Grand Island National Recreation Area

Star0.57
32 reviews
Grand Island National Recreation Area

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

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Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Grand Island Ferry Service (as listed for ferry access) site

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Grand Island National Recreation Area
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Charges and cancellation policy referenced on Recreation.gov. Ferry prices and schedules vary by season (contact Grand Island Ferry Service).
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(906) 387-2600

What Campers Say

0.57

Mixed Reviews

Based on 32 reviews

18 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewssceneryhikingwater

"Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing spectacular natural beauty, great hiking and biking, and memorable water-based experiences via ferry, kayak, and personal watercraft. A minority of reviewers report challenging, muddy or poorly maintained trails, uncomfortable or difficult biking, and some disappointment with private homes, bus traffic, and limited wildlife viewing. Overall, people who come prepared for a rustic, physically demanding setting tend to love it, while casual sightseers sometimes leave underwhelmed."

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About Grand Island National Recreation Area

Just a half-mile paddle from Munising's shores, Grand Island National Recreation Area rises from Lake Superior's crystalline waters like a wilderness sanctuary frozen in time. This 13,500-acre island paradise beckons adventurers with its network of trails winding through ancient hardwood forests, secluded beaches that seem plucked from the Caribbean, and towering sandstone cliffs that have stood sentinel over Superior's moods for millennia.
Camping on Grand Island includes both group and individual camping opportunities; day-use sites do not permit camping.
Historical SignificanceGrand Island's forests and shores hold stories spanning centuries, with cultural sites scattered across the landscape that whisper of the lives lived here long before it became a recreation destination. These historical touchstones add depth to every hike and bike ride, reminding visitors that this island has been treasured by humans for generations, each leaving their mark on this Lake Superior jewel.
Natural Features and SceneryThe island presents a stunning study in contrasts—where 300-foot sandstone cliffs plunge dramatically into Superior's cobalt depths on one side, the other shore unfolds into gentle white-sand beaches lapped by surprisingly calm waters. Venture inland and you'll discover hidden lakes nestled within cathedral-like stands of maple, birch, and hemlock, their canopies filtering sunlight into an emerald glow. The overlooks scattered throughout reward hikers with panoramic vistas where forest meets water meets endless sky, creating postcard moments at every turn.
Geological RegionSituated within Michigan's Upper Peninsula as part of the vast Hiawatha National Forest, Grand Island showcases the raw geological power that shaped the Lake Superior basin. The island's iconic sandstone cliffs—carved by ancient seas and sculpted by millennia of waves and weather—tell a story written in layers of rust, cream, and gold-colored stone, while the pristine white-sand beaches below are testament to Superior's ongoing work as nature's master sculptor.
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Campsite details

Total Campsitesnull campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites include bear lockers and/or poles for food storage; some sites have drinking water. Day-use sites do not permit camping.

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Reserving a campsite

Groups
  • Group and individual camping are available
  • camping is prohibited at day-use sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutProvides individual and group camping sites equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings and vault/wilderness toilets; some sites have drinking water.
Reservation PlatformsSee recreation.gov policy.
Cancellation PolicySee recreation.gov policy.

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

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

A wide range of outdoor recreation is available on Grand Island, including camping, biking, hiking, ice climbing, swimming, boating, hunting, fishing, and sightseeing.
Hiking
Hiking and exploring are highlighted attractions, with scenic overlooks, inland lakes, and forested areas described in the facility overview.
Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
Fishing
Fishing is listed among the recreational opportunities on the island.
Swimming
Swimming is available along the island's white-sand beaches and calm waters of Lake Superior.
Biking
Biking is explicitly mentioned; nearby outfitters provide mountain bike rentals for on-island exploration.
Boating
Boating is mentioned and the island's calm waters attract boaters; local outfitters offer kayak, canoe and pontoon rentals.
Winter Activities
Ice climbing
Water Sports
Local outfitters provide guided and self-guided kayak, canoe, and pontoon rentals.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards


Weather at Grand Island National Recreation Area

26
°F
Dec 11
Thursday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Humidity: 69%
Wind: 12.7 mph
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Good to know

Proximity to water featuresLocated in Lake Superior approximately one-half mile from the mainland; features beaches and inland lakes with direct access via ferry or private watercraft.

Campground Map

Grand Island National Recreation Area
Driving directionsAccess is by passenger ferry (Grand Island Ferry Service) or private watercraft. The ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28 about 3 to 4 miles west of Munising's blinking light. Look for Grand Island NRA signs. For ferry information or reservations call (906) 387-2600 or visit http://www.grandislandup.com/.
Ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on M-28 (about 3–4 miles west of Munising). Island access requires watercraft or the passenger ferry.
Nearby places
Grand Island is about one-half mile from Munising, Michigan. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and about 55 miles from Manistique.
Nearby supplies
Munising: provides restaurants, hotels, camping opportunities and outfitters.

Reviews from booking and map sources

0.6
32 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Grand Island National Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing spectacular natural beauty, great hiking and biking, and memorable water-based experiences via ferry, kayak, and personal watercraft. A minority of reviewers report challenging, muddy or poorly maintained trails, uncomfortable or difficult biking, and some disappointment with private homes, bus traffic, and limited wildlife viewing. Overall, people who come prepared for a rustic, physically demanding setting tend to love it, while casual sightseers sometimes leave underwhelmed.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the island’s scenery—towering cliffs, beaches with smooth pebbles and sea glass, serene coves, and great views from both land and water. Many highlight the fun, quick ferry...
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Based on 32 reviews

Common Concerns

Several reviewers mention heavy mosquitoes and bugs, making bug spray and head nets almost essential. Some note that biking is more like true mountain biking with steep hills, rough or muddy roads,...
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Based on 32 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers strongly recommend bringing plenty of bug spray, and some suggest a mosquito/face net and sturdy shoes due to mud and rough terrain. Many advise renting bikes if you want to see the whole...
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Based on 32 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Towering sea cliffs, white sand beaches, serene coves and sea caves... an absolute gem of an island." "This is not a leisurely ride around shores of a beach town… It’s not an easy ride unless you’re...
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Based on 32 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One reviewer notes camping at the highest point on the island using hammocks (not at a formal campsite) and describes the climb as extremely challenging for biking. Another camped three nights at the...
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Based on 32 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

One detailed review describes visiting with a dog, noting that they walked a road route about two miles to a beach. The reviewer was frustrated by repeated encounters with a tour bus on the narrow...
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Based on 32 reviews

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Last updated December 10, 2025
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