White Pine Canoe SF Campground, near Grayling, Michigan, is a rustic spot that caters to those looking for a backcountry experience. Accessible only by boat or kayak, it offers a unique adventure for campers who enjoy a little effort to reach their destination.

This campground is pretty basic, with no drinking water, showers, or toilets, so come prepared. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are secluded and shaded, making it a peaceful place to pitch your tent. One camper noted, “Lovely forested secluded tent sites,” which is a big plus for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

If you’re up for a hike, the area surrounding the campground features sandy trails that lead to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. Many campers have enjoyed having the beach all to themselves, even during peak season. As one reviewer put it, “Even during the busy season... I had the whole beach to myself!” 

For those who appreciate a communal vibe, the campground has a fire ring where you can gather with fellow campers. Just remember to follow bear safety rules while you’re out there. Whether you’re on a multi-day river trip or just looking for a quiet weekend, White Pine Canoe SF Campground offers a straightforward, nature-focused experience.

White Pines Campground is a backcountry campground, with a restroom and a fire ring. This 60 acre greenspace is mostly undeveloped, offering only parking at the main entrance and a single trail through the forest. When the original 20 acres of the park were acquired in 1927, they contained one of the few remaining pure stands of white pines in the county. The park has since been managed with the goal of preserving this stand and enhancing it with plantings of new white pine seedlings.

White Pine Canoe SF Campground

Looking for the best campgrounds near Luzerne, MI? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Luzerne is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Luzerne, reviewed by campers like you.

Luzerne

The Best Camping Near Luzerne, Michigan

This is the only backcountry spot in the Sleeping Bear Dunes on the mainland. I gave it a 3 star rating because this place hardly classifies as "the wilderness". The hike in is a quick, flat terrain hike through somewhat anticlimactic scenery. Once you're at the the campground, the sites are pretty close together (which might be a good thing for groups) and there is a communal fire ring. If your preferred version of the backcountry is a short walking distance from the car and less secluded, more social sites, then this just might be your 5 star site. The beach was about 1/2 a mile from the campsite and was completely empty. Although this beach does not have the characteristic dunes of the surrounding lakeshore, it is beautiful in that it's completely yours. I would recommend this site as an ideal spot if you wanted to take a larger group and reserve multiple sites or as a way to ease first time backpackers into the backcountry. Visited July 2016.

White Pine Backcountry at Sleeping Bear Dunes--Great for first timers 

Short backpacking walk to this no-reservations rustic campsite. You need a backcountry permit and there’s usually a small fee. Lovely forested secluded tent sites. There’s only one or two fire pits, but going there is a nice way to meet your neighbors (only 2 other groups when I was there in April). Sites aren’t too sandy and are pretty shady. Follow bear rules!! 

Backcountry camping by the Platte River 

After a short mile or so hike over a mostly level sandy trail you'll reach to the campground. It's located in a part of the forest with lots of ridges. While there is only a couple sites, and the trail on isn't that exciting, the camp is secluded, has a out house and bear food locker. Most impressive though is the short walk from camp to the amazing Lake Michigan beach shore. Even during the busy season of the National lakeshore, I had the whole beach to myself!

Nice hike in & amazing beach to yourself

In other reviews people said this is white pine backcountry camping and is not, 
 people must have mistaken this to be at the bear dunes located on the west end of the state. This is a nice small camp ground, to get to by boat or kayak. 1st night of 3 night river trip with second night at rainbow bend third and final stop at parmalee. 

Photos of White Pine Canoe SF Campground

Real photos from real campers