## Overview

 Twelvemile Beach Campground is a beautiful campground along Lake Superior located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. Twelvemile Beach has water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and an interpretive amphitheater. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m).\_\_ 
## Recreation

 There are three sets of stairs to the beach as well as a day-use picnic area and parking. The two-mile (3.2 km) long White Birch Trail begins and ends at the campground. The North Country Trail treks through the campground. The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch. 
## Facilities

 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore drive-in campsites are rustic and do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campsites provide a picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, and tent pad. The campground has vault toilets, well water and an interpretive amphitheater. Typically there is no cell phone reception. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m).\_\_\_\_\_\_ 
## Natural Features

 Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park\'s coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound. 
## Nearby Attractions

 [Kayak and Other Guided Tours][1] and [Pictured Rocks Boat Cruises][2] within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities. 
## Charges &amp; Cancellations



[1]: https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/kayaking-other-guided-tours.htm
[2]: https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/pictured-rocks-boat-cruises.htm

Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

There is a backcountry campground not 1/2-mile from the 12-Mile Beach car/RV campground. "Backcountry" is deceptive, as there is a road/parking area about 1/4 mile west of the site.

You'd expect a site close to cars/roads to be clean as it's easy for people to pack trash out to a car, but there was a fair amount of garbage left in fire rings at this campground (we burned what we could and packed the rest out). The plus side was that someone had left a handful of split logs behind, negating the need to gather anything beyond kindling.

Proximity to the drive-in sites provided ready access to potable, running water and flush toilets, although there is a pit toilet at this campground.

Lake Superior is readily accessible from both these sites and the drive-in campground.

"Backcountry" site adjacent to drive-in site

Twelve Mile Beach was the perfect campsite to set-up our launching point for all of our adventures in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.  There were not a lot of spots and they are on a first come first serve basis so get there early!  Especially if you want a spot right on the beach.  We were along the second row of sites that were set back a little from the beach but still very close.  The sites right along the beach can get very windy at night on Lake Superior and can cause some damage to tents. Bathrooms and water are easily accessible and you can expect great sunsets on clear nights.  The campsite is pretty remote and the only noise you should hear are fellow campers, although ours while we were there were very considerate and we didn't really hear anything except the birds.  Pictured Rocks isn't a well know area, but it should be the options for outdoor activities is large during the summer months and it is a beautiful place to visit.  

Great spot in Michigan's UP!

We stayed at one of the twelve mile backcountry spots and it might be one of my favorite back country spots in Pictured Rocks. The hike in is fairly easy and flat the entire way. We also happened to be the only ones camping at this site and it was great to get away from the more busy sites further down the lakeshore.  The beach is just steps away from the site which is slightly above the beach (maybe 50 ft) situated within beautiful clusters of birch trees. The climb to the beach and back is not terribly difficult, we were able to make dinner by the water and run back and forth from our camp to grab misc. cooking items without the climb taking a huge toll on our energy levels. It's also the perfect spot for star gazing and relaxing on an empty beach. I have stayed in the back country at Pictured Rocks 5 times, staying at a different site each night and this place stands out. We also passed by the drive up campsites and they seemed like some of cooler drive up spaces we've come across with each site tucked into the trees and nicely secluded. 

Twelve Mile Beach Backcountry 

Spectacular location just steps from Lake Superior. Camp sites are clean, have nice fire pits and lantern poles, and are nicely spaced apart. Each site had a large level dirt tent platform. You need to be there early to get a site as this campground fills up quickly. Sites on the beach side are $2 more a night, but well worth it if you can score one. There is nothing better than listening to the sounds of the lake as you fall asleep. The North Country Trail goes right past camp so there may be more foot traffic than you expect, but everyone is really friendly so it's not a problem.  

Twelve Mile Beach

Set up your tent on the sands of Lake Superior and take in the view. That makes this the most amazing campground in Michigan. Period. The views are magnificent. We were able to cook dinner over the fire while watching some of the finest sunsets in Pictured Rocks. The vault toilets are surprisingly clean and there is drinking water available. There are also bear proof bins available for hikers who might not have a vehicle. 

The downside is the secret about this place has gotten out and the 36 sites pretty much stay filled all year round. It's a first come, first serve campground. 

An Amazing Place but hard to get into 

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 the west. 

