Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Camping Permit
4.46436 reviewsPO Box 40, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Camping Permit
$5.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$5.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Backcountry Camping Permit Fee: $5 per person/per night. Children 5 and under are free. Reservation Fee: $15 non-refundable reservation fee required for each permit reserved.
About this campground
Deep within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore lies a backcountry camping experience that promises true wilderness immersion. These remote campsites, accessible only by foot or paddle, offer adventurers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's raw beauty. Every visitor must secure a permit before embarking on their journey to these pristine, low-impact camping areas where the only sounds are waves lapping against ancient shores and wind whispering through towering pines.
The campground caters primarily to backcountry camping with a focus on hiking and kayaking access. Camping is only allowed at designated sites, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.
Historical SignificanceThese lands hold stories written in stone and water, where indigenous peoples first recognized the sacred beauty of Superior's shores. Today, this protected lakeshore serves as a guardian of both natural wonders and cultural heritage, preserving an ecosystem that has captivated human hearts for millennia. Each cliff face and hidden cove whispers tales of the past while protecting irreplaceable habitats for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm days perfect for exploration, though buzzing mosquitoes and persistent black flies remind visitors they're sharing this wilderness with its original inhabitants. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a painter's palette of crimson maples and golden birches, with crisp air that makes every breath feel refreshing. Winter blankets the lakeshore in deep snow, creating a serene wonderland where only the hardiest adventurers venture forth to experience the frozen beauty of Superior's coastline.
ElevationThe terrain gently rises and falls along Superior's magnificent coastline, creating an accessible wilderness experience where the lake's horizon meets forested ridges. These modest elevations offer perfect vantage points for sunset watching and sunrise photography, while keeping trails manageable for hikers carrying full packs to their backcountry destinations.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering sandstone cliffs painted in mineral hues rise dramatically from crystal-clear waters, creating the namesake 'pictured rocks' that have drawn visitors for generations. Hidden waterfalls cascade through emerald forests before tumbling onto secluded beaches of finest sand. Ancient dunes tell stories of glacial retreat, while virgin forests provide sanctuary for wildlife and solitude-seeking campers. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy vista of Lake Superior's endless blue horizon.
Geological RegionPerched on Michigan's wild northern coast, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore showcases nature's artistry carved over millions of years. Here, Superior's relentless waves have sculpted multicolored sandstone into arches, caves, and towering formations that defy imagination. This unique ecosystem, where ancient forests meet pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs plunge into the world's largest freshwater lake, creates a geological wonderland found nowhere else on Earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is primitive and may not offer sufficient accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeIndividual campsites accommodate up to 6 people with space for two tents or hammocks. Group sites allow up to 20 people with a maximum of 10 tents.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varying levels of privacy; group sites may be less secluded due to their size and shared facilities.
Total Campsites72 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChapel Beach offers proximity to a scenic sandy beach; Pine Bluff provides spacious campsites with excellent views.
Best CampsitesChapel Beach, Beaver Creek, and Pine Bluff are frequently highlighted as top sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in by 12:00 AM on the first reserved night.
Check-out
Vacate site by 11:00 AM the following day.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of six people per individual campsite.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 7-20 people and allow up to 10 tents. These sites are clearly marked and offer shared facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSite layout is dispersed along the North Country Trail and backcountry routes, with sites identified by numbered posts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up permits are available; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees apply prior to printing the permit. The $15 reservation fee is non-refundable. A 50% refund is issued for backcountry camping permit fees if canceled prior to the reservation date. No refunds after the permit is printed.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife observation, and photography. The area is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and forested trails.
Hiking
The park offers nearly 100 miles of walking and hiking trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail. Trails vary in difficulty, with some featuring steep climbs, uneven terrain, and long distances between campsites.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the park, but campers are reminded to follow local regulations and ensure they pack out any trash.Swimming
Swimming is possible along Lake Superior's beaches, but campers should be cautious of cold water temperatures and strong currents.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, with opportunities to explore the shoreline and access remote campsites. A backcountry camping permit is required for overnight kayak trips.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently spot deer, black bears, peregrine falcons, and eagles. Bear safety precautions are emphasized.Beach activities
Campers can enjoy beachcombing and sunbathing along the sandy stretches of Lake Superior. Some beaches are rocky and require careful navigation.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing along the trails.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular non-motorized water sports available for campers along Lake Superior.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated rings. Beach fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, ticks, and ravens, as well as extreme weather conditions like high winds off Lake Superior.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The Munising Falls Visitor Center includes contact options for emergency situations. It is located approximately 2.5 miles away in Munising.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season spans from June 21 to December 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out all trash as no trash bins are provided. Proper disposal of human waste is required for sites without toilet facilities.
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are near streams, waterfalls, or Lake Superior, providing abundant water sources.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions include issues with campsite markers, shared fire pits, and proximity to day-use trails reducing privacy.
Campground Map
PO Box 40, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Driving directionsDirections available at https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/directions.htm.
The campground is accessible only by hiking or kayaking, with designated parking areas requiring visitors to hike to sites. Nearby roads are generally paved, but trails may be seasonal and challenging.Nearby places
Munising: approximately 2.5 miles
Grand Marais: approximately 35 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Munising, including gas stations, grocery stores, and camping goods suppliers approximately 2.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
436 reviews
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Camping Permit is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore campgrounds highlight the area's stunning scenery, well-maintained trails, and peaceful backcountry experience. However, some reviews mention overcrowding, lack of privacy, and occasional issues with facilities or park policies.
Review Summaries
Based on 436 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the beauty and solitude of the backcountry sites, the easy accessibility of hiking trails, and the stunning views of Lake Superior. Many highlight the park's clean facilities...
Based on 436 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often focus on overcrowding at certain sites, unclear trail markings, and challenges with the reservation system. Some visitors noted issues with trash in bear boxes and poorly maintained...
Based on 436 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of bug spray, trekking poles, and water purification supplies. Reserve campsites well in advance to secure preferred locations, and plan for sudden weather changes.
Based on 436 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that fall offers the best weather, minimal bugs, and peak fall foliage views. Summer reviews often mention mosquitoes and crowded campsites, while winter reviews highlight the area's...
Based on 436 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Absolutely stunning views, worth every mile of hiking." "Bring extra layers and a good sleeping bag; temperatures drop sharply at night." "The ravens at Chapel Beach are incredibly clever; keep your...
Based on 436 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Chapel Beach Campsites are praised for their proximity to the beach but noted for raven activity. Benchmark sites are highlighted for their stunning sunsets and lake access, while Mosquito River...
Based on 436 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is limited due to the primitive nature of the park. Visitors with mobility challenges may find the terrain difficult to navigate.
Based on 436 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not permitted in the backcountry, and some users express disappointment about this restriction.
Based on 436 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025