The best camping in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, MI

With almost 60,000 acres of forested mountains, woodlands, and waterfalls on the southern brim of Lake Superior, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is Michigan’s largest—and wildest—state park. Some of the best views are found at the Summit Peak Observation Tower and the Lake of the Clouds, but more than 90 miles of trails also await for hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing, depending on the season. Camping in the Porkies is an adventure, whether you prefer a forest yurt, rustic cabin, modern RV site, or backcountry camping in the heart of the woods.

• Best for RV campers: Union Bay Campground has beachside tent/RV sites, including yurts, cabins, and the park’s only electric hook-ups. 
• Best for getting back to nature: Presque Isle Rustic Campground has 60 drive-in and walk-in sites at the mouth of the Presque Isle River. 
• Best for hikers: White Pine Outpost Camp has eight rustic sites suitable for tents or small campervans, close to the Summit Peak Scenic Area.

1. You can reserve Porcupine Mountains campsites and lodging via the Michigan State Park & Harbor Reservations website. 
2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance.
3. Campsites and cabins can book up fast over summer and holiday weekends, so reserve at least three months in advance.

Whether you’re heading to the lakeshore in summer or hitting the ski slopes in winter, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness welcomes adventurers through all four seasons. Arguably the most magnificent time to visit is in fall when the old-growth forests are ablaze with red, orange, and yellow foliage. The park’s developed campgrounds are open from May through October, with first-come, first-served camping only in November. Backcountry campsites stay open year-round, but road access may be limited through winter.

• The Porkies are set on the southwest shore of Lake Superior, a short drive from Bruce Crossing. 
• A Recreation Passport is required to visit all Michigan state parks. Camping reservation fees also apply. 
• Park facilities include a Visitor Center, restrooms, and picnic areas. Cell phone service may be patchy, but the Visitor Center has wifi.
• Black bears live in the Porcupine Mountains, so keep food and garbage secure in camping and day-use areas. Follow the park’s bear safety guidelines.
• Accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas are available. The Lake of the Clouds viewing area is also accessible.