offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. With several campgrounds in the area, each has its own unique charm and amenities.

What to do:

  • Explore waterfalls: The Munising area is known for its beautiful waterfalls. One camper mentioned, “Love the Munising area. Lots of waterfalls and close to pictured rocks,” while staying at Munising Tourist Park Campground.
  • Hiking trails: There are plenty of trails to hike, especially around Twelvemile Beach Campground. A visitor shared, “Very wonderfully setup campground with a few trails for light hiking right out of the campground.”
  • Beach access: Enjoy the sandy shores of Lake Superior. One reviewer at Hurricane River Campground said, “The river flows through the camp and gives a beautiful sunset view.”

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Bay Furnace Campground noted, “Host here did a great job keeping everything tidy and clean.”
  • Scenic views: Many campers rave about the views. One camper at Twelvemile Beach Campground exclaimed, “I loved this campground. I wish we were on the lake side for the spectacular views.”
  • Friendly atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. A reviewer at Munising-Pictured Rocks KOA said, “Super nice staff. Clean facilities and great little gift shop.”

What you should know:

  • Limited hookups: Many campgrounds, like Bay Furnace Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper mentioned, “No electric. Apparently there is a dump station - have not investigated.”
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Hurricane River Campground warned, “It was filled with loads of voracious mosquitos.”
  • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Kingston Lake State Forest Campground advised, “Make a reservation, it is pretty; and looks to be quite cozy for fall camping.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room. A family at Au Train Lake Campground noted, “Nice place, large private sites, quiet.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A camper at Woodland Park Campground mentioned, “Decent playground for kids and everything in town is within walking distance.”
  • Pack bug spray: Be ready for insects, especially in the summer. A visitor at Muskallonge Lake State Park Campground suggested, “Bring lots of DEET for you and permethrin or something for your dog just in case!”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. A reviewer at Bay Furnace Campground mentioned, “Some sites will hold up to a 35’ or so.”
  • Bring extra cords and hoses: If you’re not in a full hookup site, be prepared. A camper at Munising Tourist Park Campground advised, “Make sure to have extra cord and hoses.”
  • Look for good cell service: Some areas have limited connectivity. A visitor at Hurricane River Campground noted, “Verizon signal was all but non-existent.”

Camping near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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?

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?

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?

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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