Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

4.31

655 reviews

MUNISING FALLS VISITOR CENTER, 1505 SANDPOINT ROAD, MUNISING, MI, 49862

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

643 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

36 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

643 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

36 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

$25.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Nightly rates are $25 for standard sites and $35 for cabin sites during peak season. Discounts include a 50% reduction for visitors with the 'America...

Standard Site Fee$25.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-387-3700piro_information@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.31

Recommended

Based on 655 reviews

144 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulspacioushiking

"Twelvemile Beach Campground is highly regarded for its natural beauty, secluded location, and access to Lake Superior. While many visitors appreciated the quiet and scenic environment, some raised concerns about maintenance of facilities, lack of cell service, and biting insects during warmer months."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

MUNISING FALLS VISITOR CENTER, 1505 SANDPOINT ROAD, MUNISING, MI, 49862

Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

MUNISING FALLS VISITOR CENTER, 1505 SANDPOINT ROAD, MUNISING, MI, 49862

Driving directionsTwelvemile Beach Campground is located 15 miles west of Grand Marais off Alger County Road H-58, or 34 miles east of Munising.

The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch, but turning radiuses and parking can be limited. The maximum camper or vehicle/trailer length recommended is 42 feet.

Nearby places

Grand Marais (15 miles, approximately 24 km west), Munising (34 miles, approximately 55 km east)

Nearby supplies

Supplies such as groceries, camping essentials, and fuel are available in Grand Marais (15 miles away) and Munising (34 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

Mother Nature keeps campers on their toes at Twelvemile Beach, where summer nights can surprise you with crisp, sweater-worthy temperatures that make campfire conversations even more memorable. Late July and early August bring their own challenge as biting flies emerge to test your resolve, making bug protection essential. The great lake's moods shift like chapters in a story—sudden rain showers and powerful winds sweep across the shoreline without warning, transforming calm waters into dramatic displays of nature's force. Smart campers come prepared for all possibilities, knowing that unpredictability is part of the adventure.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Popular in summer but visitors warn of biting insects and more crowds.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in MI

Late spring/early fall recommended for milder temps and fewer bugs; excellent scenic season.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 14% in MI

Late spring recommended for milder temps and fewer bugs; good for hiking and views.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Winter season and activities not detailed; peak season May–Oct.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15 (peak season pricing applies).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season runs from May 15 to October 15, with reservations beginning June 21.
Current Alerts: Some stairs to the beach are damaged and marked with warning tape, limiting accessibility.

About Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

Perched dramatically along the wild shores of Lake Superior, Twelvemile Beach Campground invites adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This rustic retreat features 36 thoughtfully spaced sites, including two designed for universal accessibility, each equipped with the essentials for an authentic outdoor experience: sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, level tent pads, clean vault toilets, and fresh well water. Adventure beckons right from your tent flap, with the legendary North Country Trail and the educational White Birch Interpretive Trail weaving through the landscape, promising discoveries around every bend.

The campground primarily caters to rustic camping experiences with options for tent camping and small RVs. It is designed for visitors seeking a natural and quiet environment.

Historical SignificanceTwelvemile Beach Campground sits within the storied boundaries of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where centuries of wind and water have carved magnificent sandstone cliffs into nature's own art gallery. These lands have witnessed the footsteps of early explorers who first mapped Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula, their tales of discovery echoing through the forests and along the shores. Today's visitors become part of this continuing narrative, adding their own chapters to a landscape that has inspired wonder and reverence for generations.

Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps campers on their toes at Twelvemile Beach, where summer nights can surprise you with crisp, sweater-worthy temperatures that make campfire conversations even more memorable. Late July and early August bring their own challenge as biting flies emerge to test your resolve, making bug protection essential. The great lake's moods shift like chapters in a story—sudden rain showers and powerful winds sweep across the shoreline without warning, transforming calm waters into dramatic displays of nature's force. Smart campers come prepared for all possibilities, knowing that unpredictability is part of the adventure.

ElevationFrom your campsite atop the scenic bluff, Lake Superior stretches endlessly before you, its vast waters meeting the horizon in a display of natural grandeur. This elevated vantage point offers campers a commanding perspective of the world's largest freshwater lake, where sunrise and sunset paint masterpieces across the sky and water.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's spectacular setting on a Lake Superior bluff reveals nature's artistry at every turn. Below, pristine beaches invite barefoot exploration, their sands telling stories of countless storms and seasons. Elegant white birch forests create natural cathedral spaces, their papery bark glowing in filtered sunlight. Well-maintained trails lead from camp to hidden viewpoints and secret coves, each path offering its own rewards. Here, the relentless power of Lake Superior has sculpted a landscape of dramatic contrasts—from gentle sandy stretches to imposing cliff faces, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.