As you pull in, you find the entrance road winds through a white birch forest. I've been to Twelvemile in the spring, summer and autumn and find the forest enchanting with every season. The road takes an abrupt left turn and runs parallel to the Lake, unseen until now. This begins the loop that is Twelvemile Beach Campground. 

There are pros and cons to both lakeside sites ($16/night) and the wooded sites ($14/night) across the road. Bugs, wind, and the freshwater gales ol' Gitche Gumee likes to toss up should all be taken into account when choosing a site, but it's safe to say that a lakeside site is always preferred in my book. They run along the dune ridge with sweeping views of Lake Superior and the constant breeze helps keeps bugs at bay (usually). 

Sites are generous in size and quite private, especially if you visit in spring and autumn. Access to the beach is plentiful and the North Country Trail actually cuts straight through the campground. Poison ivy has never been an issue for me here. Sites are first come, first served.

If you're visiting during the summer season, get there early and catch sites in the morning as people leave. It sounds extreme but it's well worth the effort (you'll thank me when you're swinging in your hammock as the poor souls who arrive in the afternoon drive through, again and again, hoping for an opening.) I can't recommend Twelvemile Beach enough. Getting there is a journey, but the destination will become one of your favorite places on earth. 

Second to None

We camped at 12mile towards the end of October. Sites are first come which can be an issue peak season. The campsite was great other then that the outhouses were screwed shut by late fall, which made #2's interesting. The sites are well spaced so you don't feel cramped. Great tree cover with a great view.

12 Mile Beach CG PNSL

This rustic national lakeshore campground is tucked in the trees along the south shore of Lake Superior. Next to the campground, there is literally a 12-mile long beach of beautiful white sand along the crystal clear waters of this great lake.

Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with water spigots scattered throughout the campground. There is no electricity available and only pit toilets (which are clean, but rather stinky). Sites are smallish, a bit close together, and can accommodate tents and only small RV’s. RV’s over 25 feet will only fit in a few of the sites near the entrance to the campground.

We visited this campground in third week of September and hit the fall color spot on! The surrounding area provides great opportunities for water sports of all kinds, cycling, hiking, and dune climbing. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Visitor’s Center is about 35 miles west of this campground in the town of Munising where you will find grocery stores, gasoline, a laundromat, and restaurants.

White Sand Beaches & Fall Color

Gorgeous campground for those who enjoy rustic camping (no utilities). This place is extremely popular and reservations are not taken, so arrive early. It took us two tries before we landed a site here (Hurricane River is a good backup spot). The North County Trail passes right through this campsite; the only downside is, no dogs allowed on the trail (we were issued a warning).

White Birch & pine forest on bluff overlooking Lake Superior

This is our favorite campground! We love exploring the beach and hiking down the trails right from the campground. We enjoy the ranger programs that are offered, and the camp hosts are so friendly!!

Love!!

Get there early! Campsites don’t take reservations so walk in early if you want a chance to find a campsite. There is only 12 campsites + a few handicapped campsites in the area I was in. I was lucky enough to get a campsite right next to the lake and it was absolutely beautiful! Toilets are available but no running water. There is a bubbler/water spout at entrance to campsite. Gorgeous campsite! Gorgeous Park! Will be back sometime! 

So Beautiful!

We had an absolutly gorgeous site that was right on a ridge overlooking the lake. We just had to walk down the ridge to get to the lake.  The site had a nice amount of trees to hammock from and a good amount of space for our larger tent. The facilities there were nice. Do note that spots are first come first serve. 

Absolutly Gorgeous

No reservations so you need to be early and persistent in finding a campsite. Great lakeside sites with easy beach access and gorgeous views.

Best campground in Pictured Rocks

What an amazing campground location! Easy access to the beach and the trails along the water :) We lucked out with a GREAT view of Lake Superior.  Sandy sites mean its easy put up and tent and get a good nights rest.  For how busy the campground was it wasn't overly loud or too chaotic. Paths down to the beach for easy access no matter what spot you get, it will not be a disappointment.  (Though still try for the lake view ones ;) )

  

I would think it's challenging to get a spot here! We stayed our first night at a campground near Munising then got up SUPER early to get a site here.  I believe it's first come, first served but since it's been a couple years that might have changed. 

  

\*Munising is not super close, but it's well worth it for a bit of a drive to go on the Picture Rocks cruise! VERY cool to see the cliffside and the brilliant colors from the water :)

could there be a better location?!

