Little Duck Campsite On Grand Island

About

Little Duck Campsite sits on Grand Island, a 13,500-acre National Recreation Area in Lake Superior, accessible only by ferry or private watercraft from Munising. The site is located approximately 50 yards from Trout Bay Beach and 2.5 miles from Williams Landing via the island's trail system. This primitive backcountry campsite accommodates up to 4 people in two tents and provides a latrine, bear-resistant food storage pole and locker, fire ring, benches, and firewood. The nearest potable water is approximately 1 mile south at Murray Bay Day Use Area, though drinking water is also available at Williams Landing, Juniper Flats, and Farrell Cottage. Campers should plan to bring adequate water or be prepared to filter Lake Superior water. Grand Island features massive 300-foot sandstone cliffs, pristine beaches, and extensive forest. No motorized vehicles are permitted on the island. Black bears inhabit the island, making proper food storage essential. The island offers no supplies or trash services; visitors must pack in and pack out everything. Mosquitoes and black flies are intense from mid-May through mid-July. Ferry service to the island operates from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, with winter access only possible across the ice by snowmobile, snowshoe, or skis. A $5 per-person Grand Island user permit is required in addition to the camping fee.

Directions

Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, one-half mile from Munising, Michigan. Ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on M-28, about 3 miles west of downtown Munising. From the ferry landing at Williams Landing, hike 2.5 miles via the island trail system to reach Little Duck Campsite near Trout Bay Beach. Kayakers can access the site directly via Trout Bay Beach. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the island.