The Porcupine Mountains area near White Pine, Michigan sits at approximately 1,400 feet above sea level in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, receiving over 200 inches of snow annually. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, with frequent thunderstorms across the heavily forested landscape dominated by northern hardwoods and eastern hemlock. Camping options span from modern facilities to remote backcountry sites across varied terrain.
What to do
Waterfall hopping: 5 miles from Black River Harbor Campground, multiple cascades are accessible on short, interconnected trails. "The real gem here is all the waterfalls nearby. Exhausting but breathtaking," notes Kristy G., who visited in August. The trails connect five different falls within a 7-mile out-and-back hike.
Summit Peak hiking: 0.5 miles from White Pine Rustic Outpost Camp to a viewing tower with panoramic vistas. "There's also the Summit Peak Hike close to the site that was only a half mile hike!" shares Grace C., who visited in June. The observation tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding wilderness.
Lake Superior beaches: Multiple sandy swimming areas accessible from campsites. "Walking across the main road and there's Lake Superior? Perfection!" reports Mary H. at Union River Big Bear Campground. Water temperatures remain chilly even in summer, ranging from 50-65°F depending on the season.
What campers like
Old growth forest: Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping offers immersion in one of North America's largest preserved hardwood forests. "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," writes Sam F., who has hiked every trail in the park.
Secluded campsites: The three-site Union River Outpost provides private, wooded camping away from crowds. "This site only has three sites, so you are fairly private," reports Scott D., who stayed in site 3. Jennie S. adds, "We loved this spot! This camp only has three sites! We stayed on UR2. It was wooded!"
Night sky viewing: The remote location allows for exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "Quiet, beautiful stars," notes Jennifer D. at White Pine Rustic Outpost Camp. The area's distance from major cities creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Backcountry sites must be booked in advance through Michigan's reservation system. "Starting with the 2018 season, the backcountry campsites must be reserved in advance," explains Amanda L. about Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping.
Bug preparation: Biting insects are prevalent, particularly in early summer. "Bugs were bad in late May," reports Scott D. at Union River Outpost, while Grace C. adds, "The bugs were pretty bad and we were here middle of June, however good bug spray and fire smoke helped ease them a little."
Limited connectivity: Prepare for minimal cell service throughout the area. "Don't expect to do work or school, service and internet up there is practically non existent," advises Kelly W. who camped at Union River Big Bear Campground. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ontonagon Township Park features play equipment near camping areas. "There is a cute playground, and it has beautiful views of both Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains," mentions Shari G., who notes the campground is about 20 miles from the Porcupine Mountains.
Disc golf course: Family-friendly outdoor activity available near certain campgrounds. "They offer a very nice children's play area, frisbee golf, and accommodations for equestrians," notes Carrie C. about Ontonagon Township Campground, which offers both beachfront and standard sites.
Swimming options: Sandy beaches with gradual entry points suitable for children. "Our family of six greatly enjoyed tent camping at Big Bear! Our site was very close to the playground and we could see our kids playing there from our site," shares Mary H., who found the location at Union River Big Bear Campground ideal for keeping track of children while adults relaxed at camp.
Tips for RVers
Dump station locations: Limited facilities available, primarily at state park campgrounds. "There is a dump station as well as a water filling station for RVs," reports Shari G. about Ontonagon Township Park, which provides these essential services for larger vehicles.
Site selection for privacy: Perimeter sites offer more seclusion at most dog friendly campgrounds near White Pine. "The sites along the outside of the loop back to either the woods or the lake and have great hammocking options. Sites on the inside of the loop are kind of in the open," advises Annie C. about Presque Isle Campground.
Generator-free zones: Designated quiet areas available for campers preferring no generator noise. "There are 50 sites, with generator and non-generator sites clearly separated," explains Annie C. about Presque Isle, highlighting how the campground accommodates different preferences.
