The best waterside camping in Lake Superior

·

Lake Superior’s shoreline delivers over 690 waterside camping spots, so you can pitch your tent within earshot of real waves, not just wind in the trees. Average nightly rates sit around $80, but you’ll find sites as low as $10 if you’re quick. Expect easy access to fishing, swimming, and—when the season turns—snow sports. Top picks like Keweenaw Homestead Camping (91 reviews), Beach Camp (65 reviews), and Lake Superior Beach Perfection (59 reviews) get high marks for easy water access and straightforward setups. Bring your pup, light a fire, and don’t stress about basic toilets—they’re common here. You’ll find campsites tucked behind dunes, perched on rocky bluffs, and right on the sand. Lake Superior doesn’t do boring.

98% (572) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Superior

Superior Beach Camp

1. Superior Beach Camp

99%
(204)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · South Range, WI
Escape to Superior Beach Camp and immerse yourself in the beauty and privacy of a cleared camping area situated above 500' feet of sand and pebble beach on the world’s greatest lake. Agate campsite is very generously sized and is all yours. Surrounded by a mix of poplar and birch with a few white pine sprinkled in, the main camp area is set back from the lake atop a 70' bluff with peekaboo views of Lake Superior. A short walk down a private path from your campsite gives you access to a beautiful Lake Superior beach to swim, skip rocks, search for agates, or just enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the town of Duluth on the opposite shore. Agate campsite previously featured a "look out point" that has been altered by the natural erosion of the red clay banks that comprise much of Lake Superior's south shore. While you can still access this area, doing so will require more effort and care, and we no longer allow camping on the point. Superior Beach Camp located is 2.5 hours north of the Twin Cities and perfectly positions you to discover all the wonders of the Twin Ports. Explore this amazing area or stay at camp, set up your chair in the sand and take in the many moods of Mother Superior. Watch the ships come and go to the sparkly backdrop of Duluth’s city lights. The crackle of a driftwood fire on the beach provides the perfect soundtrack as you watch for shooting stars and the aurora. Stock up on supplies and explore the charming industrial town of Superior, WI – 15 minutes from your campsite. Spend a day mountain biking the Duluth Traverse and touring the the wonderful local dining and tap room scenes of Duluth and Superior. Canal Park, downtown Duluth, is a 25 minute drive. If you’d like to venture further, you could meander up the North Shore. Or keep it local and check out Bayfield and the Apostle Islands – only 75 minutes East. Stop through the charming lakeside village of Cornucopia on your way. Or perhaps you’d like to experience world class trout fishing on the Brule River a half hour from Superior Beach Camp. Maybe Parks are your thing: Amnicon Falls, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful State Parks, is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Drive a half hour further to Pattison State Park and take in Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. On the Minnesota side, the magic of Jay Cooke State Park is 30 minutes west (and puts you on the doorstep of legit white water rafting). Whether you're looking for solace and relaxation in a blissful [great] lakeside setting or simply seeking a convenient place to rest your head while exploring the many adventures a stone’s throw from your campsite, there is something for everyone who camps here. Superior Beach Camp is a clean, quiet, peaceful, primitive setting. We appreciate that our campers help us keep it this way; remember to pack in any supplies or provisions you need, and leave no trace when you depart so our next guests can enjoy a clean campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

2. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%
(221)
1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI
"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$135
 / night
Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

3. Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

91%
(95)
11 sites · Tents, Lodging · South Range, WI
At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Hiawatha National Forest

4. Hiawatha National Forest

92%
(32)
513 sites · Chatham, Michigan
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

94%
(41)
65 sites · Munising, Michigan
Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

6. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%
(89)
3 sites · Tents · Ontonagon, MI
Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Tettegouche State Park

7. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
45 sites · Silver Bay, Minnesota
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

8. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(29)
170 sites · White Pine, Michigan
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pattison State Park

9. Pattison State Park

100%
(5)
58 sites · Superior, Wisconsin
Discover Wisconsin's tallest waterfalls and serene nature at Pattison State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cascade River State Park

