Can You Camp Anywhere at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?

Camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a great way to experience the beauty of northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The lakeshore encompasses over 40 miles of Lake Superior shoreline, and offers camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and more.

The National Lakeshore has five designated campgrounds that offer over 200 individual campsites. Each campground offers unique amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and dump stations. Campers are able to access bathrooms with flush toilets and running water in each campground as well as showers in three of the five campgrounds.

Backcountry Camping

In addition to the designated campgrounds, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore also allows camping in the backcountry. Backcountry camping is an adventure that can be enjoyed by experienced hikers, backpackers, and paddlers who are looking for a more remote experience. If you plan to explore the backcountry overnight you must obtain a free backcountry permit from one of the park visitor centers before beginning your trip.

Backcountry camping is only allowed in designated areas that are accessible by foot or watercraft. These areas vary from rocky shorelines to sandy beaches and from open meadows to dense forests. Make sure your campsite is at least 100 feet away from any trails or waterways so as not to disturb other visitors or wildlife.

Rules & Regulations

Campers must adhere to all park rules while visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore including no open fires outside of established fire pits; no littering; no pets allowed on trails; quiet hours between 10 pm and 6 am; and no collecting plants or wildlife.

Conclusion

Camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of northern Michigan and Lake Superior’s shoreline. Campers have access to five established campgrounds with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets, running water, and showers in some locations.

Experienced hikers can also venture into the backcountry with a free permit for primitive camping near trails or waterways. Visitors should be aware of all park regulations when visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore including no open fires outside of established fire pits; no littering; no pets on trails; quiet hours between 10 pm and 6 am; and no collecting plants or wildlife.

In conclusion, yes you can camp anywhere at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore provided you follow all national park regulations including obtaining a free backcountry permit if necessary for primitive camping near trails or waterways.

Photo of author

Samantha Mckinney