Tiffany V.
Guide
GuideMerwin Creek State Forest Campground
Quiet, Close to Town, Private
The best campsites are in the back! Ok gravel road - Honda Fit did fine. Vault Toilets a bit creepy - but CLEAN! Private and beautiful. $13 cash or check only.
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
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
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Best Camping Sites Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (146)
1. Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
38 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. 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."
6. Munising Tourist Park Campground
49 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."
7. Woodland Park Campground
23 ReviewsGrand Marais, MI15 milesWebsite+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 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
32 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. Little Beaver Lake Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
4 ReviewsMunising, MI4 milesWebsite+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. "
Recent Camping Photos near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
290 Photos of 146 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds
Rachael D.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Rich Y.
Kingston Lake State Forest
Lydia T.
JoeIda Campground
Allison V.
Little Beaver Lake Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Dan G.
Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Keenan
North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground
Roger W.
Ross Lake State Forest Campground
Magy C.
South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground
Julia
Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Rebecca S.
Chapel Beach Backcountry Campsites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Annie C.
Au Sable East Backcountry Campsites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Kathleen B.
Rhody Trail Pull Off
Recent Reviews near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
659 Reviews of 146 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Campgrounds
Gerard E.
RangerMouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground
May of 26
5-21-26, Mouth of the Two Hearted Campground.
sunny, 50 degrees, breezy. Site 8, small and mostly level, close to neighboring sites as I stayed one night testing out my truck camper.
The drive in is easy, could be dusty, muddy and washboarded all on the same day. The County has done a great job this week as the road was smooth and dusty. Take 500 off of 123 to 414 (Pike Lake Rd) to 423 (2 Hearted) right to the bluff overlooking the campground.
Campground is mostly full, tents to 5th wheel campers. There were four sites on Loop 2 open when I arrived at 2:30 and they filled by 5 pm on a Thursday.
Cellular T-Mobile 1 bar 5G to 3 bars LTE
No Electric or water hookup, fresh water at the hand pump.
$20 for MI Passport Holders.
The sunsets are amazing, you can hike part of the NCT, rock hound on the beach, relax and many people bring their SxS.
Buy your firewood before arrival.
- Gerard E.Ranger
Pike Lake (Paradise) - State Forest
May of 2026
Friday May 22, 2026
Pike lake state forest campground was sunny And 60, the campground is nestled in a little community right on the lake with large pine trees, good sun/shade options. Two pit toilets, clean and with sanitizer.
I’m sure the sites fill quickly in the summer. No electricity or water hookup but a pump is located at the entrance.
1bar LTE with T-Mobile and most of the sites are not level so if you have a camper bring enough leveling blocks. A nice gravel/concrete boat launch area.
Firs Come First Serve on the reservation at $20 for passport holders.
Firewood was for sale at the entrance, but i would buy before arriving.
Shawn S.
LegendWoodland Park Campground
Best sunsets on the lake
The sunsets were spectacular on the beach with a campfire and a drink. The city park was a good size with hook ups and primative. Some spots were a bit close together. Great biking city. There are restaurant close by to walk to. I loved the coffee shop across the street. Good sandy beach down the road for some cold swimming. Good rock beach at the campground to hunt for Yuper Lights.
- Gerard E.Ranger
Clark lake campsite
Spring
Off of the Clark lake Loop, semi level site with toilet privy. Access to water at Clark Lake. Very rustic
Cornelia B.
ScoutManistique Lakeshore Campground
Great place!
Laundry, water, electric, beautiful beach and lots.of excellent rules to keep things civilized!
Jay W.LegendGrand Island National Recreation Area — Hiawatha National Forest
Grand Experience!
If you are looking for some great views and relatively easy hiking and an adventure then look no further than Grand Island! Grand Island sits in Lake Superior North of the city of Munising and near-by Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, in fact while hiking the island you will have plenty views of Pictured Rocks! You will start your experience at the Grand Island Ferry Service where you will purchase you ticket and book your time to cross over to the island. I planned ahead and got there a day early and checked in with the staff to make sure times and tickets were available for my preferred departure. The ferry service offers a building that offers gifts and souvenirs available as well as maps of the island and some hiking needs like mosquito nets and bug spray if needed. I would recommend if you're interested in souvenirs or gifts to purchase after your trip back from the island. Parking was free overnight at the ferry station.
Once you depart for the Island it is maybe a 10 minute ride to the Island. After getting off the boat you are given clear instructions on how to get back to the mainland when you are ready.
While camping you can book reservations for campsites (or cabins) at www.recreation.gov but it is not necessary as you can camp anywhere on the Island as long as you are 100 ft from cliff edges, roads, other campsites, inland lakes and creeks and trails. I would recommend booking a reservation as those sites offer bear poles to hang your food from the many bears on the island. I did not see any bears on my visit but a couple people on the ferry ride back to mainland did see some.
The hike is relatively easy with a few steep climbs. I was told to hike counter clockwise but I wish I would have hiked clockwise instead as it seems there would have been less inclines as well as better on coming views instead of looking back to get views on the west side of the island. I was able to hike halfway around the island in a matter of about 3.5 hours and camp out at just around mile 11 where I had water access from Lake Superior to fill up the next morning to complete the entire trip around the island for my hike back to dock. I had to gather and chop my own wood for fire at night but some campgrounds do offer stocked wood for fires, check the Grand Island website to find which ones.
- Gerard E.Ranger
Kritter's Northcountry Campground
Fall ‘25
Site 26 20amp only Sept 7-15, 2025. Wi-Fi faded on and off, maintenance was out to fix. T-Mobile 1 bar LTE Amazing store and staff. Showers were older but nice. Mostly shade. Bugs, minor mosquitoes Aurora was out, did some yooperlite searching on Lake Superior.
- JJose V.Scout
Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping
Nice, clean, and fire pit!
Awesome
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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