10. Cascade River State Park

100%
(5)
47 sites · Lutsen, Minnesota
Discover the rugged beauty of Cascade River State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ottawa National Forest

11. Ottawa National Forest

90%
(10)
367 sites · Watersmeet, Michigan
Everyday is the best day ever at Ottowa National Forest, a great place for seasoned adventurers and families alike. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness will please advance kayakers and canoers, while those with little ones can head to Lake Ottawa Recreation area for forested trails, picnicking spots and a swimming beach. Spy everything from wildflowers to black bears on the trails, and have that camera ready incase you see somethin' good. And in the cooler months? Leaf peeping and snowshoeing will make you glad you came to Ottawa when the crowds die down post summer. There’s something special about this place, experience Ottawa firsthand and reconnect with the great outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gooseberry Falls State Park

12. Gooseberry Falls State Park

98%
(25)
69 sites · Beaver Bay, Minnesota
Next time you find yourself on Minnesota’s scenic Highway 61, do everything you can to pull over for the stunning views at Gooseberry Falls State Park. The region has been a seat of human activity on the north shore of Lake Superior since at least 1670, and it’s no wonder—the river gorge carved out of ancient rock and five many-tiered waterfalls will literally take your breath away, and developed modern camp sites provide comfort and ease so you can spend more time exploring.Bike the paved Gitchi-Gami trail, or hike any of the connector paths to the Superior Hiking Trail system. Pack some sammies and enjoy the Picnic Flow area, situated on an ancient lava flow that provides great views of Lake Superior. Check out the historic rustic granite structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose design was overseen by Italian stonemasons and is very colorful. With so much to do, it’s worth it to invest in the year pass if you live nearby—for Minnesotans, the first time at Gooseberry is never the last.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

13. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

96%
(12)
2 sites · Bayfield, Wisconsin
Shipwrecks, sea caves, and sandy beaches provide a spectacular setting for an island camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Van Riper State Park

14. Van Riper State Park

190 sites · Michigamme, Michigan
Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Lake Superior’s shoreline delivers over 690 waterside camping spots, so you can pitch your tent within earshot of real waves, not just wind in the trees. Average nightly rates sit around $80, but you’ll find sites as low as $10 if you’re quick. Expect easy access to fishing, swimming, and—when the season turns—snow sports. Top picks like Keweenaw Homestead Camping (91 reviews), Beach Camp (65 reviews), and Lake Superior Beach Perfection (59 reviews) get high marks for easy water access and straightforward setups. Bring your pup, light a fire, and don’t stress about basic toilets—they’re common here. You’ll find campsites tucked behind dunes, perched on rocky bluffs, and right on the sand. Lake Superior doesn’t do boring.

98% (572) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Superior

Superior Beach Camp

1. Superior Beach Camp

99%
(204)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · South Range, WI
Escape to Superior Beach Camp and immerse yourself in the beauty and privacy of a cleared camping area situated above 500' feet of sand and pebble beach on the world’s greatest lake. Agate campsite is very generously sized and is all yours. Surrounded by a mix of poplar and birch with a few white pine sprinkled in, the main camp area is set back from the lake atop a 70' bluff with peekaboo views of Lake Superior. A short walk down a private path from your campsite gives you access to a beautiful Lake Superior beach to swim, skip rocks, search for agates, or just enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the town of Duluth on the opposite shore. Agate campsite previously featured a "look out point" that has been altered by the natural erosion of the red clay banks that comprise much of Lake Superior's south shore. While you can still access this area, doing so will require more effort and care, and we no longer allow camping on the point. Superior Beach Camp located is 2.5 hours north of the Twin Cities and perfectly positions you to discover all the wonders of the Twin Ports. Explore this amazing area or stay at camp, set up your chair in the sand and take in the many moods of Mother Superior. Watch the ships come and go to the sparkly backdrop of Duluth’s city lights. The crackle of a driftwood fire on the beach provides the perfect soundtrack as you watch for shooting stars and the aurora. Stock up on supplies and explore the charming industrial town of Superior, WI – 15 minutes from your campsite. Spend a day mountain biking the Duluth Traverse and touring the the wonderful local dining and tap room scenes of Duluth and Superior. Canal Park, downtown Duluth, is a 25 minute drive. If you’d like to venture further, you could meander up the North Shore. Or keep it local and check out Bayfield and the Apostle Islands – only 75 minutes East. Stop through the charming lakeside village of Cornucopia on your way. Or perhaps you’d like to experience world class trout fishing on the Brule River a half hour from Superior Beach Camp. Maybe Parks are your thing: Amnicon Falls, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful State Parks, is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Drive a half hour further to Pattison State Park and take in Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. On the Minnesota side, the magic of Jay Cooke State Park is 30 minutes west (and puts you on the doorstep of legit white water rafting). Whether you're looking for solace and relaxation in a blissful [great] lakeside setting or simply seeking a convenient place to rest your head while exploring the many adventures a stone’s throw from your campsite, there is something for everyone who camps here. Superior Beach Camp is a clean, quiet, peaceful, primitive setting. We appreciate that our campers help us keep it this way; remember to pack in any supplies or provisions you need, and leave no trace when you depart so our next guests can enjoy a clean campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

2. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%
(221)
1 site · Lodging · Delaware, MI
"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$135
 / night
Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

3. Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

91%
(95)
11 sites · Tents, Lodging · South Range, WI
At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Hiawatha National Forest

4. Hiawatha National Forest

92%
(32)
513 sites · Chatham, Michigan
This woodland wilderness borders not one but three of Michigan’s Great Lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

94%
(41)
65 sites · Munising, Michigan
Sandstone cliffs and wild beaches fringe America’s first National Lakeshore.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

6. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%
(89)
3 sites · Tents · Ontonagon, MI
Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Tettegouche State Park

7. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
45 sites · Silver Bay, Minnesota
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

8. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%
(29)
170 sites · White Pine, Michigan
Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pattison State Park

9. Pattison State Park

100%
(5)
58 sites · Superior, Wisconsin
Discover Wisconsin's tallest waterfalls and serene nature at Pattison State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cascade River State Park

10. Cascade River State Park

100%
(5)
47 sites · Lutsen, Minnesota
Discover the rugged beauty of Cascade River State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ottawa National Forest

11. Ottawa National Forest

90%
(10)
367 sites · Watersmeet, Michigan
Everyday is the best day ever at Ottowa National Forest, a great place for seasoned adventurers and families alike. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness will please advance kayakers and canoers, while those with little ones can head to Lake Ottawa Recreation area for forested trails, picnicking spots and a swimming beach. Spy everything from wildflowers to black bears on the trails, and have that camera ready incase you see somethin' good. And in the cooler months? Leaf peeping and snowshoeing will make you glad you came to Ottawa when the crowds die down post summer. There’s something special about this place, experience Ottawa firsthand and reconnect with the great outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gooseberry Falls State Park

12. Gooseberry Falls State Park

98%
(25)
69 sites · Beaver Bay, Minnesota
Next time you find yourself on Minnesota’s scenic Highway 61, do everything you can to pull over for the stunning views at Gooseberry Falls State Park. The region has been a seat of human activity on the north shore of Lake Superior since at least 1670, and it’s no wonder—the river gorge carved out of ancient rock and five many-tiered waterfalls will literally take your breath away, and developed modern camp sites provide comfort and ease so you can spend more time exploring.Bike the paved Gitchi-Gami trail, or hike any of the connector paths to the Superior Hiking Trail system. Pack some sammies and enjoy the Picnic Flow area, situated on an ancient lava flow that provides great views of Lake Superior. Check out the historic rustic granite structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose design was overseen by Italian stonemasons and is very colorful. With so much to do, it’s worth it to invest in the year pass if you live nearby—for Minnesotans, the first time at Gooseberry is never the last.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

13. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

96%
(12)
2 sites · Bayfield, Wisconsin
Shipwrecks, sea caves, and sandy beaches provide a spectacular setting for an island camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Van Riper State Park

14. Van Riper State Park

190 sites · Michigamme, Michigan
Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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Top regions near Lake Superior