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

Masse Homestead Group Backpacking Site

Open — Open year-round with required backcountry camping permits through Recreation.gov on a 6-month rolling reservation window. Winter access requires hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing through deep snow. Limited to 14 days per calendar year in the lakeshore.

About

Masse Homestead Group Backpacking Site is a primitive backcountry campground located west of the regular Masse Homestead campground at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Situated at the base of sand dunes within a thick forest canopy, this group site is accessible only by hiking along the North Country National Scenic Trail. The site is designed for organized groups of 7-20 people and can accommodate up to 10 tents maximum. The campground is entirely primitive with one designated metal fire ring shared among the group. No toilet facilities are provided at this site, and there is no access to water, requiring all visitors to pack in adequate water supplies for their stay. Food storage boxes are provided on-site to protect against wildlife, particularly black bears common in the area. All trash must be packed out. A backcountry camping permit is required year-round for all overnight stays, with reservations made through Recreation.gov. Fees include $5 per person per night plus a $15 non-refundable reservation fee. The permit must be visibly displayed on the tent while at the campsite. Maximum stay is three consecutive days at any backcountry campground, with a 14-day annual limit within the lakeshore. Winter camping is permitted but extremely challenging due to heavy snow accumulation, limited access, and difficulty locating fire rings buried under snow.

Directions

Access via hiking trails along the North Country National Scenic Trail. The site is located west of the regular Masse Homestead campground at the base of sand dunes. Most park roads are closed in winter due to snow. Alger County Road H-58 provides access to trailheads when open.

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