Hardwood Campsite On Grand Island

About

Hardwood Campsite offers a true backcountry camping experience on Grand Island, a 13,500-acre National Recreation Area in Lake Superior. The site sits on the western side of the island near Waterfall Beach, surrounded by dense hardwood forest. Access is exclusively non-motorized: hikers and bikers can reach it via 3.5 miles of trail from Williams Landing, while kayakers can beach at Waterfall Beach and hike 100 yards north. The campsite provides essential primitive amenities including a fire ring, benches, food storage pole for bear protection, and firewood. A primitive latrine serves the site, with additional restrooms available nearby. No potable water is available at Hardwood; campers must carry water from Juniper Flats Group Campsite (0.5 miles south) or treat water from natural sources. Black bears are active on the island, making proper food storage mandatory. Mosquitoes and black flies are especially heavy from May through mid-July. Reservations are limited to 4 consecutive nights during the operating season. A $5 per person Grand Island User Permit fee applies, typically included in the ferry fare or payable at fee tubes for those arriving by private watercraft.

Directions

Grand Island is in Lake Superior, 0.5 miles from Munising, Michigan. Take the passenger ferry from Grand Island Landing on M-28, about 3 miles north of downtown Munising (ferry info: 906-387-2600). From Williams Landing, hike or bike 3.5 miles on the island trail system. Alternatively, kayakers can paddle to Waterfall Beach, climb the stairs to the trail, and hike 100 yards north to the campsite. No motorized vehicles or PWCs may land on the island.