Jack Pine State Park Campground

About

Jack Pine Campground offers a backcountry-style experience without venturing deep into the wilderness. Located within Ludington State Park in Mason County, Michigan, this rustic 10-site walk-in campground requires a roughly 1-mile hike or bike ride from the parking area behind park headquarters. The trail follows the same sand-and-gravel path leading to Big Sable Point Lighthouse, making it an excellent staging point for lighthouse visits. Sites are scattered among jack pine trees and dune ridges, providing natural privacy and shade while keeping Lake Michigan's shoreline just a short walk away. The campground operates on a pack-in/pack-out mentality with minimal infrastructure: vault toilets, a hand pump for potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. No electricity is available. Showers can be accessed at the nearby Pines modern campground during its operating season. This campground works well as an introductory backpacking destination for families with children given the manageable 1-mile distance. Reservations are available through the Michigan DNR system six months in advance and fill quickly for summer weekends.

Directions

From Ludington, head north on M-116 for approximately 8 miles to Ludington State Park entrance. Jack Pine campers park in the designated area behind park headquarters, then hike approximately 1 mile north on the lighthouse trail to reach the campground.