Absolutely breathtaking beach side sites. Came in late June during the week and getting a spot was easy. The sites are close together. but had our own private trail that lead to the beach. Quiet for the most part and campers respected privacy. Found wolf prints not far from our site on the beach. Can’t wait to visit again! 

Amazing location

We stayed during the last few nights of walk-up only camping. Pit toilets were rough but did have hand sanitizer. Water available at center point of campground. Easy beach access from nearly all sites. Flies varied from nonexistent to intolerable, depending on the wind. This campground was so quiet and beautiful. On our last night a storm blew in and demolished many of the  tents and other structures along the beach side. The sites with the best views were hit harder bc of a lack of trees. Beware. No cell service at campground but is available at the Sable visitor center approximately 20 minutes away. 


Alone on the shore

This place is a gem. 50 minutes from Munising, makes the perfect camping spot for a pictures rocks trip. 

Beautiful beach with all the privacy in the world. The best part about camping here was the Beach! 

Another really nice amenity was the lantern posts next to the picnic table and the grill grate attached to the fire pit. Can’t recommend this place enough.

Some tips: DO NOT take 721 trail off Adams trail. Apple maps told us to take this route. It’s really only meant for atv’s and specialized off road vehicles. It would have saved 3 minutes off our total drive time. The local tow truck told us he comes here 3 times a week while he towed us out. And there’s no signal. It was pretty scary. 

No running water in restroom, so pack some Clorox wipes. 

Bugs are pretty bad on the non-lake side so try to get a site near the water.


Gorgeous, off the grid.

I have a hard time giving this place a bad review but just as hard as giving it a good one. There is no question this campground is well maintained and looked after by Rangers. Bathrooms are clean and opening few campsites over look Lake Superior. The bad part though is literally dangerous suffocating levels of mosquitoes penetrating back campsites. My dog and I made it 10 hours in site 32 and just had to go. There was no amount of spray or nuclear power that could stop these mosquitoes. I assume sites on water are better with breeze, but higher number sites beware......

Beauty But Dangerous Levels of Mosquitoes

Gorgeous primitive sites in Pictured Rocks. No cell service for many miles.  We stayed at site 19 lake side. A large private site with many trees. A short walk behind our site lead to a gorgeous overlook of Lake Superior. Great location near all of the beauty of Pictured Rocks. Campground had pit toilets, water, and lots of bear safe trash cans. There is no shower so bring your camp soap and shower or wash up in the lake.  We picked up wood near Grand Marais, but you can find it for sale coming in from Munising too. Summer south winds may bring the stable flies. We had real problems when hiking and they were annoying at our site as well. If you have a screened in pop up, bring it. Be sure to check out the natural wonders but also the adorable town of Grand Marais. We hope to be back in fall when the flies may leave us alone.

A much coveted campground

Abundant beauty in the UP. Hike a little or a lot. Ride on a boat or paddle a kayak. So many ways to enjoy the beauty. There are several short (less than a mile) walks to gorgeous waterfalls. If you are more ambitious and able hike the Chapel Falls Loop.
Feeling lazy, sit on the beach at Grand Marais and walk the little town and grab ice cream. The NTC runs 42 miles through the National Lakeshore if you are up for a multi day backpack. Lodging in Munising and Grand Marais, primitive camping in between.


Worth the effort

 One early to grab a spot but so worth the early trip, especially if you’re able to grab a spot right on the lake.

Great views, great campsites 

The private well-spaced sites just a stone’s throw from 75 ft. dunes overlooking Lake Superior’s colored rock shoreline made this campground a family favorite. Sullen video-weary kids were transformed into naturalists in mere seconds once we set foot on the beach. Even with no running water or electric, and (surprisingly clean) pit toilets, this campground was totally worth the extra steps to make our visit a lifelong memory. The private lake view was just what we were looking for and the colorful beach rocks kept us combing the shores for hours even as sunset twilight still lingered after 10:00 PM. If the beauty of nature in a non-crowded setting is your goal, then this is a great campground to visit. Wife said, “I can feel myself unwinding on this beach. I could stay here all week.” We’ll be back. 

Totally worth it 

Beautiful, spacious sites with fantastic views. Excellent beach with tons of space. The North Country Trail runs through the campground, which makes it a perfect stop for a few hours, a night or a few days.

One of the most beautiful campgrounds in Michigan. 