Geological RegionThis remarkable corner of Michigan showcases nature's geological portfolio in stunning variety. Ancient sandstone cliffs rise like natural skyscrapers, their layered faces revealing millions of years of Earth's history. Pristine beaches give way to rolling sand dunes, while hidden waterfalls tumble through forest ravines. Peaceful inland lakes dot the landscape, offering quiet counterpoints to Superior's mighty presence. Dense forests carpet the land between shore and cliff, creating a wilderness tapestry where every element has been shaped by the lake's endless energy. It's a place where geology comes alive, telling its story through every weathered rock and windswept dune.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay allowed is 14 nights per calendar year within the Lakeshore.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than eight persons per site.

Groups

There is no specific mention of group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are divided into loops, with lakeside and inland sites offering different levels of privacy and exposure to winds.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are accepted. Walk-up availability is restricted due to the reservation-only policy of the campground.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival online or by phone. A $10 fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations.

AccessibilityThe campground includes two universally accessible campsites and vault toilets that are accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size but accommodate tents, small trailers, and campers not exceeding a combined length of 42 feet.

PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with lakeside sites being more open and inland sites more secluded due to tree cover.

Total Campsites36 campsites

Recommended SitesThose seeking privacy should consider site 23. Lakeside sites offer views but are windy; inland sites are warmer and more secluded.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Twelvemile Beach Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and access to a secluded beach along Lake Superior. The North Country Trail and the White Birch Interpretive Trail provide opportunities for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

HikingThe campground offers direct access to the North Country Trail and a two-mile self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. These trails are praised for their scenic views, with varying levels of difficulty.

SwimmingThe beach provides access to Lake Superior, where swimming is possible. However, the lack of lifeguards and the strong winds at times require caution.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include the chance to observe native species in their natural habitat. Bear-proof food storage regulations highlight the presence of wildlife.

Beach activitiesBeach-related activities include walking, sunbathing, and exploring the sandy shores of Lake Superior. Several reviews highlight the pristine and uncrowded nature of the beach.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsAn interpretive amphitheater hosts occasional educational programs, though specific details about these events are not provided.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include biting flies, mosquitoes, and strong winds. The sandy terrain and steep cliffs require caution, especially near the damaged staircases to the beach.

Active AlertsSome stairs to the beach are damaged and marked with warning tape, limiting accessibility.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredLockers are provided on-site to ensure proper food storage in bear country, preventing wildlife encounters.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in metal fire rings only. Fires must be extinguished entirely with water and not buried.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Munising, MI. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is managed through bear-proof containers, but recycling facilities appear to be limited or unavailable.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located directly on the shore of Lake Superior, offering immediate access to beaches by stairs or sandy paths.

Camp HostCampground hosts are generally helpful, although some reviews indicate variability in attentiveness.

Weather at Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin

Reviews

4.3

655 reviews

Recommended

Twelvemile Beach Campground And Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Twelvemile Beach Campground is highly regarded for its natural beauty, secluded location, and access to Lake Superior. While many visitors appreciated the quiet and scenic environment, some raised concerns about maintenance of facilities, lack of cell service, and biting insects during warmer months.

Review Summaries

Based on 655 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive highlights include the stunning views of Lake Superior, spacious campsites, proximity to hiking trails, and the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors consistently praised the beauty of the beach and...

Based on 655 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor maintenance of vault toilets, biting flies and mosquitoes, difficulty with reservations, and occasional noise from inconsiderate campers.

Based on 655 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of bug spray and a head net for biting flies. Ensure you have all supplies, including firewood and water containers, as the nearest town is 30 minutes away. Avoid relying on GPS for...

Based on 655 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees an influx of visitors, with biting insects being a major issue. Late spring and early fall are recommended for fewer bugs and milder temperatures. Winter activities are not detailed for...

Based on 655 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sunsets were amazing and falling asleep to the sound of waves was heavenly." "Bring bug spray—flies were insane in June." "This campground is the perfect place to unwind and disconnect from...

Based on 655 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 15 received mixed reviews due to its sandy driveway, making it difficult for low-clearance vehicles. Sites 27 and 28 are praised for their proximity to the beach. Site 33 is noted for its...

Based on 655 reviews

Accessibility Features

Two universally accessible sites are available, and accessible vault toilets are provided. However, no additional details about accessibility features are mentioned.

Based on 655 reviews