Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

4.68

350 reviews

19456 W Lakeshore Drive, Brimley MI 49715

Romantic GetawayStargazingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Michigan#1 RV Camping Michigan#1 Primitive Camping Michigan#1 +7 more

Quick Facts

594 ft

Price

$21 - $24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025 - ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Smore Memories LLC site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

594 ft

Price

$21 - $24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025 - ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Smore Memories LLC site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

$21.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season charges: $24 for standard nonelectric sites and $21 for walk-in sites. Reservation fees vary based on method ($8 online/app, $9 through...

Standard Site Fee$24.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$21.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-203-9872

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What Campers Say

4.68

Top-Rated

Based on 350 reviews

114 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlakesites

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"The Bay View Campground holds an average sentiment of 4.62 for general experiences and 4.56 for campground-specific ratings. Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the cleanliness, spaciousness, and well-maintained facilities. Hosts are described as friendly and attentive, contributing positively to the camping experience."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

19456 W Lakeshore Drive, Brimley MI 49715

Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

19456 W Lakeshore Drive, Brimley MI 49715

Driving directionsFrom Brimley, Michigan, travel west on County Road 42/Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway for approximately 8 miles. Bay View Campground is located on the north side of the road.

Accessible via paved roads from Brimley, Michigan, along County Road 42/Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain explicitly mentioned.

Nearby places

Brimley (8 miles, approx. 15-minute drive), Sault Ste. Marie (approx. 30-minute drive), Tahquamenon Falls (30 miles), Point Iroquois Lighthouse (8 miles), Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Lighthouse (39 miles).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and essentials are available at Family Dollar and Walmart in Sault Ste. Marie (approx. 30-minute drive). Fuel and ice are available in Brimley, with local options such as Pickles Bar & Restaurant.

Best Time to Camp at Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

Summer brings gentle warmth to this northern paradise, though Lake Superior's influence keeps evenings refreshingly cool—perfect for campfire gatherings. The mighty lake occasionally flexes its muscles with dramatic winds that whisper through the pines and create mesmerizing waves along the shore. As seasons change, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland blanketed in snow, while the dramatic shift in daylight hours—from endless summer evenings to cozy winter nights—adds to the region's ever-changing character.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in MI

Summer is highly praised: warm days, minimal bugs and good swimming opportunities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in MI

Fall appreciated for vibrant foliage and quieter visits per seasonal reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Limited spring availability and cooler conditions; some early-season access noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; no winter reviews available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025 (peak season). First-come, first-served sites available May 14, 2026 - May 21, 2026.

About Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay, Bay View Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Here, beneath a canopy of towering pines, rustic campsites offer front-row seats to one of the Great Lakes' most dramatic coastlines. Adventure awaits just moments away, from the thundering cascade of Tahquamenon Falls to the historic beacon of Whitefish Point Lighthouse and the fascinating Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, where tales of maritime history come alive.

Bay View Campground caters to a rustic camping experience, offering facilities for tent and RV camping. Walk-in sites and reservable spots are available.

Historical SignificanceWhitefish Bay holds a haunting place in Great Lakes maritime history, earning the somber nickname 'Graveyard of the Great Lakes' for the numerous vessels that met their fate in these waters. The nearby Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum serves as a captivating gateway to these stories, preserving artifacts and memories of brave sailors who navigated these treacherous waters. Historic lighthouse stations stand as sentinels along the coast, their beacons having guided countless vessels to safety through fog and storm.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings gentle warmth to this northern paradise, though Lake Superior's influence keeps evenings refreshingly cool—perfect for campfire gatherings. The mighty lake occasionally flexes its muscles with dramatic winds that whisper through the pines and create mesmerizing waves along the shore. As seasons change, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland blanketed in snow, while the dramatic shift in daylight hours—from endless summer evenings to cozy winter nights—adds to the region's ever-changing character.

Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle lapping of waves on sandy beaches and spend your days exploring the stunning natural tapestry of Whitefish Bay. Majestic pine trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering golden sunlight by day and framing spectacular Lake Superior sunsets each evening. This pristine stretch of coastline serves as a vital corridor for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers who might spot everything from tiny warblers to magnificent raptors. The interplay of forest, beach, and endless blue horizon creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.