This campground is gorgeous! We stayed in site 30 and it was huge with a beautiful lake view just steps away on a sandy path. Tgis was our favorite campground of a 3 week road trip. Just beautiful!
Pit toilets kept clean.

Beautiful!

Great campsite in the middle of Pictured Rocks. Close to the light station and Hurricane river, and about 35 minutes to Munising and the boats. Simple campground, steps from the lake on a peaceful and quiet Lake Superior beach. Wonderful spot. 

Quiet, coastal, remote.

This is the most amazing campground there is. I was on the side of the water and it was absolutely exceptional. Easy access to the water and lots to explore whether on the beach or on the trails. Words cannot do the beauty of this campground and area justice. The campground itself was easy to get to, you had privacy, lots of awesome cars and trucks, and it was clean and spacious. I dream of being back here because even despite the 40 degrees and rain, I had a blast of a time, and so did my dog.

My Favorite

We camped at site 7.  It was my second option, but Im so glad we got it!!  It was the best site!!  The views were amazing!!!  There was a steep decline to the water, but totally worth it!!!  My kids loved it!  There was enough space between our neighbors and the bathrooms and trash werent that fall away.    I really wish we would have done a boat tour of the rocks, verses just strictly hiking to the locations.  I was worried with 2 small kids that they would have lost interest in the boat fast.      We checked out the neighboring cities and tried a pastie, per recommendations.  On our drive to Pictured Rocks, we stopped at Palm Book State park as well!!  It was crowded, but still amazing!!

Amazing!! 

Spent a single night here for my wife's birthday and it did not disappoint! Our site was conveniently located by the facilities and had a direct path down the dunes to the lakeshore beach. The only complaint we had was the insane number of biting flies we had to deal with, but even that wasn't enough to damper how great a time we had! We will be back!

Absolutely loved our stay!

Better than expected, we did not this time but definitely recommend a site on the beach side.  They are all great, but stepping to the edge to see Lake Superior took my breath away.  Kids had a great time playing on the beach. Nice, quiet campground.  Bugs were not bad this time of year.  

Breathtaking 

I loved this campground. I wish we were on the lake side for the spectacular views, but it's not a long walk over to watch the sunset or enjoy your morning cup of coffee.

Our site had a pole for a lantern, picnic table, fire ring and tent pad. The water spigot was a few sites over as was the vault toilet. The vault toilet was clean and didn't smell. There were many garbage cans.

Our site was large and private. We had neighbors on either side of us but didn't hear them or see them from our site. 

The flies were extremely bad or first day but not our other two days. Bring lots of DEET for you and permethrin or something for your dog just in case!

Overall great experience and can't wait to come back!

Unbelievably Beautiful

Very wonderfully setup campground with a few trails for light hiking right out of the campground. The sites are very big and can fit any size recreational vehicle or groups. The campground was kept in very great condition, with pit toilets and a water fountain. We stayed on site 5 and loved the view down to the lake. The White Birch trail runs off campsite 6 and ends at the beginning of the campground. This area is also used for day use down to the beach and the North Country Trail. 

Beautiful serene part of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Wish we had stayed here - beautiful 

Twelve Mile :
(Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(70 yr olds in 17’ trailer)
Overall Rating:  4.8.  FABULOUS 
Price 2023:
Usage during visit:  Full for  Labor Day weekend 
Site Privacy:  Fair to Very good 
Site Spacing:  Good
Site surface:   Sand. 
Reservations:    Yes
Campground Noise:   Quiet
Road Noise: None 
Through Traffic in campground:   None 
Electric Hookup:   No
Sewer Hookup: No
Dump Station: No
Potable Water Available: One faucet near site 12.  Another further down.  Maybe more. 
Generators:  Allowed, but there is a generator free zone. 
Bathroom:  Very clean pit toilets. 
Showers:   Nope
Pull Throughs:  I didn’t see any. 
Cell Service (AT&amp;T):  None 
Setting:  Along the lake
Weather:  Nice first day of September.  I am sure this campground can get extremely windy. 
Solar:   Too thick of a forest.  
Host:  Yes
Rig size:  Max I saw was about 28’. 
Sites:  there is not a bad site here. Amazing. I like the following sites because they are long the Lakeshore. Some of them aren’t as private as other sites, but looking at the lake from the campsite would be just fabulous: 1, 3 4 5 7, 9, 12, 14, 15, 30, 19 .  