How much does camping cost at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Camping fees at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island range from $8/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island first-come first-served or reservation?

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island before I book?

Yes! Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island is open May 22 to October 10. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Fire policies at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island: You may use dead and down firewood collected from the nearby woods or provided firewood for your campfire. Do not cut down live or standing trees.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island have?

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Pets are not allowed at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

4.05

10 reviews

400 E. Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862, USA

Top 6% in MIFall

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietTent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Michigan

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

673 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Reservations are req...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

673 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Reservations are req...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

WALK TO: $8.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-387-2512briandhinch@fs.fed.us

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

400 E. Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862, USA

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

400 E. Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862, USA

Nearby places

Munising (3-4 miles to ferry landing), Marquette (43 miles), Manistique (55 miles)

Weather at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

Current alerts(14)

Also, keep in mind that domestic animals must be kept on a leash, except while being used for hunting.
Avoid climbing on or standing along the sandstone cliffs. The sandstone is very fragile and may not support your weight.
Black bears live on this island. Information is available at the Ranger District on how to prevent and survive bear encounters. Be prepared to store your food and all consumable and scented items, including trash, on the bear pole at the site.
Customers must print out reservation permits and bring the permit with them when they are camping on the island.

Best Time to Camp at Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

Best season: fall. Fall brings the clearest blend of comfortable weather, spectacular color, and lighter crowds — daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (cool mornings and evenings). This is peak time for leaf-peeping among the island's hemlock and mixed hardwoods, for shoreline photography of the sandstone cliffs and calmer hiking on trails that are drier than spring; wildlife viewing (deer, migratory birds) is excellent. Ferry service usually still runs into October, so you get island access Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in MI

Overview states fall is best window: drier trails, calmer lake conditions and favorable temps.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to October 10. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservations are required for camping on Grand Island between Memorial Day through Columbus Day with the exception of Cobble Cove, Flat Rock, and Muskrat Point campsites which will remain first-come, first-served.

About Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island

Hemlock Campsite sits on Grand Island, a roadless island in Lake Superior accessible only by ferry from Munising. Operated by Hiawatha National Forest, this primitive site offers vault toilets, potable water, and bear-safe storage for backpackers and paddlers exploring the island's sandstone cliffs and hemlock forests. Reviewers praise the privacy and natural beauty but note frequent bear activity and aging beach access stairs.

Hemlock Campsite is a primitive camping site nestled on Grand Island. It caters to hikers, kayakers, and those seeking a rustic wilderness experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall brings the clearest blend of comfortable weather, spectacular color, and lighter crowds — daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (cool mornings and evenings). This is peak time for leaf-peeping among the island's hemlock and mixed hardwoods, for shoreline photography of the sandstone cliffs and calmer hiking on trails that are drier than spring; wildlife viewing (deer, migratory birds) is excellent. Ferry service usually still runs into October, so you get island access Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation673 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground perches at 673 feet elevation where dense hemlock and mixed hardwood forests meet Lake Superior's shoreline. Grand Island's 300-foot sandstone cliffs dominate the coastline, carved by wave action over millions of years. Sandy beaches stretch between cliff sections. In winter, ice caves form along the shore. Temporary structures shaped by wind, water, and cold. The forest canopy provides consistent shade, and the site sits close enough to hear waves from Waterfall Beach.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging accommodations are available. This is a primitive campsite.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

No maximum stay limit mentioned.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 people in 2 tents are permitted.

Groups

Not applicable. This is not a group campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Grand Island Ferry Service at http://www.grandislandup.com/ or by calling (906) 387-2600.

AccessibilityAccess to the site involves either hiking 3.5 miles from William's Landing or kayaking to Waterfall Beach followed by a short hike. The primitive nature of the site may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThe site has ample space to accommodate up to 6 people and two tents. It is described as 'huge' and spacious, suitable for numerous setups.

PrivacyThe site is private and tucked back from the trail. It offers a degree of seclusion, though neighboring sites like Gamefence and Hardwood may occasionally be heard.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors should bring large water containers for the half-mile trip to Juniper Flats for potable water and exercise caution due to bear activity.

Best CampsitesHemlock is the sole site described here. Reviewers note its privacy and distance from the trail, though voices from neighboring sites like Gamefence and Hardwood sometimes carry. The spaciousness allows flexible tent placement and hammock setups.

Need help booking Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

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Amenities available

Hemlock Campsite on Grand Island offers a rustic camping experience set amidst a lush forest. This campsite is equipped with basic amenities, including a fire ring, benches, a primitive latrine, a food storage pole, and a bear locker. Potable water is not directly available at the site but can be accessed approximately 0.5 miles south at Juniper Flats Group Campsite. Firewood is provided near the site for campers.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Grand Island offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area is known for its scenic natural beauty, including sandstone cliffs and pristine beaches.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the site. A primitive latrine is provided.

Food Storage RequiredA bear box is available and must be used for storing all food and scented items.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

10 reviews

Satisfactory

Hemlock Campsite On Grand Island is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Hemlock Campsite highlight its spaciousness, privacy, and natural beauty, but also mention challenges such as bear activity and closed beach access stairs.

Review Summaries

Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

The site is described as private, spacious, and well-equipped with a bear locker, pole, and fire ring. Campers appreciated the provided firewood and the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes reports of bear activity, difficulties accessing potable water, and closed-off beach stairs. Some users also expressed concerns about the site's safety due to habituated...

Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Hemlock campsite is praised for its size and seclusion. However, there are safety concerns due to a bear that has become habituated to human presence. 'Once camp was set up, I noticed a black flash...

Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing large water containers to reduce trips to the potable water source. Using long, loose clothing and repellents can help with bugs. Avoid leaving food unattended, even in...

Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The site is most popular during summer, but seasonal issues include black fly infestations in early summer and swarms of insects in late summer. Winter camping activities are not mentioned.

Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Super nice site tucked back in the woods a little bit.' 2. 'The site was beautiful and deep back from the main trail.' 3. 'The site is HUGE and private. We could hear the waves crashing on Lake...

Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no explicit reviews that address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews mention experiences with pets at the site.

Based on 10 reviews

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Go if

You want a backcountry island experience with bear-safe storage and don't mind ferry logistics or wildlife encounters.

Skip if

You need vehicle access, developed facilities, or prefer campgrounds without active bear presence.

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