Michigan / Alger County / Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Federal Unit)

Benchmark Individual Backpacking Sites

Open — Open year-round with required backcountry permits available through Recreation.gov. Maximum three consecutive nights. Winter access requires hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing as park roads are not plowed December through March.

About

Benchmark Campground is a designated backcountry camping area within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, situated on a sandy bluff overlooking Lake Superior. The campground features six individual sandy, open campsites that can only be reached by hiking along the North Country Trail or by paddling. When approaching from the west, hikers pass through Twelvemile Beach Campground to connect to the trailhead and day use area. The campsites share two designated metal fire rings and a seasonal vault toilet, with food storage lockers provided to protect supplies from wildlife. The campground's location on the bluff provides scenic views of Lake Superior, and social trails lead down to the shoreline, though campers should be prepared for a steep climb back to their sites. Water must be sourced from Lake Superior and treated before use. The site is accessible to kayakers seeking Lake Superior access. Winter camping is permitted at this location, though access requires hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing through potentially deep snow, and roads in the area are not plowed from December through March. A backcountry camping permit is required year-round for all overnight stays, with a maximum stay of three consecutive nights at this campground and no more than 14 total days per calendar year within the lakeshore. Permits are available through Recreation.gov on a six-month rolling reservation window.

Directions

From the west, hike through Twelvemile Beach Campground to the trailhead and day-use area to reconnect with the North Country Trail leading to Benchmark Campground.

Nearby Campgrounds