The western Upper Peninsula surrounding Wakefield, Michigan sits at an elevation range of 1,200-1,900 feet with an average annual snowfall exceeding 200 inches. The region forms part of the ancient Penokean Mountain range, with heavily forested terrain dominated by maple, birch, and hemlock trees. Camping spots near Wakefield, Michigan remain accessible from late May through mid-October, with primitive sites open year-round in some locations for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: The Black River Harbor Campground area features a series of five major waterfalls within a 3-mile stretch. "The real gem here is all the waterfalls nearby. Exhausting but breathtaking," notes Kristy G., who recommends timing your visit for "second week of August" to minimize biting insects.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors to the Porcupine Mountains can access heated yurts and cabins at Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping. The area maintains over 42 miles of marked ski trails. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful northwoods and lakeshore... I have seen black bear here on numerous occasions."
Rock hounding: Lake Superior beaches near campgrounds provide excellent opportunities for agate hunting. Anthony K. reported, "Beyond hiking we had a great time hunting for agates on the beach and enjoying the marvelous spectacle of Lake Superior, including its unpredictable weather!"
What campers like
Lake Superior sunsets: Sites along the shoreline at Union Bay Campground provide direct lake access. "We could walk to the visitor center via a short wooded trail, walk or drive to a small convenience store with firewood, and step over to Lake Superior each evening for sunrise," explains Christine C.
Secluded camping spots: For a more remote experience away from crowded areas, Lydia T. describes Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park as "Super secluded." Another camper shared, "The walk-in sites were a short walk from our cars. These were definitely the best sites for tree cover and privacy with a separate trail to each campsite."
Old-growth forest: The Porcupine Mountains contain one of the largest remaining stands of old-growth northern hardwood forest in North America. Sam F. describes it as "The Porkies are my favorite forest to explore on the continent. The vegetation is so much more lush than what you find out west, and all the old trees seem to have stories."
What you should know
Black flies and mosquitoes: Insect activity peaks from late May through July. According to Anton T. at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground, "A big minus for me were the millions of mosquitoes, but I guess that comes as part of the 'nature package'." Bug nets and physical barriers work better than chemical repellents.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal to no cell coverage. As one camper noted about a backcountry site, "Make sure to bring plenty of water with you, the closest water source is next to the Chayboga creek parking lot which is quite a hike if you are tired and dehydrated."
Trail conditions: Spring and early summer often bring muddy, sometimes impassable trails. Hilary S. reported, "I was grateful to have trekking poles to help balance on logs, branches, roots and rocks to try to keep my boots as dry as possible in the parts of the trail that were submerged."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Sunday Lake in Wakefield offers family-friendly swimming areas with gradual entry points. At Eddy Park & Campground, families can enjoy "a nice spot right on the lake, fire pit was 10 feet from the water." While sites are close together, the convenience of lake access makes it popular with families.
Junior Ranger programs: The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Visitor Center runs educational programs for children during summer months. One visitor mentioned, "The park has a ski lift we rode to check out the views from the top of the mountain, as well as an 18 hole disc course."
Easy hiking options: For families with young children, the half-mile boardwalk trail to Lake of the Clouds provides accessible viewing without strenuous hiking. "The hiking throughout this park is unparalleled in its beauty. The campground is close to the Presque Isle river trail which is waterfall after waterfall," shares Stacia R.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds separate generator and non-generator areas. Annie C. noted, "There are 50 sites, with generator and non-generator sites clearly separated" at Presque Isle Campground, though she warns about potential noise issues from inconsiderate campers.
Site leveling challenges: RV sites throughout the region often require leveling. Sam C. observed at Alpine Campground & RV Park, "Our pull thru sites where just long enough for our 35' trailer and truck to stay connected. Sites were grass, a little un-level but were very spacious."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. According to Bill S., "NO DUMP STATION, they removed it years ago" at Black River Harbor Recreation Area, requiring RVers to plan accordingly for waste management during longer stays.