Geological RegionPerched on the edge of Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula, Bay View Campground occupies a special place where ancient geological forces meet modern natural wonder. This section of Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay showcases the dramatic results of glacial carving and centuries of wave action. Known internationally for its concentration of shipwrecks preserved in the lake's cold depths, the area also serves as a crucial stopover along North America's migratory bird flyways. Historic lighthouse stations dot the coastline, standing as monuments to both human ingenuity and nature's power.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

After 2 PM.

Check-out

By noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights during any visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 2 vehicles per site.

Groups

No group camping details are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutRustic layout with heavily shaded sites. Some sites offer direct beach access while others require short walks.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov website and app.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability outside peak season (May 14 - May 21, 2026). Walk-up sites are available during peak seasons based on site vacancy.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee up to 1 calendar day before the scheduled arrival. Late cancellations incur loss of the first night’s fee in addition to the cancellation fee.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and flat tent pads are available, along with proximity to water pumps and pathways.

Site SizeCampsites are spacious and well-separated, with many accommodating multiple tents or large RVs. Specific sites, such as Site 17, are praised for their size and level ground.

PrivacySites are heavily shaded and secluded, offering a significant degree of privacy. Many campers noted the spread-out nature and tree barriers between sites.

Total Campsites24 campsites

Recommended SitesBeachfront sites recommended for lake views. Sites near the road (e.g., #19) may experience higher noise levels.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Bay View Campground provides access to a variety of activities, thanks to its prime location along Lake Superior. Visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, birding, beach walks, and stargazing. The proximity to attractions like Tahquamenon Falls adds to the recreational value.

HikingHiking opportunities include exploring nearby trails with scenic views, particularly during fall when colors are vibrant. Reviewers noted close trails and options for casual walks along Lake Superior's shores.

SwimmingSwimming in Lake Superior is a favorite activity, despite the cold water. Reviewers frequently mention refreshing dips and the sandy beach's easy access.

Wildlife viewingWhitefish Bay is a natural corridor for migratory birds, making it ideal for birding and wildlife observation. Reviewers often mention observing local fauna.

Beach activitiesThe sandy beach offers opportunities for long walks, sunbathing, and agate hunting. Many campers highlighted the beach's cleanliness and lack of pebbles.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, cold lake water, and occasional high winds.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed only in designated rings. Firewood must be sourced locally.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforced during evenings.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are closest in Sault Ste. Marie, approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal and recycling bins are available on-site, ensuring cleanliness and eco-friendliness.

Water FeaturesDirect access to Lake Superior with sandy beaches. No streams or rivers within the campground.

Camp HostHosts are frequently praised for their cleanliness, friendliness, and maintenance diligence. Names mentioned in reviews include Kathy, Pat, Ron, and Val.

Weather at Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)

Reviews

4.7

350 reviews

Top-Rated

Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Bay View Campground holds an average sentiment of 4.62 for general experiences and 4.56 for campground-specific ratings. Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the cleanliness, spaciousness, and well-maintained facilities. Hosts are described as friendly and attentive, contributing positively to the camping experience.

Review Summaries

Based on 350 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently commend the secluded sites, cleanliness of vault toilets, and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Many rave about the starry skies, serenity, and the hosts' dedication to...

Based on 350 reviews

Common Concerns

Some campers noted road noise, unfriendly interactions with hosts, and busy conditions during peak seasons. One reviewer expressed concerns about selective rule enforcement and hosts disrupting...

Based on 350 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve sites early during summer and holidays, as they fill up quickly. Bring supplies, as stores are 30 minutes away. Verizon users should download offline maps due to limited cell service. Opt for...

Based on 350 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is highly praised for warm weather, minimal bugs, and swimming opportunities. Fall is appreciated for its vibrant foliage and quieter atmosphere. Winter reviews are absent as the campground...

Based on 350 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The cleanest pit toilets I have ever seen!' 2. 'Vault toilets were extremely well maintained and clean, and there is a water pump nearby.' 3. 'The sandy beach is great for long walks.' 4. 'Hosts...

Based on 350 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #7 is praised for its proximity to the beach and privacy. Site #25 offers direct beach access via a private path. Site #19 is convenient for bathroom access but close to the road, making it less...

Based on 350 reviews