Porcupine Mountains offers yurt camping options throughout Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula at elevations of 600-1,400 feet above sea level. This federally designated wilderness area spans 60,000 acres of old-growth forest with 90+ miles of hiking trails connecting camping areas. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F while summer brings average highs in the 70s, creating distinct camping experiences year-round.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Several trails near Black River Harbor Campground lead to spectacular waterfalls. "Five named waterfalls that are simply amazing, each awe inspiring along with several hidden un-named falls that anywhere else would be named and a major attraction. Together in such a short span of river makes the place the best place to see waterfalls in the US," notes Thomas F.
Ski flying observation: Visit the Copper Peak ski flying facility, located near several campgrounds. "Not too far away is Copper Peak, the only ski flying facility in North America. In the summer you can ride up to the top to see pretty far. It's not for the faint of heart, you really can't mind heights if you are going up there," reports Annie C.
Wilderness backpacking: Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping offers remote camping experiences with designated sites. "There are many options for backcountry that include hike in and several that are drive in- those are the 'outpost' ones. You really can't beat the camping experience here, there is something for everyone- rustic to modern," explains Holly G.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Alpine Campground & RV Park offers room to spread out. "Spacious and level sites, all mowed grass. Very clean bathrooms with hot showers. Absolutely sweetest older lady running the place...she brought me a piece of cheesecake that she made and gave my dog some dog treats, too!" shares Aurora S.
Secluded camping: The Presque Isle area provides more privacy than other park sections. According to Lydia T., this campground is "Super secluded" and the "Perfect spot for exploring Porcupine Mountains."
Dark skies: Limited light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. "Still nice to enjoy the quite dark skies. Short walk down stairs to Lake Superior which offered some great sunset views," notes one camper about their stay at Presque Isle.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather conditions vary dramatically by season. "We camped at Presque Isle in the Porkies for a long weekend in October. The color change was amazing!" shares Stacia R., highlighting that fall brings spectacular foliage.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. "There is water on site, but it is the hand pump style, so it would help to have a large open container to capture the water," advises one visitor.
Mosquito preparation: Bring appropriate insect protection, especially in early summer. At Lake Gogebic State Park Campground, one camper noted: "The site has some of the best maintained restrooms and showers I have seen. The proximity to the Porcupine Mountains is another plus. A big minus for me were the millions of mosquitoes, but I guess that comes as part of the 'nature package'."
Site selection strategy: Choose perimeter sites for more privacy. "I was in site 44, and most of the sites in the 'middle' were more of an open field with a couple of trees. There were no real clear boundary lines. If you are looking for a little more shade or tree cover, book a perimeter site."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Union River Big Bear Campground offers water recreation suitable for children. "We stayed here while visiting the Porcupine Mountains. Great campground with clean bathrooms and well maintained sites. Right across the street from the beach. Would definitely recommend if staying in the area," says Scott B.
ATV-friendly options: Some campgrounds cater to off-road enthusiasts. "This is a perfect small sized campground with trail access to UTV/Atv trails. If you are coming here to ride I would recommend going west on the trail," suggests Juliana R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local fauna from safe distances. "The area boasts incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, with guests reporting moose and black bear sightings," although one camper advises: "A mouse did somehow manage to get into my peanuts which were up on the bear pole at night and left us a surprise in a coffee mug left by the camp fire."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites were grass, a little un-level but were very spacious. These pull-thru sites were water and electric only (30 amp) and the water pressure was a little low," notes Sam C. about Alpine Campground.
Generator sections: Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park has designated generator and non-generator areas. "There are 50 sites, with generator and non-generator sites clearly separated," explains Annie C., though she cautions that rule enforcement can vary.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. "You should save this campground was mosquito heaven. My son had 9 mosquito bites on his back when he woke up the next morning," warns one RVer, adding, "She also asked that we not use the sanitary dumping station unless we really had too."
