Duck Lake Campsite On Grand Island

Open — Open year-round for camping. Reservations required Memorial Day through Columbus Day via Recreation.gov. Off-season (mid-October through late May) is first-come, first-served, but ferry service is not available. Winter access only by private watercraft, or across the ice by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes at your own risk.

About

Duck Lake Campsite is a primitive backcountry camping site located on Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area in Lake Superior, about half a mile offshore from Munising, Michigan. The island features massive 300-foot wave-cut sandstone cliffs, 13,500 acres of lush forest, beaches of fine sand, and historic artifacts dating back nearly 2,000 years. The campsite is accessible only by hiking, biking, or boat—no motorized vehicles are permitted on the island. Located approximately 2 miles from Williams Landing where the passenger ferry arrives, the site sits about 75 yards from Duck Lake and can accommodate up to 6 people in 2 tents. The nearest potable water is at Murray Bay Day Use Area, approximately 0.5 miles away. Campers should bring adequate water or be prepared to filter or treat surface water. The site includes a latrine, fire ring, bear pole and food locker for bear-safe storage, benches, and firewood. Black bears inhabit Grand Island, so proper food storage is essential. The island has no supplies or trash collection, requiring visitors to pack out everything they bring. Mosquitoes and black flies can be severe from mid-May to mid-July. During the operating season (late May through mid-October), reservations are required via Recreation.gov. Off-season camping is first-come, first-served, but ferry service ceases in fall and winter access is only by private watercraft or across the ice.

Directions

Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about 0.5 miles offshore from Munising, Michigan. The passenger ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on M-28, about 2.5 miles west of Munising's blinking light. Look for Grand Island NRA signs. From Williams Landing on the island, hike 2 miles via the island trail system to reach Duck Lake Campsite. Ferry info: (906) 387-2600 or grandislandup.com.

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