The best camping in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI

With soaring cliffs, sandy beaches, and distinctive rock formations fringing the south shore of Lake Superior, dramatic views are a guarantee at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. More than 100 miles of hiking trails lead the way to viewpoints such as Miners Castle, Grand Sable Banks, and Chapel Rock Waterfall, or you can take to the water to swim, boat, or kayak. Camping in the park is a rustic affair, and if you’re feeling even more adventurous, there are plenty of options for backcountry camping. Bring your skis or snowmobile in winter, or try your luck ice fishing on the frozen lake.

• Best for lake views: Twelvemile Beach Campground has 36 tent/RV sites, some of which look out over the beach below.
• Best for boaters: Little Beaver Lake Campground has just eight sites and a boat ramp, but it’s best suited to RVs under 36 feet.
• Best for peace and quiet: Hurricane River Campground has 21 tent/RV sites in a wooded setting, some designated as generator-free.

1. You can reserve a site at one of three campgrounds or purchase a backcountry camping permit via the Recreation.gov website. No first-come, first-served camping is available.
2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. Spots can fill up quickly for summer and holiday weekends, so book as soon as possible, especially if you have a specific site in mind. 
3. Two campsites at each campground are held back for last-minute bookings, and these spots open up two weeks in advance—book quickly to snag one of the spots.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed in all four seasons at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and the park stays open year-round. Spring through autumn are the best times for hiking and kayaking—time your visit to admire spring wildflowers or blazing fall foliage. Snowfall typically lasts from late November through late April, and some roads and amenities close through winter. The lakeshore campgrounds open from May 15 through October 15.

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is on the southeast shore of Lake Superior, a short drive from Munising to the west or Grand Marais to the east.
• A per-vehicle admission fee applies, and camping reservation fees also apply.
• Facilities include the Munising Falls and Grand Sable Visitor Centers, picnic areas, restrooms, and a small boat ramp. Cell service is unreliable throughout the park, but public wifi is available at the visitor centers.
• Bears are present at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, so keep food and garbage secure at campgrounds and backcountry areas, and follow the park’s bear safety guidelines.
• There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Pictured Rocks. The Munising Falls trail and Sand Point Marsh Trail are also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.